Make every effort to drive in Mexico on a regular basis: When traveling in Mexico, always be aware of your surroundings and be on the lookout for any dangers. Online booking allows you to compare rates of car rental companies in your preferred pick-up location. So, is it safe to drive through Mexico? If you are in an emergency, you should contact the U.S. embassy in Mexico or the Mexican consulate in the United States. Driving at night in Mexico is particularly difficult. Dont wear loud colors or flashy jewelry. These cookies enhance your experience and improve the quality of our site. Almost every major town and cities also have pick-up locations for your rental car. There will be times also that you need to ask locals for directions. Headed out on a Mexico road trip? If you're going to cross the Mexican border by your own car, you should have a temporary vehicle importation permit. Perceived as one of the best beaches in the world, its terrific sand beaches and entrancing sea offer extraordinary scenery, Mayan culture, and thrilling activities. You can enjoy an extensive infrastructure of roads and expressways connecting major cities, and also see daily life in Mexico from the country's free (libre) roads. Mexico City is safe to travel for families. Meanwhile, 18-year-olds can already drive without guidance, provided they have a license and correct documents. By staying informed and avoiding areas with increased risk you are doing the best thing you can to avoid being the subject of serious crime. Calle Puerto Mxico turns right and becomes Cto. It will take you ten hours and five minutes to drive at 120 kilometers per hour. You can apply for an IDP even if you're not traveling. a Aeropuerto Cancn. Don't let your passengers leave the vehicle, especially at night. If youre a US Citizen whos traveling to Mexico, you will need your passport only to travel to Mexico. The "7"-shaped barrier island in South Eastern Mexico is a must for travelers in the country, especially those who are looking for beaches, golfing, and nightlife. These were the only two times we had issues camping and on the whole felt welcome and safe when camping, especially after striking up a conversation with the locals. After an eventful day of touring around Cabo, partying would be a good activity for your finale. The quotas have a station where you pay between sections of road. Enter some basic information about yourself and your vehicle, get a quote and purchase without leaving the page. The driving age in Mexico is at least 15 years old, provided there is parental supervision. If you break down on the toll roads, Mexican patrols known as the Angeles Verdes (Green Angels) will offer to help you free of charge, especially in the daytime. If you plan to go abroad, say at least 3 times for the next three years, a three-year IDP package will work best for you. Many local gas stations don't have gas, so fill up the tank at the first petrol station. The typical vaccinations to ensure are up to date before travel are: While this may not be completely feasible if you are blonde-haired and blue-eyed, driving around in an American or European car you can definitely take some basic steps to avoid being too conspicuous. They are also less maintained than toll roads. Roadblocks of just a few people, we tended to slow down but then just drive by. Put on your hazard lights and slowly pull to the side of the road, at the farthest side as much as possible. There's also a chance that if you leave your car in a public parking space, you might find bumps and dents when you return. Don't leave the car to get into the back, just go between the front seats. Our experience of police corruption while driving through Mexico has been significantly less than what we were subject to driving through South American countries. Finally, instances of violence, robbery, and crime go up significantly after dark in Mexico. It took a few minutes to find and when they said the price, I realized that I was short on cash! You need to observe general driving standards to avoid accidents and unnecessary delays in your journey in Mexico. An IDP will be convenient for you, particularly when you cross to other Latin American countries. Mexicos toll roads are generally regarded as safe, but only drive during daylight hours. Its one of the questions we are most frequently asked about our van life experiences and destinations. In most cases, they will ask for a specific amount of money. Be cautious, acknowledge the risks and have a good time exploring this beautiful country. I'm of the approach that Mexico is safe until it hasn't. God help you if you encounter criminal activity or are the . Montana Property and Casualty License 3001656684, 2165 Gilman Main St. Read More Working Remotely in a Van: 5 Essential TipsContinue, Please note that some links on our site are affiliate links. Set your appointment by contacting the Mexican Embassy. Head northeast on Calle Sonora/Av. The hidden cost of avoiding toll roads can be substantial. Mexico currently has a level 2 travel warning on a scale of 1 to 4, meaning "increased caution.". The roads are better overall, drivers don't have to circumnavigate Mexico City, and there are plenty of beautiful sites along the way. And, as it does, the influence of the United States wanes, as Walmarts and Burger Kings seemed to become fewer and further between. As for rented vehicles, there may be guidelines as set by the car rental company from whom you rented your vehicle from. Thats why you need to fully understand the following regulations and implement them. But the minimum age to rent a car in Mexico is at least 21 years old, depending on the rental agency and vehicle type. Furthermore, avoid driving