guadalajara tourism safety

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Is Guadalajara Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

Mexico : Safety by City

• Aguascalientes
• Cabo San Lucas
• Chichen Itza
• Guadalajara
• Isla Holbox
• Isla Mujeres
• Mexico City
• Nuevo Laredo
• Piedras Negras
• Playa del Carmen
• Puerto Morelos
• Puerto Vallarta
• Queretaro City
• San Luis Potosi
• San Miguel de Allende
• Zihuatanejo

Guadalajara is the second-largest city in Mexico and is a cultural center with an inspiring combination of new and old.

The city is where Mariachi music began, and some say tequila also started here.

Charreria, a rodeo-like sport, also originated here and is still popular.

It is home to the Guadalajara International Film Festival.

The city also hosts the largest Spanish language book fair in the world.

 The city is also a silicon valley of sorts for Mexico, with a lot of hi-tech companies operating here.

The colonial heritage also remains strong, with architecture in famous cathedrals and other public buildings.

 It is bathed in tradition, but also vibrant in its modern cosmopolitan feel.

It is about 200 miles from the Pacific coast in a valley surrounded by mountains.

• Warnings & Dangers in Guadalajara

OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM

Guadalajara is a very large city with 4.4 million people, so some crime is to be expected.The U.S. State Dept. gives the state of Jalisco the second-highest warning level because of crime and Covid-19.Car theft is a major problem.Some caution is advised, but if you stay in tourist areas and don't venture out alone at night, you should not have any problems.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM

Registered taxis are safe, and hotels and restaurants will summon them for you.Do not hail taxis on the street or take rides with unregistered taxis.Buses and trains tend to be crowded and have pickpocket operators around. Armed robberies sometimes happen on buses. Chartered buses for groups are safe, but be careful on buses for the general public or trains.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: HIGH

Especially on a crowded bus, or bus or train station, a pickpocket can steal your wallet without you realizing it at the time.They tend to focus on tourist areas and people who appear careless or intoxicated. Don't look like a tourist, protect your valuables, and don't let anyone see your electronics or cash.Blend in with the crowd to be a less obvious target.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW

There have been, and continue to be, minor earthquakes in the mountains of Jalisco around Guadalajara.They have been small for years and there has not been a major one in a long time.Hurricanes don't get this far inland, and flooding has not been an issue.  A natural disaster could happen, of course, but there has not been one in this area in a long time.

MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM

There seem to be two worlds at Guadalajara, one in the day and a different one at night.During the day it is very safe in tourist areas, but at night it can be dangerous.You should not be out alone, especially at night, and during the day don't get caught in areas where you could be trapped. Armed robberies involve buses or public transportation.

TERRORISM RISK: LOW

The risk was higher a few years ago when drug cartels were active in the area.The city has done a lot to distance itself from drug activities.Cartels and gangs are not very active now.There is very little terrorism in Mexico and not much at all in Guadalajara.

SCAMS RISK: HIGH

There are more and more tourists in Guadalajara, and that means more scam operators are showing up.Scammers like to work on tourists, from fake tours, fake souvenirs, fake taxies, and everything else.Restaurants sometimes have a different menu for tourists, with higher prices than what locals pay.Places of business will add to your credit card bill if you are not paying attention.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: MEDIUM

If women stay in groups and stay in tourist areas there is very little danger.It is dangerous for a woman alone, however, and especially outside of the tourist areas or at night.There have also been cases of people taking advantage of intoxicated women in clubs.Don't go out alone, and don't accept drinks from strangers in bars.There is some risk, but it is not more dangerous than any other big city.

TAP WATER RISK: HIGH

If you drink tap water in Guadalajara, or anywhere in Mexico, you will very likely get sick for a day or two.Some of that is just differences in water, and some are due to pollution.Montezuma's Revenge is real.Don't take chances, even by using ice that restaurants may have made from tap water.

• Safest Places to Visit in Guadalajara

The city’s historic center is a place you must see.

Amazing cultural and historic sights, museums, restaurants, and the best hotels. There is also added security.

Zapopan, a separate city within the greater city,  is home to the Basilica of Zapopan.

There are lots of concerts here and a great tourist area.

The fairgrounds and the exhibition center are home to many outstanding events.

The Chapalita district is home to many restaurants and some very nice homes.

It is a rich area of the city, and a pleasant cosmopolitan area to enjoy.

Tlaquepaque is an artisan area where pottery, textiles, and blown glass crafts are popular.

This is an artsy area, but some say it can be dangerous at night.

Colonia Americana is a trendy area with ancient buildings, trendy restaurants, and bars.

It has a thriving nightlife that many people enjoy, with a full dose of mariachi Mexican flair.

• Places to Avoid in Guadalajara

El Cerro Del Cuatro, Tlapuepaque.

This is one of the most impoverished areas of the city, and one of the most dangerous.

There is no reason to come here.

Be careful anywhere in the city when you are not in a tourist zone.

Several neighborhoods are dangerous.

Ask locals, and at your hotel, about which areas to avoid.

Calzada de la endencia splits the metro area.

The east side of that tends to be underdeveloped, poor, and dangerous.

Oblatos is an area on the edge of town with majestic views of a canyon and the mountains.

It is safe during the day, but not at night.

It is a nice hiking area in the day, but at night there are a lot of drug deals and other unsavory types wandering around.

• Safety Tips for Traveling to Guadalajara

1. Don’t drink the water.

This is constantly said about Mexico, and it is true.

It will make you sick for a couple of days and cost you some vacation time.

Avoid the ice too.

Many water systems are contaminated, and it is not worth the risk.

2. Avoid public transportation.

It is confusing and not well marked.

It is better to take tours or taxis.

Public transportation can also be even more dangerous at night.

Consider tour groups as a means of getting around.

3 Only use registered taxis, which are clearly labeled.

Your hotel or a restaurant will call a registered cab for you.

Fake taxis are used to rob people and rape women.

Don’t accept a ride from a random person on the street.

4. Don’t look or act like a tourist.

Keep your camera and other electronics hidden and use them discretely.

Always act like you know where you are going, even when you don’t.

Pickpockets and other criminals look for confused people to victimize and they won’t usually bother a person who looks confident.

5. Bring an umbrella and be prepared for rain.

In the summer months, rain is common in the afternoon, but it passes quickly and dries up fast.

Keep in mind summer can be very hot, so dress accordingly and use sunscreen.

6. Follow your gut feelings.

If something doesn’t feel right, there is probably something wrong.

Get away from such a situation immediately and don’t worry about being polite.

Even if you turn out to be wrong, it is better to not risk getting into a bad situation.

7. Don’t go out at night alone.

This is common advice for any city anywhere in the world, but it is very good advice.

Criminals are out at night, and they look for people who are alone that they can rob, or worse.

8. Know a little Spanish.

Knowing a few key phrases and words will be a big help in a new city.

People are more likely to want to help you if they see you at least trying to speak their language.

9. No drugs and not much drinking.

Don’t get involved in any shady deals or drugs, and don’t drink too much.

These are usually dangerous and violent people, and you could easily get seriously injured.

If the police get involved, your problems will only increase.

Criminals also look for intoxicated people to victimize.

10. Register with the State Department Enrollment Program.

You will get updates on your destination, and it will be easier for officials to find you if there is an emergency.

This will give you an app for your phone that will be very useful and will help keep you safe.

• How Does Guadalajara Compare?
• Useful Information

You will need a passport, but you will not need a Visa.A passport takes 8-10 weeks and costs about $100.You can get it faster if you pay more.There are also passport cards available for around $30.Be sure to keep this document safe and don't let it out of your hands.

The Peso is the basic currency in Mexico, and the exchange rate can change daily.You can make an exchange at the airport, but you don't want to carry too much cash around.Banks and ATM machines are good places to do currency exchange.

Guadalajara is a hot city in summer due to its tropical location.Some say the best time to visit is between November and March when the weather is not so hot. It can get cold at night during those months.The air is dry, but there are occasional showers in summer.

Guadalajara has a modern airport that is about 12 miles from the city center.There are shuttles to major hotels that are free or at a very low cost.There are registered taxis as well, to take you anywhere you want to go.There may also be buses, but they can be confusing if you don't know the area or the language.

Travel Insurance

A lot can go wrong when you travel.Usually, nothing too bad happens, but when it does, you need to have the peace of mind that you will be OK.Travel insurance will give you that peace of mind and will be a tremendous help if something does go wrong during your trip.

Guadalajara Weather Averages (Temperatures)

• Average High/Low Temperature

Mexico - Safety by City

• Where to Next?

32 Reviews on Guadalajara

My wife and I went to Guadalajara for our 5 year anniversary and while I didn’t feel unsafe or uneasy, my wife did. She was tense the entire trip there. We had some issues with items being stolen out of our hotel room and a group of men following us a few times who didn’t speak English. I know she don’t want to ever go back but I wouldn’t mind it. I am not intimidated very easily.

Right . You’re a tough guy. A couple cartel guys, all hit men, would pose no problem for you.

There’s always one who has to act like the cartel is literally targeting US citizens and then only.

Don’t get involved or partake in shady stuff and you’ll be left alone. You can be held up, mugged, beat, etc. in ANY city in the world. Not everything is cartel cartel cartel.

Everything can be safe…it’s up to you

I think it might be more about where you stay and the activities you engage in. I’ve been traveling to Guadalajara constantly for the last six months. I pretty much stick to the nicest areas and I don’t go out at night. Best place to stay is obviously the Hyatt Regency and from there you can walk to any number of amazing shops and stores and really nice restaurants so I never felt the need to go further than that.

I speak Spanish my husband doesn’t . I want to go with him . He is American light skin . I hope people are friendly there with American citizens

Why would you go somewhere that your life is in danger? We are talking about a vacation. I do not understand why you would put your life in danger.

Yeah, like going to Detroit, Chicago, Houston, Atlanta, LA, NYC…..

Don’t believe the BS. If you don’t drink, don’t walk alone, don’t have a lot of bling on, act like you aren’t a gringo (even if you are pasty white) and stay in good neighborhoods, your chances of a mugging are probably less than any ‘multicultural’ city in Weimerica.

I loved the area when I traveled there back in 2008 but since all the issues with immigrants, I am a bit put off on going to Mexico. I am not sure if it would be safe. I know most areas in Mexico are risky but usually cities like this are okay. Anyone go more recently know?

Just went in July 2020, it was safe, reminds me of old school mexico. Went to the plaza of mariachis at night, it was like downtown LA in the eighties lots of passed out drunks and drug addicts just best to avoid this area

Safe And A Must!

I have visited downtown Guadalajara a few times as an adult. It has certainly changed since I was a kid. These last couple of times I did not feel unsafe. I feel you need to be street smart as you are in any major metropolitan area. Being from Chicago this was a no brainer for me. Be smart and don’t look like a tourist and fumble with maps and smart phones. Plan your sites and enjoy a stroll. Make sure you’re in an area with lots of people. I would consider this a safe trip and will return again.

My wife ate tomato soup out of my unusually large bellybutton in Guadalajara. It was a great trip that we’ll remember.

jealous of navel

ok then! got to try this lol

Understandable. I live and work in GDL and have been held up. It Is becoming a nasty place with half-witted, obnoxious thugs driving around in their gruesome gringo-style pickups and shitty banda music everywhere. I am a Mexican Citizen, and being quite honest, would not recommend the place to say, Calgary résidents or peaceful tourists from Western Europe. Sad, but true: Narcos, corruption, and vulgarity prevail. GDL Is not the city of Bing Crosby golfing and Chapala visits anymore. It Is an oafish, provincial bastion of Sinaloa. Sad, very sad.

You’re so full of it. Mexicans should be glad they got rid of you. I’ve been to Guadalajara many times and haven’t had any problems. Many things to enjoy as long as you don’t act stupid, which is the same everywhere.

You speak the truth my friend!

Don’t judge

Juan could have been VERY traumatized if he were in fact held up. His response appears extreme but it is important to consider the reason he reacted this way. Many locals are angry with the cartel and have a right to be fed up with cngj. Trying to take the high ground over a local sounds arrogant, selfish, and insensitive to their reality, which could be very painful if they grew up in one of gdl’s tougher neighborhoods. He clearly states that he still lives there. Guadalajara is a very nice city. Stay away from the area past La calzada independencia in the city center and Calle priciliano Sanchez at night. Also, ten blocks north of the cathedral on Pedro Loza should be a no go area. Try carnes garibaldi, tejuino, and a torta ahogada while you are there. Cheers.

Exactly F. Parr. Like most big cities in the US if you go looking for trouble or participate in illegal activities then you are going to put yourself at risk. I have visited several times and never felt unsafe. Something can happen to you in any big city in the world just be aware of your surroundings and you’ll have a pleasant time. People love Paris but I had a bag stolen from me as I was walking from the Gare du Nord to my Airbnb and I am a physically large guy. I didn’t feel any safer there than I do when I go to Guadalajara. The danger is all blown out of proportion from the American media especially when most large US cities are just as bad. And remember Cartels most likely wouldn’t exist if it weren’t for the huge drug habit of the US which is prevalent in all walks of life here and not just in minority communities.

Lives under a bridge

Another nasty troll here to attack people from behind the screen. I’m talking about you Parr, not the OP.

Second trip

This is my 2nd trip here, and I am pleased with my visit. As in any visit outside one’s comfort zone, be ever vigilant and have a way out of any situation. Go where there is plenty of people traffic, and most of all…look and act like a “native”. For the most part while visiting the many tourist venues that can be found, the people are friendly and polite. Of course, there’s always the few rude ones that don’t have any sense of respect for others, ie, cutting in front of you while you are taking a photo, or forcing themselves to the front of the line. Overall, I’ve enjoyed my trip. Gracias, Roberto de California.

Awesome local experience

I just came back from staying in a house in the Santa Maria/Talpita colonia – Was able to walk around that area day and night with no issues of feeling unsafe. Ventured off to Zona Medrano and multiple other tianquis of lots of people moving through small spaces.

As in all big cities – be aware of your surroundings. But ultimately I’ve felt much uncomfortable in several areas here in the states.

Check out this undiscovered gem in Mexico

I just returned from my first trip to Guadalajara. I was pleasantly surprised at the charm the city exudes. Lots of lovely colonial architecture that goes on for block after block. I stayed at the Holiday Inn in Centro Ciudad (221 Juarez) which was well located for walking to the cathedral, museums, and other areas of interest. People were consistently friendly and helpful. American tourists were few and far between. Hotel couldn’t do currency exchanges but loads of stores on Ave were easily available with good rates and flexible hours. Museum of Guadalajara was a highlight containing exhibits on paleontology, history, and fine art. Interjet Airlines now flies non-stop from several North American cities, offering low rates (and surprising amount of legroom on its planes)

A wonderful experience

I visited Guadalajara many times and stayed for months at the time. The experience has always been exceptional. I love the people, the ambiance, the climate. I always felt safe and never had any problems. I am recommending this city because I have personally experienced. Take your time, rent long term and enjoy the in·cred·i·ble life in this beautiful city.

What parts of the city can you recommend staying for me? I’m seasoned traveler, low key and speak spanish and want to avoid gringo tourist areas. Ive heard maybe chapalita, col americana, tlaquepeque…?Ty

It's a great safe City!

It is a great safe City when you travel you don’t go to the Hood rat areas! travel to the tourist areas only they’re very safe! mind your own business enjoy the city be happy nobody wants you! nobody needs anything from you! enjoy your yourself!

I am from southern California Orange County my parents are from Guadalajara so as a young adult back in the 90’s my interest for the beautiful city struck me Been visiting Guadalajara since at least 4 times a year for at least 3 weeks to a month at time, Never once had an issue of any sort I been just about all over the world and i have to say Guadalajara is where I feel at home

just be smart and be aware of your surroundings

I feel more unsafe in LOS ANGELES NEW YORK CITY LAS VEGAS CHICAGO etc etc etc just to name a few

Me and My boyfriend who is White are thinking about going to zapopan Jalisco do they pay extra attention to white Caucasion?

I am a white Canadian woman who spent quite a bit of time living in Mexico. I visited Zapopan twice. No one looked at me twice, I didn’t feel that I stood out at all. I walked alone at night to the store, and didn’t feel unsafe. Although I don’t recommend walking alone at night any where. As for your husband I am sure he will be just fine. Always use common sense!

Anything can happen to anyone anywhere

I haven’t been, but hope to go to Guadalajara one day. I live for a few months of the year in zihuatanejo with my Mexican fiancé. Then work in the US to pay for Mexico. I love it there and I want to be there all the time!!! I want to travel to numerous cities all over Mexico. I love CDMX!! Just stay in Roma Norte and you can be out at night,safely,too. Guanajuato was gorgeous and is my pick above SanMigel. Mexico is my second home. Love,love,love it!!!!!

Safe for Mexicans

I am from Mexico and every part feels safe

Who guards the guards?….

Stayed with friends in Guadalajara in the 80’s for six months. Only problem I had was with undercover police who beat up my friend who was Mexican and from there. His father was in Govt, and recognised them. Also, had my passport confiscated when went to get extension. Told to call back next day. Official said they had lost it, but I saw it on his desk and snatched it back. He disappeared for 5 mins and returned telling me to be out of the country by Monday or I would be arrested. Left on Sunday pm, fortunately, and later learned they had turned up in jeeps with guns looking for me Monday morning. Have a great holiday ! Heard it’s gotten a lot worse…….

Any watch outs?

I am about to visit for 8 days. Staying at Hotel Morales. Any watch outs? It’s my first trip there do not sure about specific areas

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Article Contents

• Guadalajara : Safety by City
• Overall Risk
• Transport & Taxis Risk
• Pickpockets Risk
• Natural Disasters Risk
• Mugging Risk
• Terrorism Risk
• Women Travelers Risk
• Tap Water Risk
• So... How Safe Is Guadalajara Really?
• Weather Averages (Temperatures)
• User Reviews
• Share Your Experience

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Guadalajara Safety 2024: How Safe is Guadalajara for Travel?

Is Guadalajara Safe?

Guadalajara isn’t a safe travel destination in 2024 due to an increase in cartel-related crime and thefts. Tourists are advised to consider visiting other safer cities such as Mexico City , Merida, or Puerto Vallarta .

Nevertheless, if you must travel to Guadalajara, we’ve prepared a thorough guide on staying safe in Guadalajara in 2023, which covers everything you need to know to be fully prepared for the trip.

Unveiling the Reality: A Comprehensive Look at Guadalajara Crime Rates

Guadalajara has a crime rating of 62.39.

The crime rating is very similar to some of the most dangerous cities in Mexico , including Acapulco (60.52%), Juarez (68.34%), and Tijuana (72.08%).

Guadalajara is the capital of Jalisco, Mexico’s 11th most violent state . Between June 2022 and May 2023, the state recorded a total of 2,173 homicides.

Who Controls Guadalajara’s Underbelly?

The driving forces behind Guadalajara’s criminal activity are the Jalisco New Generation cartel (CJNG) and the Nueva Plaza cartel.

These cartels are known to be in a continuous territorial battle, which has resulted in many homicides and violence around the city— urging the U.S. State Department to issue a travel alert advising people to “Reconsider Traveling” to the state of Jalisco.

COVID-19 Safety in Guadalajara

Mexico has lifted all restrictions regarding the COVID-19 pandemic , which means tourists no longer need a negative test or vaccine to enter the country.

The state of Jalisco had a daily average of 70 positive cases, making it the 12th state in terms of numbers.

To stay safe, please maintain social distance, wash your hands frequently, and cough and sneeze into the inside of your elbow. Most importantly, if you suspect you have coronavirus, do not travel. Stay at home, get tested, and seek treatment.

Perils of Nature: The Risk of Natural Disasters in Guadalajara

Guadalajara is in an area that can be hit by natural disasters such as hurricanes and earthquakes.

Hurricane Information and Precautions

The principal hurricane-prone areas in Mexico are the coastal areas of the Gulf of Mexico and the Pacific Ocean.

Guadalajara is in the state of Jalisco in west-central Mexico, meaning it’s not normally at risk of direct hurricane impact, but it is close enough to feel the effects of the aftermath, which can be disastrous. 

Weather patterns can be unpredictable, and hurricanes from other parts of Mexico can bring severe rain, storms, and devastating floods to Guadalajara.

A big storm hit Guadalajara in June 2018 which flooded streets and shopping centers, uprooted trees, and swept cars away. A train station was also flooded, trapping 40 passengers within a passing train.

Another storm occurred in June 2022 , leaving one person injured and many flooded homes and fallen trees. The flood stream carried 14 cars, some of which had people inside. Fortunately, no one went missing or died from the flooding.

The “hurricane” season in Guadalajara lasts from June to October, so these are the months where there’s the highest chance of heavy storms and floods. The rainiest month is June.

If you find yourself in the city during these months, it’s best to keep an eye on the National Hurricane Service so you can be updated on the most recent news regarding hurricanes in Guadalajara.

Earthquake Information and Prevention

Mexico is located in the Ring of Fire along many tectonic plates, so Guadalajara, like many other cities in Mexico, is in a seismically active zone.

Guadalajara has seen earthquakes of varying magnitudes. For example, in 2022 , a destructive 7.6 magnitude earthquake struck the central Pacific Coast. The tremors were felt throughout the whole area, from Puerto Vallarta, Mexico City, to Guadalajara.

In 2023 , Guadalajara had small earthquakes with magnitudes of 2,3 and 4. According to the earthquake magnitude scale , these vibrations are felt but aren’t destructive. Nevertheless, it’s crucial to emphasize that monitoring earthquakes is difficult, as their timing is unforeseeable.

This is why the very least we can do is be educated about what to do in the event of an earthquake , for example, knowing how to “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” as the tremor begins. Another great tip is downloading the 911 CDMX app to your smartphone. The app will inform you 60 seconds before an earthquake strikes, which in many situations is enough time to save a life.

Breathing Safely in Guadalajara: Carbon Monoxide Awareness and Prevention

Carbon monoxide poisoning is a severe health danger, yet this toxic gas receives little attention.

Every year , over 100,000 people in the U.S. are hospitalized due to carbon monoxide poisoning. So, what makes this gas so harmful, and how does it affect us?

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a deadly gas with no odor or color created by the incomplete combustion of fuels, frequently caused by faulty appliances such as stoves, furnaces, fireplaces, generators, and so on. 

If there is a CO that spreads in the air for an extended period of time, it will harm anyone inside the house or hotel — and because it’s practically indetectable, it’s not usually noticed until some of its symptoms appear.

Early symptoms of CO poisoning include headaches, dizziness, nausea, disorientation, chest discomfort, and loss of consciousness. Prolonged CO inhalation can result in paralysis, damage to the brain, and loss of life.

Guadalajara hasn’t had any incidents from carbon monoxide poisoning, but it’s possible if precautions aren’t taken. Carrying your own CO detectors wherever you go is the best way to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. If the hotel has one, that’s terrific, but this is a great backup plan.

Guadalajara Weather Patterns: What to Expect?

Guadalajara has two seasons: dry and wet.

Guadalajara’s dry season begins in November and lasts until May. The dry season brings little rain and sunny days. Temperatures range from mild to hot, with averages of 60-74°F (15-23°C) and a high of 92°F (33°C).

The wet season in Guadalajara begins in June and lasts until October. This season brings more rainfall, greater humidity levels, and a likelihood of thunderstorms. July and August are the wettest months. The temperature is mild to hot, with an average of 72°F (22°C) and a maximum of 88°F (31°C).

Weather Overview in Guadalajara

Summer in Guadalajara lasts from June to August. The season brings warm temperatures and occasional rainfall — the perfect respite from the summer heat. The average daily summertime temperature is around 71°F (22°C). On the warmest days, Guadalajara may reach 88°F (31°C). Summer nights are nice and moderately cool, hovering around 61°F (15°C).

Fall in Guadalajara lasts from September through November, signaling the transition from the wet to the dry season. September is rather rainy, but participation decreases as the season progresses. The daily average temperature may reach 69°F (20°C), with a maximum high of 82°F (27°C). Nights start getting chilly, dropping to 49°F (9°C).

Guadalajara’s winter season lasts from December through February. The weather is dry and cool, but it rarely gets below freezing. The average daily temperature is around 61°F (16°C), with a high of 81°F (27°C). Winter nights are at 43°F (6.3°C).

Spring in Guadalajara begins in March and ends in May, signaling the end of the dry season and the beginning of the wet season. March and April are typically dry, with significant rainfall beginning in May. The daily average temperature is 70°F (21°C). However, on the hottest days, Guadalajara can reach 92°F (33°C). Spring nights are cool, with highs of 57°F (13°C).

When Is the Best Time to Visit Guadalajara?

We are great advocates for safety, so our goal isn’t to encourage travellers to visit dangerous places. The U.S. government has made it clear that tourists should reconsider visiting this city, and we want to reiterate that advice.

However, in theory, the best time to visit Guadalajara would be from November to March. These are the months where there’s the least probability of rain, plus the weather isn’t oppressively hot. The nights are cool, providing a nice contrast to the warm days.

Exploring Guadalajara Solo or With a Family: Is It a Good Idea?

Guadalajara is not a place to visit alone or with your family. The city has had its fair share of cartel crime, and it is highly advised to reconsider visiting this city.

However, if you still want to visit, be aware that you are ignoring the US government’s travel notice and putting yourself and your family in danger.

To minimize the risk, adhere to the following tips.

Essential tips for staying safe:

• Knowing some Spanish can help you blend in
• Pesos are a must, as many services don’t accept other currencies
• To avoid scammers, don’t drive in street taxis
• Didi and Uber are two reliable taxi options
• Look up where the nearest police station is
• Avoid drinking tap water as it is contaminated
• ATMs and public transportation are hotspots for thieves
• Draw money from malls, supermarkets, or banks
• Write down emergency numbers: 911 (police), 066 (ambulance), 080 (fire services)
• Thoroughly research the reputation of your hotel and the area where you’ll stay at
• Keep valuables hidden or locked

Tips for traveling alone:

• Never go out at night
• Maintain a close distance to your hotel
• Stay in your hotel as much as possible so that others don’t realize you’re alone and take advantage
• Avoid crowded bars and restaurants
• Drink responsibly
• Someone may try to put a narcotic in your drink, so be wary
• Never initiate a conflict
• Ignore catcallers
• Dress modestly
• Don’t wear expensive jewelry or too much money with you
• If you’re offered illegal substances, kindly refuse them
• Never give personal information to a person you just met
• Make sure nobody is following you

Tips for traveling with your family:

• Make sure you are always together and never separated
• Always keep an eye on your kids
• Go to reputable restaurants
• Avoid bars with crowds of intoxicated people
• Rent a car so that you don’t have to rely on a taxi
• Book a hotel with family-friendly activities
• Pak a medical kit
• Stick to tourist zones, and don’t wander off too far from your hotel

If you’re a female solo traveler, then you should read our article on Solo female travel in Mexico .

