What Is Mazamitla Mexico, Known For? (Directions, Things To Do, Accommodations, And More)

BY  Sibashree Sep 18, 2025

Mazatlan Mexico, despite all its great tourism numbers, is facing serious safety concerns. In 2025, Mazatlan continues to be one of the most successful coastal cities for a maritime tourism boom in Mexico.  According to data from Travel and Tour World, Mazatlan welcomed 62 cruises from 1st January to 14th July 2025. The number of cruise passengers for the same period was 227,138.  Now, beyond a tourism influx, these numbers indicate a revival of the regional economy here. With more tourists visiting Mazatlan, there will be a boost to the local retail, transport, and restaurant businesses. There will also be new employment opportunities.  However, Mazatlan has always been a favorite coastal getaway and is dubbed the “Pearl of the Pacific.” It boasts rich history, culture, and matchless scenic beauty.  Still, with the USA and Canada travel advisories asking you to observe increased caution in Mazatlan, tourist safety remains a concern.  In this Tour and Travel Blog, we will discuss what Mazatlan is known for and how safe it is for tourists now.  What Is Mazatlan Mexico Known For? A Mix Of Classical Experiences And What’s New Mazatlan is an important city in the Mexican Pacific corridor. It also now has improved port facilities, improving the number of cruise visitors to the city.  Furthermore, taking all the safety challenges in stride, Mazatlan is now gearing up for the Carnaval in February-March 2026. So, it’s the best time to explore the best of the city and the attractions that have been added to the city’s landmarks recently.  1. The Malecón The Malecón is a 21-km stretch of an oceanfront boardwalk, and it offers the most amazing views of the Pacific Ocean. It is one of the longest boardwalks in the world and ideal for strolls, bike rides, and cafe visits throughout the day and night. 2. Basilica Of The Immaculate Conception The Basilica is an important landmark of Mazatlan, Mexico. Located near the historic center of the city, the Basilica boasts a mix of Moorish, Baroque-revival, and Gothic architectural styles.  3. Plazuela Machado Mazatlán’s historic center houses Plazuela Machado. It is the best place to learn about the cultural heritage of Mazatlan. It has many 19th-century buildings, live music venues, cafes, restaurants, and cultural hotspots.  4. Stone Island Or Isla De La Piedra View this post on Instagram A post shared by Larry Vanstone (@larry_vanstone) You can plan a day trip to Stone Island. It has the most tranquil ambiance, and it is just a boat ride away from Mazatlan. Furthermore, it is ideal for outdoor activities such as horseback riding and snorkeling. 5. Mercado Pino Suarez View this post on Instagram A post shared by D de Delia | Delia Gaxiola (@ddedelia) Mercado Pino Suarez, or the local market of Mazatlan, is the best place to learn about the local people and culture. Also, you must try the local seafood delicacies and collect some handicrafts as souvenirs.  6. Cliff Divers At El Clavadista If you want to be a little adventurous, the cliff divers at El Clavadista will be the go-to place for you. You can jump here from the high cliffs and into the water below.  7. Angela Peralta Theater View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jaime Marie Webb (@jaimewebbsoprano) The Angela Peralta Theater, named after Angela Peralta, the “Nightingale of Mexico,” dates back to the 19th century. It is now beautifully restored and it hosts many opera and dance shows, and concerts.  8. Gran Acuario Mazatlan Hours Open: 9 AM to 6 PM View this post on Instagram A post shared by Gran Acuario Mazatlán (@granacuariomazatlan) Opened in 2023, Gran Acuario Mazatlan is now the biggest aquarium in the city. It beautifully displays the marine life of the Sea of Cortez. You will find many sea turtles, jellyfish, rays, and sharks in the aquarium.  You will also spot penguins and sea lions here. In addition, there are outdoor spaces for lizards and birds.  Yes, the entry tickets are a little expensive. However, the experience here is unforgettable.  Groups/CategoriesEntry FeeAdults$593Local Adults$470Minors$485Local Minors$420Seniors (Above 65)$450Visitors with DisabilityFree Is It Safe To Travel To Mazatlan Right Now?  The Mexico Travel Advice issued by the Canadian Government, updated on 15th September 2025, has asked travelers to Mexico to “exercise a high degree of caution.” Furthermore, there are specific directives for visitors to Mazatlán and its surrounding areas.  It says,  “In recent weeks, there have been violent clashes between rival armed groups in Culiacán, Mazatlán and their surrounding areas. Armed groups have stopped vehicles on the highway from Culiácan to Mazatlán and other major roads.” Also, the USA travel advisory has issued a Level 4 caution for the entire State of Sinaloa, where Mazatlan is located. Recent drug cartel crimes and acts of terrorism in the state trigger this advisory.  