Mexico : Safety by City
- Acapulco
- Aguascalientes
- Cabo San Lucas
- Cancun
- Chichen Itza
- Chihuahua
- Cozumel
- Cuernavaca
- Culiacan
- Durango
- Guadalajara
- Guanajuato
- Hermosillo
- Ixtapa
- Juarez
- Leon
- Los Cabos
- Manzanillo
- Matamoros
- Merida
- Mexicali
- Mexico City
- Monterrey
- Morelia
- Oaxaca
- Playa del Carmen
- Puebla
- Puerto Vallarta
- Queretaro City
- Reynosa
- Saltillo
- San Luis Potosi
- San Miguel de Allende
- Sayulita
- Tijuana
- Tulum
- Zacatecas
- Zapopan
- Zihuatanejo
Oaxaca is officially the Free and Sovereign State of Oaxaca. It is divided into 570 municipalities, of which 418 (almost three-quarters) are governed by the system of usos y costumbres (customs and traditions) with recognized local forms of self-governance. Its capital city is Oaxaca de Juárez.
Warnings & Dangers in Oaxaca
OVERALL RISK : LOW
Oaxaca is considered one of the safest cities in the region. The crime rate is low here. You should beware of the outskirts of the city and watch your belongings, especially during the holidays.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK : MEDIUM
Public transport is well developed and safe. Keep an eye on your wallets on buses to avoid pickpocketing. Use only licensed taxi services.
PICKPOCKETS RISK : MEDIUM
Pickpocketing happens just like everywhere else - in the area of train stations, in the main squares, and in places where tourists gather. Always keep track of your belongings, do not leave your wallet and phone unattended.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK : LOW
The city is prone to the possibility of earthquakes, but they do not happen often. Study the seismic activity in the region prior to your trip here.
MUGGING RISK : LOW
The risk of severe robbery and armed attacks is shallow in Oaxaca. There is little danger of these attacks in the suburbs. However, the likelihood that you will be attacked is minimal.
TERRORISM RISK : LOW
The risk of terrorism is low in Oaxaca. Of course, the risk of attacks still exists due to the international position of the city. The global risk of terrorist attacks in public areas exists worldwide, so tourists should be vigilant.
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 : MEDIUM
Women traveling alone in Oaxaca should avoid late-night walks and be very discreet on the city streets. Heightened precautions won't hurt.
How Safe Is Oaxaca for Tourists?
Oaxaca is considered a reasonably safe city to travel to.
Even though the crime rate here ranges from low to medium, most problems do not relate to visiting tourists.
The main problems in the city are related to corruption, vandalism, and petty theft.
The main part of the problems for tourists here is associated with street beggars.
Often times, they can stalk you and ask for money.
Usually, in order for them to get loose, it is enough to ignore them and walk by.
Do not under any circumstances get involved in conversations and quarrels with them.
The best thing is to just silently pass no or say a firm no.
Also, don’t trust strangers who offer you drinks or treats.
These may be scammers who will sprinkle you with opiate and rob you.
If you are traveling in your own car, beware of local drivers.
They often drive very erratically and do not follow traffic rules.
As elsewhere, keep track of your belongings and documents.
Do not leave phones and bags unattended, especially in crowded places.
Given the fact that political demonstrations are common and can occur throughout the country, tourists are advised to stay away from these gatherings.
Withdraw money only from ATMs with banks with cameras and security.
This will help avoid skimming data from your cards.
Do I Need a Visa to Visit Oaxaca?
The entry requirements are the following – your passport should be valid for the period you are staying in Mexico. Tourists do not need a visa but will have to complete an immigration form either when they arrive or online in advance. A valid passport is a must.
Which Currency Is Used in Oaxaca?
The official currency is the Mexican Nuevo Peso. Debit and credit cards are accepted for payment and in ATMs, or you can exchange your money in exchange offices.
How's the Weather like in Oaxaca?
In Oaxaca, the wet season is overcast, the dry season is partly cloudy, and warm year-round. The best time of year to visit Oaxaca for warm-weather activities is from late February to mid-May.
What Do I Need to Know about Airports in Oaxaca?
Xoxocotlán International Airport is an international airport located in Oaxaca City, Oaxaca, Mexico. The airport has only one terminal that handles domestic and international air traffic. An airport lounge operated by Global Lounge Network is located at the terminal.
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 Oaxaca?
The southern Mexican state of Oaxaca is an enchanting combination of world-class beaches, UNESCO World Heritage-listed wonders, and delectable cuisine. The jewel in its crown is the Oaxaca state capital, as rich in color as a culture with a conscious finesse that belies its austere underbelly.
Is the Water in Oaxaca Safe to Drink?
In the city of Oaxaca and surrounding areas, and for us, it holds throughout the state, do not drink tap water.
Is Uber Safe in Oaxaca?
There is no Uber taxi in Oaxaca. You can use any other local taxi services.
Very helpful. Thanks!