I recently ran across a question on a travel forum from a person asking if it was safe to take a family driving vacation in Mexico. As I was writing my response, it occurred to me that my readers here might find the information useful, so I decided to post a more detailed answer here. It has since grown into a 6 part post covering roads, driving, getting permission to bring your car to Mexico, accidents and breakdowns. I am interested in what you think, please leave a comment if you found this information useful!
Click here for Part 2, Part 3, Part 4, Part 5, Part 6
Is it Safe to Drive in Mexico?
I have lived and driven extensively in Mexico for the last 12 years. I have never really felt worried for my personal security. In fact, most people I have met have been friendly and helpful… although some get a little intimidated by foreigners (or at least at the prospect of trying to communicate with foreigners). It helps if you can speak some Spanish.
Driving into Down Town Puerto Vallarta
Mexico has been taking a lot of heat recently because the the “drug war”. These issues are generally centered around border towns and once you get past those towns it is largely a non issue. There are no gangs of ‘banditos’ roaming the countryside looking for wayward gringos (unless you include timeshare salesmen 🙂 ). I remember someone saying of Las Vegas in the 50’s and 60’s, “No one got shot who didn’t deserve it.” I’m not condoning the violence, I’m just saying that as a disinterested 3rd party your chances of getting involved in some sort of violence while passing through a border town in Mexico are next to nil. When visiting the interior of Mexico, you will find many amazing places like Puerto Vallarta, Guanajuato, Morelia, Guadalajara, Mascota… way too many places to list here… which will more than make up for the perceived risk of coming to Mexico.
In large metropolitan areas like Mexico City there are areas you probably don’t want to go, as is the case in any big city. If you are staying in places like that, use common sense and stay at a decent hotel (which should keep you in a decent part of town). Use the same rules you’d use when visiting New York City or Detroit.
Next up in Part 2 – The Roads in Mexico. Meanwhile, I’d like to hear your feedback. Please leave a comment if you have any questions or remarks.