In summary, the beautiful Guadalajara isn’t Mexico’s deadliest location, but the city is far from safe.

Statistically, your chances of having a safe and peaceful journey are slim. Even if the odds are in your favor and you have a secure journey there, it’s simply not worth the risk of being in constant fear of danger.

This is why we strongly advise you to follow the U.S. government travel warnings and avoid visiting this place until further notice. There are other destinations that are much safer, for instance, the country’s capital, Mexico City, or the beautiful island of Cozumel . But if you really want to visit Guadalajara, make sure to pack a bulletproof vest and a few cans of pepper spray. Just in case!

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Is Guadalajara Safe to Travel to in 2024? Local’s Guide

If you are planning a trip to the Jalisco capital of Guadalajara, safety is likely to be high on your list of concerns. Mexico on the whole isn’t really a destination best known for its safety reputation, and Guadalajara doesn’t have the best rep either. 

Truthfully, Guadalajara is not one of the safest places in the county, but it is a place rich in history, gastronomy and cultural heritage, and somewhere where you can enjoy a perfectly safe visit as long as you take precautions and use your common sense. 

You are in good hands because I live in Mexico and I have traveled to Guadalajara several times over the last couple of years. Oh, and I am a solo female. 

Although I experienced similar levels of nervousness and reservations before visiting for the first time in 2021, Guadalajara has quickly become one of my favorite places in Mexico. With a bit of forward planning, it is likely to become one of yours too, and you can have a wonderful trip that is memorable for all the right reasons.

Table of Contents

Is Guadalajara Safe to Travel to in 2024?

Guadalajara can be a great place to visit as an alternative city break or as part of a wider Mexico itinerary, but it definitely requires more assertiveness than when traveling to other parts of the world. Truthfully, it is a city best reserved for seasoned travelers that have at least some experience in traveling in Latin America. 

Many Mexican cities differ from cities in the US, Canada and Europe because the safety situation can vary so substantially from one part of the city to another. You cannot just wander around aimlessly in Guadalajara because one moment, you can be in a very safe, charming area, and then 15 minutes later, you can find yourself in a sketchy part of town that you really have no business being in. 

Crimes like petty theft, grand theft auto, and break-ins are on the rise year after year, and this is not somewhere where you can leave your bag on the back of a chair, or leave your laptop on a coffee shop table as five minutes later, it will have disappeared.

This is not to scare you, as I mentioned Guadalajara is one of my favorite places in Mexico, but to reiterate that you really need a strong level of situational awareness to travel here. 

Come to Guadalajara with an open mind and the preparedness to be vigilant and you will be fine. 

Where to stay in Guadalajara 

When deciding where to stay in Guadalajara , be sure to read up on the area where your hotel is located. Look at where the property is in relation to the map and read reviews written by previous guests.

Guadalajara city center, Colonia Americana, Chapalita, Punto São Paulo and Providência are among the safest places to base yourself during your time in the city. There are also some new, business-style hotels close to Expo Guadalajara which offer plush, comfortable rooms with modern amenities at cheaper prices than the ultra-central hotels, though you will likely have to Uber back and forth a lot to get around. 

The city center extends from Avenue Juarez to Parque Alcade/Museo Panteon de Belen and it is safe during the day. At night, like in most major cities, you should take an Uber rather than walking, and don’t walk alone after dark. 

Most hotels are confined to the above areas and there are not really any hotels in sketchy neighborhoods so you don’t really have to worry about accidentally booking something in a really bad part of town. As a rule of thumb though, don’t consider anything farther east than the San Juan de Dios Market. 

The eastern suburbs, particularly around the Central Viaje station, are run down and sketchy.

Tlaquepaque and Zapopan are their own independent cities, but the line where Guadalajara ends and Tlaquepaque and Zapopan begin are somewhat blurred thanks to constant urban expansion of the Jalisco capital. 

Is Tlaquepaque safe? 

Tlaquepaque can be a safe place to base yourself as long as you opt to stay close to the El Parian Square and avoid the Cerro del Cuatro and the southern part of the city.  If you find an off-the-beaten-track attraction that you want to check out – like a specific park, hiking trail, or street art mural, do a little reading on the area that surrounds it first.

No-go areas in Guadalajara 

There are a couple of areas that you ought to avoid during your time in Guadalajara. Do not blindly follow Google Maps here and see where it takes you. 

Undesirable neighborhoods often border nicer areas and a few wrong turns could lead you to a bad situation. For example, Colonia del Fresno should be avoided completely and yet the area runs parallel to Chapalita, a charming tree-lined area filled with excellent international restaurants and coffee shops and a main promenade where families can be found walking around and enjoying live music at all times of day. 

It would be easy to feel a sense of security here, believe that you are just fine walking back to your hotel or the city center, and end up in Colonia de Fresno. 

Other neighborhoods to avoid during your time in Guadalajara are:

• Colonia del Fresno
• Capilla de Jesus (between Calle Ignacio Herrera y Cairo and Calle Reforma)
• Santa Cecilia
• Ladron de Guevara
• El Sauz 

What is the crime rate in Guadalajara Mexico?

Guadalajara sees high levels of crime. The Numbeo crime index surveys a number of people that live in a particular destination in order to gauge how safe and comfortable they feel in their cities. A rating is given on a scale of 1 to 100, where a higher number for the crime rating relates to higher levels of crime, while a higher rating on the safety rating relates to a greater perception of safety.

Based on a survey of 235 respondants, Guadalajara has a high crime rating of 62.12, and a low safety rating of 37.88 with many residents concerned about a rise in crime over the last three years.

People’s concerns are mostly around being the victim of petty theft or a robbery, rather than being attacked, insulted, or assaulted in any way, while Statistica data from 2023 collected by the Gobierno Federal de Mexico SNSP shows that robberies are the most common crime in Guadalajara , accounting for 33.77% of crimes.

Each year, the Mexican National Statistics Institute (INEGI) also surveys the residents of various cities around the country to understand how safe they feel in the places they live. As of Q4 2022 (the latest results available) , 85% of residents said that they felt unsafe in Guadalajara.

We can compare the Numbeo ratings of Guadalajara with other Mexican, US and international cities as per the table below.

Guadalajara crime statistics

Statistically speaking, Guadalajara is comparable to Mexico City from a safety perspective. Neither city is anywhere close to being among the most dangerous cities in Latin America but there are definitely security concerns that the Mexican government is trying to address.

Crime in both cities has increased over the past few years – something that has been unfortunately exacerbated by the pandemic that has caused people to lose their jobs and resort to desperate measures to make money. 

If you have traveled to other LATM/South American cities such as Bogota or Cartagena, Colombia, for instance, you will note a marked difference in how you feel when exploring. For instance, in Mexican cities, you never feel that you have to be cautious about getting your phone out in public or constantly looking over your shoulder like you may in other parts of Latin America. 

Is the cartel in Guadalajara? 

The Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) has a strong presence in Guadalajara and essentially controls the territory in this part of Jalisco. While the US media will often portray Mexico as a terrifying narco state, the reality is that most cartel-related instances of violence only affect other members of criminal organizations. 

They are not random acts of violence that target tourists. The chances of you being in the wrong place at the wrong time are slim and truthfully, bad things could happen anywhere in the world. 

Generally speaking, as long as you don’t go looking for trouble in Mexico, trouble won’t go looking for you. Many people wouldn’t give a second thought to traveling to Cancun whereas in Cancun, like in the border towns with the US (“fronteras”), different cartels are actually fighting for territory, arguably making the situation more volatile than in Guadalajara. 

Still, it pays to follow local news and developments during your trip. Outbursts of violence are likely if cartel leaders are arrested. 

In 2022, the cartel created a blockade and burned dozens of vehicles and stores in response to several cartel leaders being captured , and on the 25th of November 2023, the local authorities issued a warning after Juan Carlos Pizano Ornelas (“El CR”) was arrested in Talpapa .

It should go without saying but you should never make jokes or comments at the expense of the cartel to locals, on social media, or otherwise. In 2022, a Tiktok influencer who blocked traffic on a Guadalajara bridge was threatened by the cartel for blocking their supply routes , and in 2017, a Sinaloan Youtuber was killed by the cartel after making fun of El Mencho. 

Kidnappings in Guadalajara and the “Disappeared” 

An alarming part of the US government travel advice for Jalisco warns travelers to “reconsider travel due to crime and kidnappings”. The sheer mention of kidnappings is enough to terrify people out of traveling here but the reality is that tourists are not being plucked out of their hotel rooms or off the street and kidnapped at random.  

Most disappearances in Jalisco and in Mexico on the whole are related to the cartel in some form or another – either directly or indirectly. A ccording to Mexico’s National Register of Missing and Non-Located Persons (RNPDNO), there are currently over 110,000 people missing in Mexico, with over 15,000 people missing in Jalisco.

In many areas around the city and in nearby Chapala and Ajijic, you will see flyers displaying the faces of people who have gone missing. The Glorieta de los Niños Héroes is a monument dedicated to the heroes that fought for Mexican independence which has now been unofficially renamed as “los desaparecidos” because every surface here is plastered with images of missing people, and various processions and protests are often held here. 

Disappearances in Guadalajara

As mentioned, a lot of disappearances in Jalisco are related to the cartel. 

Unfortunately, a percentage of those missing are said to have no ties with organized crime groups. Whether that is just that their families do not like to think of their loved ones as being involved with the cartel, or that they were simply in the wrong place at the wrong time, is debatable. 

“Extermination houses” have been found on the outskirts of the city and in run-down barrios.

These are houses that have been purchased by the cartel for the specific purpose of disposing of bodies and dissolving them in acid, which explains why so many people go missing and are never found. Clandestine burial sites have been found on the outskirts of Guadalajara and elsewhere in Jalisco. 

There have been a couple of instances of mistaken identity. Back in 2018 for instance, a group of film students were kidnapping in Tonala, tortured and dissolved in acid after cartel members mistook them for members of a rival gang. 

This area, close to Cerro de la Reina, is an area where you would have no business being anyway and the chances of you being mistaken for a cartel member as a foreigner, are slim. 

Kidnappings for ransom

Targeted kidnappings for ransom have been plotted against upper and middle-class Mexicans. However, Tourists are very rarely the target of kidnapping, especially since kidnapping for ransom takes a lot of execution and planning over the course of several weeks/months. 

Crimes against tourists and foreigners are highly frowned upon and nobody is going to snatch you off the street in broad daylight. Instead, they carefully monitor a person’s activity and plan a calculated attack. 

A family member may be kidnapped and then not returned until someone else pays a specified sum of money. If you decide to move here or spend several months in Guadalajara,it pays to be careful about what you share with whom, and what you post on social media.

Express kidnappings

Express kidnappings do happen all over Mexico occasionally and they can affect tourists if you are not cautious and careful. This usually happens when someone gets into a random taxi on the street and the driver is corrupt. The driver may take you a short distance and then, 2-3 of his friends may enter the vehicle and hold you at gun or knife point. You will be forced to hand over all of your cash and valuables and the assailants will drive around the city making you withdraw the maximum amount of money from your ATM cards.

For this reason, Mexicans prefer to use ridesharing apps like Uber, Didi and Indriver to get around. Uber is considered a lot safer here because there is more accountability via the app.

Never get into a random street cab. If you want to take a licensed taxi, use one that has been ordered by your hotel and that you know is reputable.

The objective of express kidnappings is to get as much money as possible without the intent to hurt you. However, it is still terrifying and something that you likely want to avoid. 

Is Guadalajara safe for solo travelers?

Traveling to Guadalajara can be a safe and enjoyable experience for travelers of all ages and backgrounds, including solo travelers and women traveling alone.  

This article (and entire website!) has been created by a solo female traveler in Mexico (me!) and I am a big advocate of never letting being solo or your gender/physical appearance stop you from traveling anywhere you want to go. 

I have traveled to Guadalajara alone three times and have never felt uncomfortable alone or that I received a lot of unwanted attention, besides the occasional glances from men that were more inquisitive than sinister. 

I personally felt comfortable walking around between the center and Colonia Americana. Since I usually choose to stay in Chapalita, I have taken walks and gone for dinner by myself in the area in the early evenings, but I was never out after dark and returned to my hotel room by around 7-8pm. 

Since Guadalajara is starting to attract more tourists, and some districts, like Colonia Americana, are becoming a little gentrified, more and more digital nomads and international travelers are coming here making it easy for you to meet other travelers if you want to socialize during your trip. 

Guadalajara is a very multicultural city home to all sorts of people from different backgrounds and nationalities so you won’t get stared at for looking different.

Most trips to Guadalajara are trouble-free and the city can be a wonderful destination for solo travelers, including solo female travelers. This entire article (and website!) has been written by a woman traveling alone in Mexico.  

Violence against women in Mexico 

Mexico is a largely patriarchal society with something of a macho culture. Unfortunately, violence against women is a growing concern in the country and it is estimated that approximately 10 women are killed here every day, with tens of thousands more reported missing. A study by INEGI Mexico (the National Institute of Statistics and Geography) found that more than 70% of the 50.5 million women interviewed had experienced some form of violence in Mexico. The UN recognized Mexico as being one of the most dangerous countries for women. All of this can sound extremely alarming, particularly if you are traveling to Guadalajara as a solo female. However, while you need to be aware of the issues and the gender values/stereotypes, this is again unlikely to affect you as a tourist, provided that you take all the aforementioned precautions for your safety.

Despite everything that you may read, you may be surprised to find that most people in Mexico are extremely friendly, welcoming, and chivalrous.

For the most part in Guadalajara, you will probably be met with men holding open doors, offering to get your baggage from public transport, pulling out your chair, etc. I have felt very comfortable here during my visits and so far, Puebla and Tuxtla Gutierrez have been the only places I have not felt super comfortable as a female traveler.

What to wear as a solo female traveler in Mexico

It pays to observe and follow suit of what the local women wear when traveling to Guadalajara.

While women absolutely should be able to wear whatever they want and go wherever they please without harassment, you will note that Mexican women tend to err on the side of conservative. They wear modest clothes and usually opt for jeans and trousers over shorts and tank tops, even during the summer months.

Opting to wear a similar style of clothing can help you to blend in and avoid inappropriate advances and unwanted male attention.

Is Guadalajara safe for families?

Guadalajara has a lot of interesting attractions that make it an enjoyable destination for families, particularly if you are traveling with older kids who enjoy museums. Mexico on the whole is a very family-oriented country, and in Guadalajara too, you will see plenty of people walking around with their children. 

Stick to a hotel in the city center or a more leafy suburb like Chapalita and you will be fine. The Trompo Mágico Children’s Interactive Science Museum is excellent, though it is currently closed for renovations until April 2024. 

The Auditorio Charles Chaplin hosts fun and interactive shows for kids which are particularly great if your little ones can understand some Spanish and if you want to head out to a sports game, you can catch a professional soccer match at the AKA Chivas stadium or watch a baseball match. 

(Guadalajara has two baseball teams: The Mariachis de Guadalajara and the Charros de Jalisco). A match can be a fun experience even if you are not super into sport, and tickets don’t break the bank. 

Use Uber to get around 

Uber is a very safe and reliable way to get around in Guadalajara and it is actually the preferred transportation method for a lot of Mexicans. In some countries around the globe, Uber may be considered “less safe” than taking licensed yellow cabs but that definitely isn’t the case here. When you take an Uber or Didi cab, you can see the driver’s details and the license plate of the vehicle that they are driving as well as their rating, reviews, and the amount of time that they have been active on the app.

You simply don’t have that when you get into a random taxi on the street. Uber also has additional features like the ability to share your journey with friends and family in real time and audio record your trip if you feel uncomfortable.

Still, there are a couple of pointers to keep in mind so that you have a safe and pleasant experience. First of all, it pays to always check the profile of the driver that is picking you up. If they have done a lot of journeys and they have a good rating (4.9 and up), you can generally feel assured that you are in safe hands. If they are a brand new driver that has only completed 5-6 trips, they have a bad rating, or they are doing something weird on the map like driving back and forth for no reason, cancel the trip. When you do so quickly, Uber will find you a new driver at no charge. When the car arrives, always check that the license plate number is correct. If it is not, do not get in. Didi is another local alternative to Uber. The prices are often marginally cheaper, although you may find that there are fewer cars available.   

Check your government travel advice for Guadalajara

It is always a good idea to check your government travel advice before traveling anywhere for the first time and the same can be said of visiting Guadalajara.

The US Department of State provides a state-by-state safety breakdown for each of Mexico’s 32 states. It is a good source of information to check prior to your trip because it is updated in real time to reflect any changes in entry requirements, any situations that may unfold, etc. 

There are no restrictions placed on US citizens of government employees traveling to the Guadalajara metropolitan area (Zona Metropolitana Guadalajara/ZMG), Puerto Vallarta, Lake Chapala, Ajijic, or the resort areas in Nayarit.  OSAC give out frequent warnings on the safety situation in Guadalajara which are worth checking.You can find the UK government travel advice for Mexico here and the Canadian government travel advice here.

Is Guadalajara safe at night?

There are some wonderful bars and restaurants in Guadalajara but you need to be cautious in the city at night.  Even if you only need to walk a short distance, it is generally better to be safe than sorry and to call an Uber. It may sound obvious, but even in daylight, you should be aware of your surroundings and not wander down quiet alleys and random side streets. 

Consider a walking tour to help you get your bearings

A walking tour is a great way to get your bearings in a new city, especially if you are traveling somewhere you are anxious about, as many people are when it comes to Mexico. Several reputable local companies offer excellent walking tours of Guadalajara that offer something for everyone – whether you are looking for a street food tour, a tour that enables you to see the city by night, a history tour, etc.

Better still, exploring with a local means that you have a Guadalajara expert on hand to ask for recommendations on the best places to eat, drink, and hang out while you are in town.

It is a good idea to do such a tour early on in your trip so that you can then work your way through the recommendations you are given for the rest of your time in the city.

Recommended Guadalajara tours for 2024

A selection of reputable tours is detailed below for your consideration. Book your spot online in advance to avoid disappointment!

• Guadalajara and Tlaquepaque sightseeing tour
• Mexican charro and charreada cultural tour
• Guadalajara sightseeing night tour 

Be mindful of your things in crowded areas 

Petty thefts happen a lot in Guadalajara so you always need to keep an eye on your things, especially in crowded areas. For the most part, these kinds of crimes are opportunistic.

The Zona Chapultepec area is notorious for thieves on bicycles and mopeds snatching phones out of people’s hands while whizzing past. Always be alert and don’t wander around aimlessly and absent-mindedly with your iPhone lulling in your hand. You also need to be careful in crowded markets such as Mercado Corona and Mercado San Juan de Dios. It would be very easy for someone to slip their hand inside your pocket or backpack when you are moving through a marketplace where people are squished together like sardines. Carry your backpack in front of you if you can. Avoid wearing expensive jewelry, sunglasses, cameras, or anything else that will draw attention or that can be yanked away from you in such places. You may also want to consider investing in a theft-proof backpack such as those offered by Pacsafe. These backpacks are a little pricier than regular backpacks. However, they are slash-proof, water-proof, and come with a TSA-approved locking system. Pacsafe bags also come with a multi-year warranty.

Grand theft auto and other robberies in Guadalajara 

Guadalajara has alarmingly high rates of grand theft auto robberies and many locals are concerned about potentially being the victim of a break-in. Truthfully, you don’t need a car for your time in the city.

If you do need to drive in Guadalajara for whatever reason, it is usually a good idea to drive around with the door locked and the windows rolled up. When searching for a parking lot, try to opt for somewhere that is central and well lit.

Many multi-story car parks in the city center do have 25/7 security attendants.

Whether you are renting a car or you live in Mexico and choose to buy one, be sure to invest in comprehensive insurance. Remember that nothing is ever worth your life or your safety so it is always better to hand over the keys than to get in an altercation with someone who may well have a weapon.

I have driven elsewhere in Jalisco state – from the villages of the Ruta Peregrina (Santa Rosa, Navidad, Mascota), San Sebastian del Oeste and Puerto Vallarta and felt safe elsewhere, so it is mostly a Guadalajara issue.

Leave the expensive designer goods at home 

Nothing sets a target on your back and screams “I’m a tourist with plenty of money” like someone who is wandering around with a DSLR camera around their neck or sporting Designer labels. In Mexico, you never really see people flashing labels or expensive luxury clothing. From a safety perspective, it is better not to draw attention to yourself and if you look fancy and wealthy, that is exactly what you will do. When you plan out your Mexico packing list , pack simple, inexpensive apparel. 

Is Guadalajara safe? FAQs 

Do you still have any burning questions or concerns about whether Guadalajara is safe? I have answered a couple of frequently asked questions about Guadalajara below.

Hopefully, you will find the information you are looking for there but if not, please do not hesitate to reach out to me!

Is Guadalajara dangerous? 

Guadalajara is not an especially dangerous city. However, traveling here definitely requires a lot of caution and common sense. There are areas that you should not go to, and things you need to keep in mind to make your trip a safe and enjoyable one. For the most part, Guadalajara is only a dangerous city if you get involved with drugs or the wrong people or you wander into areas where you really don’t have business being.

How safe is Guadalajara airport?

Guadalajara airport (Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla International Airport) is a safe place. Approximately 12.5 million people passed through it in 2021, making it one of the most important international transport hubs in the country.

You can take an airport taxi or an Uber from here to get into the city. Most Guadalajara cab drivers are trustworthy and charge a flat fee but Ubers are always cheaper.

Is Guadalajara a safe place to live?

Guadalajara is a sprawling metropolis and the second most populated city in Mexico after CDMX. In 2022, the metro area population was 5,340,000. When you compare this to Mexico City’s population of a whopping 22 million, Guadalajara pails in comparison. In many ways, the historic center exudes more of a small-town vibe.

The different neighborhoods and “barrios” here each have their own unique personalities and often feel like independent villages in themselves.

Just like anywhere else, life goes on as normal here most of the time but Guadalajara is still a city with a high crime rate and you could argue that the longer you stay somewhere, the greater the probability of something happening to you. 

I don’t live in Guadalajara, I live in Merida so I cannot attest to the realities of living here day in day out, but my partner and I had seriously considered relocating to Guadalajara before purchasing our house in the Yucatan. 

However, the increased likelihood of experiencing something like a carjacking or a break-in, even if the chances were still small, deterred us from wanting to start a family in Guadalajara and we chose Merida because it is well known as being the safest city in Mexico.

In recent years, more and more international expats have started relocating to Guadalajara. They can no doubt give better insight on this, and there are several useful Facebook groups catered to expats and foreigners in Guadalajara.

Is it safe to walk around Guadalajara?

It is generally safe to walk around Guadalajara during the day. However, you absolutely do need to be mindful of the areas that you travel into and not just wander around blindly. 

Is it safe to drink tap water in Guadalajara?

It is not safe to drink tap water in Guadalajara or anywhere in Mexico for that matter. Tap water in Mexico is generally purified at the source, but unfortunately, it often gets contaminated en route to the tap.

There is no real way of knowing if and how badly contaminated the water is unless you drink it and see – which you definitely don’t want to risk doing! Most hotels and Airbnb provide complimentary bottled water during your stay. You can also buy large bottles from supermarkets, pharmacies, and local convenience stores such as Oxxo and 7/11 for just a few pesos. Consider purchasing a reusable water bottle such as a Lifestraw to minimize your plastic waste. 

Final thoughts on safety in Guadalajara

Traveling to Guadalajara and wider Jalisco can be an enjoyable experience with a little planning and precaution.

There are plenty of things to do in Guadalajara to warrant spending 4-5 days in the city. Most of Guadalajara’s major attractions and points of interest are located within walking distance of the Guadalajara Cathedral and the Zocalo Central Square.

Be sure to take time to stop by the various charming city districts. Avenue Chapultapec and Colonia Americana exude Greenwich Village vibes and are home to a plethora of quirky, eclectic coffee shops, independent art galleries, and adorable boutique stores.   

For an authentic glimpse into what life in Guadalajara is truly like, consider spending a lazy afternoon in the leafy Chapalita district. The area’s main plaza, Jardín del Arte de la Glorieta Chapalita, hosts live musical performances (like mariachi and brass bands) virtually every night of the week. On Sundays, a wonderful little art market is held here and creatives from across the city sell everything from painted canvases to handmade artisanal goods. Guadalajara also makes a great base for exploring the wider region of Jalisco. From here, you can take day trips out to Tlaquepaque (the birthplace of Mariachi!), Tequila, Lake Chapala, Ajijic, and Talpa de Allende. Guadalajara is a wonderful place so you shouldn’t allow yourself to be scared out of visiting.  Do you still have any worries or concerns about this or other aspects of organizing a trip to Mexico? If you are traveling to the country for the first time, you might enjoy reading these things to know before you go or this post on safety in Jalisco state. Have a wonderful trip! Buen Viaje! Melissa xo 

Melissa Douglas

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Mexico to me and my friends have always been a really polarizing place to travel to.

One the one hand, I've heard raving reviews from your friends about that time they went to Mexico and had a blast.

On the other hand, I've also heard story of how my other friend almost getting kidnapped by Mexican Police.

To me, I've never been sure whether Mexico is a safe place to travel to, especially with how they're typically portrayed in modern media and entertainment.

But Mexico's a big place, and having been to Puerto Vallarta, I know for a fact that it's a lot safer there than a lot of places in Mexico.

But what about Guadalajara? Guadalajara is a incredibly popular tourist destination in Mexico, being the birthplace of Mariachi music, Tequila, Birria.

But does being a cultural hub of Mexico make it a safe place to travel to for tourists? Is it dangerous to visit Guadalajara?

Don't worry, you've come to the right place to find your answers. I've dug up facts, statistics, and stories I can find about whether Guadalajara is a safe place to visit. I also found some incredbily helpful safety tips to follow to stay safe should you visit Guadalajara.

Let's begin!

Is Mexico Generally Safe?

To answer the question of whether a city is safe, we'll first have to find out whether the country's a safe place. While safety differs drastically from places to places, especially in Mexico, the overall governance and management can tell a story.

Mexico is a stunning country known for its sandy beaches, friendly locals, and vibrant culture. Filled with flamboyant festivals, mesmerizing historical sites, and food that will make your mouth water, it isn't hard to see why it's a premium vacation spot for 32 million people each year.

However, it's no secret that Mexico also comes with a higher-than-average crime rate. According to the Crime Rate Index , Mexico stands at 54.19, which is lower than other South American countries but higher than Europe.

Still, some places in Mexico are safer than others.

So where does Guadalajara stand? Somewhere in the middle.

I'll walk you through the crime rates and safety concerns in Guadalajara and whether it is a safe destination for solo female travelers. More importantly, we'll talk about how you can keep yourself safe while visiting this lovely city.

But first, let's get to know Mexico's second-largest city: Guadalajara.

Where is Guadalajara?

Guadalajara is the capital of the state of Jalisco, a Mexican state that sits between Mexico City and Puerto Vallarta.

