Is Matamoros Safe for Travel in 2024?

Matamoros, Mexico
Safety Score
61

Matamoros, officially known as Heroica Matamoros, is a city in the northeastern Mexican state of Tamaulipas, and the municipal seat of the homonymous municipality. It is on the southern bank of the Rio Grande, directly across the border from Brownsville, Texas, in the United States. Matamoros is the second-largest city in the state of Tamaulipas. Matamoros is the 39th largest city in Mexico and anchors the second-largest metropolitan area in Tamaulipas.

Warnings & Dangers in Matamoros

Overall Risk

OVERALL RISK : MEDIUM

Matamoros is not the safest place for travelers, but if you use common sense and take precautions, you can avoid most of the troubles.

Transport & Taxis Risk

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK : MEDIUM

Public transport is not well-developed. Traffic on the roads can be very busy and unsafe. Pickpockets are common on buses. Use only licensed taxi services.

Pickpockets Risk

PICKPOCKETS RISK : MEDIUM

Like any significant city in Matamoros, pickpockets do happen. Especially on public transport during rush hour. Keep track of your belongings, and do not leave bags and wallets unattended on the tables in the cafe.

Natural Disasters Risk

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK : LOW

There is a risk of river flooding in Matamoros because of the coastline and rivers here. Check official sources on these risks before the trip.

Mugging Risk

MUGGING RISK : HIGH

There is a risk of armed attacks or kidnapping in Matamoros, and the common goal of robbers is to get your money and valuables. Therefore, if you are attacked, give the robbers what they ask of you to save your life.

Terrorism Risk

TERRORISM RISK : MEDIUM

Terrorist attacks in the city are often associated with internal political showdowns. External threats from terrorist organizations usually do not exist in the city.

Scams Risk

SCAMS RISK : MEDIUM

Fraud is commonly associated with street vendors offering counterfeit goods to tourists. Don't buy them even if the price is very attractive. Also, only withdraw money from ATMs at banks with cameras to avoid skimming your card.

Women Travelers Risk

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK : MEDIUM

Women are not advised to travel to this city alone; it can be hazardous. You also need to be quiet and wear modest clothing.

How Safe Is Matamoros for Tourists?

Matamoros is a relatively safe city to travel to.

The crime index is at an average level.

The main problems are associated with petty theft and corruption.

High-risk crimes in Matamoros such as murder, robbery, car theft, extortion and sexual assault are quite rare.

However, this does not mean that it is worth relaxing.

Deception of travelers and extortion of money still often occurs.

In addition, public and tourist buses are being attacked by armed criminal groups.

Unfortunately, the likelihood of being held hostage for a ransom demand is extremely high.

Try not to shine with a lot of cash and jewelry.

This attracts scammers.

Exercise caution when using debit or credit cards in the Matamoros area – many cases here involve cloning or counterfeiting debit or credit cards.
Withdraw money only in ATM with banks with cameras.

Bring only the amount of cash you need, use reputable ATMs in safe locations.

It is also tedious to be careful on the roads of the city, especially if you are traveling in your own car.

Traffic can be crazy sometimes.

On the highway, skirmishes occur from time to time between criminals and the Mexican police.

To stay up to date on what’s happening, tourists are encouraged to browse the dedicated OSAC Mexico web page to find their own policy reports, consular messages, and contact information.

Do I Need a Visa to Visit Matamoros?

No visas are required for tourist proposals to enter Mexico for many countries of Europe, US citizens, etc. You should have a valid passport and a tourist permit. The maximum possible stay is 180 days. You should visit the Mexican embassy for a more extended stay or other options.

Which Currency Is Used in Matamoros?

The Mexican peso – is the official currency in Mexico. There are one hundred Mexican centavos to every peso. The symbol for the Mexican Peso is $, so you can see MX$ or MN$ in banks and exchange points.

How's the Weather like in Matamoros?

In Matamoros, the summers are long and hot; the winters are short, cool, and dry; and it is a partly cloudy year-round. The best time of year to visit Matamoros for hot-weather activities is from mid-May to early July.

What Do I Need to Know about Airports in Matamoros?

General Servando Canales International Airport, also known as Matamoros International Airport, is an international airport located in the city of Matamoros, Tamaulipas State, Mexico, near the US-Mexico border. It serves domestic and international air travel in the city of Matamoros.

Should I Get Travel Insurance for My Travels?

A travel insurance policy is a must when visiting a foreign country or city. Make sure you got it before starting your journey; the customs officer may ask for it.

What Are Some Things to Do in Matamoros?

Matamoros, the full official name of Eroyka-Matamoros, is the city and administrative center of the municipality of the same name in the Mexican state of Tamaulipas. Located on the right bank of the Rio Grande, near the mouth of the river, on the border with the United States. Opposite the city, on the left bank of the river, is Brownsville, Texas

Is the Water in Matamoros Safe to Drink?

Tap water is not drinkable in Matamoros. You should buy bottled water or boil tap water.

Is Uber Safe in Matamoros?

There is an Uber taxi in the city; you can call a taxi from your smartphone application. The fare will depend on the time of day, and the distance traveled.

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2 Comments
  1. Avatar for Jack Morrow Jack Morrow

    Please update this assessment of Matamoros. It is a violent, dangerous place to visit!! The killing of tourist a few days ago reinforces this!!!

  2. Avatar for thai del barriodelacruz thai del barriodelacruz

    monterrey n.l. mexico homeless family need help bath, clothing, shoes, e.t.c. casa help! please come to visit soon saturdaynight.

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