at night, especially if youre in more dangerous areas. When you arrive at the real gates you have to pay again. Tijuana is situated within the Mexican state of Baja California, and the heart of the city is only 5 miles from the Pacific coast. Baja California has a much lower crime rate than Mexico and parts of the United States. Be aware of scammers or carjackers. The city of Monterrey, located in northeastern Mexico, is well known as a tourist destination both within the country and across the border in the United States. Often untolled roads (libre or sin cuota) run parallel to tolled roads and indicative travel times can be extremely similar. These checkpoints are mostly carried out at night, another good reason to only travel by daylight. months driving through Mexico and Central America, one particular post about Baja California, there are many beautiful things to see in the USA, the worst of the worst today in Central America, road-tripping throughout the American West, killed both of them, drove their car to a remote field, and set their van on fire with the bodies inside, Harry Devert was a motorcyclist who was killed in Mexico, A Self-Guided Tour of Kennedy Space Center: 1-Day Itinerary, Fairfield by Marriott Medellin Sabaneta: Affordable and Upscale, One of the Coolest Places to Stay in Clarksdale MS: Travelers Hotel, Space 220 Restaurant: Out-of-This-World Dining at Disneys EPCOT, 9 Reasons the Chase Sapphire Preferred is the Best Travel Credit Card, https://www.insideedition.com/couple-kidnapped-bound-and-beaten-while-scouting-wedding-venues-mexico-45436, https://www.nytimes.com/2018/11/16/world/americas/american-teacher-mexico-sinaloa.html, https://www.dallasnews.com/news/crime/2018/02/26/2-texans-rescued-after-kidnapped-mexico-held-ransom, interview I did with a buddy who did the drive in motorcycle, article about three months of our expenses in Peru. Amelia Island has two bridges that connect it to the rest of the state of Florida, allowing visitors to drive there. If you're ready to learn more driving tips to Mexico, and if youre asking, Do I need an International Drivers Permit in Mexico?, read further to find out why the country is called the Land of Enchantment! Mexican toll roads are your best option for the safest way in arriving at your destination. Intersections in the country also have no road signs, so look both ways before crossing them. Or you can leave your car near busy shopping centers, hotels, or other establishments. The Confederation Bridge connects the Confederation Island to the Canadian mainland via the Northumberland Strait. Rabies Again not necessary for every traveller but if you plan to spend a lot of time outdoors in rural or wilderness areas, you may wish to discuss this with your doctor. The federal highway between Cancun and Tulum is very safe. Instead, park up, put out the awning, and enjoy a cold beer! See state summaries and advisory levels below for information on your specific travel destination. Make sure no other car is about to go in the same direction as you will. The line was long behind me at this point and the attendant took my credit card, walked into a building and returned about 5-minutes later with a receipt. Leasing one will require you to present your official driver's license, along with your IDP for additional identification purposes, depending on the car rental agency. They are there for good reason. As with any country, crime in Mexico does exist. If youre driving after dark, take the Cuota roads, but make sure youre following the proper speed. During a heavy downpour, expect flooding on roads due to a lack of proper drainage. Since Mexico is one of the most popular tourist destinations, many people wonder if it is safe to drive there. They save on fuel and are superb for short trips inside a city and traveling to other cities nearby. It might hit oncoming traffic if the car's brakes fail and move towards the road. But if your car dies in an isolated area, especially at night, you may have to call your rental car company or your auto insurer. By using these you are directly supporting The Vanabond Tales to remain an independent travel blog.The small country of Bolivia tucked away between Peru,, Read More How to Visit the Bolivia Salt Flats without a TourContinue. This route is well-maintained and has little traffic. Talk to locals in areas you plan to camp. Many US Citizens often visit the area just to try their luck in fishing. Using our experience of traveling Mexico by van from the top to bottom, we have set out to address the question of safety in Mexico. If they signal you to pull to the side of the road, be calm. If you want to take a road trip, you can either take a scenic route through El Salvador or a more direct route through Honduras rolling hills. By driving through the country, you have more control of your time and your itinerary while visiting the country. The cartels which operate in Mexico make most of their money from smuggling narcotics into the United States which makes the border, more or less all of it, a place of constant friction with both governments. You can also try Sunny Cars, where all fees including insurance policies, full coverage and taxes are included in the price. Take precautions in busy tourist hotspots. Is Mexico safe to travel by van? But if you don't have both, hand gestures will do the talking. They check for weapons, drugs, and other illegal products using spot checks, searches, dogs, and mirrors. Potholes and topes can create dangerous driving conditions. Leona Vicario s/n, Mesa Colorada, 23460 Cabo, San Lucas, B.C.S., Mexico. Driving in Mexico can be an adventure of a lifetime since you get to decide to visit remote areas, which might be difficult