Is Guadalajara Safe in 2024? Here’s What You Need to Know

WONDERING IF GUADALAJARA IS SAFE RIGHT NOW?

You’re in the right place! I’ve lived in Mexico since 2018, including six months in Guadalajara.

I’ve also traveled to 23 states in the country, most as a solo female traveler, so I know the subject of Mexico safety well.

By the end of this article, you’re no longer going to be wondering Is Guadalajara safe? — you’re going to feel confident in knowing the answer.

When planning your trip to Guadalajara, safety is likely the #1 issue. Given how Mexico is portrayed in the mainstream media, you might think the worst.

However, MILLIONS of people visit Guadalajara each year, and it’s generally regarded as one of the most beautiful cities in the country — so what’s the truth about Guadalajara travel safety?

Don’t worry; this article explains it all, so let’s dive in! We’ll start by addressing the #1 question I get asked most by readers: Is Guadalajara safe right now for travel?

For the most accurate answer, visit the U.S. State Department website here to see if they have any current Guadalajara travel warnings.

This site is the best way to stay up-to-date with the most accurate information possible, so always head to the source for your answer.

On their site, they evaluate Mexico’s travel safety state-by-state.

For a Guadalajara travel advisory look to the state of Jalisco, so when looking for travel advisories, look at Jalisco safety specifically. 

So just how safe is Guadalajara Mexico? The travel warning for Guadalajara is generally at Level 2, as is all of Jalisco state.

For perspective, some other Level 2 travel destinations include the UK, Belgium, Italy, and Belize.

Now ask yourself: Am I scared to travel to Italy? How about Belgium? Or the UK? Of course not — and you might have even laughed at those questions.

Meanwhile, the Canadian government doesn’t include Jalisco on its list of Mexican states that don’t advise travel. This means that a safe trip is definitely possible.

In truth, no place on Earth is 100% safe — not Iceland or New Zealand (two of the world’s safest countries according to the Global Peace Index), not your hometown, and not even your own home.

Guadalajara is the second-largest city in Mexico, famous for its tequila, mariachi music and charro culture.

It can be safe, but it is also plagued by the same petty crimes common in any major city and tourism destination like London, Paris, or Rome.

Like any large metropolitan area, Guadalajara has its safety concerns, but it can generally be considered safe for tourists if you take proper precautions.

Here’s the best advice I can offer for Guadalajara safety

Areas with high tourist traffic tend to have more police presence and are generally safe during the day.

However, like in any big city, some neighborhoods are best avoided, especially at night— we’ll get to those in a little bit.  

It’s advisable to stay in well-lit areas, avoid displaying valuables openly, and use reputable transportation options.

If you are afraid of violent crime, criminal activity, or kidnapping, although this does happen in Guadalajara, if you stick to tourist areas, the chance of it happening to you is low. 

The city government of Guadalajara has made significant efforts to improve security in recent years.

Still, staying informed about current safety recommendations and being aware of your surroundings is always a good idea. 

As tourism is the #1 driving force in Mexico’s economy, the top Mexico travel destinations are generally safe for visitors.

The Mexican government is invested in keeping them this way, so visitors return year after year.

⚠️ To dive deeply into this topic, head to Is Mexico Safe to Visit? 25 Mexico Travel Safety Tips.

Statistically speaking, travelers are safe in Guadalajara and most of Mexico, despite media sensationalism.

Of course, you need to stay in safe areas — and there’s more info on safe Guadalajara neighborhoods to come, so stick around.

However, the city still attracts many visitors yearly, including solo travelers, couples, and multigenerational families with small kids and older folks.

On a personal note: As a solo female traveler, I got a lot of pushback from friends and family when I came to Mexico alone in 2018. 

Fast forward a few years, and I found Mexico so amazing that I moved to Mexico permanently (but that’s another story for another article).

Statistically speaking, solo travelers are safe in Guadalajara and most of Mexico, despite media sensationalism.

⚠️ To dive deeply into this topic, head to Is Mexico Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Though EVERYONE will warn you about solo travel in Mexico, the key is to consider the source.

Are these other solo female travelers who understand what you’re about to do? Have these people even been to Mexico? Most likely, they haven’t.