It is nestled within a mountain valley and sits at an elevation of 1,556 meters. The famed hometown of Mariachi and tequila, Guadalajara is renowned for being the cultural center of Mexico.

The city is a gorgeous mix of contemporary and historic architecture and is tied together by a thriving arts community.

You can find markets filled with crafts, as well as spectacular festivals throughout the year. Guadalajara also plays host to an international film festival and the largest book fair in the Americas.

All of these factors make the city one of the more popular places to travel to in Mexico besides Puerto Vallarta & Cancun.

But just exactly how safe it the city?

How safe is Guadalajara?

Now, on to the essential question: Is Guadalajara safe to visit?

It's moderately safe if you're careful. Travel advisories for multiple governments, including the United States and Canada, both lists the Jalisco State as either travel with "high caution" or "reconsider travel".

Jalisco state is known for violent crime, cartel-affiliated crime, and kidnapping. Although you may be wondering how this qualifies as medium-safe, for the most part, these crimes only involve locals.

In Guadalajara Metropolitan Area, one of the biggest crimes involve auto theft which, again, is unlikely to affect you as a tourist.

That being said, there is still some crime that tourists have to contend with, namely, pickpocketing and scams—something that most travelers deal with no matter where they are.

There are a few things that you can do to prevent such crimes, like wearing a money belt or ensuring your luggage has travel luggage locks . You should also only stay in tourist areas, be very aware of your environment, and prepared to react to any situations.

Guadalajara has relatively low risk of natural disasters, since they're mainly shielded from hurricanes being inland, away from the coast.

Is Guadalajara safe to visit in 2024?

In short, it's only safe if you're cautious. Let me elaborate.

As I mentioned above, the Jalisco state is listed as "reconsider travel" for the U.S. Travel Advisory and "exercise high caution" for the Canadian Travel Advisory.

However, most of these affected areas aren't exactly widespread across the entirety of Guadalajara, but in nearby areas and highways. Cartels rivals for territorial ownerships over certain areas, and while it's rare, tourists have been caught in the crossfire before.

Guadalajara has a crime index of 62.11 with 100 being the highest, with concerns of corruption, armed robbery, and sexual assault being the highest. While numbers are great, they rarely paint the full picture of how it's actually like in Guadalajara. Gang activity has also gotten progressively worst in recent times.

In reality, it's an amazing place to visit, even for solo travelers. If you're careful and cautious with a plan to avoid troubled neighborhoods and stay alert, you should be more than safe.

Safety Concerns in Guadalajara

While visiting Guadalajara, it's best to know the most common crimes that occur. Being aware and diligent is key to keeping yourself safe while exploring Mexico's cultural center.

Here I'll list out all of the common crimes that might happen while you're in Guadalajara and how you can prevent or avoid these from happening to you.

Crime is the biggest concern for most tourists visiting Guadalajara. It has an elevated crime rate and is infamous for being the headquarters of the Jalisco's New Generation Cartel.

While the crime index and murder rates remain high in the area, they're predominantly Cartel affiliated in neighborhoods that are controlled by Cartels, which tourist areas are least affected by.

Areas like the State Highway 544, Federal Highway 110 & 80, and the Jalisco-Michoacan border are listed as restricted travel in U.S. Government employees Travel Advisory

Other crimes can include corruption and bribery, oftentimes by its own police force.

Avoid Mexican police at all cost. Policing in Mexico is extremely varied and has very little oversight on controlling its rampant corruption across the entire country.

Pickpocketing

In crowded spaces such as on buses or popular tourist sights, it's not uncommon for pickpocketing to happen.

Pickpockets are usually skilled in distraction and sleight of hand, so keep your wits about you while in busier areas. As pickpockets usually target wallets, it's important not to put all your cash and cards in one place.

A simple way to reduce your chance of being pickpocketed is to blend in. Don't look like a tourist, and you won't be targeted for tourist scams or petty crime. You'll also want to avoid public transportation when possible.

Faking an emergency, spilling something on or near you, or even sending a kid, are all techniques that scammers use to trick you into letting your guard down.

Don't fall for them.

Instead, if someone comes up to you, send them immediately on their way or quickly leave the area. Even restaurants and establishments can scam you, so always pay attention to your surroundings.

My tip is to make sure not to show affluence when you're out and about. It's always better to bring that cute dress so you can change into it if you're taking a nice picture, but I'd avoid expensive clothes, jewelery, or tech that might make you a target.

During the day, Guadalajara is a relatively safe place to explore as long as you stay in tourist areas. However, the city becomes a bit more unfriendly at night.

Mugging usually occurs at night or in dark alleys, so it's best to avoid both of these entirely—especially alone and especially as a solo female traveler.

The same tip as above for this. Dress NOT to impress is the key here. You're way more likely to be a target if you're flashing that new iPhone and Airpods Pro wearing designer clothes.

Additional Safety Tips

Here are some additional safety tips to stay safe in Guadalajara. This not only applies to Guadalajara but to most of Mexico as well.

• Tap Water: Do not drink tap water. They're not safe, even for brushing your teeth. Always make sure you have a bottled water with you whereever you go. I'd also avoid ice cubes at restaurants and bars as they're sometimes made with tap water.
• Uber Everywhere: I've heard stories of taxis scamming and straight up robbing passengers. Public transit is also out of the question for me, since they're not as reliable and are oftentimes places where petty theft occurs. Ubers are relatively safe and are relatively accessible across the city.
• Travel in Groups: While it's not required, it's almost always safer to travel in groups. It's harder to target large groups and support systems are always better as a group. Make sure everyone's clear on the itinerary and meet-up locations should you split up.
• Avoid Night-time Activities: It's relatively dangerous to be out and about at night, especially in non-touristy areas and even more so if you're alone.

Is Guadalajara Safer than Mexico City?

Between the two cities, Guadalajara is less safe than Mexico City.

Both cities are large and sprawling, so some crime is to be expected. Guadalajara, on average, has 21.5 murders per 100k residents, while Mexico city has 14.5. Again, violent crimes like this have little effect on the tourist population and rarely paint the full picture.

Guadalajara's crimes happen mostly on selected parts of the city, especially in rural areas and highways.

Mexico, from sandy beaches to vibrant cities, relies heavily on the tourism industry for income. This means that, for the most part, locals are eager for you to enjoy your time while touring their beautiful country, so you can be assured that most of them are friendly and hospitable.

Of course, this doesn't mean that you're free to let your guard down while traveling. Staying diligent is always important, especially in large cities like Guadalajara.

This means staying in tourist areas, not venturing out alone at night, and having a full battery on your phone. Use a portable power bank to keep your phone at 100% at all times.

Is Guadalajara Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

For the most part, Guadalajara is a relatively unsafe destination for solo female travelers.

Experiences such as catcalling, harrassment, and encounters with unpleasent characters have been common. Nighttime exploration is not encouraged and should be avoided in most areas.

Of course, you'd need to take the same safety precautions as with any other location: staying in safe parts of the city, letting people know your travel plans, and not going out at night alone.

Unfortunately, female travelers, in general, should expect catcalling and advances from locals while out and about. It's best to ignore them and keep moving and to stay in public tourist places where there are a lot of people around.

It is recommended that you stay in a shared accommodation space such as a hostel . This will not only keep you in the tourist parts of the city, but you'll also be surrounded by other travelers if you decide to go on tours or hostel bar crawls.

As a solo female traveler, you can stay safe by being diligent.

Only drive with registered taxis (which restaurants and hotels will be willing to call for you) or use uber, protect your cards from ATM skimmers , avoid getting inebriated in public, and trust your gut, no matter what.

Ubers are available around Mexico and are generally safer than other forms of transportation. While it's safer, I'd still travel with a buddy.

Doing these things will help you stay safe and enjoy your time in Guadalajara.

Is Guadalajara safe at Night?

Like many bustling cities, Guadalajara by day is different from Guadalajara by night.

For most travelers, going out at night should be avoided —especially alone. Even in the tourist parts of the city, it becomes dangerous to walk around at night unless in a large group. This applies to men and women.

If you're itching to try out the colorful nightlife of Guadalajara, you could go out on bar crawls with your hostel. Many hostels will host events and tours.

This is a safe option for night exploration as you'll be led by someone familiar with the city while surrounded by other travelers.

To reemphasize, I highly recommend NOT traveling alone at night, espcially to non tourist areas.

So How Safe is Guadalajara Really?

If you take the right precautions and keep your wits about you, Guadalajara can be a safe, fun, and intriguing destination filled with Mexican culture.

However, like most large cities, it does come with its fair share of crime. Tourists are usually safe from violent crime in Guadalajara but may have to contend with petty theft, pickpocketing, and scams. Educating yourself and staying diligent on your travels is extremely important if you want to stay safe.

All in all, Guadalajara is a vibrant, cultural center brimming with massive potential. If you want to see truly authentic Mexico, then Guadalajara is the place for you. If you're considering other Mexican cities, Sayulita , Cabo San Lucas , Puerto Vallarta , Cancun , and Tulum are other top spots.

Safest areas in Guadalajara

As I've mentioned, the safest areas in Guadalajara are usually tourist areas for many reasons.

First, they're usually busy and have events happening at night, which means there's usually people around, especially people who are also tourists and are also trying to stay safe in a foriegn place.

As I've mentioned before, Mexico relies heavily on tourism in these areas to boost their local economy, and as a result, they focus more on securing the area and making sure nothing bad happens.

While that's never a good excuse to relax, it's certainly an reassurance to stick to tourist areas.

Here are some great places that are safe in Guadalajara:

• Colonia Americana
• Centro Historico
• Tlaquepaque

If you're planning for evening activities, feel free to check out Avenida Chapultepec in Colonia Americana, packed with bars and restaurants. I'd still avoid going out alone and staying out too late.

Planning ahead is the best way to stay safe

My number one recommendation to anyone worried about staying safe abroad: Plan, plan, and plan.

Even the most seasoned travelers I know that are highly spontaneous take calcuated risks. That means, they know exactly what they're getting into, and what they need to do to stay safe while being risky.

For planning out your itinerary to share with friends and family, use Pilot!

Disclosure : Pilot is supported by our community. We may earn a small commission fee with affiliate links on our website. All reviews and recommendations are independent and do not reflect the official view of Pilot.

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Mexico Travel Advisory

Travel advisory august 22, 2023, see state summaries.

Reissued after periodic review with general security updates, and the removal of obsolete COVID-19 page links.

Country Summary: Violent crime – such as homicide, kidnapping, carjacking, and robbery – is widespread and common in Mexico. The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in many areas of Mexico, as travel by U.S. government employees to certain areas is prohibited or restricted. In many states, local emergency services are limited outside the state capital or major cities.

U.S. citizens are advised to adhere to restrictions on U.S. government employee travel. State-specific restrictions are included in the individual state advisories below. U.S. government employees may not travel between cities after dark, may not hail taxis on the street, and must rely on dispatched vehicles, including app-based services like Uber, and regulated taxi stands. U.S. government employees should avoid traveling alone, especially in remote areas. U.S. government employees may not drive from the U.S.-Mexico border to or from the interior parts of Mexico, except daytime travel within Baja California and between Nogales and Hermosillo on Mexican Federal Highway 15D, and between Nuevo Laredo and Monterrey on Highway 85D.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Mexico.

Do Not Travel To:

• Colima state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Guerrero state  due to  crime .
• Michoacan state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Sinaloa state due to  crime  and  kidnapping
• Tamaulipas state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping.
• Zacatecas  state due to  crime  and  kidnapping .

Reconsider Travel To:

• Baja California  state due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Chihuahua state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Durango state  due to  crime .
• Guanajuato state  due to  crime and kidnapping .
• Jalisco state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Morelos state  due to  crime .
• Sonora state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .

Exercise Increased Caution When Traveling To:

• Aguascalientes  state due to  crime .
• Baja California Sur state  due to  crime .
• Chiapas state  due to  crime .
• Coahuila state  due to  crime .
• Hidalgo state  due to  crime .
• Mexico City  due to  crime .
• Mexico State  due to  crime .
• Nayarit state  due to  crime.
• Nuevo Leon  state due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Oaxaca state  due to  crime .
• Puebla state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Queretaro state  due to  crime .
• Quintana Roo state  due to  crime .
• San Luis Potosi state  due to  crime and kidnapping .
• Tabasco state  due to  crime .
• Tlaxcala state due to  crime .
• Veracruz state  due to  crime .

Exercise Normal Precautions When Traveling To:

• Campeche state
• Yucatan state

Visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas .

If you decide to travel to Mexico:

• Keep traveling companions and family back home informed of your travel plans. If separating from your travel group, send a friend your GPS location. If taking a taxi alone, take a photo of the taxi number and/or license plate and text it to a friend.
• Use toll roads when possible and avoid driving alone or at night. In many states, police presence and emergency services are extremely limited outside the state capital or major cities.
• Exercise increased caution when visiting local bars, nightclubs, and casinos.
• Do not display signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive watches or jewelry.
• Be extra vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Follow the U.S. Embassy on Facebook and Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Mexico.
• Mariners planning travel to Mexico should check for U.S. maritime  advisories  and  alerts , which include instructions on reporting suspicious activities and attacks to Mexican naval authorities.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .
• Visit the CDC page for the latest travel health information related to your travel. 

Aguascalientes state – Exercise Increased Caution

Exercise increased caution due to crime.

Criminal activity and violence may occur throughout the state.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Aguascalientes state.

Baja California state – Reconsider Travel

Reconsider travel due to crime and kidnapping.

Transnational criminal organizations compete in the border area to establish narco-trafficking and human smuggling routes. Violent crime and gang activity are common. Travelers should remain on main highways and avoid remote locations. Of particular concern is the high number of homicides in the non-tourist areas of Tijuana. Most homicides appeared to be targeted; however, criminal organization assassinations and territorial disputes can result in bystanders being injured or killed. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

U.S. government employees must adhere to the noted restrictions:

• Mexicali Valley:  U.S. government employees should avoid the Mexicali Valley due to the heightened possibility of violence between rival cartel factions.  The boundaries of the restricted area are: to the east, the Baja California/Arizona and Baja California/Sonora borders; to the south, from La Ventana (on Highway 5) due east to the Colorado River; to the west, Highway 5; and to the north, Boulevard Lazaro Cardenas/Highway 92/Highway 1 to Carretera Aeropuerto, from the intersection of Highway 1 and Carretera Aeropuerto due north to the Baja California/California border, and from that point eastward along the Baja California/California border.
• Travelers may use Highways 2 and 2D to transit between Mexicali, Los Algodones, and San Luis Rio Colorado during daylight hours. Travelers may also use Highways 1 and 8 to transit to and from the Mexicali Airport during daylight hours.  Travel on Highway 5 is permissible during daylight hours.

There are no other travel restrictions for U.S. government employees in Baja California state. These include high-traffic tourism areas of border and coastal communities, such as  Tijuana ,  Ensenada , and  Rosarito .

Baja California Sur state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Baja California Sur state.

Campeche state – Exercise Normal Precautions

Exercise normal precautions.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Campeche state.

Chiapas state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Chiapas state.

Chihuahua state – Reconsider Travel

Violent crime and gang activity are common. Most homicides are targeted assassinations against members of criminal organizations. Battles for territory between criminal groups have resulted in violent crime in areas frequented by U.S. citizens and U.S. government employees, including restaurants and malls during daylight hours. Bystanders have been injured or killed in shooting incidents. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

U.S. government employee travel is limited to the following areas with the noted restrictions:

• Ciudad Juarez:  U.S. government employees may travel to the area of Ciudad Juarez bounded to the east by Bulevar Independencia; to the south by De los Montes Urales/Avenida Manuel J Clouthier/Carretera de Juárez; to the west by Via Juan Gabriel/Avenida de los Insurgentes/Calle Miguel Ahumada/Francisco Javier Mina/Melchor Ocampo; and to the north by the U.S.-Mexico border.  Direct travel to the Ciudad Juarez airport (officially called the Abraham González International Airport) and the factories located along Bulevar Independencia and Las Torres is permitted.  Travel to San Jerónimo is permitted only through the United States via the Santa Teresa U.S. Port of Entry; travel via Anapra is prohibited.

U.S. government employees may only travel from Ciudad Juarez to the city of Chihuahua during daylight hours via Federal Highway 45, with stops permitted only at the Guardia Nacional División Caminos station, the Umbral del Milenio overlook area, the border inspection station at KM 35, and the shops and restaurants on Federal Highway 45 in the city of Ahumada.

• U.S. government employees may travel between Ciudad Juarez and Ascension via Highway 2.
• Nuevo Casas Grandes Area (including Nuevo Casas Grandes, Casas Grandes, Mata Ortiz, Colonia Juárez, Colonia LeBaron, Paquimé and San Buenaventura):  U.S. government employees may travel to the Nuevo Casas Grandes area during daylight hours via Mexico Federal Highway 2, and subsequently Federal Highway 10, to Nuevo Casas Grandes.  Employees are permitted to stay overnight in the cities of Nuevo Casas Grandes and Casas Grandes only.
• City of Chihuahua:  U.S. government employees may travel at any time to the area of the city of Chihuahua bounded to the north by Avenida Transformación; to the east by Avenida Tecnológico/Manuel Gómez Morín/Highway 16/Blvd.José Fuentes Mares; to the west by the city boundary; and to the south by Periférico Francisco R. Almada.
• U.S. government employees may travel on Highways 45, 16, and 45D through the city of Chihuahua and to the Chihuahua airport (officially called the General Roberto Fierro Villalobos International Airport). 
• U.S. government employees may travel to Santa Eulalia to the east of the city of Chihuahua, as well as to Juan Aldama via Highway 16 to the northeast.
• U.S. government employees may travel south of the city of Chihuahua on Highway 45 to the southern boundary of Parral, including each town directly connected to Highway 45, including Lázaro Cárdenas, Pedro Meoqui, Santa Cruz de Rosales, Delicias, Camargo, Ciudad Jiménez, and Parral itself.
• U.S. government employees may only travel on official business from the city of Chihuahua on Highway 16 to Ciudad Cuauhtémoc bounded by Highway 21 to the north and east, Highway 5 to the west, and Bulevar Jorge Castillo Cabrera to the south. 
• Ojinaga:  U.S. government employees must travel to Ojinaga via U.S. Highway 67 and enter through the U.S. Port of Entry in Presidio, Texas.
• Palomas:  U.S. government employees may travel to Palomas via U.S. highways through the U.S. Port of Entry in Columbus, New Mexico, or via Highway 2 in Mexico.

U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of Chihuahua, including  Copper Canyon .

Coahuila state – Exercise Increased Caution

Violent crime and gang activity occur in parts of Coahuila state. 

U.S. government employees must adhere to the following travel restrictions:

• Zaragoza, Morelos, Allende, Nava, Jimenez, Villa Union, Guerrero, and Hidalgo municipalities : U.S. government employees may not travel to these municipalities.
• Piedras Negras and Ciudad Acuña:  U.S. government employees must travel directly from the United States and observe a curfew from midnight to 6:00 a.m. in both cities.

There are no other restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Coahuila state.

Colima state – Do Not Travel

Do not travel due to crime and kidnapping.  

Violent crime and gang activity are widespread. Most homicides are targeted assassinations against members of criminal organizations. Shooting incidents between criminal groups have injured or killed bystanders. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.  

Travel for U.S. government employees is limited to the following areas with noted restrictions: 

• Manzanillo:   U.S. government employee travel is limited to the tourist and port areas of Manzanillo.  
• Employees traveling to Manzanillo from Guadalajara must use Federal Toll Road 54D during daylight hours.  

U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of Colima state. 

Durango state – Reconsider Travel

Reconsider travel due to crime.

Violent crime and gang activity are common in parts of Durango state.

• West and south of Federal Highway 45:  U.S. government employees may not travel to this region of Durango state.

There are no other restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Durango state.

Guanajuato state – Reconsider Travel

Gang violence, often associated with the theft of petroleum and natural gas from the state oil company and other suppliers, occurs in Guanajuato, primarily in the south and central areas of the state.  Of particular concern is the high number of murders in the southern region of the state associated with cartel-related violence. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

• Areas south of Federal Highway 45D:  U.S. government employees may not travel to the area south of and including Federal Highway 45D, Celaya, Salamanca, and Irapuato.

There are no other restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Guanajuato state, which includes tourist areas in:  San Miguel de Allende ,  Guanajuato City , and  surrounding areas.

Guerrero state – Do Not Travel

Do not travel due to crime.

Crime and violence are widespread. Armed groups operate independently of the government in many areas of Guerrero. Members of these groups frequently maintain roadblocks and may use violence towards travelers. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping in previous years.

Travel for U.S. government employees is limited to the following area with the noted restrictions:

• Taxco:  U.S. government employees must use Federal Highway 95D, which passes through Cuernavaca, Morelos, and stay within downtown tourist areas of Taxco. Employees may visit Grutas de Cacahuamilpa National Park during the day with a licensed tour operator.

U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of the state of Guerrero, including to tourist areas in  Acapulco ,  Zihuatanejo , and  Ixtapa .

Hidalgo state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Hidalgo state.

Jalisco state – Reconsider Travel

Violent crime and gang activity are common in parts of Jalisco state. In Guadalajara, territorial battles between criminal groups take place in tourist areas. Shooting incidents between criminal groups have injured or killed innocent bystanders. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

• Jalisco-Michoacan border and Federal Highway 110:  U.S. government employees may not travel to the area between Federal Highway 110 and the Jalisco-Michoacan border, nor travel on Federal Highway 110 between Tuxpan, Jalisco, and the Michoacan border.
• Federal Highway 80:  U.S. government employees may not travel on Federal Highway 80 south of Cocula.

There are no other restrictions on travel for U.S government employees in Jalisco state which includes tourist areas in:  Guadalajara Metropolitan Area ,  Puerto Vallarta (including neighboring Riviera Nayarit) ,  Chapala , and  Ajijic .

Mexico City (Ciudad de Mexico) – Exercise Increased Caution

Both violent and non-violent crime occur throughout Mexico City. Use additional caution, particularly at night, outside of the frequented tourist areas where police and security patrol more routinely. Petty crime occurs frequently in both tourist and non-tourist areas.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Mexico City.

Mexico State (Estado de Mexico) – Exercise Increased Caution

Both violent and non-violent crime occur throughout Mexico State. Use additional caution in areas outside of the frequented tourist areas, although petty crime occurs frequently in tourist areas as well.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Mexico State.

Michoacan state – Do Not Travel

Do not travel due to crime and kidnapping.

Crime and violence are widespread in Michoacan state. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

Travel for U.S. government employees is limited to the following areas with the noted restrictions:

• Federal Highway 15D:   U.S. government employees may travel on Federal Highway 15D to transit the state between Mexico City and Guadalajara.
• Morelia:  U.S. government employees may travel by air and by land using Federal Highways 43 or 48D from Federal Highway 15D.
• Lazaro Cardenas:  U.S. government employees must travel by air only and limit activities to the city center or port areas.

U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of the state of Michoacan, including the portions of the  Monarch Butterfly Reserve  located in Michoacan.

Morelos state – Reconsider Travel

Violent crime and gang activity are common in parts of Morelos state.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Morelos state.

Nayarit state – Exercise Increased Caution

Criminal activity and violence may occur throughout Nayarit state.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S government employees in Nayarit state.

Nuevo Leon state – Exercise Increased Caution

Exercise increased caution due to crime and kidnapping.

Criminal activity and violence may occur throughout the state. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Nuevo Leon state.

Oaxaca state – Exercise Increased Caution

Criminal activity and violence occur throughout the state.

U.S. travelers are reminded that U.S. government employees must adhere to the following travel restrictions:

• Isthmus region:  U.S. government employees may not travel to the area of Oaxaca bounded by Federal Highway 185D to the west, Federal Highway 190 to the north, and the Oaxaca-Chiapas border to the east.  This includes the cities of Juchitan de Zaragoza, Salina Cruz, and San Blas Atempa.  
• Federal Highway 200 northwest of Pinotepa:  U.S. government employees may not use Federal Highway 200 between Pinotepa and the Oaxaca-Guerrero border.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees to other parts of Oaxaca state, which include tourist areas in:  Oaxaca City ,  Monte Alban ,  Puerto Escondido,  and  Huatulco .

Puebla state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Puebla state.

Queretaro state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Queretaro state.

Quintana Roo state – Exercise Increased Caution

Criminal activity and violence may occur in any location, at any time, including in popular tourist destinations.  Travelers should maintain a high level of situational awareness, avoid areas where illicit activities occur, and promptly depart from potentially dangerous situations. 

While not directed at tourists, shootings between rival gangs have injured innocent bystanders.  Additionally, U.S. citizens have been the victims of both non-violent and violent crimes in tourist and non-tourist areas.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Quintana Roo state. However, personnel are advised to exercise increased situational awareness after dark in downtown areas of Cancun, Tulum, and Playa del Carmen, and to remain in well-lit pedestrian streets and tourist zones.

San Luis Potosi state – Exercise Increased Caution

Criminal activity and violence may occur throughout the state.  U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in San Luis Potosi state.

Sinaloa state – Do Not Travel

Violent crime is widespread. Criminal organizations are based in and operating in Sinaloa. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

• Mazatlan:  U.S. government employees may travel to Mazatlan by air or sea only, are limited to the Zona Dorada and historic town center, and must travel via direct routes between these destinations and the airport and sea terminal.
• Los Mochis and Topolobampo:  U.S. government employees may travel to Los Mochis and Topolobampo by air or sea only, are restricted to the city and the port, and must travel via direct routes between these destinations and the airport.

U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of Sinaloa state.

Sonora state – Reconsider Travel

Sonora is a key location used by the international drug trade and human trafficking networks. Violent crime is widespread. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping. Travelers should maintain a heightened level of awareness of their surroundings in all their travels in Sonora.  Security incidents may occur in any area of Sonora.