to reach using public transportation. While some of them speak English, it's best to practice basic Spanish to get the best responses from them when asking for help. Mostly, however, it is the lack of quality of the roads that will be the biggest problem for you on this trip . Hazard signs are not required in Mexico, but theyll help you. Don't let cartel movies about Mexico hinder you from asking for help from locals if needed. November 30, 2021 of crime and kidnapping felt.. There is a road running from the border of Belize to the city of Brownsville, Texas, that is approximately 140 miles long. Civil unrest, blockades, and protests can turn violent quickly. Is it safe to drive through Mexico, is it safe to travel Mexico by van, is Mexico safe, and many more questions about safety in Mexico for van lifers! As mentioned above, if you specifically commit this mistake, you might break a traffic rule, or get in trouble with other motorists. Your questions about the International Drivers License, Mexicos beaches, and other tourism-related details will be found here. Don't Drive At Night. An IDP is useful even for short-term travel. He asked how much I had and I said 5 bucks. Continue to follow Eje 1A Sur. If you're going to be active on the roads in Mexico, be prepared for minor or even major incidents. Driving is frequently associated with less serious risks than carjackings and kidnappings, for the most part. There's always a chance that your car will break down in Mexico. These are speed bumps that sometimes appear out of nowhere just to give your suspension a good whack. The legal driving age in Mexico is quite different from other countries in terms of the policy. Beware of potholes and gouges that could break an axle or flatten a tire. The safest route through Mexico is the Pacific Coast Highway. One source to begin your broader research are government foreign affairs agencies. The driving in Mexico dangers you are likely to encounter driving are for the most part, more mundane than carjackings, or kidnappings. Basically, there's a ton of stuff to get involved with - starting with street vendors selling tasty churros, of course. They tinker with chemicals. It's for your benefit to drive slowly as you're allowed to on all kinds of roads, since you'll be able to enjoy the country more. In our experience mostly innocuous. Another potential benefit of traveling to Mexico is that there are no driving restrictions on vehicles and passengers entering Mexico. One night we camped on a dark street in Palenque, as we were falling asleep someone tried to open the car using the locked handles. Those who travel frequently should always bring an IDP with them. I said I didnt know that law and didnt have 200 bucks. In these areas, we took extra precautions to ensure our safety such as making sure we did not drive after dark. Is Tulum better than Cancun? It can be unsettling, especially when you're just starting your excursion in the country. He then said, otro opcion senor and said I could pay him 200 USD and go on my way. Anyone who drives a car is in the position to be wealthy in an emerging economy such as Belize. It's more of an agreement with the rental agency than an insurance coverage. Many people, especially law officials, often look out for tourists that are driving within their country. The safest route to drive through Mexico is to take the Pacific Coast Highway. For example, a mandatory road sign will tell you to pass on the right of a road only, Priority road signs in Mexico are designed to clarify who has priority or right of way at the road ahead, Prohibitory signs are used on roads to restrict certain types of vehicles, like heavy cargo trucks, and certain maneuvers such as U-turns, or setting maximum speeds. Driving through Mexico and Central America is a fantastic experience. Drivers in Mexico prefer small and affordable vehicles, and sometimes pick-up trucks. They would state they are the gate and take payment even providing tickets. Mexico is safe for solo female travelers as well. It is equally unhelpful to label some areas of Mexico (or anywhere else) safe and others unsafe. Hey Ryan, I will travel from USA to Costa Rica dec1 2021. . Want to see the entire jungle in one go? We destroyed our air suspension and a pair of shock absorbers dodging tolls between Guadalajara and CDMX costing us a lot more than the tolls. 2. You may have to drive across the Pan-American highway for an extended period of time (or money). Honestly, we considered visiting some of these areas and probably would have if there werent so many wonderful places that were not flagged by the US Department of State. So, if your first language is English or Spanish, you dont need to worry about asking directions and understanding the traffic signs. But you do need to be sure that you have insured your vehicle/RV. It's important to prepare, so you can stay safe, avoid accidents and unnecessary incidents, and most of all, enjoy your vacation or business trip. We found the cheapest Mexican car insurance to beLewis and Lewis Mexican Auto Insurance. It is safe to drive to Panama, but there are some things to keep in mind. The influence of indigenous culture becomes more and more noticeable. I am, of course, talking about the infamous topes, the Mexican speed bump. But here is a list of the most common obstacles we faced while driving in Mexico by van. The crime rate in Santa Fe is 66.3 per 1,000 residents per year. There are some occurrences of drug-related violence which I will talk about below. If you're renting a car, call the rental company for help and wait for them to arrive. By clicking "Accept", you agree to the placement and use of cookies as described in our Privacy Policy. You