If they have, was this trip in the 1990s? Well, Mexico was MUCH more dangerous back then, just as NYC was more dangerous in the 1970s versus today.

Personally, I’ve found most people who make blanket statements have never even been to Mexico 🤷‍♀️ Go figure!

Ultimately, my answers to Is Guadalajara safe to travel alone? Is Guadalajara safe for solo female travellers? and Is Guadalajara safe for American tourists? — are yes.

As an American who lived in Guadalajara for half a year, it would be weird if I didn’t answer yes.

I will say that Guadalajara might not be the best place for first-time solo travelers though.

If you’re not used to traveling alone, group travel might be a little safer because it reduces the chance of being targeted for crime, especially for solo female travelers.

While catcalling and harassment of women aren’t unique to Guadalajara or Mexico, they are common concerns, making solo exploration less advisable.

Ultimately, Guadalajara is safe for most visitors, including Guadalajara solo travel, as long as you follow the safety for tourists tips in this article.

Is Guadalajara safe for families?

Yes — Guadalajara is generally safe for family travel, even for multigenerational families with young children and older relatives.

Known for its rich cultural heritage, historic architecture, delicious cuisine, and atmosphere, Guadalajara offers plenty of attractions for families to enjoy. 

From exploring historic sites like the Guadalajara Cathedral and Hospicio Cabañas, to indulging in delicious street food at Mercado San Juan de Dios, there’s something for everyone. 

So, Is it safe to travel to Guadalajara Mexico as a family? Statistics show that it is, but of course, that’s not a guarantee.

The reality is most families visiting Guadalajara have a wonderful time and encounter few problems, but this is a big city, so you have to remain aware at all times.

Touristy areas like the Historic Downtown (Centro Histórico), Chapultepec Avenue (Avenida Chapultepec), and the Tlaquepaque neighborhood are generally considered safe for visitors, even at night.

These areas are well-lit, bustling with activity, and have a strong police presence. However, it is wise to exercise caution in certain areas, especially at night.

Neighborhoods such as Zona Centro, parts of Colonia Americana, and some areas on the city’s outskirts may have higher crime rates or less visibility from law enforcement. 

These areas are best avoided, particularly after dark, to minimize the risk of encountering safety issues.

Like any city, staying aware of your environment and keeping up-to-date with local safety recommendations are essential to ensure a pleasant experience. 

Many expats find Guadalajara to be a culturally rich place to live, with a thriving expat community and plenty of amenities catering to international residents.

Expats living in Guadalajara often reside in well-established neighborhoods known for safety and an expat-friendly environment like Providencia, Chapalita, or Zapopan.

These areas typically offer amenities like international schools, healthcare facilities, and expat-owned businesses, making them attractive options for foreign residents.

However, as with any city, expats should remain vigilant, especially in unfamiliar areas or when traveling alone at night.

Like tourists, Guadalajara is generally considered safe for expats in Mexico — but you can join Facebook groups like Expats in Guadalajara or Foreigners in Guadalajara! to get current info from people who live there.

So, Is Guadalajara safe to live? Well, many people in these groups have moved to Guadalajara and absolutely love it.

Crime in Guadalajara Mexico

Guadalajara is Mexico’s second-largest city, renowned for its rich cultural heritage, historic architecture, and lively atmosphere. 

As the capital of the state of Jalisco, Guadalajara serves as a cultural, economic, and educational hub in western Mexico.

With its thriving arts scene, delicious cuisine, and friendly locals, Guadalajara offers visitors a captivating glimpse into Mexican culture and traditions.

But with pros definitely come with some cons. Given its size and popularity with tourists, Guadalajara does have crime.

While the city does experience crime, including theft, petty crime, and occasional violent incidents, it’s not uniformly dangerous across all neighborhoods or for all individuals. 

Guadalajara has both safe areas and areas where caution is warranted, particularly at night or in less populated areas.

Authorities in Guadalajara work to address crime through law enforcement efforts, community outreach, and crime prevention initiatives. 

If you’re questioning whether traveling to Guadalajara is safe, it’s a legitimate concern— travel safety is always an important consideration. 

So, let’s explore safety in Guadalajara Mexico, and answer some of your Guadalajara safety questions. 

The downtown and historic parts of the city are well-policed, making them generally secure for visitors and locals.