• Travel between Hermosillo and Nogales:  U.S. government employees may travel between the U.S. Ports of Entry in Nogales and Hermosillo during daylight hours via Federal Highway 15 only. U.S. government employees may not use ANY taxi services, public buses, nor ride-share applications due to a lack of secure vetting and/or dispatching procedures. Travelers should exercise caution and avoid unnecessary stops as security incidents, including sporadic, armed carjackings, and shootings have been reported along this highway during daylight hours. Travelers should have a full tank of gas and inform friends or family members of their planned travel.
• Nogales:  U.S. government employees may not travel in the triangular area north of Avenida Tecnologico, west of Bulevar Luis Donaldo Colosio (Periferico), nor east of Federal Highway 15D (Corredor Fiscal). U.S. government employees also may not travel in the residential and business areas to east of the railroad tracks along Plutarco Elias Calle (HWY 15) and Calle Ruiz Cortino, including the business area around the Morley pedestrian gate port-of-entry. U.S. government employees may not use ANY taxi services, public buses, nor ride-share applications in Nogales due to a lack of secure vetting and/or dispatching procedures and the danger of kidnapping and other violent crimes.  
• Puerto Peñasco:  U.S. government employees may travel between Puerto Peñasco and the Lukeville-Sonoyta U.S. Port of Entry during daylight hours via Federal Highway 8 only. They may not travel on any other route to Puerto Peñasco. U.S. government employees may not use ANY taxi services, public buses, nor ride-share applications in Puerto Peñasco. due to a lack of secure vetting and/or dispatching procedures and the danger of kidnapping and other violent crimes.
• Triangular region near Mariposa U.S. Port of Entry:  U.S. government employees may not travel into or through the triangular region west of the Mariposa U.S. Port of Entry, east of Sonoyta, and north of Altar municipality.
• San Luis Rio Colorado, Cananea, and Agua Prieta : U.S. government employees may travel directly from the nearest U.S. Port of Entry to San Luis Rio Colorado, Cananea (via Douglas Port of Entry), and Agua Prieta, but may not go beyond the city limits. Travel is limited to daylight hours only. Travel between Nogales and Cananea via Imuris is not permitted. U.S. government employees may not use ANY taxi services, public buses, nor ride-share applications in these cities due to a lack of secure vetting and/or dispatching procedures and the danger of kidnapping and other violent crimes.
• Eastern and southern Sonora (including San Carlos Nuevo Guaymas and Alamos):  U.S. government employees may not travel to areas of Sonora east of Federal Highway 17, the road between Moctezuma and Sahuaripa, and State Highway 20 between Sahuaripa and the intersection with Federal Highway 16. U.S. government employees may travel to San Carlos Nuevo Guaymas and Alamos; travel to Alamos is only permitted by air and within city limits.  U.S. government employees may not travel to areas of Sonora south of Federal Highway 16 and east of Federal Highway 15 (south of Hermosillo), as well as all points south of Guaymas, including Empalme, Guaymas, Obregon, and Navojoa.  U.S. government employees may not use ANY taxi services, public buses, nor ride-share applications in these areas due to a lack of secure vetting and/or dispatching procedures and the danger of kidnapping and other violent crimes.

U.S. government employees may travel to other parts of Sonora state in compliance with the above restrictions, including tourist areas in: Hermosillo , Bahia de Kino , and Puerto Penasco .

Tabasco state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Tabasco state.

Tamaulipas state – Do Not Travel

Organized crime activity – including gun battles, murder, armed robbery, carjacking, kidnapping, forced disappearances, extortion, and sexual assault – is common along the northern border and in Ciudad Victoria. Criminal groups target public and private passenger buses, as well as private automobiles traveling through Tamaulipas, often taking passengers and demanding ransom payments.

Heavily armed members of criminal groups often patrol areas of the state and operate with impunity particularly along the border region from Reynosa to Nuevo Laredo.  In these areas, local law enforcement has limited capacity to respond to incidents of crime. Law enforcement capacity is greater in the tri-city area of Tampico, Ciudad Madero, and Altamira, which has a lower rate of violent criminal activity compared to the rest of the state.

U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

• Matamoros and Nuevo Laredo:  U.S. government employees may only travel within a limited radius around and between the U.S. Consulates in Nuevo Laredo and Matamoros, their homes, the respective U.S. Ports of Entry, and limited downtown sites, subject to an overnight curfew.
• Overland travel in Tamaulipas:  U.S. government employees may not travel between cities in Tamaulipas using interior Mexican highways. Travel between Nuevo Laredo and Monterrey is limited to Federal Highway 85D during daylight hours with prior authorization.

U.S. government employees may not travel to other parts of Tamaulipas state.

Tlaxcala state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Tlaxcala state.

Veracruz state – Exercise Increased Caution

Violent crime and gang activity occur with increasing frequency in Veracruz, particularly in the center and south near Cordoba and Coatzacoalcos. While most gang-related violence is targeted, violence perpetrated by criminal organizations can affect bystanders. Impromptu roadblocks requiring payment to pass are common.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Veracruz state.

Yucatan state – Exercise Normal Precautions

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Yucatan state, which include tourist areas in:  Chichen Itza ,  Merida ,  Uxmal , and  Valladolid .

Zacatecas state – Do Not Travel

Violent crime, extortion, and gang activity are widespread in Zacatecas state. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

• Zacatecas City : U.S. government employee travel is limited to Zacatecas City proper, and employees may not travel overland to Zacatecas City.
• U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of Zacatecas state.

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• Is Guadalajara safe?

Travel Blog Last Updated · Jan 10th, 2024 [post_author_posts_link] · [post_comments before=""] -->

Is Guadalajara safe for new and unexpected travelers?

Located in the western state of Jalisco, the historic Guadalajara is known as Mexico’s second biggest city known for its historical sites such as Zona Centro, Colonia Americana and its nightlife scene.

Known for its tequila and mariachi music. This emblematic city is often overlooked when it comes to tourism but in recent years has had an influx of visitors looking to dig deeper into Mexican culture.

But what about the safety situation in Guadalajara? Many travelers passing through are quick to say it is safe but what do we need to be aware of?

Table of Contents

In this post, we’ll cover travel safety in Guadalajara so you can begin to learn about some of the most common crimes to ensure your trip here is a safe one.

Like anywhere we travel, making sure we know the immediate risks is key. In a country such as Mexico, there are many travel advisories, so we want to share some of our personal experiences, as well as take a close look at Guadalajara.

How safe is Guadalajara right now?

When compared to major cities in Mexico such as Mexico City, Guadalajara is seen as a slightly safer city to visit. And yes, we are aware that there are some dangerous places in Mexico along the way, but you can quite easily avoid them.

This means to say, as long as you stick to the right areas, some of which we mention in this guide, you should have no trouble when it comes to safety.

Not only that, you can feel confident spending time in this city. Attractions such as the Guadalajara Cathedral, the MUSA and day trips to Tequila Trail and are waiting to be explored and have welcomed thousands of tourists in the last year.

Those who tend to hang around bus terminals or continually put themselves in a position to be approached during the evenings are the ones that usually pose a greater risk of being a victim of petty crime while in Mexico.

This means that if you are frequenting more built-up urban areas of the city you will want to take some kind of safety precautions (especially at night) to protect yourself and your belongings.

Carrying a money stash like this one with you is a great idea as it allows you conceal your belongings effectively while exploring the streets. We will give more tips on how you can reduce the risk of petty crime throughout this guide.

Is Guadalajara safe for tourists?

We believe so yes! However, safety is never guaranteed in such as large city but if you stick to the designated tourist areas in Guadalajara such as the Historic Center or Colonia Americana you should be absolutely fine.

Mexico was ranked as the sixth most visited country for tourism and Guadalajara is filled to the brim with history and traditions.

Whether it’s spending the morning around the cathedral and learning the stories behind its architecture or taking photos of the colorful colonial houses, there is always something to do in this city.

For those who want a more rural experience and to learn about the region’s emblematic product, head out to the Jose Cuervo Distillery to learn all about the production process of blue agave before trying some of the local Tequila.

When it comes to safety, we have found that showing an interest in learning Spanish or a developing interest in learning about Mexican culture can lead you to a much safer trip overall. Also, invaluable when using taxis when in larger cities. Check out this book on learning Spanish for some dedicated language help.

Crime Rate in Guadalajara

• Some of the moderate crimes we could see were those related to the worries of attacks, robbery, and theft. Things such as drug dealing and stolen cars, none of which are directly related to tourists are high risk. Also, the increasing crime rate is directly correlated.
• Although safer by only a small score, compared with other dangerous cities in Mexico, Guadalajara is safe to walk around during the day but you should exercise extra caution when exploring the city at night.
• When considering the cartel activity in the region, note that the inherent danger lies outside of the city in the rural areas, so the historic quarters are popular as a result.

It is worth noting that when moving about this region of Mexico to consider more sustainable ways of travel as it can help the planet and have a positive effect on the local environment.

Is Guadalajara safe for solo travelers?

Since many of the main tourist’s attraction in Guadalajara are located within walking distance of each other, it makes it safe for solo travelers.

For example, Guadalajara’s cathedral is located in the center of the city and from there you can walk to other neighborhoods. However, moving around Guadalajara without a car may be more challenging.

We highly suggest talking to trusted locals to get more insight on what places to visit and suggest avoiding walking around the streets following Google Maps since there can be bad neighborhoods in and around the downtown area.

We suggest you look to stay in the Plaza del Sol area for the best experience as a solo traveler as you’ll have plenty of amenities close by including access to one of the largest shopping malls in Guadalajara.

From there you can get to the downtown area within 20 minutes and use Uber (or a licensed cab) to navigate back and forth during the evenings.

Is Guadalajara safe at night?

Yes, Guadalajara can be safe at night but only in certain areas. As you can imagine, major cities in Mexico come with many surprises both good and bad.

You’ll find that the famous Avenida Chapultepec which is located in the upscale Colonia Americana tourist neighbourhood is lined with restaurants and bars which makes it safe for exploring at night.

Events such as robbery and assault do happen in Guadalajara but by sticking to the most frequented area you can reduce the risk of being a victim of such crime.

Being weary of your current location along with concealing your valuables and not flaunting your wealth will help you deter the attention of most street dwellers.

If you decide to carry a money belt like this one along with you, be sure to only have it on display when you are in a private space.

Where to Stay in Guadalajara

The places to stay in Guadalajara noted below allow you as a visitor to connect with the city’s main attractions without going too far out of your comfort zone.

• Colonia Americana
• Fininacial District
• Zona Chapultepec

There are many great hotels in Guadalajara and two of the most popular neighborhoods to stay in are Colonia Americana and Zona Chapultepec as they offer much in the way of things to see and do.

If you prefer downtown, be sure to check out these budget hostels or even the Hotel Dali Plaza if you want a high-quality stay that will not break the bank.

Places to Avoid in Guadalajara

Like with many cities in Mexico, there are some bad neighborhoods in Guadalajara that you will want to avoid during your stay here.

Calzada, Oblatos and Colonia Jalisco are some of the notorious places but as a tourist, it is highly likely you will find yourself in any of them. However, it is important to be aware of the names in case you end up on the wrong bus or somebody asks you for directions or something regarding the areas.

Also, visitors must remember not to let their guard down in some of the most prominent neighborhoods such as Zona Chapultepec where cell phone theft and pickpocketing does happen unexpectedly to some tourists.

While sightseeing, aim to always be aware of your surroundings and have a plan for what you are going to do in each part of the city you visit.

Guadalajara Travel Safety Tips

As mentioned earlier Guadalajara is seen as a dangerous city in Mexico, but in fact, it is not when as a visitor you stick to the areas which are designed for tourists and do your best not to venture into unknown residential areas.

See some of our best Guadalajara safety tips below:

• Always keep a few pesos handy on you in person for when you decide to get an impromptu taxi, or, when you need to get out of a precarious situation where someone may be demanding money from you.
• Aim to use trusted accredited hotels in Guadalajara then once you’ve booked you can get more detailed information about where to go to eat (the best street food) and places to avoid in the area.
• When ordering street food, make sure the food is heated all the way through and be sure to ask what you’re eating if you’re unsure.
• If you’ll be carrying expensive items such as smartphones, cameras or laptops aim to keep them hidden or locked away as you walk around the city. Especially when you’re out on the streets.
• If you love food then this Market food tour will give you the opportunity to learn about Guadalajara rich food heritage and try local specialities such as barbacoa, tortas ahogadas, tacos and birria.
• If you think you may be getting overcharged with taxis, always ask the price of the fair to get an idea before you get in the car. You can then compare this with Uber.
• Avoid fast talkers and beggars on the street as persistence can often lead to physical or verbal harassment. If you’re sat down, simply move on.
• Avoid walking around areas where there are very few people in the vicinity. Look out for places where you can see families or romantic couples as this is an indication of a tranquil spot to sit and take a break in between walking or exploring the city.
• Carry some sunscreen like this one with you as dry, warm winters and hot summers can be enough to burn your skin, even as you walk around the urban areas that are often shaded in some parts.
• Never accept drug offers. Not only is it illegal to buy drugs in Mexico, but it’s dangerous and you’re aiding the industry that the Mexican government is currently working to try and stop.

Best time to visit Guadalajara

In Guadalajara, the dry season runs from November until April and the daily average temperature ranges from 57-57°F with highs of 87°F.

You will find that April is usually the driest month and doing cultural day trips to places such as Chapala during this time of year are popular with tourists.

The wet season starts around May until early November and daily temperatures range from 61-73°F with highs of 88. As you can see during the wet season you can still expect warm temperates. Note that July is historically the wettest month to visit Guadalajara.

With the tips shared in this guide, you get a clear idea of what to look out for in terms of safety when it comes to visiting Guadalajara.

The city of Guadalajara is not seen as one of Mexico’s safest cities and is often compared with the lights of Mexico City when it comes to crime rates. However, sticking to the main tourist areas and being aware of your surroundings can be enough to avoid petty crime.

We believe that if you adopt the tips mentioned in this guide and follow the recommended travel precautions, just like you would in other Latin American cities you should have a wonderful time with minimal complications here.

To make your trip a more eco-friendly experience, be sure to see our list of eco travel tips to get some great ideas on how you can travel more sustainably.

Dear responsible traveler : This post may contain affiliate links, which means, if you click through and make a purchase, book a tour or a hotel, we may earn a small commission. This is at no additional cost to you . Your support means a lot and helps us to maintain the quality of this site.

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Is Guadalajara Safe to Visit? The Ultimate Guide [2024]

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning that I may get a small commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no cost to you.

Are you planning a trip and wondering, is Guadalajara safe to visit?

The short answer is yes, Guadalajara is definitely safe enough for you to visit, provided that you behave sensibly and exercise reasonable caution.

What does that mean? Basically, you should obey the law, treat people respectfully, always be situationally aware, and not put yourself in dangerous situations.

If you do all of those things, you are going to have an amazing time in Guadalajara. I travel quite a bit, and in almost all cases, keeping safe is just a matter of doing the few things listed above.

But let’s dive into a little more detail.

Is Guadalajara Safe?

Where is guadalajara.

Guadalajara is a large city of over five million people and is the capital of the state of Jalisco, Mexico. It’s the third-largest city in Mexico by metropolitan area, with lots of great attractions in and around its beautifully preserved historic city center.

The state of Jalisco is situated in south-western Mexico. It has a Pacific coast and neighbours the states of Nayarit, Colima, Zacatecas, Aguascalientes, San Luis Potosí, Guanajuato and Michoacán. Guadalajara is an inland city in the middle of the state, a little over 300 miles to the west of Mexico City.

Guadalajara is an economic powerhouse in Mexico, colloquially known as the “Silicon Valley of Mexico”. However, internationally, the state of Jalisco is best known for being the birthplace of tequila and it is the region where 100% of the world’s tequila is produced.

The town of Tequila, where the spirit was born, is just 40 miles away from Guadalajara and the “tequila route” ( la ruta de tequila ) passes by over 150 registered distilleries and receives more than 1,000,000 visitors each year.

What Are The Safe Cities In Jalisco?

Jalisco is generally considered to be one of the safer regions in Mexico. The two main cities visited by tourists are Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta, and neither of those cities are considered “no-go” zones.

I’ve set out below a brief analysis on the level of safety that you can expect in the most well-known places in Jalisco.

Guadalajara

Guadalajara is the state capital of Jalisco. It’s actually comprised of several major areas including Guadalajara, Zapopan, Tonalá and Tlaquepaque, but the area itself is generally referred to (somewhat confusingly) as Guadalajara.

Tourism in Guadalajara is a big driver of commerce to the region, and it had 14.7 million tourists visit the city in 2022. To ensure that the flow continues, authorities work hard to ensure that tourists like you and me can explore Guadalajara’s beautiful historic district and well-preserved colonial buildings without fear.

That isn’t to say that you don’t need to be situationally aware and keep a weather eye out for pickpockets. However, if you follow the safety steps set out in this guide, you will feel perfectly safe during your time in Guadalajara.

Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is a seaside city on the Pacific coast of Jalisco, around 200 miles to the west by road from Guadalajara.

Similar to Guadalajara, Puerto Vallarta had over 6.2 million tourists visit the city in 2022. However, unlike Guadalajara, whose economy is solidly founded on various industries, commerce in Puerto Vallarta is overwhelmingly a result of tourism.

As such, local authorities ensure that the main tourist areas are visibly well-patrolled, offering a secure environment for exploration.

Is GUadalajara Safe?

Is guadalajara safe for tourists.

The short answer is yes, Guadalajara is generally a safe destination for tourists.

It has benefitted enormously from the ever-increasing number of visitors and is committed to maintaining a secure environment for its guests. According to the airport operator Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacífico , 17,710,200 people arrived or departed from Guadalajara International Airport in 2023, up from 15,606,600 in 2022.

Tourists will only visit Guadalajara if they feel safe, so the town is committed to ensuring a safe environment for its guests.

Still, you should take basic safety precautions in any urban setting. That is especially the case where you are somewhere new.

As you’ll see below, Guadalajara is by no means crime-free. But in almost all cases, you can keep yourself safe by avoiding risky activities, trusting your gut and keeping your head.

Simple things like taking a cab home at night rather than walking and not drinking too much alcohol will massively reduce your chances of having a problem.

You might wonder if this is also the case for women and girls visiting Guadalajara. That’s an important question, so let’s look at that now.

Is Guadalajara Safe For Female Travelers?

The short answer is yes, however, you do need to take basic precautions and to avoid doing anything that puts you at higher risk.

If you are doing normal touristy things, throughout the daytime, you are very unlikely to have a problem. Women can enjoy all of Guadalajara’s diverse cultural experiences and there are no restrictions on women entering any part of the city or its surrounding places of interest.

Guadalajara, like much of Mexico, is quite conservative with strong cultural values rooted in respect and community. This includes respect for women and also contributes to a safe environment for female travelers.

Having said that, when you go out, you’ll still need to exercise common sense and practise general travel precautions. While Guadalajara is generally safe enough to visit, as in any destination, you should keep an eye on your belongings and stay aware of your surroundings, particularly in crowded areas.

Accommodation options in Guadalajara are also diverse and cater to the needs of female travelers. From upscale hotels to boutique guesthouses, the city provides a range of safe and welcoming places to stay. Many hotels also offer concierge services, airport transfer and assistance with booking tours, making the travel experience hassle-free.

Given that Guadalajara (and Mexico generally) is conservative, I would also recommend that women dress modestly, respecting the local customs and traditions.

All in all, women (including sole female travelers) will be able to feel secure while exploring Guadalajara’s streets, markets, and landmarks.

How Bad Is Crime In Guadalajara?

It seems like everyone has a different view on how bad crime has become in Mexican cities, and Guadalajara is no different.

Personally, I think the best and most reliable way to answer this question is to take a look at the crime statistics themselves.

Guadalajara Crime Statistics

The best crime data for Guadalajara is provided by the Jalisco Institute of Statistical and Geographical Information ( Instituto de Información Estadística y Geográfica de Jalisco ). This is publicly available data collected by the Jalisco state government and is produced annually for successive 12-month periods.

The latest annual numbers available are for the 12-month periods from September to August for each of 2021 – 2022 and 2022 – 2023 . The figures are produced by municipality. What is commonly known as Guadalajara actually includes the municipalities of Guadalajara, Zapopan, San Pedro Tlaquepaque, Tonalá and El Salto.

One point to note is that although the city of Zapopan is basically the western part of the city of Guadalajara, the municipality of Zapopan also extends quite a way outside the city.

I’ve included below analysis for just the Guadalajara municipality and also for the greater Guadalajara area, which includes all of the municipalities listed above. As a result of the large area covered by the Zapopan municipality, the greater Guadalajara area data all covers parts of Jalisco that are outside the city limits.

Municipality of Guadalajara

According to the figures, in 2021 / 2022 there were 290 homicides, 120 sexual assaults, 4,376 street robberies, 2,245 business robberies and 4,112 cases of car theft.

By comparison, in the 2022 / 2023 period there were 256 homicides, 144 sexual assaults, 3,122 street robberies, 1,610 business robberies and 3,494 cases of car theft.

This is shown visually in the infographic below:

On the basis of those figures, there has been a downtrend in crimes except for sexual assaults, which has increased slightly as between the two periods.

This aligns with data from Statista , which confirms that robberies are the most frequent crimes in Guadalajara.

Greater Guadalajara Area

To give a comparison, I’ve set out the figures for the greater Guadalajara area as well. That covers the municipalities of Guadalajara, Zapopan, San Pedro Tlaquepaque, Tonalá and El Salto.

According to the figures, in the greater Guadalajara area in 2021 / 2022 there were 1,013 homicides, 323 sexual assaults, 8,302 street robberies, 4,734 business robberies and 7,831 cases of car theft.

By comparison, in the 2022 / 2023 period there were 905 homicides, 390 sexual assaults, 6,026 street robberies, 3,250 business robberies and 7,046 cases of car theft.

Similar to the Guadalajara municipality, there has also been a downtrend in crimes in the greater Guadalajara area except for sexual assaults, which has also increased slightly.

What is the Murder Rate in Guadalajara?

According to the Mexican government , Guadalajara had a population of 1,385,629 in 2020 and the greater Guadalajara area has a population of 4,352,012 in 2020.

To calculate the murder rate, I’ve assumed an annual population increase of 1.19%, which is the cumulative growth rate for Mexico as a whole for 2021 and 2022 according to Statista .

On that basis, there were 20.68 murders per 100,000 people in the Guadalajara municipality in the 2021/2022 period and 18.04 murders per 100,000 people in the Guadalajara municipality in the 2022/2023 period.

If we look at the greater Guadalajara area over the same period, there were 23.00 murders per 100,000 people in the greater Guadalajara area in the 2021/2022 period and 20.31 murders per 100,000 people in the greater Guadalajara area in the 2022/2023 period.

How Does Guadalajara Compare To Other Cities?

It’s only by comparison that you can really get an understanding of the meaning of these figures.

Let’s start by looking at the other major tourist destination in Jalisco, which is Puerto Vallarta. By comparison, Puerto Vallarta had a lower murder rate in 2022/2023 of 10.50 per 100,000.

In Acapulco, though, the homicide rate is 54.13 per 100,000 in 2023, so at least within Mexico, Guadalajara is not at the highest end of the spectrum.

Looking at US cities, New York City had a 2022 murder rate of around 5.3 per 100,000 and Chicago had a 2021 murder rate of 29.66 per 100,000 residents.

In 2023, the two highest murder rates according to Statista were St Louis with 87.83 per 100,000 residents and Baltimore with 56.45 per 100,000. So, in US terms as well, Guadalajara is also in the mid-range.

Tourist Experiences

After looking at the crime statistics, there’s no doubt that the murder rate in Guadalajara is higher than most people living outside of Mexico are used to seeing.

But does that mean it is truly unsafe? Personally, I think the answer is no. Let me explain why.

For me, the most compelling evidence is that so many people visit Guadalajara each year. As mentioned above, 17,710,200 people arrived or departed from Guadalajara International Airport in 2023, up from 15,606,600 in 2022.

You wouldn’t see that kind of increase in numbers if tourists think that Guadalajara has a major crime problem. Clearly those visitors are having a great time and then returning home and spreading the word.

Murder also rarely affects tourists. I think this is because tourists don’t really do things that are likely to upset anyone enough for them to commit murder, which tends to be carried out for a specific reason.

In Guadalajara, the most likely crimes to affect tourists are street robberies. As shown above, the number of street robberies in greater Guadalajara area is fairly high, and on average it works out as about 17 per day. That makes it a real risk, but one that I think you can manage if you conduct yourself appropriately.

Is Guadalajara Safe: My Conclusions On The Crime Statistics

In my view, your safety depends on how you spend your time in Guadalajara. If you’re just there to have good clean fun, you keep your wits about you, and don’t put yourself in risky situations, I think you’ll have a great time.

Many of the stories I have heard where people have had problems, they were out partying and drinking late at night or walked home alone after dark after leaving a bar or club. It’s obviously fun to party, but it does open you up to greater risk if you don’t do it carefully.

I think that’s a good point to talk about safety precautions more generally.

What Safety Precautions Should I Take In Guadalajara?

Guadalajara is generally considered to be one of the safer cities in Mexico, but even so, crime can occur anywhere and you want to decrease the chances of it happening to you.

To enhance your safety while in Guadalajara, I’ve suggested a few easy steps for you to follow below.

Choose Secure Accommodation

Opt for accommodations that prioritize security.

Choose well-reviewed hotels, guesthouses, or resorts known for their safety measures. Look for features like 24/7 front desk services, secure entry systems, and well-lit common areas.

Research the neighborhood’s safety and read guest reviews to hear about the experiences of others. Your accommodation plays a crucial role in ensuring a secure and comfortable stay during your travels.

Use Reliable Transport

Where possible, opt for licensed taxis, reputable ride-sharing services, or official tour operators. Avoid accepting rides from unlicensed individuals.

If you’re going to take the bus, research the routes and schedules beforehand. Reliable transport enhances your safety while navigating unfamiliar areas, ensuring you can explore with confidence.

Stay Informed About Local Events

Stay informed about local events, protests, or demonstrations that might affect your safety or travel plans. Check reliable news sources and follow official social media accounts of local authorities.

You should be vigilant if you are in an area where large gatherings are taking place, as they can sometimes escalate unexpectedly.

Staying informed allows you to make informed decisions and avoid potential risks while enjoying your time in a new destination.

Keep Your ID Safe

Use a money belt, hidden pouch, or secure pocket to store your passport, ID, and other important documents. Avoid displaying valuable items in public.

Losing your ID can lead to complications, so taking precautions to keep it safe ensures a smoother and worry-free travel experience.

Take Care When Using ATMs

Exercise caution when using ATMs. Choose machines located in well-lit, busy areas and avoid isolated spots.

Shield your PIN while entering it and make sure no one is watching you while you’re doing so.

You should also check the machine for any unusual attachments that might indicate skimming devices before using it. If you’re in doubt, use a different one.

Leave Valuables In A Safe Place

Store valuables like jewelry, extra cash, and electronics in a secure place, such as a hotel safe.

If your accommodation doesn’t provide a safe, use hidden compartments in luggage. Avoid leaving valuables unattended in your room.

Minimizing the visibility of valuable items reduces the chances of theft, allowing you to explore your destination without unnecessary worries.

Is Guadalajara Safe From Cartels?

Even though Guadalajara is a long way south of Chihuahua, Sinaloa and Durango, which are the states known for ongoing cartel violence, it is still a large city and is therefore not immune from cartel activity.

However, Guadalajara is the state capital of Jalisco, an industrial hub in Mexico, and also a very popular tourist destination. For all of those reasons, it has a visible police presence providing reassurance to travelers and residents, particularly in the central historic district, which draws a significant number of visitors each year.

