Oaxaca, a state in southern Mexico, has been a topic of concern for travelers in recent years. With its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural beauty, and delicious cuisine, Oaxaca is a destination that many people want to visit. However, the question remains: is Oaxaca safe to visit?
In this article, we will explore the current situation in Oaxaca and provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision about your trip. We will discuss the history of violence in the region, the current security situation, and what you can do to stay safe while visiting Oaxaca.
A Brief History of Violence in Oaxaca
Oaxaca has a long history of violence, dating back to the 1990s when the Zapatista Army of National Liberation (EZLN) fought against the Mexican government. The conflict was marked by guerrilla warfare, kidnappings, and murders, and it had a significant impact on the region.
In the early 2000s, the situation in Oaxaca began to calm down, and tourism started to increase. However, in 2006, a new wave of violence erupted when the Popular Assembly of the Peoples of Oaxaca (APPO) protested against the government’s decision to remove the governor of the state. The protests turned violent, and several people were killed or injured.
Since then, the situation in Oaxaca has remained volatile, with occasional outbreaks of violence and protests. However, the Mexican government has taken steps to increase security in the region, and the situation is generally considered to be under control.
The Current Security Situation in Oaxaca
The current security situation in Oaxaca is complex and multifaceted. While there are still areas of high violence, such as the city of Tijuana, which is located near the US-Mexico border, the overall situation is generally considered to be stable. (See Also: Is Puerto Rico Safe to Visit After Earthquake? The Latest Updates)
The Mexican government has increased its presence in the region, with more police and military personnel deployed to high-risk areas. Additionally, the government has implemented various initiatives to reduce crime and improve public safety, such as the “Plan Pacifico” program, which aims to reduce violence in the states of Guerrero, Michoacán, and Oaxaca.
However, despite these efforts, there are still areas of high violence in Oaxaca, particularly in the cities of Tijuana and Ciudad Juárez. These cities are located near the US-Mexico border and have been affected by the drug trade and gang violence.
It’s also important to note that Oaxaca is a large state, and the security situation can vary greatly depending on the location. The capital city of Oaxaca, Oaxaca de Juárez, is generally considered to be a safe area, with low levels of violence and a strong police presence.
What You Can Do to Stay Safe in Oaxaca
While the security situation in Oaxaca is generally stable, it’s still important to take certain precautions to stay safe. Here are some tips to help you stay safe while visiting Oaxaca:
- Research your destination: Before traveling to Oaxaca, research the area you plan to visit and stay informed about any local events or protests that may affect your trip.
- Stay informed: Stay up to date with local news and events, and be aware of any travel advisories issued by your government.
- Be aware of your surroundings: Pay attention to your surroundings and avoid walking alone in isolated areas at night.
- Use reputable transportation: Use reputable transportation services, such as taxis or shuttles, and avoid hitchhiking or walking alone in isolated areas.
- Avoid displaying signs of wealth: Avoid displaying signs of wealth, such as expensive jewelry or watches, and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
- Stay in touch with your government: Register with your government’s travel advisory program and stay in touch with them while you’re traveling.
Conclusion
Oaxaca is a state in southern Mexico that has a complex and multifaceted security situation. While there are areas of high violence, the overall situation is generally considered to be stable, and the Mexican government has taken steps to increase security in the region. To stay safe while visiting Oaxaca, it’s important to research your destination, stay informed, be aware of your surroundings, use reputable transportation, avoid displaying signs of wealth, and stay in touch with your government. (See Also: Is it Safe to Visit Kerala in July? – Monsoon Mayhem?)
Recap
In this article, we have explored the current security situation in Oaxaca and provided you with the information you need to make an informed decision about your trip. We have discussed the history of violence in the region, the current security situation, and what you can do to stay safe while visiting Oaxaca. Here is a summary of the key points:
- Oaxaca has a long history of violence, dating back to the 1990s.
- The current security situation in Oaxaca is complex and multifaceted, with areas of high violence and areas of low violence.
- The Mexican government has taken steps to increase security in the region, including deploying more police and military personnel and implementing various initiatives to reduce crime and improve public safety.
- To stay safe while visiting Oaxaca, it’s important to research your destination, stay informed, be aware of your surroundings, use reputable transportation, avoid displaying signs of wealth, and stay in touch with your government.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is Oaxaca safe to visit?
Oaxaca is generally considered to be a safe destination, but it’s always important to take certain precautions to stay safe. Research your destination, stay informed, and be aware of your surroundings to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Q: What are the areas of high violence in Oaxaca?
The areas of high violence in Oaxaca are primarily located in the cities of Tijuana and Ciudad Juárez, which are located near the US-Mexico border. These cities have been affected by the drug trade and gang violence.
Q: What can I do to stay safe in Oaxaca?
To stay safe in Oaxaca, research your destination, stay informed, be aware of your surroundings, use reputable transportation, avoid displaying signs of wealth, and stay in touch with your government. Additionally, consider hiring a reputable guide or tour operator to help you navigate the region. (See Also: Is It Safe To Visit Manali In December? – Winter Guide)
Q: Are there any travel advisories for Oaxaca?
Yes, the US Department of State has issued a travel advisory for Oaxaca, advising travelers to exercise increased caution due to crime and violence. However, the advisory does not recommend avoiding the region altogether, and many travelers visit Oaxaca safely every year.
Q: Can I use credit cards in Oaxaca?
Yes, credit cards are widely accepted in Oaxaca, particularly in tourist areas. However, it’s still a good idea to have some cash on hand, especially when traveling to rural areas or using public transportation.