Locals often advise avoiding the city’s eastern end, though wealthier residents typically reside on the western side of Calzada de Independencia.

By sticking to safer areas and remaining vigilant, travelers can ensure a positive and hassle-free visit to Guadalajara.

While many are honest, some may attempt to overcharge unsuspecting travelers or take unnecessarily long routes to inflate the fare.

How to Avoid: Before entering a taxi, ensure the driver uses a meter or agrees on a fare beforehand.

Opt for official taxi stands or reputable taxi companies recommended by hotels or locals. 

🏧 The ATM Assistance Scam

It’s always nice meeting friendly locals, but be cautious if they are too friendly, especially when dealing with financial transactions like an ATM. 

If someone offers to assist you at an ATM under the guise of helping you avoid bank fees, it’s a red flag.

Most people don’t need assistance at an ATM, and accepting help from strangers could leave you vulnerable to scams.

How to Avoid: Politely decline any offers of assistance at ATMs, even if the person seems genuinely helpful.

Instead, use ATMs located indoors at reputable banks during business hours or in secure locations like hotel lobbies. 

Shield your PIN and be vigilant for any suspicious behavior or devices attached to the ATM that could compromise your card information.

Remember, while it’s great to interact with locals during your travels, safeguarding your financial security should always be a top priority.

🍽️ The Friendly Local

Just as encountering overly helpful strangers at ATMs can signal trouble, so too can persistent new local friends urging you to visit specific bars or restaurants with them.

These “nice locals” often arrange with establishments to act as ringers. They bring in tourists and encourage them to run up tabs.

But they conveniently fail to mention the final bill will be significantly higher than anticipated.

How to Avoid: If a newfound friend insists on a particular bar or restaurant, be cautious.

Politely suggest an alternative venue and see how they react, or express a preference for exploring independently.

Always take a moment to check menu prices before ordering anything to avoid unpleasant surprises.

The CJNG is a dominant force in the region, involved in various illegal activities, including drug trafficking, extortion, and kidnappings.

However, travelers should exercise caution, particularly in neighborhoods known for drug-related activities.

I would recommend against engaging in any illegal activities or associating with individuals involved in the drug trade. 

Local authorities and businesses continue to operate with an emphasis on tourist safety.

However, visitors are advised to remain aware of their surroundings, especially concerning the security measures and local advisories during their stay.

⚠️ The Overseas Security Advisory Council (OSAC) is a great place to find Mexico Crime and Safety Reports. It has current articles about crime in Guadalajara and Mexico travel warnings.

Guadalajara Murders

If you look up the Guadalajara murder rate, you’re in for a shock. You’ll see reports saying Guadalajara has quite a high murder rate.

Guadalajara is the capital of the state of Jalisco, which is the country’s 11th most violent state that does have thousands of homicides each year.

However, the impact is not strictly limited to the outskirts or only related to cartel members. Although rare, incidents do occur in safe Guadalajara neighborhoods.

For example, a violent incident happened at Plaza Andares in Zapopan in 2024. This posh shopping center is a major part of the Guadalajara metropolitan area.

Guadalajara vs Mexico City: What’s better for travelers?

These two Mexican cities, renowned for their culture and attractions, share some similarities.

Both cities boast lively atmospheres, diverse culinary scenes, and many attractions, making them ideal destinations for visitors seeking an unforgettable getaway.

In the Guadalajara vs Mexico City debate — there’s no clear winner regarding safety or overall appeal.

Instead, travelers may find themselves drawn to one city based on their preferences and interests.

While Mexico City offers a bustling urban landscape teeming with history and cultural treasures, Guadalajara boasts a more laid-back vibe with its charming plazas, mariachi music, and rich colonial architecture.

Did I mention the tequila? That’s a definite plus. 

In terms of safety, both cities have their own unique challenges and precautions to consider.

Guadalajara, known for its friendly atmosphere and cultural richness, generally maintains a reputation for being safer than Mexico City regarding violent crime.

However, like any urban area, it still has areas where caution is advised, especially at night or in less frequented neighborhoods.

On the other hand, Mexico City is a sprawling metropolis with a diverse array of neighborhoods, each with its own safety profile.