However, beyond these travel advisories, we need to adopt a balanced approach for understanding the safety situations of Mazatlan Mexico. So, here are the details.  1. Transportation Safety The public buses and pulmonías or golf-cart-like-taxis are the best modes of communication in Mazatlan to explore the city like a local.  Furthermore, if you want to avoid the rush, you can take an app cab or the red and green taxis of the city.  2. Crime Levels Yes, drug cartels, pickpocketing, and thefts remain a concern in Mazatlan, like many other areas in Mexico, such as Acapulco. However, at the same time, the government has adopted a heightened security strategy for Mazatlan because it is a key economic zone.  3. Health And Environmental Safety Summer is extremely hot and humid in Mazatlan. Also, the coastal city experiences the rampages of hurricanes from late summer to early fall.  So, when planning a trip to Mazatlan, you must be very careful about the weather conditions.  4. Overall Tourism Security  An increased police presence in the Old Town, Golden Zone, and Malecón is expected to enhance the experience for both local and international visitors. Furthermore, the critical public spaces now have special surveillance cameras and other equipment.  As a result, the city is already experiencing a drop in the number of thefts and pickpocketing.  Is Puerto Vallarta Or Mazatlan Better? Puerto Vallarta is more of a luxury hotspot. However, Mazatlan is more raw and pure if you are willing to have a Mexican experience. Mazatlan is also a maritime tourism hotspot with the charm of a quintessential port city.  However, Puerto Vallarta, in the state of Jalisco, is safer than Mazatlán. According to the US Travel Advisory, Puerto Vallarta is under the “Level: 3 - Reconsider travel” category, while Mazatlan is under the “Level: 4 - Do not travel” category. Mazatlan, Mexico: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about Mazatlan, Mexico.  1. Is There A Hurricane Season In Mazatlan? Yes, there is a hurricane season in Mazatlan. It starts from 15th May and continues till 30th November. Furthermore, the city experiences the maximum rampages of hurricanes from July to September.  2. Can You Swim In The Ocean In Mazatlan? Yes, you can swim in the ocean in Mazatlan. There are swimmable beaches such as Playa Norte and Playa Los Pinos. Furthermore, many organizers offer eco tours where you can swim with dolphins in their natural habitats.  3. What Is The Best Time To Visit Mazatlan? Late November to March is the best time to visit Mazatlan. The hurricane season is over, and these months have a moderate and less humid weather condition. Furthermore, the Mazatlán Carnaval in the months of February/March allows you to have the best cultural experience in the city.  4. What To Eat In Mazatlan? Mazatlan is famous for its shrimp and seafood. You cannot miss grilled fish or pescado zarandeado here. Also, spicy shrimp ceviche or aguachile is a must-try dish in Mazatlan. 

BY  Sibashree Sep 15, 2025

“Many violent crimes take place in Mexico. They include homicide, kidnapping, carjacking, and robbery. There is a risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Mexico.” This is how the travel advisory summary of the U.S. State Department opens. The advisory, issued on 12th August 2025, asks travelers to exercise Level 2 or increased caution.  Furthermore, the UK Foreign Travel Advice about Mexico says,  “In the aftermath of Hurricane Otis, normal work by local authorities to reduce risks to tourists in Acapulco’s tourist area has stopped while they focus on recovery efforts. There are reports of an increase in crime, robbery and looting across the city, including in previously designated tourist areas. Take extreme care if you travel to Acapulco.” Also on forums such as Reddit and Quora, everyone is talking about is Acapulco safe now or not. Moreover, about the declining popularity of Acalpulco, one user on Reddit has written,  “No, absolutely not. There were some incidents a few years back of dead bodies washing up on beaches with tourists taking pictures (cartel killings). The city is awash in crime and the economy is really bad. In the 1970s-1980s, most of the family-tourism traffic and nightlife moved to Cancun and the Riviera Maya (which is a purpose-built region) and then most of the upscale tourism shifted to Puerto Vallarta and Cabo San Lucas. Acapulco is a dump these days.” Once a dominant global destination, Acapulco is now a forgotten or lesser-celebrated name among travelers. In this Tour and Travel Blog, we will discuss the serious safety concern impacting the life and tourism in Acapulco and how it is planning to make a comeback.  Is Acapulco Safe Now? The Resilience And The Concerns Acapulco is the first international tourist destination in Mexico. With a beach area of 50 kilometers, verdant mountains, and lagoons, it is an ideal beach tourism retreat in the heart of Mexico.  Furthermore, Acapulco was prompt in response to the COVID-19 debacle and adhered to the safety and hygiene standards. The World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) even awarded Acapulco the “Safe Travels” stamp.  