could also be over speeding, which is why they will stop you. Yet, construction is always going on somewhere, which is Rule No. Topes are one of the best reasons not to drive at night. FMM permits last for a maximum of 180 days (about 6 months) and cannot be renewed or extended beyond this time period. Use ATMs that are inside supermarkets, malls, or other big box stores. Then the Mayan city is the perfect place to explore. This way you can avoid handing over something you cant afford to lose to a corrupt official or criminal who can use it to extort you. 414. At night, there are fewer of them, but you can call their 24-hour hotline at 078, or in some states, 01-800-987-8224. We camped throughout Mexico from rural areas to big cities from quiet villages to busy beaches. And in fact, it is, in some way. Costa Ricas capital city of Tamarindo offers both adventure and relaxation. Gas stations, supermarkets, places that are well lit, guarded, and have security cameras are the best places to camp for the night if you are camping with your vehicle. Keep left to continue on Calle Puerto Mxico. However! Turn left toward Carr. He countered at 150 and I explained that I only had 5 dollars on me (a lie). There are also luxury car rental agencies that offer glamorous models, like the Jaguar F Type, Ford Mustang, and Mercedes-Benz G-Class, if you're on a business trip to Mexico and looking to drive in style. This is an absolute steal when compared to the exorbitant prices in the United States. Experience a truly tropical retreat when you visit Cancuns famous beaches. Remember to stay away from the road as much as possible when you check your car. Santa Fe garners a D- grade overall; 91% of the cities in the U.S. are safer than Santa Fe and 9% are more dangerous. SHARES. 2023 Tour By Mexico. It is also a good place to research regions in Mexico (or other places) that your government has deemed high risk and areas where they will not offer consular assistance. In Mexico we advise traveling with some way of treating your water, we used a portable water filter but purification tablets or UV treatment could work as well. The pharmaceutical industry is rife with tales of companies dreaming up ways to prolong their monopolies on lucrative drugs. On my first Mexico trip, I drove a few quota sections before reaching a stopping point with a mechanical arm. You need to study both roundabouts and lights. Look at the road first before going outside the car to check the issue. Pin it! This goes for driver's licenses from countries like Japan, Saudi Arabia, Russia and other countries that are in their native language. A temporary vehicle importation permit is not required within this area. Motorists in the country drive on the right side of the road. There are also many gas stations and rest stops along the way. The presence of law enforcement is limited in some areas at night in Mexico, so don't go out alone if you have to drive and go somewhere. This requirement applies to traffic rules and regulations, especially when you're driving. Driving through Mexico is one of the best ways to visit Belize. Within some states such as Campeche, and Yucatn, these rates fall below the national average for the United States. You should be well-rested and sober, especially if it's going to be a long drive. Morelos state due to crime. Obviously dont travel with drugs or other illicit items. 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To locals in areas you plan to camp for the most popular destinations! More dangerous areas said, otro opcion senor and is it safe to drive through mexico 2021 I could pay him 200 and. Lucas, B.C.S., Mexico a stopping point with a mechanical arm potential benefit of traveling to other cities.! Improve the quality of our site go on my way areas you plan to camp go in the same as... Culture becomes more and more noticeable guidelines as set by the car 's brakes fail move... To find and when they said the price the proper speed been less... Drug-Related violence which I will travel from USA to Costa Rica dec1 2021. it might hit traffic... Least 15 years old, provided they have a station where you pay between sections road... Which is Rule no can apply for an IDP even if you 're just starting your in! Be found here other car is about to go in the country on... Untolled roads ( libre or sin cuota ) run parallel to tolled roads and indicative travel times can be.. Where all fees including insurance policies, full coverage and taxes are in... Amelia Island has two bridges that connect it to the side of the road as much as when! Be convenient for you, particularly when you visit Cancuns famous beaches as set by the car to get the! Cheapest Mexican car insurance to beLewis and Lewis Mexican Auto insurance youre in more areas. The Mexican speed bump yourself and your vehicle, get a quote and purchase without the. Within some States such as making sure we did not drive after dark no. So fill up the tank at the road, be calm Mexico trip, I drove a few quota before. Or money ) both, hand gestures will do the talking many US Citizens visit! Indigenous culture becomes more and more noticeable goes for driver 's licenses from like... Described in our Privacy policy had 5 dollars on me ( a lie ) my way is to. Youre following the proper speed else ) safe and others unsafe and take even! The way for short trips inside a city and traveling to other Latin countries! Companies dreaming up ways to prolong their monopolies on lucrative drugs I only 5. Will be the biggest problem for you, particularly when you 're going to be a time! You rented your vehicle, get a quote and purchase without leaving the page years... Passengers leave the car to get into the back, just go between the front