While certain areas may have higher crime rates, many parts of the city are safe for tourists, particularly popular tourist districts and well-trafficked areas.

Ultimately, the safety of both cities depends on various factors, including the specific neighborhoods visited, time of day, and individual behaviors. 

Travelers are encouraged to stay informed about local safety conditions, exercise vigilance, and take common-sense precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience in Guadalajara or Mexico City.

Like any country, Mexico has both safe and unsafe places travelers should avoid. Just as you avoid the unsafe parts of your own country, you’ll do that in Mexico too.

As many might have expected, several of the world’s most violent cities are in Mexico. (⚠️ Note: Guadalajara isn’t on that list.)

You might not have expected that four cities in the U.S. also make the list (St. Louis, Baltimore, Detroit, and New Orleans).

Though these rank as three of the least-safe cities in the United States, they also have plenty of safe areas hundreds of thousands of visitors enjoy each year.

Is it safe to rent a car in Guadalajara?

Renting a car in Guadalajara can be a convenient way to explore the city and its surrounding areas, but it’s essential to consider a few factors regarding safety.

Firstly, like many urban centers, Guadalajara has its share of traffic congestion and aggressive driving behavior.

Navigating the city streets can be challenging, especially during peak traffic hours. So, drivers should exercise caution and remain vigilant at all times.

Additionally, while major tourist areas in Guadalajara are generally safe, there may be areas on the outskirts or in less frequented neighborhoods where security concerns exist. 

It’s recommended to avoid driving in unfamiliar or poorly lit areas, particularly at night, and to keep car doors locked and valuables out of sight while parked.

Furthermore, Mexico has its own driving regulations and road conditions that may be different from those from your home country.

Guadalajara has a relatively efficient public transportation system, including buses and a light rail called Siteur.

Taxis and rideshare services are also readily available and can be a convenient option for shorter trips within the city.

If you plan to primarily explore the central areas of Guadalajara and rely on organized tours or transportation services for excursions outside the city, you may not need to rent a car. 

Many of the city’s main attractions, such as the historic downtown area, museums, and cultural sites, are easily accessible on foot or via public transportation.

However, renting a car may be a practical option if you prefer the flexibility and independence of having your own vehicle or if you plan to venture into more remote areas or nearby towns outside of Guadalajara. 

Having a car can also provide the freedom to explore at your own pace and access attractions that may be less accessible by public transportation.

How to Get Around in Guadalajara

Getting around in Guadalajara is facilitated by various transportation options catering to various preferences and budgets.

The city boasts extensive public transportation, including buses, the light rail (Siteur), and the Macrobus. 

Taxis are readily available and offer convenience for getting around quickly, while ridesharing services like Uber provide additional flexibility and transparency.

Guadalajara’s pedestrian-friendly areas, such as the downtown district and historic neighborhoods, are great for exploring on foot.

Cycling is also becoming increasingly popular, with bike lanes and rental services available for eco-conscious travelers. 

Alternatively, renting a car allows you to explore Guadalajara and its surrounding attractions at your own pace, although traffic congestion and parking challenges should be considered. 

Organized tours and private transportation are convenient for day trips and excursions to nearby destinations, offering hassle-free travel and insightful experiences. 

It offers a practical and often more secure alternative to traditional taxis and public transport, particularly if you’re unfamiliar with the area or the local language.

Uber in Guadalajara includes a range of service levels, from budget-friendly rides to more premium options, catering to a variety of preferences and needs.

In Guadalajara, Uber and Didi are the prominent ride-sharing choices, as well as other options such as Cabify and InDriver, which provides similar services.

These are easily accessible via their respective mobile apps, ensuring convenience for users.

However, as with any city, taking precautions is essential to ensure a safe taxi experience. Here are five tips to consider:

🚖 Use Licensed Taxis 

Stick to licensed taxis rather than unmarked or informal vehicles.

Licensed taxis typically have visible identification, such as official logos, license plates, and registration numbers.

What should I actually be careful of in Guadalajara?

While you must stay aware of your surroundings, your belongings, yourself, and whomever else you’re traveling with while in Guadalajara — the chances of you being the victim of a crime are low.

However, some things you might not be thinking about can impact your overall Guadalajara vacation.

When it comes to Guadalajara security on your trip, here are the five things you need to be aware of.