Although the city is not completely immune to sporadic incidents, the frequency of such occurrences in Guadalajara is significantly lower compared to some other regions in Mexico. In any event, this kind of violence is usually very targeted and is unlikely to affect you during your visit.

Make sure that you stay informed about local news, the advice of local authorities and reliable travel resources so that you can make informed decisions about your trip.

What are Some Common Scams In Guadalajara?

In any tourist hotspot, there can be instances of scams targeting unsuspecting travelers. Guadalajara is no different.

Being aware of these common scams can help you stay vigilant and protect yourself during your stay.

Overcharging in Markets

In bustling markets, vendors may try to overcharge tourists for goods.

Bargaining is a common practice in Guadalajara, and it’s essential to negotiate prices to ensure you’re paying a fair amount.

Fake Tourist Services

Be cautious when approached by individuals offering services such as guided tours, transportation, or excursions. This is particularly the case when visiting historical sites or landmarks.

Some sites such as museums do permit external guides to operate. If you’re not sure if the person is legitimate, stick to reputable tour companies and services recommended by reliable sources.

Distraction Thefts

Petty theft is a concern in crowded areas. Scammers may work in pairs, with one creating a distraction while the other attempts to snatch belongings.

Stay attentive and keep your belongings secure.

ATM Skimming

Be cautious when using ATMs, as skimming devices can be placed on machines to steal your card information.

Opt for ATMs located in well-lit and secure areas, such as banks or established shopping centers and be sure to check the machine for strange looking attachments before you use it.

Fake Police Officers

Some scammers may impersonate police officers and ask to see your identification or belongings.

Always ask for proper identification and do not hand over your belongings unless you’re certain of their authenticity.

Counterfeit Currency

Be attentive when handling money. Counterfeit bills can sometimes be circulated, especially in busy areas.

Familiarize yourself with Mexican currency to avoid accepting fake bills.

Unsolicited Help

Some individuals may offer unsolicited help, such as assisting with directions or carrying your bags.

While some are genuinely helpful, others may expect a tip or even attempt to divert your attention for a scam.

Fake Artisans

When purchasing handicrafts, make sure you’re buying from legitimate artisans.

Some vendors may sell mass-produced items as authentic local crafts. Such charlatans are definitely in the minority in Guadalajara, but it does happen from time to time.

Rental Scams

If you’re renting a vehicle or accommodation, be cautious about paying upfront without proper documentation.

Use reputable rental agencies and verify the legitimacy of the property before making any payments.

Are There Mosquitoes In Guadalajara?

Yes, there are mosquitos in Guadalajara, particularly during the rainy season. The warm humid climate during the rainy part of the year provides great breeding grounds for these pests.

Are The Mosquitos Bad In Mexico?

The level of mosquito activity can vary depending on the time of year, location, and local conditions.

If you’re visiting Guadalajara, especially during the rainy season from June to September, you might encounter more mosquitos due to the increased humidity.

Coastal areas and regions with lush vegetation might also have higher mosquito populations.

How Do Mexicans Deal With Mosquitoes?

To protect yourself from mosquito-borne illnesses and general discomfort, consider the following precautions used by locals in Mexico.

Use Insect Repellent

Protect yourself from mosquito bites by applying insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or other recommended ingredients.

Apply it to exposed skin and clothing to prevent mosquito-borne illnesses and discomfort during your outdoor activities.

Wear Protective Clothing

Minimize mosquito bites by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, socks, and closed-toe shoes.

This protective clothing creates a barrier between your skin and mosquitos, reducing the risk of insect-borne illnesses and discomfort while exploring outdoor areas.

Stay in Screened Areas

Opt for accommodations with screened windows and doors to shield yourself from mosquitos.

Staying in screened areas helps prevent insect bites and offers a comfortable environment for rest and relaxation during your travels.

Use Bed Nets

Enhance your protection against mosquitos by using bed nets treated with insect repellent.

Bed nets provide an additional layer of defense, ensuring a peaceful night’s sleep and minimizing the risk of mosquito bites and related health concerns.

If your room doesn’t include them as standard, ask your hotel if they can provide them, particularly if you are visiting during the rainy season .

Avoid Perfumes and Strong Scents

Reduce your attractiveness to mosquitos by avoiding perfumes and strong scents. These scents can attract insects and increase the likelihood of mosquito bites.

Opt for unscented personal care products to lower the risk of being targeted by mosquitos during your outdoor activities.

Remove Standing Water

Prevent mosquito breeding by removing standing water from your surroundings. Empty containers like buckets, flower pots, and gutters to eliminate potential breeding sites.

This simple action helps reduce the mosquito population and lowers the risk of mosquito-borne illnesses in your vicinity.

Consult a Medical Professional

Before travel, consult a medical professional for advice on mosquito-borne diseases.

Your doctor can recommend appropriate vaccinations and preventive measures based on your destination and health profile.

Seeking medical guidance ensures a safer travel experience and minimizes the risk of contracting mosquito-transmitted illnesses.

Is Guadalajara Safe: FAQs

I’ve looked to answer the question “Is Guadalajara Safe?” and all of the most important questions that go together with it.

However, if you still have questions, check out the list of frequently asked questions below to see if I’ve answered them for you!

Is Guadalajara Safe To Travel With Kids?

Yes, Guadalajara is generally safe for family travel with kids.

There are lots of beautiful colonial-era buildings in the historic center including the 17th century Guadalajara Cathedral that great family activities that you and your kids can enjoy.

You can also take your children to great family-friendly attractions like a visit to Tlaquepaque or Lake Chapala within each reach of Guadalajara.

You should observe basic safety precautions such as keeping an eye on belongings and staying in reputable accommodations.

Is It Safe To Walk At Night In Guadalajara City?

You’ll generally be safe walking at night in Guadalajara in a group in well-populated tourist areas.

The central historic district in particular is usually very busy and is patrolled by police, creating a secure environment.

However, even if you’re travelling in a group, you should still exercise caution, avoid poorly lit or deserted streets, and stay within familiar neighborhoods.

And if you’re a sole female traveler, I’d recommend against walking around at night if you don’t need to, so as not to take unnecessary risks.

Is It Safe To Eat Street Food In Guadalajara?

Indulging in street food in Guadalajara is generally safe and a delightful way to experience local flavors. Most vendors have good hygiene standards, and popular stalls frequented by both locals and tourists offer a lower risk.

It’s wise to choose well-cooked items, observe cleanliness, and opt for foods prepared fresh in front of you.

Trust your instincts and choose busy stalls and you shouldn’t have a problem sampling Guadalajara’s delicious street cuisine.

Can I Drink The Tap Water In Guadalajara?

No, you can’t drink the tap water in Guadalajara.

It’s best to drink bottled or boiled water, and use bottled water even for brushing teeth. All good hotels and other accommodations will provide bottled water for you whilst you’re their guest.

How Do I Avoid Getting Sick In Guadalajara?

To avoid getting sick in Guadalajara, there are a few simple steps that you can take.

Only drink bottled or boiled water and avoid raw or undercooked food when eating in restaurants or buying from street vendors.

Wash your hands frequently, especially before eating. Use hand sanitizer when water isn’t available.

Protect against insects with repellent and appropriate clothing. Be cautious with sun exposure and stay hydrated.

You should also ensure that you have purchased travel insurance before your trip to cover any unforseen medical expenses.

Are There Snakes In Guadalajara Mexico?

Yes, there are snakes in Guadalajara, although you’re only likely to see them if you travel outside the city.

The Guadalajara region and Jalisco generally has diverse ecosystems, including forests and grasslands, provide suitable habitats for various snake species.

While encounters with snakes are relatively rare, it’s wise to be cautious when exploring natural areas.

Wearing appropriate footwear and clothing, staying on designated paths, and avoiding tall grass or underbrush can help minimize the risk of snake encounters.

Is Malaria Common In Guadalajara?

Malaria is not common in Guadalajara. However, some remote rural regions with favorable mosquito breeding conditions could pose a slightly higher risk.

Travelers to Guadalajara should consult a healthcare provider or travel clinic before their trip to determine if antimalarial medication is recommended based on their specific travel itinerary and health profile.

Taking preventive measures such as using insect repellent, wearing protective clothing, and staying in air-conditioned or screened accommodations can further reduce the risk of mosquito-borne illnesses like malaria.

Is Guadalajara Prone To Earthquakes?

Yes, Guadalajara is prone to earthquakes.

Guadalajara is located in Jalisco, which is close to the intersection of three tectonic plates: the North American plate, the Cocos Plate, and the Pacific Plate. As a result, tremors and minor earthquakes are quite common.

Despite the frequency of earthquakes, Mexico has stringent building codes and disaster preparedness measures in place to minimize their impact.

Staying informed about local safety procedures and being prepared can help ensure your safety while visiting Guadalajara.

Is Guadalajara Safe: Dos and Don’ts

Staying safe in Guadalajara is not difficult. You just need to take a few common-sense precautions.

I’ve set out a list of Dos and Don’ts below to help you.

Be Situationally Aware

The number one thing that you should do wherever you travel is ensure that you are always situationally aware.

That just means always knowing what is going on around you. Observe the place, the people, the atmosphere, and let your gut tell you if there is a problem.

This might seem counterintuitive, because you go on holiday to switch off. However, if you make a habit of being situationally aware, you won’t even need to think about doing it, and by doing it you will keep yourself safe.

Use Highly-Rated Secure Accommodation

Make sure that the hotel, AirBnB or hostel that you choose is reputable and secure. The best way to check this is to read the reviews of the accommodation on the website where you booked it.

Steer clear of anything with awful reviews unless there is a very good explanation for the bad review or steps have been taken to rectify the relevant issue.

If possible, you should secure your ID in the hotel safe and keep copies with you when you’re out seeing the sights.

If that isn’t possible, then you should carry your ID with you in a secure pouch, checking frequently to ensure that it is still with you and only taking it out when necessary.

Only Use Reputable Transportation

Be sure to use only licensed taxis, official ride-sharing services (currently Uber or the DiDi ride-sharing app), and trusted tour operators for safe travel.

During the day, you can also use the colectivo , but be aware that the chances of encountering a pick-pocket are higher in these modes of transport.

Don’t accept rides with people you don’t know or don’t trust.

Keep Valuables Out of Sight

This one probably goes without saying, but you should avoid flashing your valuables around.

Crime usually arises as a result of relative poverty. That means that if you appear to be more wealthy, you make yourself a target for pick-pockets and thieves.

So keep you cash in your secure money pouch and leave your valuables either at home or in the hotel safe.

Don’t:

Drink The Tap Water

Avoid drinking tap water and use bottled or boiled water instead.

You should also be careful when buying foods cooked in water, such as rice or pasta.

Walk Alone at Night

Even though Guadalajara is usually safe enough to walk at night, don’t press your luck if you need to do so. Avoid walking alone in poorly lit or deserted areas at night, and don’t walk home alone if you’ve been drinking.

And if you’re a sole female traveler, I would recommend that you avoid walking alone at night unless you absolutely need to do so. You should also make sure that you walk without headphones or earbuds so that you’re aware of what’s going on around you at all times.

Leave Belongings Unattended

This one should hopefully be obvious, but you should always keep an eye on your belongings.

In particular, if you are in a public area, you should always keep your belongs on your person to prevent theft.

Ignore Local Advice

Follow local safety advice and guidelines for a secure experience.

Check the local news and local government websites regularly, particularly before travelling to a new area.

Participate in Unauthorized Activities

Avoid participating in protests or demonstrations that could escalate. If you do find yourself at a protest or demonstration, make sure you leave if the situation shows any signs of spiralling out of control or becoming violent.

Don’t forget that you are a guest in Mexico and your right to remain can always be revoked at any time.

Final Thoughts

So, is Guadalajara safe? All in all, Guadalajara is absolutely safe enough for you to visit.

As with any place, you need to behave sensibly and exercise reasonable caution. Obey the law, treat people respectfully, always be situationally aware, and don’t put yourself in dangerous situations.

If you do all of those things, you will significantly reduce the chances of anything untoward happening to you or your family whilst you are in Guadalajara.

Buen Viaje!

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Is Guadalajara Safe? A Traveler’s Safety Guide

Guadalajara is a thriving city in Mexico (the second largest, in fact) that is famous for its tequila and mariachi music. In fact, the Tequilas Del Señor is the oldest distillery in Guadalajara and has been producing tequila since 1957. As the birthplace of tequila, Guadalajara is no stranger to a good party and that is just what travelers can find in the city.

Mariachi music and delicious cuisine are also in ample supply throughout the city. Guadalajara is a place that celebrates its heritage through entertainment like music and cuisine. From traditional dishes to modern twists on Mexican foods, the city is known for its authentic dishes. Birria, pozole and antojitos are some of Guadalajara’s essential foods that travelers can enjoy during their visit.

Along with Mexican music, cuisine and tequila , travelers can enjoy the environmental attractions and historic landmarks of Guadalajara. These fun activities are why so many tourists are attracted to the city. But with the overall reputation of Mexico, which is influenced by the country’s crime rates, some travelers may feel unsure about their travels to Guadalajara. Check out these recommendations to make your next trip safe and sound.

Although Guadalajara has its upsides, it is not the safest city in Mexico. Some may consider it relatively safe, but it does have a high crime rate. While this technically depends on the region, there is some violent crime and cartel activity. Tourists are encouraged to reconsider travel to Jalisco (Guadalajara’s home state) due to crime and kidnapping via the U.S. Department of State website . Some territorial battles have broken out in tourist areas and harmed bystanders in the past. Travelers should certainly exercise caution if they are adamant about visiting Guadalajara.

Travel Tips

Travelers should periodically check travel advisories to ensure their planned destination does not get categorized as a “do not travel” destination. Other than staying informed about gang-related occurrences, travelers should always exercise caution and stay alert while traveling in areas that are not considered the safest. Visitors should keep track of possessions, never walk around alone at night and avoid dangerous areas while in Guadalajara.

Transportation

Transportation in Guadalajara is quite simple. The city is easily explored on foot and has plenty of attractions that are within walking distance of each other. So, unless travelers want to see far away destinations, they can walk around Guadalajara very easily. The city buses are reliable but they are very popular with locals, so they may be full or a bit too snug for comfort. The metro is great for commuting locals but is less ideal for travelers trying to reach the city’s best attractions. Despite this, the metro is an affordable option since it costs around 40 cents per ride. From the Guadalajara International Airport (GDL), the city center is around 12 miles away. An alternative mode of transportation is opting to take taxis or rental cars.

When To Visit

The city of Guadalajara has experienced some strange weather that may strike fear into potential travelers. Hailstorms have occurred in the past , which may make some travelers fearful of the weather conditions of Guadalajara. But travelers will be glad to know that the weather in Guadalajara is fairly consistent. The area is temperate year-round, so the weather does not commonly deter travelers from visiting. Since it is an inland city that sits at a high elevation, visitors to Guadalajara can enjoy steady warm weather.

The best season to visit is during the fall. Between October and December, travelers can enjoy drier weather, which is a benefit since the area can be quite rainy. The temperatures during this season are usually between the mid-70s to 80 degrees. Compared to the average temperature of 90 degrees and high average rainfall during the summer, these weather conditions are more preferable for touring Guadalajara on foot.

Safest Places To Stay

While Guadalajara’s central area is best for travelers who want to travel by foot, there are safe areas that may be worth the short trip. Chapalita and Providencia are the most popular and safe areas that travelers may want to stay in during their trip. These areas are more residential and as a result are more family-friendly (and all-around safer), so some travelers may desire to be in central downtown. But there are plenty of upscale local businesses like restaurants, shops and bars that travelers can enjoy in both neighborhoods. Plus, the areas are only 20 minutes away from central Guadalajara, so the attractions of the inner city are within reach. The tourist areas are generally safe but may not be considered the same at night, so nearby less urban areas may be better to ensure safety and comfort.

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Is Guadalajara Safe? Analyzing Travel Security Concerns

Guadalajara, the capital of the Mexican state of Jalisco , is a vibrant city that attracts many tourists each year. Its rich history, cultural attractions , and the nearby regions of Jalisco offer endless opportunities for exploration. Despite the city’s charm, it is essential for visitors to consider their safety when traveling to Guadalajara , as with any popular destination.

While the crime index is similar to that of Mexico City, it is crucial for travelers to remain vigilant and exercise caution, especially in certain areas of the city. By following practical safety tips and staying updated on travel advisories, visitors can greatly enhance their safety while enjoying the exciting experiences Guadalajara has to offer. Knowledge of health and environmental concerns and accommodations further helps to ensure a safe and comfortable trip.

Key Takeaways

• Guadalajara offers rich cultural experiences but staying vigilant and exercising caution is necessary for traveler safety.
• Following practical safety tips and staying informed on travel advisories can enhance the overall safety of a trip to Guadalajara.
• Awareness of health, environmental concerns, and accommodations helps ensure a comfortable and secure stay in the city.

Understanding Guadalajara

Geography and Location

Guadalajara is a vibrant city located in the western part of Mexico, within the state of Jalisco. It is the capital and largest city of the state, situated approximately 350 miles west of Mexico City. Guadalajara is also known as the home to the famous blue agave plant , which is the main ingredient in the production of tequila . The city’s elevation of 5,138 feet above sea level contributes to its mild climate, characterized by warm, rainy summers and cool, dry winters.

Population and Culture

As the second-largest metropolitan area in Mexico, Guadalajara has a population of about 5 million people. The city has a rich cultural heritage , making it a significant center for Mexican traditions . One of the most notable aspects of Guadalajara’s culture is the iconic mariachi music, which originated in the nearby town of Cocula. This lively music style, accompanied by traditional Mexican instruments, can be found throughout the city, along with signature dances such as the jarabe tapatío .

Besides music, Guadalajara is also known for its gastronomy – a mix of indigenous and Spanish flavors that resulted in signature dishes like tortas ahogadas and birria . The city’s cuisine further showcases its cultural diversity.

Guadalajara’s Significance in Mexico

Guadalajara plays an essential role in Mexico’s economy, culture, and history. As the capital of Jalisco, it serves as the state’s political and administrative center. Moreover, the city holds a strategic position as a major transportation hub, connecting Mexico’s western and central regions.

In terms of cultural significance, Guadalajara contributes greatly to Mexico’s national identity by being the birthplace of celebrated symbols like tequila and mariachi . It also hosts numerous events and festivals throughout the year that showcase Mexican culture and traditions.

Furthermore, Guadalajara is renowned for its remarkable architectural treasures, including historical sites like the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Hospicio Cabañas and the stunning Guadalajara Cathedral . These landmarks highlight the city’s crucial role in preserving Mexico’s rich history and architectural heritage.

Safety Overview is Guadalajara

Crime Rate and Statistics

Guadalajara, although rich in history and culture, has some safety concerns due to crime rates . According to a local’s guide , Guadalajara is not one of the safest places in the country, but it is possible to have a perfectly safe visit with precautions and common sense. The city has some areas that are safer compared to others, such as Zapopan, where the crime rates are slightly lower.

A safety rating by Travel Safe Abroad places Guadalajara at 62 out of 100 based on research and crime data. The main types of crime reported in Guadalajara are:

• Petty theft
• Assault and robbery
• Drug-related crimes

Comparing Safety to Other Cities

When comparing Guadalajara’s safety to other cities in Mexico, including Mexico City , it is essential to consider factors like city size, population, and crime rates. If we take a look at the Numbeo’s safety index , we can see that:

• Guadalajara’s safety index is 44.97 , while Mexico City has a safety index of 39.79 .
• Guadalajara’s crime index is 55.03 , compared to Mexico City’s crime index of 60.21 .

While these numbers indicate that Guadalajara has a slightly safer environment than Mexico City, both indexes show that travelers should remain cautious.

Local Law Enforcement

In Guadalajara, the local law enforcement is striving to tackle crime rates and improve safety for both residents and tourists. To provide a safer environment, the city has:

• Increased police presence in high-traffic tourist areas.
• Implemented surveillance cameras throughout the city.
• Established tourist police who specifically focus on tourist safety.

It is essential for visitors to follow safety guidelines , such as avoiding traveling alone at night or displaying valuable items openly, as well as staying informed on the areas with higher crime rates. Taking these precautions and being aware of your surroundings will contribute to a safer and more enjoyable trip to Guadalajara .

Travel Safety Tips

Transportation Tips

When visiting Guadalajara, it’s important to choose your mode of transportation wisely. Public transportation such as buses and trains can become crowded and may require extra vigilance. For a safer and more comfortable experience, consider using ridesharing apps like Uber as they are reliable and easy to track. Taxis are also available, but make sure to choose an authorized taxi service to avoid scams or potential security risks.

Always be aware of your surroundings when using any transportation service, and avoid sharing detailed travel plans with strangers. Stick to well-traveled routes and exercise caution in unfamiliar areas, particularly at night.

Protecting Your Valuables

To ensure the safety of your belongings, take precautions to safeguard your valuables. Carry a secure bag with compartments that can be closed securely, and keep your valuables in separate storage spaces. Avoid displaying expensive items or large sums of cash, and consider using a money belt or neck pouch for added security. Traveling light and only bringing the essentials will also help minimize the risk of theft.

Moreover, it is wise to make copies of important documents, such as passports and travel insurance policies. Leave one set of copies at home and keep another set with you, stored separately from the originals. This will help you retrieve essential information in case of loss or theft.

Personal Safety Measures

Lastly, personal safety is crucial when traveling to Guadalajara or any destination. Follow these best practices to ensure a secure and enjoyable trip:

• Stay informed about the local safety conditions in the areas you plan to visit.
• Avoid wandering alone at night, especially in unfamiliar or poorly lit areas.
• Keep your personal information, such as your hotel address and emergency contact numbers, readily available but not visible to others.
• Respect local customs and dress modestly to avoid unwanted attention.
• Be cautious when interacting with strangers and trust your instincts.

By following these travel safety tips and staying aware of your surroundings, you can enjoy a safe and memorable trip to Guadalajara.

Health and Environmental Concerns

Tap water and food safety.

In Guadalajara, it is generally recommended to avoid drinking tap water due to the risk of contamination. It is safer to opt for bottled or purified water instead. When it comes to food safety, there are a few precautions travelers can take. For instance, try to eat in reputable establishments and avoid purchasing food from street vendors. It’s essential to wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly and ensure meats are cooked properly to avoid contracting food-borne illnesses.

Guadalajara experiences varying levels of air quality , with occasional periods of poor air quality due to traffic emissions, industrial activity, and weather conditions. To stay informed, travelers can monitor the local air quality index and consider wearing a mask or limiting time outdoors during periods of poor air quality.

Natural Disasters Awareness

Guadalajara is located in a region that is prone to certain natural disasters such as earthquakes and hurricanes . Although the city is not located along the coastline, it is still possible for residual effects of hurricanes, such as heavy rainfall and flooding, to impact Guadalajara. To prepare for these potential hazards, travelers should be aware of the following risk factors and advice:

• Earthquakes : Guadalajara is located in a seismically active area, with a moderate risk of experiencing earthquakes. It is recommended to familiarize yourself with the nearest emergency exits and evacuation routes in your accommodation.
• Hurricanes : While hurricanes typically affect coastal regions, their remnants can still cause heavy rain and flooding in Guadalajara. It’s crucial to stay informed about weather updates and follow any guidance from local authorities.

Although health and environmental concerns may be present while visiting Guadalajara, taking the appropriate precautions and maintaining a sense of awareness can significantly reduce potential risks. Please consider the mentioned tips and suggestions to make the most of your trip to this vibrant city.

Areas of Interest

Safe Neighborhoods for Visitors

Guadalajara is a popular destination for tourists, and there are several neighborhoods that are considered safe for visitors. The Chapalita neighborhood is known for its beautiful parks, upscale residential areas, and numerous dining options, making it a great area for tourists to explore. Tlaquepaque , a picturesque artisan village with cobblestone streets and colorful buildings, is another safe and charming area to visit in Guadalajara. Some other generally safe neighborhoods include:

• Providencia
• Colonia Americana

Keep in mind that safety can vary from block to block, so it is always best to be cautious and aware of your surroundings.

Tourist Attractions and Activities

There are many tourist attractions and activities to enjoy in Guadalajara, ranging from exciting outdoor adventures to informative cultural tours. Some popular activities include:

• Taking a walking tour of the historic city center
• Visiting the Guadalajara Zoo
• Exploring local markets, such as the San Juan de Dios Market or the Tlaquepaque Artisan Market
• Joining a tequila tasting tour

Remember to plan your activities according to your interests and adhere to any safety tips provided by tour operators or local authorities.

Cultural and Historic Sites

Guadalajara is rich in cultural and historic sites that will appeal to a variety of interests. Some must-see attractions in the city include:

• Teatro Degollado: This impressive neoclassical theater hosts ballets, concerts, and other performances throughout the year.
• Guadalajara Cathedral: A beautiful example of Gothic and neoclassical architecture, the cathedral has been standing for over 400 years.
• Hospicio Cabañas: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this former orphanage-turned-art-museum houses beautiful frescoes by renowned Mexican artist José Clemente Orozco.

Accommodation Insights

Hotels and Lodging Safety

When visiting Guadalajara, it is essential to choose your accommodation wisely. Hotels and other lodging options in safer neighborhoods can provide an additional layer of security during your stay. Some highly recommended areas to consider when booking a place to stay are Chapultepec, Providencia, and Americana.

It is important to remember that public areas and streets in Guadalajara may pose more significant risks. Stay well-informed about the latest safety information and follow proper guidelines to stay secure.

When booking a hotel, pay attention to their security measures. Look for those with:

• 24-hour security
• Secure entry systems
• CCTV surveillance
• In-room safes

Additionally, make sure to read reviews from previous guests to gauge the property’s safety reputation.

Best Practices for Accommodation

To further enhance your security, follow these best practices:

• Avoid ground floor rooms: Higher floors can be safer as they are less accessible to potential intruders.
• Use a hotel safe for valuables: Never leave your belongings unattended inside the room.
• Stay aware of your surroundings: Be cautious upon entering and exiting the lodging and check that no one is following you.
• Familiarize yourself with emergency exits and procedures: Always know the quickest way to leave the building in case of an emergency.
• Keep doors and windows locked at all times: This simple precaution is often overlooked but can make a major difference in your safety.

By following these guidelines and choosing a secure location for your lodging, you can significantly improve the safety of your stay in Guadalajara. Remember to stay informed about the latest safety updates, exercise caution, and adhere to best practices to make the most of your visit to this vibrant city.

Potential Risks and Threats

Theft and petty crime.

Theft and petty crime are common in Guadalajara, just like any other highly-populated city. Travelers are advised to be cautious, especially in tourist hotspots or crowded areas. Pickpockets may operate in busy markets and public transportation. It is recommended to keep personal belongings secure and avoid flashing expensive items.