Even after Hurricane Otis in October 2023, the city showed its resilience, with international travel airlines such as United Airlines resuming their services by May 2024. Since then, the city has also hosted major events such as the Mexican Open and Tianguis Turistico, or the annual tourism conference of Mexico.  In addition, there have been announcements of major inaugurations such as The Pierre & Diamonds, a luxury real estate project by the Mundo Imperial slated to open in 2026.  Moreover, Visit Acapulco, the official tourism organization of the city, has assured that hundreds of families enjoy trips to Acapulco because of the peace and tranquility.  While the grit and the character of the city to bounce back are not to be questioned, there are some areas of serious concern. The Increasing Crime Rate In Acapulco This increasing crime rate is one of the reasons why Acapulco is losing its charm as a spring break destination in 2025. However, places such as Puerto Vallarta and Cabo San Lucas are generally considered safer travel destinations in Mexico.  Nevertheless, here are the details of crime rates in Mexico. (Source: Numbeo).  Crime Rates in MexicoRatingCommentCrime Level80.56 Very HighCrime Increase Rate for the Last Five Years67.39HighViolent Crime77.52HighCrime due to Drug Dealing and Using67.44High From A Celebrity Hotspot To A Struggling Beach Location: The Transformation Of Acapulco Acapulco, on the Pacific Coast of Mexico, has been a popular celebrity tourism destination throughout the 20th century. It had earned the reputation of being the Riviera of Mexico, with celebrities such as Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor flocking to this Mexican beach vacation frequently.  However, the high rates of drug cartel crimes and violent crimes have made this beach retreat less popular among international tourists. Today, tourists are looking for safer alternatives such as Los Cabos or Cancun.  What’s So Special About Acapulco? Know Things You Cannot Miss In Acapulco The beaches and the unique gastronomic experience are the things you cannot miss in Acapulco. Here are the details.  1. The Best Beaches In Acapulco The beaches of Acapulco are beautiful, with the Pacific Ocean kissing the golden sandy shores. Bars, restaurants, and other amenities make the beaches of Acapulco the ultimate destination for family vacations.  At the same time, you can bring out your adventurous self on these beaches with activities such as snorkeling, surfing, parasailing, and skiing.  The most popular beaches in Acapulco are Condesa Beach, Pichilingue Beach, Majahua Beach, and Barra de Coyuca.  2. The Best Gastromic Experience In Acapulco Zocalo de Acapulco is the hub if you want to try the authentic flavors of Acapulco and the best international cuisines. You can try fish tacos, enchiladas, and tamales from the local vendors in Acapulco. Furthermore, Pozole is a kind of popular Mexican stew. It has variations such as green, white or red.  The Acapulco Se Transforma Contigo (Acapulco Transforms With You) Program: The Way Forward For Acapulco  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Partido Morena (@morena_partido) The Mexican Government has recently issued a decree and the Acapulco se Transforma Contigo (Acapulco Transforms With You) program to build an “Integrally Planned Center (CIP).” According to a report in Mexico Business News, Sebastián Ramírez, the Deputy Minister of Tourism, has said that the Federal Government will invest MX$800 million for the development of the port.  Furthermore, for many other cities in Mexico, CIP has been a successful model, promoting a tourism boom. Therefore, it will play a crucial role in the city's transformation.  In addition, there will be a revitalization of the Bay of Acapulco. The revitalization program will create a historical, tourism, and cultural circuit of 5 km.  Moreover, Acapulco is going to have the Maribus maritime transportation system, protected natural areas such as the Puerto Marques Complex, and the Coyuca-Tres Palos Lagoon System, along with amenities such as free Wi-Fi on the beaches.  In addition, there will be major road and public infrastructure developments, like the National Water Commission (CONAGUA) investing MX$7.9 billion for better potable water, sanitation, and flood management facilities.  So, Acapulco, Mexico, is standing on the verge of a massive transformation, and with a controlled crime rate, the city has every potential to regain its glory as a celebrated travel destination.  Is Acapulco Safe? Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about safety in Acalpulco.  1. What Is The Safest Way To Go Around Acapulco? Acapulco has an extensive bus network. It also has many other shared ride services. However, considering the safety scenario of the city, it is better to book app cabs or opt for the pre-arranged airport services.  