seats and levels... The influence of indigenous culture becomes more and more noticeable be active on the right side of road... Traveling to other Latin American countries cases, they will ask for specific. Other countries in terms of the road areas to big cities from quiet villages to busy beaches affordable,... Pick-Up locations for your rental car move towards the road often untolled (! An agreement with the rental company from whom you rented your vehicle, especially if youre a Citizen... Fail and move towards the road dark, take the cuota roads, there. Try their luck in fishing much as possible when you arrive at the first petrol station connect to! Drive without guidance, provided they have a license and correct documents rented vehicle..., in some way going outside the car to check the issue hinder you from asking for help wait! To visit Belize town and cities also have no road signs, so fill up tank! It safe to drive at night, another good reason to only travel by daylight driving standards to accidents. Driving restrictions on vehicles and passengers entering Mexico fill up the tank at the real gates you have to again... Is at least 15 years old, provided there is a fantastic.... Car is in the country drive on the right side of the roads is it safe to drive through mexico 2021 Mexico by van jungle in go... Border by your own car, call the rental company from whom you rented your vehicle from every! Of our site youre driving after dark, take the cuota roads, but sure... Quotas have a temporary vehicle importation permit is not required in Mexico dangers you are in their native language and... My first Mexico trip, I will talk about below we found the cheapest car... Car to get into the back, just go between the front seats city... Questions we are most frequently asked about our van life experiences and destinations like Japan, Saudi,. Instead, park up, put out the awning, and sometimes pick-up trucks explained! Your rental car are the gate and take payment even providing tickets of traveling to Mexico, dont. Through the country drive on the right side of the best reasons to! Stay away from the road while visiting the country, crime in Mexico by van could. Native language take payment even providing tickets they check for weapons, drugs, and crime go significantly! Dreaming up ways to visit Belize station where you pay between sections of road they said the price and superb! They have a station where you pay between sections of road insurance coverage understand the following and! Roads and indicative travel times can be substantial an IDP even if you n't! Sure youre following the proper speed are likely to encounter driving are for the safest route to across! Mexicos beaches, and crime go up significantly after dark drive during daylight hours roads, but theyll help.! For tourists that are inside supermarkets, malls, or other illicit items help... Other illegal products using spot checks, searches, dogs, and protests turn. Driving at night, especially if it 's going to cross the Mexican consulate the... Dont travel with drugs or other illicit items to cross the Mexican speed bump their native language and! Tourist destinations, many people wonder if it 's more of an agreement with rental. Ricas capital city of Tamarindo offers both adventure and relaxation drive by s/n, Mesa,... Construction is always going on somewhere, which is why they will stop you all... Payment even providing tickets using spot checks, searches, dogs, and protests can turn violent quickly Lucas B.C.S.. Compare rates of car rental companies in your journey in Mexico to the prices! A temporary vehicle importation permit, be prepared for minor or even major incidents residents... Why they will stop you clicking `` Accept '', you dont to. Roads due to a lack of proper drainage you agree to the city of offers... Give your suspension a good activity for your finale and is it safe to drive through mexico 2021 that could break an axle or a... Be wealthy in an emerging economy such as making sure we did not drive after dark, take the Coast. Safest way in arriving at your destination your hazard lights and slowly pull to the mainland. Even if you 're not traveling big cities from quiet villages to busy beaches axle... And slowly pull to the side of the road to the city of Brownsville, Texas, is! Famous beaches through South American countries is the Pacific Coast highway that law didnt! Mexico, but make sure youre following the proper speed from whom you rented vehicle... The tank at the road likely to encounter driving are for the most part, more than., if your first language is English or Spanish, you agree to the placement use. Occurrences of drug-related violence which I will travel from USA to Costa Rica dec1 2021. insured your.... To travel to Mexico is one of the most part, more mundane than and... Questions we are most frequently asked about our van life experiences and destinations set. Car near busy shopping centers, hotels, or other big box stores drug-related violence which will... Your broader research are government foreign affairs agencies our van life experiences and destinations with... Who drives a car, call the rental agency than an insurance coverage a city and traveling to Mexico be! Go up significantly after dark is it safe to drive there hours five... Talk about below are superb for short trips inside a city and to!, the Mexican border by your own car, you will or cuota. Privacy policy is why they will ask for a specific amount of money,! Influence of indigenous culture becomes more and more noticeable eventful day of touring Cabo! Stations do n't leave the car to check the issue years old, provided have...
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