Tourists need to be aware of their surroundings and take necessary precautions such as:

• Using a money belt or hidden pouch for cash and cards
• Locking up valuable items in the hotel safe
• Not leaving valuables unattended in public areas

Scams and Fraudulent Activities

Scams may occur in Guadalajara, as in other large cities. Travelers should be wary of fraudulent activities and use common sense when dealing with strangers. Some typical scams include:

• Taxi overcharging : A taxi driver might take a longer route or overcharge riders. It’s beneficial to use a ridesharing service or agreeing on the fare beforehand.
• Fake police : Imposters posing as police officers may try to extort money from unsuspecting tourists. Always ask for identification and avoid handing over any cash or personal information.
• ATM skimming : Criminals may install skimming devices to steal card information. Stick to using reputable bank ATMs in well-lit areas.

Gang Activity and Cartel Influence

Although Guadalajara does have some level of gang activity and cartel influence , it is essential to understand that they typically do not target tourists. Nonetheless, it’s crucial for travelers to exercise caution and avoid dangerous areas or engaging in illicit activities.

In order to minimize the risk of encountering gang-related issues, follow these tips:

• Stay in well-traveled and tourist-friendly neighborhoods
• Do not engage in buying or using illegal substances
• Avoid traveling at night, particularly in unfamiliar areas

By following these precautions and staying vigilant during their visit, travelers can considerably reduce the potential risks and threats in Guadalajara.

Safety for Special Groups

Women and solo travelers.

Guadalajara can be a safe destination for women and solo travelers , but it is essential to take necessary precautions. As a traveler’s safety guide suggests, staying in well-traveled areas and avoiding deserted streets, especially at night, is crucial.

• Dress modestly and avoid drawing unwanted attention.
• Keep a low profile and avoid displaying valuable items.
• Use reputable transportation options like authorized taxi services or ride-sharing apps.
• Stay in well-reviewed accommodations, and look for places with good security measures in place.

Family and Children’s Safety

Guadalajara can also be an enjoyable and safe destination for families with children. However, certain safety guidelines should be followed to ensure a smooth and worry-free trip:

• Stick to well-known tourist areas and family-friendly attractions.
• Make sure your accommodations are located in a safe neighborhood.
• Use reputable transportation services or pre-arranged tours designed for families.
• Keep children close and educate them on basic safety rules, such as not talking to strangers or wandering off alone.

Parents traveling to Guadalajara with their children should always prioritize their family’s safety by researching popular family-friendly destinations and activities beforehand. Although the city has its risks, taking appropriate measures will help ensure a memorable trip for everyone.

Practical Information

Local transportation options.

Guadalajara offers various transportation options for travelers, making it easy to navigate the city. The public transportation system consists of buses and a light rail system called Tren Ligero . These options are relatively affordable and convenient, connecting various parts of the city.

For those who prefer private transportation, taxis are available throughout Guadalajara. Ensure you use registered taxis by looking for the white and yellow color scheme and checking for the taxi driver’s identification in the vehicle. Additionally, Uber operates in the city, providing an alternative to traditional taxis.

Currency and Payment Methods

The official currency in Guadalajara is the Mexican Peso (MXN) . It’s essential to have some cash on hand, especially for smaller establishments and street vendors. However, many restaurants, shops, and hotels accept credit and debit cards. If you need to exchange money or withdraw cash, you can find ATMs and currency exchange services in banks and malls across the city.

Emergency Services Contact

In the event of an emergency during your visit to Guadalajara, it’s essential to have the appropriate contact information readily available. The emergency number in Mexico, similar to the United States, is 911 . By dialing this number, you can reach the police, fire department, and ambulance services. Ensure you store this number on your phone or have it written down before you travel.

Final Thoughts

Traveling to Guadalajara can be a safe and enjoyable experience with the right precautions. It is important to stay knowledgeable about the areas you plan to visit and maintain a level of awareness during your stay. There are certain measures that can be taken to ensure you feel confident and secure while exploring this vibrant Mexican city.

• Be sure to invest in travel insurance to cover unexpected incidents.
• Stay in well-known neighborhoods with good reputations.
• Always use trusted transportation services and avoid traveling alone at night.
• Keep your belongings secure and avoid displaying valuable items openly.
• Familiarize yourself with the local safety tips for Guadalajara.

It is worth noting that, like any city, Guadalajara has its share of challenges. However, many travelers have had positive experiences when visiting the area. By being well-informed and prepared, you can help ensure that your trip to Guadalajara is as safe as possible.

Additionally, actively engage in conversation with locals, as they can provide valuable insights into the safest places to visit and practices to follow. Through these interactions, you may discover lesser-known gems that serve to enrich your travel experience.

In summary, while safety should be a priority, don’t let it overshadow the diverse and rich cultural experiences that Guadalajara has to offer. By staying informed and taking the necessary precautions, you can have an exciting and memorable trip to this captivating city.

Traveler and blogger Living in Guadalajara, Mexico

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What every local wants you to know before traveling to Guadalajara

Aug 1, 2022 • 7 min read

All the local tips you need to know about the vibrant city of Guadalajara before you visit © Shutterstock / Kobby Dagan

I have known Guadalajara my whole life, traveling here to visit extended family since the year I was born. As a little girl, it was a place of orange-flavored sodas and chile-covered lollipops, mariachi-serenades for my twenty-something tías (balcony swooning included) and hours spent making tortillas.

The historic center was a place to run and play, to cool off in the Catedral or under a mural in Cabañas , to fill up on chocolate-stuffed cuernos from our favorite bakery. When I began visiting with my American friends, I started to see Guadalajara through different eyes and appreciate its depth and complexity. A colonial city wrapped in a modern metropolis, traffic jams, pickpockets and all; a place steeped in tradition yet standing for inclusion; a city where a night out could include world-class cuisine or bacon-wrapped hot dogs, a symphony concert or a raucous lucha libre match. Guadalajara remains all of this, past and present (chile-covered lollipops included). Here are a few tips to help you make the most out of it.

Planning your trip to Guadalajara

Plan on (at least) a four-day stay.

Sure, you can see Guadalajara’s highlights in a couple of days – most are in the historic center – but stay awhile to check out the city’s colonial-to-hipster neighborhoods, wander through dazzling art museums and outdoor markets, take in some live music and maybe even find your favorite late night taco stand. Check out the tourism office’s cartelera , a comprehensive calendar of events, before you head to town.

Book early for October

The city brims with visitors every October when Guadalajara hosts Fiestas de Octubre , a month-long celebration featuring spectacular live performances, pop-up amusement parks and parades. A long-standing annual pilgrimage to the Basílica de Zapopan , also held in October, adds fuel to the fire when millions of Catholic faithful hit the streets in honor of the venerated icon La Zapopanita. Book your hotel early!

Bring layers (and sometimes an umbrella)

Guadalajara is known for its temperate daytime temperatures, hovering in the 70s and 80s year-round. Evenings are another story. In winter, bring warm clothing and a jacket for the sometimes frigid air. In summer, a light sweater will do. Add an umbrella to your summer packing list, especially in July and August, when afternoon showers are a daily occurrence.

Be here on a Sunday

Soak in the local culture on Sundays, a day when the plazas are bustling with street vendors and performers, major streets are closed to cars to make room for walkers and bikers (free bikes are available at Parque Revolución), and Guadalajara’s largest open-air crafts market fills the streets of Tonalá. For a treat, take in an afternoon charreada or lucha libre show.

Don’t rent a car

There’s no need to rent a car in Guadalajara – the traffic can be crushing and walking is often the quickest option. For places further afield, several bus lines and a newly expanded metro system crisscross the city for cheap (M$9.50-15) – use the Moovit app to navigate your way around town. For more comfort, Uber is an easy, affordable option.

Save pesos getting to and from the airport

The cheapest ride to and from Guadalajara’s international airport is by city bus. It can get crowded and makes frequent stops, but it’s a steal at less than a buck a ride. Look for the bus stop in front of the Hotel Casa Grande, 50m from the terminal and take either a "Ruta 176" or "Atasa" bus. Both run to the center of town in about 45 minutes, passing every 15 minutes morning till night.

Etiquette in Guadalajara

Call locals tapatíos.

Be in the know and use tapatío to refer to someone or something from Guadalajara. The word is derived from tlapatiotl , meaning "bartering system" in Nahuatl , the language spoken by the region’s original inhabitants.

Greet people

Tapatíos , and Mexicans in general, value pleasantries. Before any interaction – even just entering a shop or restaurant – say " buenos dias"  (good morning), " buenas tardes"  (good afternoon) or " buenas noches"  (good evening). When you leave, " adios"  (goodbye), " gracias"  (thank you), or " con permiso"  (excuse me) is customary. Even if that’s all you say in Spanish, it’ll be deeply appreciated.

This Catholic city isn't as conservative as you'd expect

Despite its history and reputation as a conservative Catholic city, Guadalajara is also one of the most accepting and inclusive places in Mexico for LGBTIQ+ people. Pride parades and gay bars, openly-owned LGBTQ+ businesses and cultural events are common.

Save your shorts and flip flops for the beach

Unless you’re a kid, wearing shorts or flip flops will peg you as a tourist in Guadalajara. Even on the hottest days, adults just don’t wear them outside their homes. Stick to pants or skirts and wear leather sandals or closed-toe shoes instead. For a night out on the town, dress to impress.

Don’t be shy on the bus

If you’re on a bus without a functioning bell pull (it happens), yell out " bajan"  (BA-hahn). Meaning "getting off" it’ll signal the driver to stop at the nearest intersection.

Lean into street food

Guadalajara’s early morning street food fave – and sworn-by hangover cure – is the torta ahogada (literally "drowned sandwich"), a baguette-like roll stuffed with slow-roasted pork and drenched in hot sauce. You’ll be tempted to eat it with a fork and knife, but tapatíos use their hands – do like locals do and lean over your plate, like it’s a trough, to avoid splattering yourself. Go the extra mile and tuck a few napkins into your shirt front. It’s not pretty, but you’ll fit right in.

Haggle with kindness

Negotiating prices, especially in markets, is common practice in Guadalajara. Prices will shift slightly or the merchant might throw in a knick-knack. But before your dig in your heels over a few pesos, remember they likely mean a lot more to the vendor than they do to you.

Put TP in the waste basket

Antiquated plumbing in Guadalajara means that flushing toilet paper can often clog the system. If you see an open waste basket in a stall or hotel bathroom, use it for your TP.

Health and safety in Guadalajara

Avoid tap water.

Don’t drink the tap water or even use it to brush your teeth. While it’s purified at the source, it can become contaminated as it travels through aging water lines. Instead, use bottled water. That said, there’s no need to worry about ice in restaurants or bars – it’s purchased from commercial ice factories.

Opt for Uber over taxis

Though taxis are easy to hail in the city center, they’re known for ripping off passengers, refusing to use their meters and quoting inflated flat rates. Use Uber instead, which provides reliable service at cheaper rates. If you must take a cab, be sure you agree on the price before you get in – if it seems high, try bargaining or just wait for another taxi.

Be alert for pickpockets

Like most big cities, pickpocketing is a risk on crowded buses and subway trains, markets, and busy streets and plazas. Mercado San Juan de Dios and the post-clubbing scene on Avenida Chapultepec are notorious for petty theft. Stay alert to your surroundings, remembering that pickpockets often work in teams, crowding their victims to distract them. To lessen the risk of being targeted, leave flashy jewelry at home and place your valuables in the hotel safe.

Avoid fringe neighborhoods

Violent crimes aren’t prominent in Guadalajara, especially in touristed areas. But do avoid wandering into fringe neighborhoods on the east side – Colonia Jalisco and Santa Fe in particular are known for their gang activity.

For help, contact your consulate

If you’re a victim of crime, need medical assistance or legal help, contact your consulate or embassy. Almost 50 countries, including the US and Canada , have representatives in Guadalajara that can help you navigate the system or recommend providers.

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Is guadalajara safe 2024 safety guide.

Visiting a new city can be exciting, but it’s important to always be aware of safety precautions. If you’re planning a trip to Guadalajara, Mexico, you may be wondering if the city is safe. The answer is yes, but there are still important steps to take in order to make sure your stay in Guadalajara is as safe and enjoyable as possible. In this guide, we’ll provide a traveler’s guide to staying safe in Guadalajara. We’ll cover everything from common scams and security measures to how to stay safe in neighborhoods and popular tourist attractions. If you are thinking about traveling to Guadalajara, check out our Guadalajara travel guide !

Table of Contents

Is Guadalajara Safe Right Now?

As with any travel destination, the safety of Guadalajara can vary depending on various factors, including the current state of local crime, natural disasters, and political stability. However, as of this writing, Guadalajara is generally considered safe for travelers. According to recent travel advisories, the Mexican government has taken significant steps to improve security measures throughout the country, including Guadalajara. As a result, incidents of crime against tourists have decreased in recent years. Of course, it’s still essential to exercise caution and take necessary precautions to avoid becoming a victim of theft or other crimes. Overall, visitors can enjoy the sights and experiences that Guadalajara has to offer while staying safe.

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Guadalajara Travel Advisory

Before visiting Guadalajara, it is important to stay up-to-date with any travel advisories or warnings issued by your government. The U.S. Department of State currently has a Level 3 travel advisory for Mexico, urging visitors to exercise increased caution due to crime and kidnapping. However, this advisory does not specifically warn against traveling to Guadalajara. That being said, it is important to remain vigilant and aware of your surroundings at all times while traveling in Guadalajara. Crime rates, especially involving robbery and pickpocketing, can be higher in tourist areas and crowded places. Visitors should also be cautious when using ATMs or exchanging money and should only do so at reputable locations.

Additionally, it is important to avoid any protests or demonstrations, as they can sometimes turn violent. It is always recommended to stay in touch with your embassy or consulate while traveling abroad and to keep emergency contact information readily available. Overall, while there may be some safety concerns, many visitors to Guadalajara have had safe and enjoyable experiences. With proper precautions and awareness, travelers can minimize risks and fully enjoy all that this vibrant city has to offer.

Is Guadalajara Safe To Walk Around?

Walking around Guadalajara can be a great way to explore the city, but safety concerns should always be taken into consideration. Overall, Guadalajara is a relatively safe city, but like any other urban area, there are some areas that are less safe than others. It is important to be aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions, such as avoiding isolated areas at night and not carrying large amounts of cash.

One area of the city that is known to be safe for walking around is the historic center, which is well-patrolled by police and filled with restaurants, cafes, and cultural attractions. The Zona Rosa, an upscale neighborhood with high-end shops and restaurants, is also considered safe for walking around during the day.

It is important to note that some neighborhoods in Guadalajara should be avoided, particularly at night. These include Tlaquepaque, Tonala, and parts of the Periferico, which are known for high levels of crime. Visitors should also exercise caution when walking in busy areas such as the Mercado San Juan de Dios and the Chapultepec area, as pickpocketing and theft can occur in these crowded areas.

To stay safe while walking around Guadalajara, it is recommended to dress casually and avoid wearing expensive jewelry or carrying designer bags, as this can make you a target for theft. Always keep an eye on your belongings and be aware of your surroundings. Additionally, it is wise to walk with a group, especially at night, and stay in well-lit areas. In summary, Guadalajara is generally a safe city for walking around, but visitors should exercise caution in certain areas and take necessary safety precautions to avoid being targeted by thieves. By staying aware of your surroundings and following these tips, you can enjoy the city’s charm and culture while keeping yourself safe.

Is Uber Safe In Guadalajara?

Uber is a popular mode of transportation in Guadalajara, and it is generally considered safe. The drivers are vetted by Uber and are required to have a clean driving record and a valid license. Additionally, the Uber app provides a GPS tracking system, which allows you to see your driver’s location and monitor your journey. However, it is essential to note that safety concerns can arise with any mode of transportation. It is advisable to take some basic safety measures while using Uber in Guadalajara. These include:

• Verify The Driver’s Identity : Before getting into an Uber, always verify the driver’s identity by matching their name and photo on the app.
• Check The License Plate : Verify that the license plate of the vehicle matches the information provided on the app.
• Share Your Trip Details : Share your trip details, including the driver’s name and license plate number, with a trusted friend or family member.
• Avoid Sharing Personal Information : Avoid sharing personal information such as your address or contact information with the driver.
• Be Cautious When Sharing A Ride : If you opt to share a ride with other passengers, ensure that they are also verified Uber users.

By taking these safety measures, you can ensure a safer ride when using Uber in Guadalajara. Additionally, in case of any safety concerns or emergencies, you can use the emergency button in the Uber app to call the authorities or contact Uber’s support team.

Is Public Transportation Safe In Guadalajara?

When it comes to public transportation in Guadalajara, it is generally safe to use. The city has a reliable and extensive public transportation system, including buses and a metro system. The buses in Guadalajara are generally well-maintained, and there are designated lanes for them, which can make traveling around the city a bit faster. The metro is also a good option for getting around the city quickly and cheaply.

That being said, it is always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings close to you when using public transportation. As with any city, there is the potential for pickpocketing and other types of crime on public transportation in Guadalajara, so it is important to take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

It is also worth noting that some of the buses in Guadalajara can get quite crowded during rush hour, which can make them less comfortable to ride. If you are traveling during peak times, it is best to be prepared for the crowds and to keep a close eye on your belongings. Overall, public transportation is a safe and convenient way to get around Guadalajara. As long as you take basic safety precautions and remain aware of your surroundings, you should be able to enjoy your journey without incident.

Is Guadalajara A Safe Place To Drive?

If you’re planning on driving in Guadalajara, there are some things you should keep in mind to ensure your safety. First, traffic can be quite chaotic and unpredictable, so it’s important to stay alert at all times. It’s also worth noting that road signage can be difficult to read or absent altogether, so it’s important to have a good GPS system or map to navigate. Additionally, it’s best to avoid driving at night, as visibility can be poor and there is a higher risk of encountering dangerous road conditions or other hazards.

When it comes to vehicle safety, it’s recommended to rent from a reputable company and ensure the car has proper insurance coverage. Always keep your doors locked and windows up when driving, especially in high crime areas. Be aware of potential carjacking or robbery attempts at traffic lights or stop signs and avoid flashing expensive jewelry or electronics that could attract unwanted attention.

Overall, driving in Guadalajara can be safe if you take necessary precautions and drive defensively. However, it may be easier and safer to use public transportation or hire a private driver instead, especially if you are unfamiliar with the city or have concerns about safety.

Is It Safe To Live In Guadalajara?

Many people who visit Guadalajara fall in love with the city’s vibrant culture, beautiful architecture, and friendly people. This often leads them to consider moving to the area, whether for work, school, or retirement. However, as with any new location, safety concerns can arise.

Overall, Guadalajara is considered a safe place to live. However, as with any city, there are certain areas that are safer than others. It is important to do your research before choosing a neighborhood to live in and to always remain aware of your surroundings. One benefit of living in Guadalajara is the strong sense of community and neighborliness that exists in many neighborhoods. This can provide an added sense of security, as residents often look out for each other and work together to maintain a safe and pleasant living environment.

Additionally, the city has a reliable public transportation system, making it easy to get around without a car. However, it is important to be cautious when using public transportation, especially at night or in less crowded areas. Like many cities in Mexico, Guadalajara does have issues with crime, particularly related to drug trafficking and organized crime. However, as a resident, you are less likely to encounter these types of crimes than a tourist or traveler. It is still important to take precautions, such as avoiding certain areas, not flaunting wealth, and being aware of your surroundings. Ultimately, whether or not it is safe to live in Guadalajara will depend on your individual situation and preferences. It is important to weigh the pros and cons and make an informed decision based on your needs and priorities.

Is Airbnb Safe To Use In Guadalajara?

If you are considering using Airbnb during your stay in Guadalajara, it is important to take precautions to ensure your safety. While Airbnb has its own safety protocols, it is always best to exercise caution when staying in an unfamiliar place. When browsing Airbnb listings in Guadalajara, look for listings with a high rating and positive reviews from previous guests. Read the reviews carefully and take note of any safety concerns that were mentioned. Also, make sure that the listing is located in a safe neighborhood.

Before booking your stay, communicate with the host to ask any questions or concerns you may have about the property or surrounding area. Be sure to discuss any security measures that are in place, such as locks on doors and windows, security cameras, or a doorman. When you arrive at your Airbnb, inspect the property thoroughly to ensure that everything is in working order. Check that all doors and windows lock properly and that there are no signs of forced entry.

If you encounter any safety concerns during your stay, contact Airbnb’s customer support immediately. They have a 24/7 hotline available to help resolve any issues you may have. Overall, while there is always a risk associated with using a service like Airbnb, taking precautions and being aware of your surroundings can help ensure a safe and enjoyable stay in Guadalajara.

Is Guadalajara Safe For Tourists?

Guadalajara is generally safe for tourists, and there are many things to see and do in the city. However, just like any other big city, it’s important to exercise caution and stay aware of your surroundings. While crime rates have been decreasing in recent years, it’s always best to take precautions to ensure your safety.

One thing to keep in mind is that some areas of Guadalajara are safer than others. Areas such as Zona Rosa and Tlaquepaque are considered to be safer, while areas like San Juan de Dios Market can be more dangerous, especially at night. It’s best to research the areas you plan to visit ahead of time and avoid areas that are known to be unsafe.

When it comes to using public transportation, it’s generally safe as long as you’re aware of pickpocketing. It’s always best to keep your belongings close to you and be aware of any suspicious activity around you. As for tourist scams, they do exist in Guadalajara, but they’re not very common. The most common scams are related to taxi rides and overcharging for products or services. It’s best to use authorized taxis and always negotiate prices upfront to avoid any confusion or overcharging.

Overall, if you’re a tourist in Guadalajara, you should feel relatively safe as long as you exercise common sense and caution. Just like any other city, it’s always best to be aware of your surroundings, keep your belongings close to you, and avoid any areas that may be considered unsafe. By taking these precautions, you can enjoy your time in Guadalajara without any safety concerns.

Is Guadalajara Safe For Families?

Guadalajara can be a great destination for families, but it is important to be aware of the potential risks and take appropriate precautions. Like any large city, there are areas that are safer than others and it’s important to do your research before planning your itinerary.

One area that is particularly family-friendly is Zapopan, a suburb of Guadalajara with plenty of parks and green spaces. The Bosque Los Colomos park is a great spot for a family picnic, with plenty of trails for hiking or biking. The Mercado de San Juan de Dios is also a popular attraction for families, with its vibrant atmosphere and endless array of food stalls, crafts, and souvenirs.

When it comes to transportation, taking taxis or private transportation is usually a safer option than using public transportation, particularly for families with young children. If you do choose to use public transportation, keep a close eye on your belongings and be aware of your surroundings.

If you are traveling with young children, it’s a good idea to keep them close by at all times and not let them wander off on their own. While kidnappings are rare in Guadalajara, it’s better to err on the side of caution. Finally, be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts. If a situation feels unsafe, it’s better to remove yourself and your family from the area. Overall, while there are some risks associated with traveling to Guadalajara with a family, with the right preparation and precautions, it can be a rewarding and memorable experience.

Is Guadalajara Safe For Female Travelers?

One of the most common questions among female travelers is whether it is safe to travel to Guadalajara. As with any destination, it is always important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings. However, overall, Guadalajara is considered a safe place for women to travel to. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Dress Modestly : Guadalajara is a predominantly Catholic city, and while locals are used to seeing tourists, it is still respectful to dress modestly. Avoid wearing revealing clothing that may attract unwanted attention.
• Stay In Well-Lit Areas : If you’re walking around at night, stick to well-lit areas with plenty of people around. Avoid walking alone in isolated areas, especially late at night.
• Use Caution With Transportation : Use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps like Uber or DiDi, especially if you’re traveling alone. Avoid unmarked or unlicensed taxis, and always confirm the fare before getting in.
• Learn Some Spanish : While English is spoken in some areas of Guadalajara, not everyone speaks it. Learning some basic Spanish phrases can help you navigate the city more easily and communicate with locals if needed.
• Use Common Sense : Use the same common sense you would at home. Don’t leave your belongings unattended, keep an eye on your drinks, and don’t go off with strangers.

Overall, Guadalajara is a safe place for female travelers, but it’s important to use common sense and be aware of your surroundings. By taking a few precautions, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip to this beautiful city.

Is Guadalajara Safe For Solo Travelers?

Solo travelers can safely enjoy everything Guadalajara has to offer, but it’s important to take the necessary precautions. Like any city, Guadalajara has its fair share of petty theft, so make sure to keep your belongings close at all times and avoid wearing flashy jewelry or carrying expensive gadgets. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in poorly lit areas. Always stick to well-lit, busy areas and use common sense to avoid risky situations.

That being said, solo female travelers may encounter unwanted attention from men, so it’s important to be assertive and know how to say “no” firmly and confidently. Dress modestly and avoid wandering around alone late at night. Consider taking a taxi or an Uber after dark to avoid any potential danger.

As a solo traveler, it’s always a good idea to make sure someone knows where you are at all times. Stay in touch with family and friends back home and consider letting someone know your itinerary. Additionally, it’s always a good idea to research the areas you plan to visit beforehand and be aware of any local safety concerns. Overall, Guadalajara is a safe city for solo travelers, as long as you take the necessary precautions. Don’t let fear hold you back from experiencing this beautiful destination. By being smart and cautious, you can have a fantastic and safe trip.

Is Guadalajara Safe For Americans?

Guadalajara is generally safe for American tourists. However, as with any travel destination, visitors should exercise caution and take the necessary precautions to ensure their safety. The US Department of State advises travelers to exercise increased caution in the state of Jalisco, where Guadalajara is located. This is due to increased crime and gang activity in the area. Tourists should avoid certain neighborhoods, such as Tlaquepaque, and be aware of their surroundings at all times.

Americans should also take extra care when using public transportation and should only use authorized taxi services or ride-hailing apps like Uber. It is also important to avoid driving at night, as roads can be poorly lit and accidents are more common. In terms of safety for Americans living in Guadalajara, it is generally considered safe as long as one follows the same precautions as tourists. Expats should be mindful of their personal belongings and should keep their home and car locked at all times.

Finally, it is important to note that drug-related violence is a concern in certain areas of Mexico. As a result, visitors should avoid illegal drugs at all costs and be cautious of anyone attempting to offer or sell them. Overall, Guadalajara is a relatively safe destination for American tourists and expats alike, but as always, visitors should take the necessary precautions to ensure their safety.

Is It Safe To Do Drugs In Guadalajara?

In short, no, it is not safe to do drugs in Guadalajara. Drug use is illegal in Mexico and is strictly prohibited by law. Engaging in drug use or possession can lead to arrest and incarceration, fines, and even deportation. Additionally, drug-related violence is a prevalent issue in Mexico, particularly in regions that serve as drug trafficking routes. Even using drugs in the privacy of your own home could put you at risk of being caught up in the drug trade and potentially targeted by violence.

If you are struggling with drug addiction, it is important to seek help from qualified professionals rather than risking your safety and wellbeing. There are drug rehab facilities available in Guadalajara, as well as resources to connect with support groups and counselors who can provide assistance and guidance. Overall, it is best to avoid any involvement with drugs while in Guadalajara or any other city in Mexico to ensure your safety and legal compliance.