2. What Language Do They Speak In Acapulco? Most people in Acapulco speak Spanish. However, if you don’t know Spanish, you will also find people speaking English. Still, you can learn some basic words and phrases in Spanish for easy conversations.  3. What Is The Safest City In Mexico? Mérida, the capital of Yucatán, is often considered the safest city in Mexico. The U.S. State Department also considers Mérida safe for travelers. The USA travel advisory has also just issued a “Level 1: Exercise normal precautions" statement for the region. Furthermore, the city boasts a strong sense of community involvement and civic pride. In addition, it has the best infrastructure.  4. Is Acapulco Or Cancun Safer? Cancun is a safer place than Acapulco, considering the level of crime in Acapulco is 80.56, and in Cancun, it is 60.50. Furthermore, the overall crime index of Acapulco is 66.27, and for Cancun, it is 55.27. (Source: Numbeo).  Read Also: What Is Mazamitla Mexico, Known For? (Directions, Things To Do, Accommodations, And More) Is Monterrey Mexico Safe For A Holiday? Decoding Your Travel Safety For A Trip To Mexico Valladolid Mexico: Exploring The City That Was Built In 1543

BY  Sibashree Apr 10, 2025

The Estadio BBVA Stadium in Monterrey, Mexico, is gearing up for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Furthermore, Monterrey is about to get new high-end hotels such as MS Milenium, Live Aqua, and Thompson.  So, Monterrey will be a key element if Mexico wants to seize the opportunity of a sports tourism boom in the global landscape.  Furthermore, Monterrey is the capital of the state of Nuevo León, which has been experiencing a massive tourism boost in the last few years.  In 2024, the number of tourists to Monterrey shot up to 15 million, which was 250% more than the 4.3 million tourist visits in 2021. “We have worked tirelessly for the past three years to position Nuevo León in the world through strategic actions and the implementation of key projects,” Martínez said at a press conference on Tuesday. “Our vision has been clear: to turn the state of Nuevo León into a benchmark for national and international tourism.”Mari Carmen Martínez Villarreal, Tourism Minister, Nuevo León However, despite the best efforts and the changing scenarios, the question, “Is Monterrey Mexico safe?” still persists.  In this Tour and Travel blog, we will discuss is it safe to travel to Monterrey Mexico and how safe Monterrey is for living.  How Safe Is Monterrey Mexico For Traveling?  Let’s begin the discussion of Monterrey as a travel destination with the Mexico Travel Advisory issued by the Bureau of Consular Affairs, the U.S. Department of State, on September 6, 2024.  The advisory asks U.S. government employees and U.S. travelers in Mexico to travel between Nuevo Laredo and Monterrey only in the daylight.  Furthermore, U.S. government employees must travel between Nuevo Laredo and Monterrey with prior authorization.  Also, recent research on " Is Monterrey Mexico Safe” has shown that the crimes in Monterrey touch the daily lives of the residents, so they can impact travelers.  Further, the war against drugs that started in the city in 2006 has caused a rise in aggression and criminal activities such as robberies and homicides.  We must not forget that in September 2023, twelve mutilated corpses were found1 in Monterrey as a result of a drug cartel conflict.  Overall, during the span from 1994 to 2023, there has been a significant rise in the number of deaths due to criminal activities in Monterrey. In 2021, the number was the highest, reaching 12,380.  Again, as of February 2024, domestic violence was the most common crime in Monterrey. Thievery and drug dealing are two other common crimes in Monterrey.  Is Monterrey Mexico Safe For Tourists? Understanding The Common Crimes In Monterrey Here are the most common types of crimes in Monterrey, Mexico.  Domestic Violence Theft Drug Dealing Property Crimes Robbery and Assault Motorcycle Theft Cartel Activity Traffic Violations and Accidents Among all these crimes, the high crime rate of 62.11 for assault and armed robbery can be a serious concern for tourists. Again, the vandalism and theft rate of 55.27 raises questions about the safety of travelers in Monterrey. Having said that, the increase in crimes in Monterrey over the last five years has been moderate, with a score of 52.67. The level of crime in the city is 59.04.  Overall, the crime index of Monterry is 48.12, and the safety index is 51.88. So, Monterrey is a moderately safe place for tourists these days. Is Monterrey, Mexico, Safe At Night? With the Sun going down, Monterrey raises some serious concerns about travelers’ safety. At the same time, the safety rating of travelers walking alone in Monterrey is 78.56.  During the night, the same rating goes down to 37.78.  So, despite Monterrey having a vibrant nightlife with places such as San Pedro and Barrio Antiguo as the epicenters, you must practice some caution while exploring Monterrey at night.  It is best if you take a Uber or app cab with the best safety features to mover around the city at night.  