Mexico has historically been one of the most sought-after destinations for U.S. travelers, breaking tourism records time and time again.
However, some states in the country still raise concerns in terms of safety, giving potential travelers pause before they even get a chance to book their trip.
So, if you’re planning on taking a trip south of the border this fall, it’s important to do your due diligence and ensure that your destination of choice is safe and welcoming to tourists.
To help you with that decision, Crimen en Mexico, a website dedicated to crime statistics in Mexico, has compiled a list of the safest (and most dangerous) states in the country.
These are the destinations that came out in the top 5:
5. Aguascalientes
Covering a modest 2168.35 mi² (5,616 km²), Aguascalientes is a lesser-known landlocked state that boasts some of the country’s best vineyards and hot springs.
While not your typical beach hotspot, tourists still come to the area to enjoy the San Marcos Garden, the Ojo Caliente Thermal Springs, and La Isla San Marcos (an entertainment complex located on the island in the middle of the San Marcos Lake).
Aside from its natural and cultural attractions, Aguascalientes is also known for its quiet, relaxing atmosphere – in part due to the low violence rate (6.9 per 100,000 people) in the state.
4. Durango
Though not so much at the forefront of mainstream tourism as some of the following destinations on the list, Durango is the backdrop of Mexico’s most naturally blessed landscapes.
The state is even nicknamed “The Land of Films” since many Hollywood projects have taken place in its diverse terrains.
Cinema buffs will be happy to learn that “The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly” (starring Clint Eastwood) and “The Revenant” (starring Leonardo Di Caprio) both feature scenes that have been shot right in Durango.
Moreover, the state’s capital, Victoria de Durango, has a well-known historic center with many well-preserved baroque buildings.
However, Durango’s biggest selling point right now is its low violence rate of 6.8 (per 100,000 people).
3. Baja California Sur
Home to some famed cities such as Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo, Beja California Sur is renowned for its laid-back atmosphere and world-class beaches.
The entire Baja California peninsula has recently gained international recognition for its stunning scenery, crystal-clear waters, and the unparalleled level of safety it provides its visitors.
With a violence rate of 4.6, Baja California Sur comfortably holds the no. 3 spot in the “Safest States In Mexico” ranking.
If you’re looking to steer clear of resort towns this fall but still want to catch a glimpse of the region’s stunning beaches, you can always book a trip to La Paz.
The state’s capital is famous for its seafront Malecón promenade, gorgeous parks, and vibrant art scene, welcoming tourists from all walks of life.
2. Coahuila
The landlocked state located in northeastern Mexico is often treated as an afterthought by tourists who are eager to experience the country’s world-class beaches.
However, what the city lacks in coastal allure, it more than makes up for in history, culture, and, as it turns out, safety too.
Coahuila boasts an impressively low violence rate of 4.3, so if you want to see another side of Mexico this fall, I suggest adding it to your travel bucket list.
The state is home to some of Mexico’s biggest, most influential cities, including Saltillo (the capital), Acuña, Monclova, and Piedras Negras.
1. Yucatán
Luckily for tourists looking forward to visiting some of Mexico’s most gorgeous attractions, Yucatán, home to dozens of breathtaking beaches, was deemed remarkably safe.
Though the region did record 44 homicides from August 2022 to July 2023, it still boasts a record-low violence rate of 1.9.
In comparison, the country’s most dangerous state, Colima, recorded 873 homicides in the same timeframe and has a violence rate of 107.1.
If you’re ever in the region, you won’t want to miss out on the capital, Mérida. Known for its vibrant nightlife and rich Mayan heritage, the city has welcomed over 888,000 visitors during the first eight months of 2023 alone.
Chichén Itzá, one of Mexico’s most famous historical attractions, is also located within the state, despite tourists often assuming that the landmark is located in Quintana Roo due to the geographical proximity between the two.
The ancient Mayan city that covers 4 square miles (10 square km) is a sight to behold, so make sure to add it to your itinerary.