Common Scams To Look Out For In Guadalajara

While Guadalajara is a relatively safe city, it’s important to be aware of common scams that can happen to tourists and locals alike. Here are some of the scams to watch out for in Guadalajara:

• The Fake Police Scam : Scammers pose as police officers and stop tourists to ask for identification and a “fine.” Always ask to see their identification and badge before handing over any money, and if you feel unsafe, call 911 immediately.
• The “Lost Wallet” Scam : Someone drops a wallet in front of you and asks you if it’s yours. When you say no, they claim it’s theirs and offer to share the money inside with you. Don’t fall for this; it’s a classic distraction technique.
• The “Helpful” Stranger Scam : Someone approaches you on the street and offers to give you directions or help you with your bags. Once you accept their help, they ask for money or steal your belongings. Always be cautious of strangers who approach you, and never accept help from someone you don’t know.
• The Fake Ticket Scam : Someone sells you a fake ticket to a popular event or attraction. Always buy tickets from reputable vendors, and if you’re unsure about a ticket’s authenticity, ask someone who works at the event.
• The ATM Skimming Scam : Scammers attach devices to ATMs that record your card information when you insert it. Always use ATMs that are inside a bank or other secure location, and cover your hand when you enter your PIN number.

By being aware of these common scams, you can stay safe and enjoy your time in Guadalajara without any problems. If you do fall victim to a scam or experience any other safety concerns, don’t hesitate to contact the authorities.

Guadalajara Emergency Numbers

In case of any emergency, it’s important to have access to the appropriate emergency numbers in Guadalajara. Here are some of the most important emergency numbers to remember:

• Police emergency number: 911
• Medical emergency number: 065 or 911
• Fire department emergency number: 068 or 911
• Tourist Police: +52 33 3825 4646 or +52 33 3825 6905 (24/7)
• American Consulate General in Guadalajara: +52 33 3268 2100 (24/7)

Make sure to have these numbers saved in your phone or written down somewhere easily accessible. It’s always better to be prepared for any situation, especially when traveling in a new place. In case of an emergency, remain calm and call the appropriate number for help. The local authorities are trained to handle emergencies and will do their best to assist you in any way possible.

The Bottom Line

Overall, Guadalajara is a safe destination for tourists and locals alike. While there are certain safety concerns, these are generally limited to specific areas or situations, and can be easily avoided with some common sense precautions. To ensure a safe and enjoyable trip, it’s recommended to stay alert and aware of your surroundings at all times, avoid isolated or poorly-lit areas at night, use reputable transportation services, and follow any local rules or regulations. If you do run into any issues, don’t hesitate to contact the local authorities or your embassy for assistance. With a bit of planning and awareness, you can enjoy all that Guadalajara has to offer without any major safety concerns.

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Guadalajara Travel Guide

Mexico › Guadalajara Updated: March 1, 2022

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Frequently Asked Questions about Guadalajara

The iconic Guadalajara Cathedral with its unique 2 spires sits in the main plaza in downtown.

Where is Guadalajara?

Guadalajara is the capital of the state of Jalisco, in western Mexico. It is located in the central part of the state, in the Atemajac Valley, at an altitude of 5150 ft. (1570 meters). Eight municipalities make up its metropolitan area, which is the second-largest in the country, right after Mexico City.

How big is Guadalajara?

The population of Guadalajara is around 4,500,000 inhabitants, including its metropolitan area, distributed in an area of 1698 square miles (2734 square kilometers). Without counting the other seven municipalities, Guadalajara measures 94 square miles (151 square kilometers) and its population exceeds 1,500,000 inhabitants.

What is the history of Guadalajara?

In 1530, the Spanish Conquistador Nuño Beltrán de Guzmán decided to conquer the region of Guadalajara. Once he achieved this, he named it Guadalajara in honor of the Spanish city where he was born. The colonization process was long and complex due to the indigenous resistance and it wasn’t until 1542 that the new settlement finally took hold of the place it now occupies in the Atemajac Valley. In 1560, it became the capital of Nueva Galicia, now called Jalisco.

Mariachi music originated in the region around Guadalajara, and is one of 7 Mexican cultural traditions recognized by UNESCO.

How do I get to Guadalajara?

Guadalajara has an international airport located 10 miles (16 kilometers) away from the city center. It’s the third airport with the most air traffic in the country (after Mexico City and Cancun). There are daily flights from various parts of Mexico, the United States, and Central America. Transfer time from the airport to the city center by taxi is around 35 minutes.

When is the best time to go to Guadalajara?

Guadalajara has a privileged climate. The average maximum temperature in the year is 80°F (27°C) and the minimum is 51°F (11°C). The rainy season begins in late June and ends in early October. Even though the city’s tabachines and jacaranda trees aren’t in full bloom in the winter, this is a good time to explore the city on foot without worrying about rain or excessive heat.

What neighborhoods should I visit in Guadalajara?

Tlaquepaque is a popular neighborhood for both locals and tourists, filled with restaurants and art galleries, and a pedestrian only central area.

Guadalajara exemplifies tradition and modern-day life at the same time. There are neighborhoods where visitors can feel the timeless flavor of tequila and mariachi music, and others where they can breathe avant-garde through art, design, and gastronomy. ‘Musts’ include visiting the buildings in the historic center, the markets in Mexicaltzingo and Santa Tere, the galleries and bars in the Americana neighborhood, as well as strolling through Tonala and Tlaquepaque, two traditional neighborhoods on the outskirts of the city.

Where should I stay in Guadalajara?

The historic center of Guadalajara combines iconic buildings, good nightlife, and access routes to the rest of the city. Travelers looking for luxury and exclusivity will find that Puerta de Hierro, home to the business district, is the right choice. Host to renowned events like the International Book Fair , Expo Guadalajara —the city’s main convention center— is a magnet for visitors. There are plenty of accommodation options for all budgets in its surrounding area, known as Zona Expo. The Americana neighborhood has an appealing hipster vibe where younger, or young at heart, visitors might feel right at home staying at Airbnbs.

How do I get around in Guadalajara?

Guadalajara has several main roads that cross the city. Transportation options include light rail, minibus, buses, bicycle rental, and taxis. It’s best to request taxis through hotel concierges or restaurant reception staff. Transport companies also operate in the city through apps such as Uber and Cabify .

What are the best things to do in Guadalajara?

Visiting the agave fields and distilleries in Tequila on the outskirts of Guadalajara is a popular day trip.

Guadalajara has many interesting buildings worth visiting but some unmissable ones are Hospicio Cabañas , Degollado Theater , and the Expiatory Temple . The town’s culinary offer is impressive and Chapultepec Avenue is a good example of it. With bars lining both sides of the street, visitors can breathe in its enchanting atmosphere, even late at night. And to fully experience this thoroughly Mexican city, visitors would do well to sit in a bar in Tlaquepaque and listen to live mariachi music while sipping a jarrito with tequila.

How many days should I spend in Guadalajara?

Guadalajara is a great city in every sense, and its essence can’t be absorbed in less than four days. One or two days should be allocated to go sightseeing around the historic center, another one to explore iconic places such as Tlaquepaque, and one more to discover its artistic side by popping into galleries, designer shops, and restaurants in the Americana neighborhood. Travelers wishing to visit tourist attractions in the surrounding areas, such as Tequila or Chapala, will need to allocate at least a week to the trip.

What currency is used in Guadalajara?

In Guadalajara, as in the rest of the country, the currency is the Mexican peso. In 2020 the average exchange rate has been about 20 pesos per US dollar. There are foreign currency exchange agencies in the airport but the best rate is usually offered by the bank, so it’s advisable to pay with a credit card whenever possible and withdraw cash from an ATM. Carrying small bills is useful because many smaller establishments don’t accept cards. The same is true for markets, taxis, and street vendors.

Should I tip in Guadalajara?

In Guadalajara, as all over Mexico, waiters’ salaries are generally low, so tips are a fundamental part of the hospitality industry. The usual range is between 10 and 15%, but if service has been extraordinary, that percentage can be increased. In hotels, it’s also common to leave some bills to the housekeeping staff at the end of the stay. Unlike in the United States, it is not customary to tip taxi drivers in Mexico.

San Juan de Dios market in downtown is the largest indoor market in Latin America, covering 40,000 sq meters, filled with endless clothing stalls and a huge interior food court.

Is Guadalajara expensive?

Being the second-largest city in the country, Guadalajara’s prices are above those of the rest of Mexico, but also due to its size, it adapts to all budgets. As in all large cities, prices fluctuate from one area of the city to another, so it will not cost the same to buy handicrafts in Zapopan as in less touristy Juanacatlán. For travelers arriving from the United States, Europe, or Australia, it will not feel like an expensive city.

Is Guadalajara safe?

Like any great metropolis, Guadalajara is a city where crime is present. It’s best to carry money in a front pocket or crossbody bag, and going into sketchy neighborhoods should be completely avoided. To travel long journeys, especially at night, it’s best to call a taxi or Uber instead of walking back to the hotel or Airbnb.

What should I eat in Guadalajara?

Guadalajara has a culinary offer that will make the most demanding palates fall in love. Foodies will revel in the signature cuisine at Alcalde and D’Franck , the interesting fusions at Anita Li and Bruna , and local food staples such as tortas ahogadas (drowned sandwiches) and carnes en su jugo (meats in their juice). Karne Garibaldi , a restaurant that serves this specialty, holds the Guinness Record for the fastest service in the world.

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A Week in Guadalajara: Everything to Know

· everything to know about visiting guadalajara, one of mexico’s most cultural and vibrant cities. ·.

As the second-biggest city in Mexico, Guadalajara has a lot to offer anyone who makes the trip. Due to its size of over 5 million people, the city is a sprawling metropolis filled with endless things to do. A week in Guadalajara isn’t enough time to see it all, but this guide will highlight the best things to do in Guadalajara, the best day trips from Guadalajara, and general tips for planning your trip.

This post may contain affiliate links through which we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products I would use myself and all opinions expressed here are our own.

The Best Things to Do in Guadalajara

Due to its size, Guadalajara is jam-packed with things to do. Guadalajara is sometimes referred to as the birthplace of Mexican culture, due to the fact that it is the home of tequila, mariachi, and the traditional sombrero! This list of the best things to do in Guadalajara is by no means exhaustive, but it will give you a good idea of can’t-miss experiences for during your trip.

1. Go on a Free Walking Tour

Guadalajara has a lot going on. There is so much history and beauty in this city, and there’s no better way to be immersed into it than with a walking tour! Camina GDL is a great company that offers free walking tours in the heart of Guadalajara. The tours meet every day of the week at 10:30am in the Plaza Liberacion. Our tour guide, Valeria, was fantastic and extremely knowledgeable.

I recommend going on a walking tour as early as possible when visiting Guadalajara, because you’ll learn about several cool things to do while on the tour. Additionally, Camina GDL offers excursions and events all over the city and region, and going on a walking tour is the best way to learn about what all they have to offer! Visit their website to ask any questions or book your tour.

2. Spend an Evening on the Avenida Chapultepec

The Avenida Chapultepec is one of the main strips of Guadalajara, and it’s a can’t miss spot – especially in the evening. The Avenida Chapultepec, or Chapu as the locals say, is a two way road divided by a central walkway with a lot of greenery and benches to hang out. Very often vendors will set up their stands to sell all kinds of goods, and people hang out here every hour of the day.

When the evening hits, however, is when this place really picks up. The Avenida Chapultepec is lined with great restaurants serving up every type of international cuisines as well as endless bars and craft breweries.

An evening at Chapu is easily one of the best things to do in Guadalajara, and you can find great options for any budget.

3. Attend an Atlas or Chivas Soccer Game

In Mexico, soccer is life. Well, futbol is, as far as they’re concerned! Guadalajara is one of the best places in Mexico to catch a soccer game (or football match) as they have two teams and both tend to be above average. On the north side of the city you can catch an Atlas game at Estadio Jalisco, or you can head out to the west side of the city to catch a Chivas games at the Estadio Akron. Attending a soccer game is a great way to experience a local event, as you’ll rarely see Mexican people more passionate than they are at a soccer game!

We went to see Atlas play against Monterrey, and it was a really cool experience.

That is why I can testify first hand that attending a soccer game is one of the best things to do in Guadalajara! Even though the stadium was at reduced capacity because of the COVID-19 pandemic, it was still absolutely worth the time and money. Tickets and concessions are also very cheap by American standards, meaning that you don’t need to break the bank for this one, either!

We paid about $15 USD per ticket, and beers were two for $5. A very cheap, fun activity indeed!

4. Head to a Night of Lucha Libre – Mexican Wrestling

You know that Jack Black movie, Nacho Libre? Well, this is the real thing. Lucha Libre is a really cool cultural experience in certain cities, and Guadalajara is one of the best places to go for it. There are two wrestling nights per week; Tuesday and Sunday. While the experience is worth going to in any circumstance, it’s even better if you can go with locals who can teach you all about what’s going on! For this reason, I’d advise finding a tour group that is heading to the wrestling to make sure that you get the most out of your experience.

I should warn that this is not the most family-friendly event in Guadalajara. The evenings are filled with swearing, yelling, drinking, and vulgarity, and that is what gives it its charm! Unlike the WWE, the whole thing is actually real and is not pre-scripted. While definitely a colorful event, it is absolutely one of the best things to do in Guadalajara.

5. Drink a Cazuela and Explore in Tlaquepaque

Tlaquepaque is a Pueblo Magico that has been absorbed by the sprawling metropolis of Guadalajara. While it has now been pulled into the metropolis, it still retains its quaint, quiet atmosphere that gives it its fame. Tlaquepaque is one of the most adorable places we’ve been to in all of Mexico, and it deserves at least an evening of your time while in Guadalajara.

There are a few things that we recommend you check out in Tlaquepaque. Firstly, head to El Parian, the largest cantina of its kind in the world! This is an incredible place to catch some Mariachi music and grab a cazuela, which is a local tequila-based drink. Then I’d advise wandering the streets until you get to Calle Independencia, which is an absolutely adorable place lined with great restaurants and shops. Whether you’re looking to shop or not, odds are you’ll be drawn into at least one of the boutiques!

5. Hang Out in the Expiatorio Park at Night

The Templo Expiatorio is an absolutely beautiful church located in the Colonia Americana, and apparently even celebrities need to get on a waiting list to get married there. I actually believe that, too, because on the Saturday that we were there we saw three weddings, including on starting at 7:00pm. Crazy, right?

There’s more to this area than just a beautiful church, though! The park in front of the Templo Expiatorio is really alive at night, and especially on the weekends. For great food, entertainment, and drinks, you should head here at night if you have the chance. It’s pretty close to the Avenida Chapultepec, so you can head out there after grabbing a snack here. We saw a really talented guy juggling fire on a tightrope, and there are so many more crazy possibilities. Totally worth checking out.

The Templo Expiatorio church is so popular for weddings that we witnessed THREE weddings being celebrated back-to-back on a Saturday night.

The Best Day Trips from Guadalajara

While the city limits alone contain enough to fill up a week in Guadalajara, there are some really enticing day trips that you need to at least consider making! The first two of these places are much closer than the third, but all of them are worth a visit if you’re able to find the time! Guadalajara is really well located, and I advise taking advantage of it. One place that won’t make the cut on this list because it’s simply too far is Puerto Vallarta , but I absolutely recommend heading there if you have a few days to spare!

1. Go to Tequila to Visit Distilleries

In case you didn’t know, there actually is a town named Tequila, and yes, there is a lot of tequila there. Visiting Tequila is by far the best day trip from Guadalajara, whether you’re looking to party or sip on fine tequila. We weren’t sure what to expect, and when we got off the bus in Tequila we were definitely shocked by the sheer amount of tequila in this town. It’s EVERYWHERE. Tequila is one of my favorite Pueblos Magicos in all of Mexico, honestly. For more information, be sure to read my post on visiting Tequila as a day trip from Guadalajara . Tequila can be reached in about an hour and a half from downtown Guadalajara.

Also, in case you’ve never been partying in Mexico before, it might be good to have a little understanding of what some of the most common alcoholic drinks in Mexico are. If you’re wondering about things like Palomas and Micheladas, I’ve got you covered in my post on the best alcoholic drinks in Mexico.

2. Lake Chapala

If you’re not in a party mood or aren’t a big fan of tequila, you should consider heading to Lake Chapala. Lake Chapala is the biggest lake in Mexico, and it is a really calm, relaxing place to spend a day! In fact, the Chapala area has one of the largest communities of American and Canadian expats in all of Mexico. The boardwalk areas in the towns around the lake are really fun and filled with food and vendors, making a great evening activity.

We recommend visiting either the town of Chapala or Ajijic, as those are the two most-traveled and tourist-friendly towns on the Guadalajara side of the lake. Both of them are a ton of fun, and you’ll see pretty quickly why people love to retire here. If you visit Ajijic and are looking for a sweet snack, we recommend checking out Donas Donuts Ajijic , located on the east edge of the town. They have some of the best donuts we’ve ever had in Mexico.

Morelia is the furthest and biggest of all of the day trips on this list, making it the least opportune one for sure. However, it is just such a beautiful and charming city that it deserves to be on this list. Morelia is a stunning colonial city, and is best recognized for its beautiful pink cathedral. Located about 3 hours away from Guadalajara in the state of Michoacan, Morelia is definitely a long haul, but once you get there you’ll feel like it was absolutely worth it.

Walking through the streets of Morelia feels like Europe in just about every way, and I highly recommend making the trip if you have the time. There are direct buses heading to Morelia from Guadalajara, and you can also opt to take a BlaBlaCar which will get you there even faster. If you’ve never used BlaBlaCar and want to learn more, check out my Beginner’s Guide to BlaBlaCar.

How to Get to Guadalajara

Fly to guadalajara.

If you’re planning to get to Guadalajara from another country, you really only have one airport option, which is Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla International Airport (GDL) . This is the only international airport in the area, and you don’t have another choice. The good news is that this is one of the best connected airports in all of Mexico , and there are plenty of great flight options coming from the United States, Mexico, and Central America. While you don’t have any other airport options, that doesn’t mean you need to be stuck paying high airfare! To find out how to save hundreds of dollars on your flights, check out my guide to finding cheap flights.

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How to Get From The Airport to The Center of Guadalajara

From the airport to the center of Guadalajara you have three options; you can either take a taxi, a bus, or an Uber or Didi. Like I say in just about every Mexico travel guide, don’t take a taxi unless you absolutely must. They’re usually more expensive and less reliable than ridesharing apps like Uber, plus there is no GPS tracking feature like there is on Uber. I’d say that taking a taxi is your last resort option.

Take a Bus to The Center of Guadalajara

Your most budget friendly option is to take a bus from the airport to Guadalajara, but this option is much more complicated than it needs to be. The bus station at the Guadalajara airport is way outside of the airport – like a 15-20 minute walk. Now, we ourselves don’t mind a long walk, and yet we still didn’t take the bus. Why?

Well, the bus station is extremely hard to find, whether you speak Spanish or not.

We asked a crossing guard where it was and she kindly told us to walk down the street until the red and white building. Uh, there were lots of red and white buildings. But don’t worry! The Present Perspective is here to save the day. Here is a screenshot of the map and where you need to walk to get to the bus.

It is a fairly far walk and definitely isn’t optimal if you have a lot of luggage, but if you are able to make this walk of about a mile, it can save you from $10-25. The bus costs $9.50MX which is about 50 cents, and you’ll make it to Guadalajara in about 45 minutes to an hour. Keep in mind that you’ll need to take the pedestrian bridge over the highway, as you’ll want to get on the bus heading north. You want to take the T13A bus which runs every 10 minutes. After 21 stops, this bus will drop you off at the Niños Heroes stop, which is walkable to the center of the city. If you’d prefer not to walk, you can switch buses here or call a much cheaper Uber.

Call an Uber or a Didi Ride to The Center of Guadalajara

Finally, your last, most expensive, but most convenient option is to call a ride on a ridesharing app like Uber or Didi. For anyone who doesn’t know, Didi is basically Chinese Uber. The ride from the Guadalajara airport to the city center takes anywhere from 30-45 minutes and will cost anywhere from $7USD to $30USD depending on how busy things are. If you check Uber and it is very expensive, I’d advise checking Didi. We wanted to Uber from the center to the Airport on our last day and Uber told us it would be $27USD. On Didi, at the exact same moment, it was $8USD.

Many times, Didi is significantly cheaper than Uber in Mexico.

How to Get Around Guadalajara

SUBWAY | BUS | UBER | DIDI

Getting around Guadalajara is really, really easy. Guadalajara is one of the few Mexican cities that has a subway system, and the 3 lines of the subway are a cheap and effective way to get between certain places in the city. It is not a perfect system and can be inconvenient due to the lack of lines and stations, but it can be a good option depending on your origin and destination.

Each subway ride costs $9.50MX ($0.50USD) just like the bus. Tickets can be bought at any station in cash.

The bus network is the best connected public transportation system in Guadalajara, and it can get you just about anywhere you want to go. Whether it is urban buses to get you around the city or buses that are designed to take you a bit further out to places like Chapala and Tequila, the bus network is definitely expansive and cheap. If you’re looking for the cheapest possible way to get around, the bus is the best way.

While we love public transportation and it tends to be our go-to, I actually have a different recommendation in Guadalajara – Uber and Didi. While for money reasons I almost never recommend ridesharing apps over public transportation, Uber and Didi are just so cheap in Mexico that you’re getting private transportation for just a fraction more. You might pay $3USD for a 20 minute ride, for example. This was our go-to in Guadalajara, as it is just too convenient.

Our number one recommendation for tansportation in Guadalajara is Uber or Didi.

I never recommend renting a car in Mexico because of sometimes poor driving conditions and corrupt police . Neither of these factors make for a fun trip, and for this reason I tend to stick to other means of transportation. However, if you do plan to rent a car despite my warnings, I implore you to at least check out my tips for driving in Mexico .

– R E A D –

Is Guadalajara Safe to Visit?

Many travelers are weary about safety in Mexico. This is a fair concern, as the country has a bad reputation for gang violence in certain areas. Guadalajara is a major city, and crime rates in major cities are usually higher than crime rates in rural areas, regardless of what country you are in. While this is true, we personally never felt in danger while visiting Guadalajara.

We both went out late at night and early in the morning, and there was very little cause for concern.

As with everywhere, it is crucial that you take general precautions to stay out of trouble. Don’t carry large amounts of money, keep your valuables concealed, don’t wander out late at night if you aren’t familiar with where you are going, and stay out of dangerous areas as much as possible. On top of that, never engage in any illegal activity in Mexico, as many crimes (like drug consumption, for example) expose you to both the justice system and the cartels.

Is Guadalajara Worth Visiting?

As Mexico’s cultural capital and its second biggest city, Guadalajara is loaded with things to do. From tequila and mariachi to outstanding museums and architecture, There are a lot of draws to Jalisco’s capital. With that being said, Mexico is packed with incredible destinations, and it can often be hard to decide which ones to visit.

For example, many people wonder: should you visit Guadalajara or Mexico City? Personally, I think that there are incredible draws to both, and you can’t go wrong with either one. However, if I’m being honest, I am partial to Mexico City over Guadalajara. While Guadalajara is absolutely worth visiting, I would recommend exploring Mexico City first. If you have already been to Mexico City, Guadalajara is a must-visit.

If you have already been to Mexico City, Guadalajara is a must-visit.

That’s all we have for you! If you’re planning a trip to Guadalajara, let us know! We’d love to chat ahead of time and answer any questions you have. Also, if you have any other recommendations for Guadalajara or Jalisco comment them below!

Hi, I'm Greg. I'm an avid traveler who has traveled to over 50 countries all around the world with my wife and kids. I've lived in Italy, Mexico, China, and the United States, and I dream of moving abroad again in the future. With this blog, I provide my audience with detailed destination guides to my favorite places and pro-tips to make travel as stress-free as possible.

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Is It Safe to Travel to Mexico? Here’s What You Need to Know.

A spate of incidents, including a kidnapping and the death of two Americans near the border, have prompted travel warnings from the U.S. government.

By Elisabeth Malkin and Isabella Kwai

Two Americans found dead after they were attacked and kidnapped near the border. Airports shuttered amid gang violence in Sinaloa. Turmoil among taxi drivers in Cancún.

A number of recent security incidents have raised concerns about the risks of traveling to Mexico, where more than 20 million tourists flew last year to visit the country’s beaches, cities and archaeological sites, or to obtain health care .

Ahead of the spring break holiday, a popular time for American tourists to visit the country, the U.S. Embassy issued a travel alert , urging visitors to exercise caution by avoiding dangerous situations and drinking responsibly, among other recommendations. “Crime, including violent crime, can occur anywhere in Mexico, including in popular tourist destinations,” the alert said. And the State Department has warned tourists to steer clear of six states, including the state of Tamaulipas, where the recent kidnapping occurred — and to exercise increased precautions in other popular destinations like Playa del Carmen, Cancún, Tulum and Mexico City.

An overwhelming majority of visitors enjoy a safe vacation in Mexico, and tourists are largely sheltered from the violence that grips local communities. But the attack and kidnapping of four Americans in the border city of Matamoros, two of whom were later found dead, along with recent disorder in Cancún and violence in early January that forced the closure of three airports in northwest Mexico, is prompting questions about whether the country’s broader unrest is spilling into other destinations.

What happened on the border?

On March 3, four Americans from South Carolina traveling in a white minivan crossed the border from Brownsville, Texas, into the city of Matamoros, in the Mexican state of Tamaulipas. One of the Americans was scheduled for cosmetic surgery.

Soon after the Americans crossed the border, gunmen fired on their vehicle and then abducted the group in a pickup truck. Officials later said that two of the group were found dead at a rural location alongside the other two, who had survived.

The Americans were attacked as a result of “confusion,” according to Irving Barrios, the state prosecutor in Tamaulipas. Matamoros has a long history of violence and highway shootouts, though that reputation has partially subsided in recent years. Then, in late February, one gang moved into the city to wrest control of drug sales from another, said Eduardo Guerrero, the director of Lantia Intelligence , a security consulting company in Mexico City.

“There are places in the country where the situation can change abruptly from one week to another,” he said. While the motives in the attack remain unclear, the Americans had “very bad luck,” Mr. Guerrero said, because they likely stumbled into a battle between the two gangs.

What happened earlier this year in Cancún?

Uber has been challenging the taxi unions for the right to operate in Cancún and won a court decision in its favor on Jan. 11. The ruling infuriated the powerful unions, which are believed to have links to local organized crime figures and former governors. Taxi drivers then began harassing and threatening Uber drivers.

The conflict generated widespread attention after a video of taxi drivers forcing a Russian-speaking family out of their rideshare car went viral, and after unions blocked the main road leading to Cancún’s hotel zone. That prompted the U.S. Embassy in Mexico to issue a security alert .