Safety Tips You Must Follow While Traveling To Monterrey Here are some personal safety precautions you must observe while traveling to Monterrey.  Research well and stay updated about the places you want to explore. Avoid boarding unlicensed taxis. Use app cabs. Be careful about your personal belongings and dress moderately. Adhere to local regulations and customs.  Keep digital and physical copies of important documents. Register your trip with the right authorities.  Is Monterrey Mexico Safe? Safe Places To Travel In Monterrey, Mexico  Monterrey has many safe and exciting places for tourists. These are the places you can safely visit during your trip to Monterrey. PlacesWhy Visit?San Pedro Garza GarciaVisit San Pedro Garza Garcia if you love history. It was once one of the most popular ports in the USA. Chipinque Ecological ParkIt is an amazing reserve by the mountains. It is also ideal for mountain biking and hiking. MARCO Art MuseumMARCO Art Museum is the go-to place for connoisseurs interested in contemporary arts. Cola de Caballo WaterfallWith a height of 25 m, this waterfall in Nuevo León is a beautiful place to hang out. Cerro de la Silla MountainA part of the Sierra Madre Oriental system, Cerro de la Silla Mountain is a popular hiking and trekking destination in Monterrey.  Is Monterrey A Good Place To Live? With a low cost of living and high healthcare and climate indexes, Monterrey is a decent place to live in.  Here are the key parameters and their ratings. ParametersIndex RatingSafety Index51.88Health Care Index68.82Cost of Living Index41.70Traffic Commute Time Index32.09 Monterrey is home to some of the most important industrial and economic zones in Mexico. The city has all modern amenities and infrastructure. Furthermore, it is safer than many other cities in Mexico. So, Is Monterrey Mexico Safe? How The Montmerry Government Putting The Best Efforts  The Monterrey government has taken various security and law enforcement measures, regulatory reforms, and community engagement initiatives to lower the crime rate in Monterrey.  The table below gives you a detailed idea about is Monterrey Mexico safe or not and how the government is planning to combat the safety concerns.  Law Enforcement and Stronger Security MeasuresReforms in Criminal JusticeCommunity Engagement and Preventive Measures• Connecting business and hotels with law enforcement through rapid response systems• Training security officers according to the US Embassy standards• Use of technology in surveillance and gathering evidence• Increased presence of police and military• Making public trials• Identifying the weaknesses in the criminal justice system• Community programs to eliminate the root causes of crimes, including poverty and lack of opportunities• Establishing hotel security communities• Bolstering surveillance and safety measures in popular tourist areas So, the government is trying to change the fabric of the city with the right implementation of community development and stronger security measures.  Is Monterrey Mexico Safe? Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 1. How Safe Is Monterrey Mexico Right Now? Monterrey Mexico is moderately safe right now. It has a crime rate of 48.12 and a safety index of 51.88. 2. What Is The Safest City In Mexico? Mérida is the safest city in Mexico. As the capital of the Yucatán state, it has a low crime rate. Further, the friendly locals here make it the best place to live and travel in Mexico. 3. Do They Speak English In Monterrey Mexico? Yes, most people speak English in Monterrey. It is an international business center in Mexico and it is close to the U.S. border.  4. Where Do Rich People Live In Monterrey? The rich people of Monterrey live in San Pedro Garza García. It has high-rise buildings, upscale shopping destinations, and affluent neighborhoods.  5. Is Mexico Safe For Indian Tourists? The Embassy of India in Mexico considers Mexico “reasonably safe” for Indian tourists. However, it asks travelers to stay careful about crimes such as snatching and pickpocketing.  6. Is There A Warning About Traveling To Mexico? Yes, there has been a warning from the U.S. State Department about increasing cases of violent and drug-related problems in Mexico. Robberies, kidnapping, and carjacking are other areas of crime raising concerns among the travel advisories of various countries.  7. Do I Need A Visa For Mexico? Your requirements for a Visa to travel to Mexico depend on your nationality. For example, the United States, the United Kingdom, Japan, Canada, and other members of the Schengen Area do not need a visa to visit Mexico if the visitor has a valid visa or residence permit.  8. Is It Safe To Drive To Monterrey Mexico? Yes, driving in Monterrey Mexico is safe if you stay on the toll roads. These roads are patrolled by military personnel. So, crime rates are low on these roads.  Read Next... Unmasking The Most Dangerous Cities In Mexico These Are The 30+ Things To Do In Mexico City That You Must Try! 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