1. Drinking Water Safety in Guadalajara

Wondering, Can you drink tap water in Guadalajara? No — it is not safe to drink the water!

In fact, if there’s one Mexico travel tip you must remember, it’s don’t drink the water in Mexico, or you can get sick.

Tap water in Mexico isn’t considered safe for human consumption — not for locals or visitors, so please don’t drink tap water in Guadalajara (or any city in Mexico).

You will have to boil tap water to make purified water, constantly buy bottled water, or come prepared with this Water-To-Go Bottle that has a built-in filter.

As someone who lives in Mexico and travels often, I own and use Water-To-Go bottles.

I’ve partnered with the company to offer you 15% off your purchase with code SOLO15 → Shop now!

Is Guadalajara Safe?

2. Sun Protection

Unlike coastal areas in Mexico, where the average temperature can soar, Guadalajara experiences a more moderate climate due to its elevation of about 5,100 feet above sea level (1,554 m).

From about May to October, Guadalajara typically enjoys average daytime temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit (about 23-29°C).

While it may not be scorching hot, the sun is still present in Guadalajara, so it’s essential to be mindful of sun exposure. 

Remember to apply sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and stay hydrated to prevent sunburns and dehydration during your visit.

The city’s geography, with mountains on several sides, often traps pollutants, leading to days with unhealthy air quality, particularly for sensitive groups.

The most common pollutants include particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5) and ozone, which can exacerbate or lead to respiratory issues, cardiovascular diseases, and other health problems. 

It’s important to check daily air quality indices if you suffer from respiratory conditions, are elderly, or are traveling with children.

Plan your activities for earlier when air quality improves to minimize exposure to unhealthy air. Avoid outdoor physical activities on days with high pollution alerts.

You can also use apps like AirVisual or websites like IQAir to stay updated on real-time air quality conditions.

While most aren’t severe, the area has experienced significant shakes in the past.

Tourists should know this risk and familiarize themselves with earthquake safety practices like “Drop, Cover, and Hold On.” 

Additionally, using apps like 911 CDMX, which provide early warnings for earthquakes, can be a lifesaver​.

5. Spiked Drinks 

One serious concern in nightlife in Guadalajara is the risk of having your drink spiked.

This can lead to theft, assault, or worse, as perpetrators use this method to incapacitate their targets.

⚠️ In Short: Stay alert with your beverages! Always keep your drink with you and never accept drinks from strangers or leave them unattended.

10 Quick Guadalajara Safety Tips

Want to know the secret to Mexico Guadalajara safety? The secret is that there’s no secret. Want even more good news? Safe travel is 100% possible in Guadalajara.

Travel safety generally involves common-sense precautions, so you’re as safe traveling in Guadalajara as anywhere else.

1. Get Travel Insurance for Mexico

If 2020 taught us anything, it was that life (and travel plans) can change instantly. You’ll want travel insurance for all the unexpected things that come up while traveling.

From canceled flights to lost luggage and getting sick — you’ll regret not having it should something go awry.

I use SafetyWing Travel Insurance for myself.

They offer great coverage and AMAZING rates, with plans that start at about $35 per month for everything listed above and then some! 

While most travelers don’t need a full month of coverage, they’re still cheaper than nearly every other insurance provider (including World Nomads).

4. Leave your valuables at home

Want to make sure your valuables are still with you after you’re done traveling?

The best way to do this is to leave them at home so they’ll be waiting for you when you return.

While Guadalajara is a great place to explore everything and anything, it is such a big city with so much happening that you might just lose something. 

Also, expensive laptops, DSLR cameras, designer clothes, and sunglasses often draw the wrong attention.

5. Listen to your intuition

If your inner voice (AKA intuition) is telling you NO about a person or a place — please listen!

If someone is giving you the creeps, get away from them ASAP. Personally, I don’t even worry about making a polite exit, I just get from them as fast as possible.

With both Uber in Guadalajara and taxis in Guadalajara, this isn’t hard.

One last tip is to choose a well-lit, busy location to wait for your ride, such as a restaurant lobby or storefront.

Finally, avoid driving at night. Guadalajara is a big city, and you can easily get lost and drive into a neighborhood that isn’t too safe.