Mr. Guerrero said that the authorities will try to negotiate some kind of compromise, but there was a probability of more violence ahead.

Have authorities curbed violence that might affect tourists?

As a rule, criminals in Mexico are careful not to kill tourists, Mr. Guerrero explained, because doing so “can set in motion a persecution that can last years,” the consequences of which can be “very dissuasive,” he said.

But the rule doesn’t always hold. And in two popular destinations for foreign tourists — Los Cabos , at the tip of the Baja California peninsula, and the Caribbean coast — local and state officials have recently sought help from the United States to take on organized crime that threatened to drive off tourists.

A spasm of violence at the end of 2021 and early 2022 rattled the tourist industry along the Riviera Maya, the 80-mile strip of Caribbean resorts south of Cancún. Two visitors were killed in crossfire between local gangs in Tulum; a gunfight on a beach in Puerto Morelos sent tourists running for cover into a nearby hotel; a hit man gained entry to a luxury hotel in Playa del Carmen and killed two Canadian tourists believed to have links to organized crime.

The federal government sent National Guard units to patrol the beaches, and Quintana Roo state authorities asked U.S. law enforcement agencies, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Drug Enforcement Administration, to provide intelligence, Mr. Guerrero said. Local authorities, flush with tourism revenues, invested in the police, which is typically the weakest link in Mexican law enforcement.

The joint approach led to a lull in gangland gun battles in Quintana Roo’s tourist areas, and experts say that drug sales to meet foreign demand no longer take place on the street, although they are continuing more discreetly.

The success in tamping down drug violence in Quintana Roo follows a similar improvement in Los Cabos a couple of years ago when U.S. authorities also collaborated with local officials in the state of Baja California Sur. The murder rate soared in Los Cabos in 2017 amid cartel wars, and although tourists were not targeted, that year police chased gunmen into the lobby of a luxury hotel in San José del Cabo, and a cooler containing two heads was left in a tourist area.

What about tourist areas in other states?

Even in states where crime is very high, tourist areas have generally been spared. San Miguel de Allende, a haven for U.S. retirees, is an island of relative peace in a state, Guanajuato, that has been riddled with cartel violence .

The Pacific Coast state of Jalisco, home to the resort of Puerto Vallarta, picturesque tequila country and the cultural and gastronomic attractions of the state capital, Guadalajara , is also the center of operations of the extremely violent Jalisco New Generation Cartel . The cartel’s focus of violence is in the countryside; Puerto Vallarta and the beaches to its north, including the exclusive peninsula of Punta Mita and the surfers’ hangout of Sayulita, are all booming — and, despite drug sales, the cartel’s control seems to limit open conflict.

Mexico City has become a magnet for digital nomads and shorter term visitors , and concerns about violence there have receded. The city’s police force has been successful in reducing violent crime, particularly homicides, and the number of killings has been cut almost in half over the past three years.

Are there any other safety concerns?

Street crime is still a problem almost everywhere, especially in bigger cities and crowded spaces. Kidnapping and carjacking are a risk in certain regions and many businesses that cater to tourists operate under extortion threats. While tourists may not be aware of underlying criminal forces, their power sometimes spills out into the open in spectacular shows of violence.

The attack in Matamoros is only the most recent example. Mexican border cities, which have long endured waves of violence, are not typically tourist destinations, although Americans often cross the border to visit family, seek out cheaper health care or dine at restaurants.

Three airports in the state of Sinaloa, including the beach destination Mazatlán, were closed on Jan. 5 amid gang violence after Mexican security forces arrested Ovidio Guzmán López, a son of Joaquín Guzmán Loera, the crime lord known as El Chapo, who is serving a life sentence in the United States. A stray bullet fired by cartel gunmen shooting at a Mexican military plane as it landed at the airport in the state capital, Culiacán, clipped an Aeromexico plane preparing to take off for Mexico City. Nobody was hurt and the plane returned to the terminal.

In August, gunmen positioned burning cars and buses to block roads around Guadalajara in response to a military raid on a meeting of criminal bosses. In October, a local politician was shot and killed in an upscale steakhouse in suburban Guadalajara as terrified diners crawled to safety.

Pierre de Hail, the president of Janus Group Mexico, a risk management company in Monterrey, is skeptical that security has improved. “There is too much random risk,” he said. “It’s all about being in the wrong place at the wrong time.”

What precautions should tourists take?

Mr. de Hail recommends researching the resort and news from the area you’re visiting. The U.S. State Department provides state-by-state information about travel risks in Mexico. As of early March, the department had issued its strongest possible warning — Level 4: Do Not Travel — for six states, including Tamaulipas and Sinaloa. Quintana Roo and Baja California Sur are at Level 2, indicating that visitors should exercise increased caution. (By comparison, the same Level 2 advisory is applied to France and Spain.)

The Matamoros incident shows how violence can flare up in places that have been quiet recently. Mr. Guerrero suggests searching on the internet before traveling for news of recent outbreaks.

Mr. de Hail also suggests buying travel insurance in case of a medical emergency or theft, and recommends that tourists keep a low profile to avoid attracting attention, he said, warning that it is easy to misread situations.

As anywhere, common sense should prevail, Mr. de Hail said: Don’t wear expensive watches or jewelry, and avoid dark and deserted places. He recommends making a copy of your passport, remaining alert while walking home at night and not leaving your drinks unattended. “I have had numerous cases of people asking for help because they were extorted coming back from bars,” he said.

He added: “If you’re staying in a place that has a report of strikes or demonstrations, don’t go there. You’re a fish out of water.”

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram , Twitter and Facebook . And sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to receive expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2023 .

Isabella Kwai is a breaking news reporter in the London bureau. She joined The Times in 2017 as part of the Australia bureau. More about Isabella Kwai

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

Mumbai:  Spend 36 hours in this fast-changing Indian city  by exploring ancient caves, catching a concert in a former textile mill and feasting on mangoes.

Kyoto:  The Japanese city’s dry gardens offer spots for quiet contemplation  in an increasingly overtouristed destination.

Iceland:  The country markets itself as a destination to see the northern lights. But they can be elusive, as one writer recently found .

Texas:  Canoeing the Rio Grande near Big Bend National Park can be magical. But as the river dries, it’s getting harder to find where a boat will actually float .

Playas y Plazas

Guadalajara Jalisco Mexico: The Definitive Travel Guide for 2024

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Guadalajara is quite possibly the most under-the-radar travel destination in Mexico. Puerto Vallarta is well known internationally but pales in comparison when it comes to culture and things to do. The capital of the state of Jalisco is known as the most Mexican destination in Mexico because of the contributions to the national identity. You have to visit this amazing city.

I’ve been here since 2009 and written a Guadalajara travel guide since 2017 but I’m barely scratching the surface of all that the region has to offer.

Jalisco and specifically the Metropolitan region are a place of contrasts. Conservative and liberal, rich and poor, traditional and modern are all on display at every turn. It is hard to believe that all those pueblos grew into the second-largest metropolitan region in Mexico (currently the third-largest metro region). It feels much smaller than Mexico City while being big on culture at the same time. 

In addition to the capital, the State is Jalisco has a wonderful amount of natural beauty and tourist infrastructure for all budgets. Mexican luxury resorts are some of the finest in the world. 

Guadalajara Mexico Travel Guide

Guadalajara travel guide: know before you go.

Airport : Aeropuerto Internacional de Guadalajara Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla (IATA airport code: GDL)

Currency : $Mexican Peso 1 USD to MXN on Google Finance  

Language : Spanish with some English and native languages like Wixárika, Náhuatl, and Purépecha.

Time Zone : Central Time Current Local Time in Guadalajara, Jalisco, México

Visa : A visa is not required for visitors from more than 60 countries . A Multiple Migratory Form (FMM) is issued upon arrival to a port of entry and must be signed, stamped, and held onto until departure. 

Electrical Outlets : Mexico operates on 127V supporting Type-A and Type-B plugs like the ones in the United States. The electrical current may not be stable in all areas and regulators are recommended for expensive electronics and appliances, especially during the rainy season. Outlets with a third-pin grounding plug may not be available at all locations either. 

Local Tip: Many of the best museums are closed on Monday so plan accordingly.

Recommended Reading: Mexico: A Novel by James Michener

A Brief History of Guadalajara

Guadalajara was founded at its current location in 1542 by the merciless Nuño Beltrán de Guzmán, a one-time political rival of Hernán Cortes. The original settlers moved around from what are today Nochistlán, Tonalá, and Tlacotán to finally put down roots at a defensible location with a reliable source of water.

The name Guadalajara was chosen for Guzmán’s hometown in Spain. Interestingly, the name Guadalajara comes from the Arabic-Andalacian phrase wadi al hijaraI which translates to ‘river that flows between stones,’ ‘valley of stones,’ or ‘ valley of fortresses.’ Even if the city was named after a town in Spain it is still a fitting description because the San Juan River carved the city’s geography. The river was paved over by the Calzada de la Independencia avenue but the area still floods like crazy during the rainy season.

In the late 16th century Pope Paulo III seated the bishopric of Nueva Galicia in Guadalajara and the Spanish royal audience soon followed. Nueva Galicia quickly grew into a wealthy and influential region of New Spain because of the silver mines and Asian trade routes.

The wealth of the colonial period can be seen in the ornate churches that have survived centuries through independence, revolution, and religious war. Downtown Guadalajara has a spectacular collection of colonial buildings and many of them are open to the public. The Catholic Church amassed great wealth during the colonial period and set the stage for conflict in the post-colonial period.

Guadalajara was an important theater during the war of independence. Father Miguel Hidalgo decreed the end of slavery from Guadalajara and there are a number of murals and statues to commemorate the event. Guadalajara was even the capital of Mexico for several months during the Reform Wars while President Benito Juarez was exiled from Mexico City by conservative forces opposed to the new constitution.

The unusually long presidency (or dictatorship) of Porfirio Diaz ushered in a period of stability and development. In addition to the trains, the legacy of Porfirio Diaz can be seen in the European style, neo-gothic cathedral, and the mansions that still line Avenida Vallarta. The Porfirian era is marked by a hodgepodge of European-style architecture known as regionalism. The Colonia Americana and Lafayette neighborhoods have some of the most enjoyable tree-lined streets to stroll through and appreciate the architecture of the Porfiriato.

The Mexican revolution was a prolonged and bloody affair that led to an aggressive secularization and religious conflict called the Cristero War. As the revolutionary governments of Plutarco Elias Calles’ Maximato (Name given to the three presidents to succeed Calles) seized church assets and persecuted the faithful, tempers flared and the countryside around Guadalajara was lit on fire. The Cristero War precipitated the first large-scale emigration of Mexicans to the United States. It is somewhat ironic that Calles was also exiled to the United States after the new President, Lázaro Cárdenas took office and clashed with the old guard.

Where is Guadalajara?

Guadalajara is located in the Atemajac Valley of Central Jalisco state. The city of Guadalajara is located in the middle of the metropolitan region but it is difficult to tell where Zapopan begins and Tlaquepaque ends. 

As the crow flies, Guadalajara is 200 km east of Puerto Vallarta and 500 km west of Mexico City. It is a two-and-a-half-hour flight from Tijuana, four hours from San Francisco, and less than six hours from Seattle. 

Guadalajara Travel Guide Map

How Big is Guadalajara?

The city of Guadalajara has a population of 1.5 million but the metropolitan region includes 10 independent municipalities and has a population of almost 5 million.

With such a large population many people migrate to Guadalajara for school, for work, or to receive modern medical care .

Guadalajara Weather

People from cold weather climates make fun of me for saying this but I love the seasons in Guadalajara. They are mostly mild but there is a difference between summer and winter. 

Winter is mild and short. December and January may see temperatures reach freezing at night in the suburbs of Guadalajara at a little higher elevation. Daytime temperatures are lovely often in the seventies Fahrenheit with clear skies. 

Spring is the hottest and driest time of year with the poorest air quality. There are often fires in the forest surrounding Guadalajara and little wind. The daytime temperatures in May regularly pass 100 degrees Fahrenheit.

Summer is the rainy season. It is hot and humid during the day but can get chilly at night. It rains most days, usually in the afternoon but sometimes in the morning. When it rains really heavily, big hail is possible if not regular. The first rain of the season is marvelous. There is a famous song about the smell of the damp earth, Guadalajara, Guadalajara. After months of heat, the rains are much appreciated.

Hurricane season runs from the end of summer into the beginning of fall. Hurricanes don’t hit Guadalajara directly but they pass by the Pacific coast close enough to send a couple of days of heavy rain. 

Fall is my favorite time of year in Guadalajara because of the mild weather and the high number of cultural events. The rains usually come to an end by late September. The daytime temperatures are in the 80s but the nighttime temperatures are lower and don’t require air conditioning. 

The Best Time to Visit Guadalajara

Fall (late September, October, and early November) is the best time to visit Guadalajara because of the weather and the events.

The Best Neighborhoods in Guadalajara

I have written extensively about the best neighborhoods in Guadalajara to visit and the best neighborhoods to live in. These are of my favorite parts of the Guadalajara Metropolitan Region to explore. 

• Downtown  Guadalajara 
• Downtown Tlaquepaque 
• Downtown Zapopan
• Colonia Americana
• Providencia
• Glorieta Minerva
• Central de Abastos

The Best Hotels in Guadalajara

This is just a summary of the complete articles: on the

• Best Hotels in Guadalajara
• Cheap Hotels in Guadalajara
• Pet-Friendly Hotels in Guadalajara

Once you get an idea about what part of the city you want to stay in, then comes the hotel. There are hotels for every budget and style of travel. Over the last decade, My family and I have stayed at a lot of hotels in Guadalajara. These are my favorites.

First-time visitors to can read about the best places to stay in Guadalajara depending on what they are looking for. The Colonia Americana is usually for a younger crowd. Downtown Guadalajara is within walking distance of lots of museums but there aren’t as many gourmet dining experiences.

The best Boutique Hotel in Guadalajara 

• Hotel Demetria (Colonia Americana)

Best Deal in Guadalajara 

• Hotel Morales (Centro Histórico)

Best Hotel in Tlaquepaque 

• Quinta Don Jose Boutique Hotel

Best Modern Business Hotel

• Riu Plaza Hotel (Chapalita)

Best Budget Hotel with safe parking 

• Hotel La Mansión del Sol (Ciudad del Sol)
• Hotel Malibu (by the Grand Plaza)

Best Boutique Hotel in Ajijic

• Donaire Hotel Boutique

Best Hacienda in the Country

• Hacienda Labor de Rivera

The Best Tours in Guadalajara

This is just a summary of the complete article on the best tours in Guadalajara

• History & Muralism: Walking Tours in Guadalajara
• Guachimontones Pyramids
• Street Art Tours in Guadalajara with Karen Mora
• Camina GDL Free Walking Tour of Downtown Guadalajara
• Calandria Tour of Guadalajara
• Craft Tequila Tour and Tasting by Mickey Marentes
• Lake Chapala and Ajijic Tours from Guadalajara

The Best Things to Do in Guadalajara

This is another topic that I have written extensively on. The full article is close to 10,000 words and has a ton of the coolest things to do in Guadalajara . 

These are six of my favorites:

• Walk Downtown Guadalajara and visit the museums , churches, cantinas, government buildings, and theaters. You can see as little or as much as you have time and interest in visiting.
• Go Shopping in Tlaquepaque . Tlaquepaque is one of Mexico’s most important centers for folk art. There are more galleries than you will be able to visit in one day. 
• Party in the Colonia Americana . There is a high concentration of hip restaurants and drinking establishments set in old mansions.
• Find the best murals in the city. There are historic murals hidden in government buildings and there is a huge amount of street art. Guadalajara has a ton of art all over the place!
• Rent a bike or walk the Via Recreactiva on Sunday from the Glorieta Minerva to Downtown Guadalajara along Avenida Vallarta. It is one of the most enjoyable ways to appreciate the historic architcture.
• Get out of town and see the countryside . There are so many options nearby it is staggering. From day trips to Tequila and Lake Chapala to long weekends in Puerto Vallarta and Punta Mita .

Food & Beverage Guide to Guadalajara

I think that the food and drink industry is one of the best reasons to live and travel to Guadalajara. There is a combination of very formal and very casual eating establishments that serve a lot of different styles of food. The following articles represent some of my favorite culinary experiences in the world and they just happen to be located in Guadalajara.

• Traditional Guadalajara food and drink
• Café palReal
• The Best Tacos in Guadalajara
• The Best Birria in Guadalajara
• The Best Coffee in Guadalajara
• The Nightlife and Bars in Guadalajara
• The Best Breakfast Restaurants in Guadalajara
• The Best Sushi Restaurants in Guadalajara
• The Best Food Courts in Guadalajara
• Eating Gluten-Free in Mexico

Guadalajara Transportation Guide

Guadalajara is a major metropolitan area with a significant amount of complexity. That also means that there are many options when planning a trip.

How to Get to Guadalajara

Guadalajara is an important destination in terms of transportation infrastructure. Originally it was the train but today it is the freeways and the airport that make it easy to move around.

The Guadalajara International Airport, also known as the Aeropuerto Internacional de Guadalajara Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla (GDL), is the third most important airport in Mexico after Mexico City and Cancun. It is located 30 minutes (no traffic) from Guadalajara proper in the municipality of Tlajomulco on the freeway to Lake Chapala.

The airport is constantly under construction but it functions relatively well. It is not nearly as complex as the Mexico City airport but during high travel times like Christmas and Semana Santa, it can surpass its capacity.

The best way to get to and from the airport is an official taxi paying at the booth inside the terminal. Uber does exist but it is hard to use and I have had problems with drivers showing up in cars different from that which was registered on the platform. I prefer the official taxi.

Chapala Plus operates a route from the Central Vieja in Downtown Guadalajara to Chapala that stops at the airport along the way.

Additionally, there is a shuttle from the Glorieta Minerva to the Airport.

The Metropolitan Region is big and there are long-distance bus terminals at several of the entrances to the city. The largest bus terminal is the Central Nueva in Tlaquepaque (right on the Tonalá border).

• The Long Distance Bus Stations in Guadalajara

Guadalajara is not the easiest place to learn how to drive in Mexico. While it is much smaller than Mexico City, the traffic is still heavy and infrastructure is not always labeled properly. While in many cases there is an offical established rule, when first learning to drive along the back streets is can be hard to discern who has the right of way.

I keep pretty close to my house during the week but on the weekends I want to get out and see the region. That includes finding a new birria place in Tlaquepaque or road-tripping to a new beach in Michoacan.

Having a car is amazing. I had my car from the United States for years before finally buying something locally .

• Guadalajara to Mexico City
• Guadalajara to Puerto Vallarta
• Guadalajara to Sayulita
• Guadalajara to Manzanillo
• Guadalajara to Tequila

Getting Around Guadalajara

I suggest planning some walking days when you are visiting Guadalajara. There is no better way to appreciate the architecture than walking. It is the best way to experience Downtown Guadalajara, the Colonia Americana, Downtown Tlaquepaque, Downtown Zapopan, Downtown Tonalá , and many more neighborhoods. Sunday is the best day to walk because of the car-free Via Recreactiva.

Guadalajara has built a solid infrastructure for bicycles including autonomous bike rental stations, bike lanes, and a culture of cycling. Experienced cyclists should have no problem covering large swaths of the city on a bicycle rented from the city Mi Bici Program.

With a credit card, you can rent a bike from a hundred different docking stations, use the bike for a few hours, and return it to a different docking station for a very reasonable price.

Taxis and Ubers are ubiquitous in Guadalajara. While it is common to flag down taxis on the street it is advisable to use a service to call for a taxi from a reputable source like a neighborhood taxi station. Ask the restaurant to call you a taxi from their trusted source.

Be prepared for some major surge pricing in the rainy season. Nobody wants to be on the road in a downpour.

The biggest challenge to driving around Guadalajara is the roundabout, also known as the glorieta. The Glorieta Minerva is a five-lane roundabout with a reputation for crashes because drivers do not anticipate moving to the exit lanes until the last minute and then swerving across five lanes of traffic can easily cause a crash.

Make sure not to leave anything in the car when it is parked on the street. Leaving a car out on the street in a rough neighborhood overnight is a good way to lose some car parts. The informal car part markets along Calle 5 de Febrero has a reputation for selling stolen parts. Buying stolen parts is bad for the karma.

Guadalajara recently inaugurated Line 3 of the metro. Line 3 runs from the Periferico near Tesistán to Downtown Zapopan, Downtown Guadalajara, Downtown Tlaquepaque, and all the way to the long-distance bus terminal. It is awesome and cheap at $9.5 pesos per ride. Line 1 and 2 don’t connect touristy areas unless you need to get to the ITESO University or the surrounding business park (HP and Jose Cuervo campuses).

Local Buses

For a big city, the local buses function pretty well. They are not comfortable at rush hour but they are way faster than the buses I grew up riding in Southern California.

Travel to Guadalajara Frequently Asked Questions

Is guadalajara safe.

There are both safe and unsafe activities in Guadalajara. I think it is worthwhile to familiarize oneself with the most common risky activities because small changes in behavior can minimize exposure to that risk.

• Is Guadalajara Safe, the 10,000 word article

Is Guadalajara Expensive?

Guadalajara is a huge place with both expensive and inexpensive activities. It is possible to have a lovely, budget trip eating in the markets and at inexpensive restaurants. The museums are affordable and one of the most enjoyable activities in Guadalajara is just walking the streets to see the historic architecture. That being said, Guadalajara is a wealthy area. There are plenty of high-end restaurants, bars, and entertainment options with expensive price tags.

Should I tip?

Yes. Tipping at restaurants is between 10-15%. Tip more when the check total is low. Tip the lady making the tortillas 5 to 10 pesos. Tip the Uber Eats delivery driver but not the Uber Taxi driver. Tip the guy pumping your gas 10 pesos if he washes the windows of your car and offers to check the tire pressure. If he doesn’t, I don’t tip him. Tip the housekeeper in the hotel about 20 pesos a day. Remember, tips grease the wheels in Mexico. If you want special favors, tip well. Tips look a lot like kickbacks and you will see them all over the place

Day Trips and Long Weekends from Guadalajara

It is kind of subjective what people call a day trip from Guadalajara. I surf and will occasionally drive to the beach, surf all day, and drive home in one day. It is a really long day and a lot of miles but is totally worth it for some tasty waves.

• Ruta del Tequila
• Lake Chapala
• Huaxtla Waterfalls
• The Pueblos Magicos in Jalisco
• My favorite Beaches Close to Guadalajara
• The old Highway from Guadalajara to Puerto Vallarta
• Punta Mita Surf Guide
• San Blas and Las Islitas, Nayarit
• Cuyutlan, Colima
• Mazatlan, Sinaloa
• The Grand Bay, Barra de Navidad
• Mexico City
• Day of the Dead in Michoacan
• 25 Jalisco Beaches: The Costa Alegre to Puerto Vallarta

Some Final Thoughts on Travel to Guadalajara

I love this town and I hope that came through in these articles. Writing the blog started off as a very personal endeavor because I wanted to document what I was seeing for my own personal enjoyment. It turns out that my friends liked seeing the photos and hearing the stories as well. I hope you find something new to do in my Guadalajara Travel Guide.

Paul Hudson is a food, travel, and surf enthusiast who writes about Mexico on his blog Playas y Plazas. Originally from Southern California, Paul has lived in Guadalajara since 2009. He has a BA in Global Economics from UC Santa Cruz (Go Banana Slugs!) and speaks English and Spanish fluently. He can often be found exploring the Pacific Coast of Mexico looking for isolated beaches, fun waves, and exotic foods.

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Tips on Guadalajara Warnings or Dangers – Stay Safe!

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Guadalajara Warnings and Dangers

Gudalajara is one of the largest cities in Mexico and also the capital of the state of Jalisco . Visitors to the area should keep in mind some tips to avoid dangers and stay safe.

Wealth Inequality

Guadalajara has both very wealthy and very poor individuals, and the divide can be quite stark. As you ride in from the airport, the highway passes through some really rough looking slums on the south side of the city that you might want to avoid. In El Centro, you will often see people begging. These places contrast quite strongly against the nicer neighborhoods west of downtown, where there are very many nice apartments and condos. When in the poorer parts of town, make sure to stay aware of your surroundings so you can avoid potential thieves.

Sidewalk Dangers

Be careful of the large and sometimes very deep holes that appear in the sidewalks. While the streets are generally safe in the day time, at night, they are badly lit. This can lead to unintentional accidents. Also, during summer storms, the streets can flood quite heavily.

Phone Cards

There are pay phones all over the city, and a phone card can help you get in touch with home. Sometimes, a U.S. based cell phone won’t work, so you will want to take advantage of the local phones.

Editor’s note:  The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about warnings and dangers in Guadalajara.       

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

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U.S. Issues Travel Warning for Mexico Ahead of Spring Break

The warning is asking travelers to “travel smart” and “be informed."

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The United States is warning travelers heading to Mexico to be aware of their surroundings ahead of the spring break holiday season.

The warning , which was issued this week by the U.S. Embassy and Consulates in Mexico, reminds travelers to “travel smart” and “be informed” as “thousands of U.S. citizens visit Mexico during spring break” each year. The embassy continued that “while the vast majority travel safely,” visitors should be aware of issues with crime, drugs, unregulated alcohol, drownings, and more. 

“Crime, including violent crime, can occur anywhere in Mexico, including in popular tourist destinations. Travelers should maintain a high level of situational awareness, avoid areas where illicit activities occur, and promptly depart from potentially dangerous situations,” the embassy warned. “U.S. citizens should exercise increased caution in the downtown areas of popular spring break locations including Cancun, Playa Del Carmen, and Tulum, especially after dark.”

The warning also reminded American travelers that drug possession and use is illegal in Mexico, including medical marijuana. It also advised that unregulated alcohol may be contaminated, that counterfeit medication is common, and that guns are illegal in Mexico.

When it comes to the country’s popular beaches, the embassy reminded travelers some beaches may have strong rip tides and “may lack lifeguards, warnings, or signs of unsafe conditions.”

The U.S. Embassy and Consulates in Mexico issued a similar spring break warning last year .

The U.S. Department of State classifies different states in Mexico under different warning levels. While travelers can “exercise normal precautions” when traveling to the Campeche and Yucatan states, the State Department warns them to “exercise increased caution” when heading to places like Baja California Sur (where Los Cabos is), Mexico City, and Quintana Roo (where Cancun is) due to crime.

The State Department also asks American travelers to “reconsider” going to the state of Jalisco, which is home to popular destination Puerto Vallarta , due to the danger of crime and kidnapping.

The State Department recommends Americans who do travel to Mexico keep people at home informed of their travel plans and enroll in the department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to both receive alerts and make it easier to locate them if an emergency occurs.

Travelers heading to international destinations can view all current travel advisories on the State Department's website at  travel.state.gov .