Is It Safe To Visit Oaxaca? A Traveler’s Guide

Oaxaca, a state located in the southern region of Mexico, is known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant city life. From the ancient Zapotec ruins of Monte Albán to the bustling streets of Oaxaca City, there’s no shortage of things to see and do in this incredible destination. However, like any popular tourist spot, Oaxaca has its share of safety concerns. In recent years, the state has experienced a rise in crime, particularly in the capital city, which has left many travelers wondering if it’s safe to visit Oaxaca.

As a traveler, it’s natural to feel apprehensive about visiting a place with a reputation for being unsafe. But is Oaxaca really as dangerous as it seems? In this article, we’ll delve into the facts and figures to give you a comprehensive understanding of the current safety situation in Oaxaca. We’ll explore the types of crime that are prevalent in the state, the areas that are considered safe and not safe, and what you can do to minimize your risk of encountering problems. By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear understanding of whether it’s safe to visit Oaxaca and what you need to do to stay safe while you’re there.

Crime in Oaxaca: An Overview

Oaxaca has experienced a rise in crime in recent years, particularly in the capital city. According to official statistics, the state has seen a significant increase in homicides, robberies, and other types of crime. In 2020, Oaxaca reported a total of 1,044 homicides, a 20% increase from the previous year. While this is a concerning trend, it’s worth noting that the majority of these crimes were committed in specific areas of the city and were often related to gang activity or other forms of organized crime.

Despite these statistics, Oaxaca is still considered a relatively safe destination for tourists. The state has a strong presence of law enforcement, and many areas of the city are well-patrolled and secure. However, as with any travel destination, it’s essential to take common-sense precautions to minimize your risk of encountering problems.

Types of Crime in Oaxaca

The types of crime that are prevalent in Oaxaca vary, but some of the most common include:

• Homicides: These are the most serious type of crime in Oaxaca, and they often involve gang activity or other forms of organized crime.
• Robberies: These are a common type of crime in Oaxaca, particularly in tourist areas. Thieves often target unsuspecting tourists and locals alike.
• Assaults: These can range from minor altercations to more serious physical attacks.
• Thefts: These can include pickpocketing, bag snatching, and other forms of theft.
• Scams: These can include everything from street scams to online scams.

Areas to Avoid in Oaxaca

While Oaxaca is generally a safe destination, there are certain areas that are considered safer than others. Some of the areas to avoid in Oaxaca include: (See Also: Is It Safe To Visit Bonaire? Discover The Truth)

• El Centro: This is the central business district of Oaxaca City, and it’s often crowded and chaotic. While it’s generally safe, there are areas that are considered high-risk, particularly at night.
• La Noria: This is a neighborhood in Oaxaca City that’s known for its high crime rate. It’s best to avoid this area altogether.
• El Llano: This is a neighborhood in Oaxaca City that’s known for its gang activity. It’s best to avoid this area, particularly at night.

Areas to Visit in Oaxaca

Oaxaca has many areas that are considered safe and welcoming to tourists. Some of the top areas to visit in Oaxaca include:

• Oaxaca City: This is the capital city of Oaxaca, and it’s a must-visit destination for any traveler. The city is filled with historic landmarks, cultural attractions, and delicious food.
• Monte Albán: This is an ancient Zapotec ruin that’s located just outside of Oaxaca City. It’s a must-visit destination for any history buff or culture lover.
• Teotitlán del Valle: This is a small town in Oaxaca that’s known for its traditional weaving and pottery. It’s a great place to learn about local culture and shop for unique souvenirs.

Staying Safe in Oaxaca

While Oaxaca is generally a safe destination, there are still steps you can take to minimize your risk of encountering problems. Here are some tips for staying safe in Oaxaca:

General Safety Tips

Here are some general safety tips to keep in mind while traveling in Oaxaca:

• Be aware of your surroundings at all times.
• Avoid traveling alone at night.
• Keep your valuables secure and out of sight.
• Avoid displaying signs of wealth (e.g. expensive jewelry or watches).
• Use reputable taxi services or ride-sharing apps.

Additional Safety Tips for Women

Additional Safety Tips for Women

As a woman traveling in Oaxaca, there are some additional safety tips to keep in mind:

• Be mindful of your dress and behavior in public.
• Avoid traveling alone at night, especially in areas that are considered high-risk.
• Keep your hotel room door locked and use the hotel safe if available.
• Avoid displaying signs of wealth (e.g. expensive jewelry or watches).
• Use reputable taxi services or ride-sharing apps.

Health and Safety Precautions

As with any travel destination, there are some health and safety precautions to take in Oaxaca: (See Also: Cape Town Safe to Visit? Is It Worth The Risk)

• Make sure you have all necessary vaccinations before traveling to Oaxaca.
• Take necessary precautions against mosquito-borne illnesses (e.g. Zika, dengue fever).
• Drink bottled or filtered water to avoid water-borne illnesses.
• Avoid eating undercooked meat or raw vegetables.
• Use sunscreen and protective clothing to avoid sunburn and heat exhaustion.

Conclusion

Oaxaca is a beautiful and culturally rich destination that’s definitely worth visiting. While there are some safety concerns, the state has a strong presence of law enforcement and many areas are well-patrolled and secure. By taking common-sense precautions and being aware of your surroundings, you can minimize your risk of encountering problems and have a safe and enjoyable trip to Oaxaca.

Recap of Key Points

Here’s a recap of the key points discussed in this article:

• Oaxaca has experienced a rise in crime in recent years, particularly in the capital city.
• The types of crime that are prevalent in Oaxaca include homicides, robberies, assaults, thefts, and scams.
• Some areas of Oaxaca are considered safer than others, including Oaxaca City, Monte Albán, and Teotitlán del Valle.
• There are steps you can take to minimize your risk of encountering problems in Oaxaca, including being aware of your surroundings, avoiding traveling alone at night, and keeping your valuables secure.
• Oaxaca has a strong presence of law enforcement and many areas are well-patrolled and secure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Oaxaca safe for tourists?

Oaxaca is generally a safe destination for tourists, but there are some areas that are considered higher-risk than others. By taking common-sense precautions and being aware of your surroundings, you can minimize your risk of encountering problems.

What types of crime are prevalent in Oaxaca?

The types of crime that are prevalent in Oaxaca include homicides, robberies, assaults, thefts, and scams. However, the majority of these crimes are committed in specific areas of the city and are often related to gang activity or other forms of organized crime.

Are there any areas of Oaxaca that I should avoid?

Yes, there are some areas of Oaxaca that are considered higher-risk than others, including El Centro, La Noria, and El Llano. It’s best to avoid these areas altogether, particularly at night. (See Also: Is Rhode Island Safe to Visit? A Traveler’s Guide)

What can I do to stay safe in Oaxaca?

There are several steps you can take to minimize your risk of encountering problems in Oaxaca, including being aware of your surroundings, avoiding traveling alone at night, and keeping your valuables secure. You should also make sure you have all necessary vaccinations before traveling to Oaxaca and take necessary precautions against mosquito-borne illnesses.

Can I trust the local police in Oaxaca?

The local police in Oaxaca are generally reliable and responsive to tourist concerns. However, it’s always a good idea to report any incidents or concerns to the police and to seek assistance from a reputable tour operator or travel agency if needed.