⚠️ Need somewhere to hide a bit of money? Check out this cool bra pocket and this money belt with a hidden compartment.

Also, don’t carry too much cash on you at any given day. Having $1,000-2,000 pesos per day (about $55-120 USD) will suffice for most people.

They’re tapped into the current situation and can offer invaluable insights to help you understand how safe Guadalajara is.

If you’re worried about crime Guadalajara has, chat up a friendly barista, bartender, server, hotel staff or tour operator to see if they have insights.

If 2020 taught us anything, nothing is certain, and life can change completely from one moment to the next.

Even before the You-Know-What in 2020, if there’s one certainty about travel, it’s that something will always go wrong.

Just as you insure your home, car, and possessions, you can also insure your health, luggage, and belongings while traveling to Mexico.

For peace of mind, travel insurance is a must — and as a customer myself, I believe SafetyWing offers the best health insurance for travel to Mexico.

Though many think it’s in Central America, Mexico is actually on the continent of North America.

📍 GUADALAJARA Map

As illustrated on the Guadalajara map above, the city is centrally situated within Jalisco, serving as the state capital.

Also in the state, you’ll find several Jalisco pueblos mágicos, which are Mexico’s magical towns. These unique towns make great day trips from Guadalajara:

• Tequila: Where the famous drink originates
• Tlaquepaque: Famous for its pottery and art galleries
• Ajijic: One of the towns on beautiful Lake Chapala
• Zacatecas: This Mexican state is not a pueblo magico, but is noted for its historic mining sites

You can often find direct flights with inexpensive airfare to Guadalajara.

✈️ Ready to book your flights to Guadalajara? Head to Skyscanner to see what’s available!

Many U.S. airlines offer flights to Guadalajara from major cities including Los Angeles, Houston, Chicago, San Francisco, and many more.

If you can’t find a direct flight, you might consider connecting through Mexico City Airport (code: MEX).

Alternatively, for travelers coming from other destinations like Cancun, you can route your flight through Cancun International Airport (code: CUN) to Guadalajara.

During this period, temperatures are comfortable, generally ranging from the mid-60s to the low 80s Fahrenheit (around 18-28°C).

For a more broad span of time, the dry season from November to April is when the city is vibrant, and the regional cultural style is most visible.

FREE Printable Packing List for Mexico

Wondering exactly what to pack for Guadalajara and all of Mexico? Download your FREE printable packing list for Mexico in this article.

This multi-page Mexico packing checklist covers everything you’ll want to bring, and more importantly, what not to bring to Mexico.

What are the best Guadalajara neighborhoods?

Wondering where to stay in Guadalajara? Looking for the best places to stay in Guadalajara?

This city has a few neighborhoods that offer great accommodations to all types of travelers, like Chapultepec, Chapalita, Providencia and Zapopan Centro.

Besides its colonial architecture, Guadalajara boasts an incredible arts scene — it’s the birthplace of mariachi music, a genre deeply embedded in Mexican culture.

You can explore the historic neighborhoods, like charming Tlaquepaque, known for its artisan shops and galleries, and visit the Hospicio Cabañas, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring murals by José Clemente Orozco.

With its bustling markets alongside the serene beauty of parks like Bosque Los Colomos, and the nearby agave fields of Tequila, this city appeals to both cultural aficionados and nature enthusiasts alike.

Is Guadalajara Safe: My Final Thoughts

Still wondering Is Guadalajara safe for tourists?, or Is Guadalajara safe to travel to in general?

These questions don’t always have straightforward answers, but I hope this article offered a nuanced view from my extensive travels in the region.

In my opinion, the answer to both questions listed above is both yes and no — as true safety is elusive everywhere, not just in Guadalajara or any other city. 

Employing common sense when traveling — being vigilant in crowded areas, especially in the Downtown City Center, and keeping an eye on your belongings — will greatly enhance your safety. 

Think of your awareness as a container that holds your travel experience, ensuring it remains untainted by potential mishaps.

Your approach to travel safety should not be void of practical strategies, like avoiding less frequented areas and understanding the cultural height of interactions in new environments.

By staying informed and attentive, your visit to Guadalajara can be enjoyable and safe, much like it is for countless others who explore this fascinating city each year.