Is Queretaro Mexico Safe in 2024? Crime Statistics of Queretaro

Is Queretaro Mexico safe to visit in 2024? The state is a tourist haven with a lot of historic sites. For example, in the capital of the state, you can visit interesting places such as the aqueduct of Querétaro and the Museum of Arts of Queretaro. But the question probably running through your mind is, what about the crime rate in this Mexican region?

Keep reading, and uncover keying in detailed safety statistics in the state and the capital. What areas you should visit and what better to avoid? Also, you will learn 7 important tips that make your trip secure and hassle-free. Without further ado, let’s get straight into it!

Is Queretaro Mexico Safe to Visit in 2024 – Key Takeaways

1. Cartel Violence Risk – MEDIUM
2. Kidnappings Risk – LOW
3. Fraud Risk – LOW
4. Petty Theft Risk – LOW
5. Level of Danger When Driving – LOW
6. Level of Danger in Buses – LOW
7. Level of Danger in Taxi – LOW
8. Level of Danger at Night – MEDIUM
9. Bad Areas – Corregidora, San Juan Del Rio, San José El Alto
10. Safe Places – Cadereyta de Montes, Tequisquiapan, Santiago de Querétaro, El Marqués
11. Crime in Queretaro compared to other cities in Mexico – Rating based on real reviews from travelers and locals according to Numbeo. Crime index meaning: 0-20 is very low, 20-40 is low, 40-60 is moderate, 60-80 is high, and 80-100 is very high.

12. Number of crimes in the Queretaro state compared to other states in Mexico:

How do we determine risk levels?

All material presented in this article is based on official Mexican and U.S. government data and recommendations, statistics from reputable publications, and local news reports. The information is intended for general guidance purposes only and does not constitute professional travel advice.

Our danger level study is based on:

1. Mexican government statistics National incidents of crime for 2023, January 2024.
2. US Government travel advisory levels and precautions in 2024.
3. US Government travel map in 2024.
4. Risk map analysis of the Mexico Cartel War in 2023.
5. Elcri map of most violent tourist destinations and homicides map upon on the Mexican Justice System and the INEGI in 2023 and 2024.
6. Numbeo’s statistics are derived from the real experiences of travelers and residents in 2024.
7. News summaries from local presses as well as authoritative resources from Mexico and the United States in 2023 and 2024. In some cases, these data are taken for an earlier period if the type of crime or hazard is not present in 2023 and 2024.

Each risk level will be indicated by a different color red for high risk, orange for medium risk, and green for low risk.

Risk Levels Meaning:

1. High Risk: High number of offenses in the last year, skyrocketing incidents, crime rate higher than the Mexican average. Regarding Numbeo travelers express fear and concern.
2. Medium Risk: The amount of infractions over the past year is close to the national average. Visitors’ worries and concerns are at a moderate level according to Numbeo.
3. Low Risk: Low number of prior year offenses, there has been a decrease in incidents, and crime is lower than the Mexican average. Travelers feel safe according to Numbeo statistics.

Crime in Santiago de Queretaro

While there may be skepticism about visiting Mexico due to its reputation for danger and crime, Queretaro does not suffer from this problem too much. It is a beautiful state with multiple attractions, such as the Historic Centre, the Sierra Girda natural wonder, and the beautiful southern fields and forests.

An official report by the Government of Mexico shows there was a total of 63,420 crimes in the state in 2023. Out of this, only 4,732 were recorded in December. As of January 2024, this value was 5,031. A report by Elcri derived using data from Police Investigations shows only 20 homicides were recorded in January 2024 in the state.

As for the state capital, over the past 3 years, crime in Queretaro has witnessed a 72.90% rise, according to Numbeo data. However, the city’s crime rate is relatively low at 39.76 compared to other cities. Now, let’s go deeper into the details of the particular crimes in the state.

Risk of Encountering Cartel Violence – Moderate

While Queretaro City is generally one of the safest cities, gang violence has also affected the state. The Jalisco Cartel – New Generation (CJNG) is predominant in the area. This has caused arrests and fights in the state. Sometimes rival gangs like the CDS and Juarez cartel interfere.

On 22nd October 2023, there was a shootout that left 11 people dead, according to the AP. Also, with reports that gang violence may increase according to Border report, Queretaro may be affected. In 2023, there was also a shooting on the Mexico-Querétaro highway. While there were no people injured, it was still wrapped in gang activity, according to the REFORMA.

This violence is mainly sparked by:

1. Turf wars with other rival gangs
2. Arresting of carte officials
3. Threats from the police

Risk of Kidnapping – Low

One thing that frightens most tourists when visiting new places is the threat of being held ransom. You should still be on the lookout for suspicious activity in Queretaro state. Regarding the official report of Secretariat for Security and Citizen Protection (Secretaría de Seguridad y Protección Ciudadana) in 2023, there were fixed 12 cases of kidnapping and 265 other crimes against personal liberty. As for January 2024, the values were 1 and 26 respectively.

Also according to the US State Department, kidnapping is not a major concern in Queretaro as opposed to crime. Furthermore, there are serious penalties for kidnapping in the state. For instance, Jaime Torrijos was sentenced to 250 years for the kidnapping of 3 people and the murder of 2 in Querétaro.

Fraud Risk – Low

Like most crimes circulating the globe, fraud can’t miss the list. In Queretaro, you are less likely to run into a fraudulent encounter. According to the Security and Citizen Protection Secretary, the statistics clocked in at 4,676 in 2023, which is quite low.

Some of the most common scams include:

1. Rental scams: Scammers may offer properties for rent or for sale at very low prices, but disappear after receiving deposits or down payments.
2. Counterfeit goods: Selling counterfeit or imitation goods, such as clothing, electronics, or luxury goods, in markets or from street vendors.
3. Credit card skimming: The illegal collection of credit card information using hacked card readers at gas stations, restaurants, or ATMs.

Petty Theft Risk – Low

The sad news is that you will likely encounter petty robbers in most Mexican cities you’ll visit. In Queretaro, Mexico City, the situation is not that different. But the chances of your wallet or iPhone being snatched while cruising down the street are considerably low. According to Numbeo, in the capital of the state this number falls at 36.11%.

However, don’t attract unnecessary attention by flaunting larger wads of cash or wearing conspicuous jewelry. Exercise extra caution when walking in streets like the one bordering the Jardin Zenea during the wee hours.

Places to Steer Clear of in Queretaro

Queretaro is one of the places in Mexico where you will meet a lot of beautiful attractions. Unfortunately, some areas may pose a risk to you. Here are a few major cities in the state that may trouble you slightly. They include:

1. Corregidora: This is a relatively safe state with a low crime rate, hovering around 24.8 crimes per 100,000 inhabitants.
2. San Juan Del Rio: In this city, what you might worry about is breaking into your home. According to Numbeo, this figure is at 62.50%.
3. San José El Alto: The city of El Alto has a history of purse snatching; hence, you should be on the lookout.

Other general areas you can avoid in the neighborhood include Lomas de Casa Blanca, Bolaños, and Laderas de San Pedro. These places are riddled with petty crimes and mugging. In some of these places, taxi drivers won’t even risk entering.

These include:

1. Working with organizations like the UN to increase awareness of family responsibility and offering self-defense programs.
2. Supplementing protocols for punishing and repressing human trafficking.

Check out the latest crime statistics for January 2024 for municipalities in the Queretaro state below:

The Absolute Traveler’s Transport Guide

In this section, I will provide you with information regarding traveling while in Queretaro. Will you be safe? What transportation means are the most popular? What to look out for when traveling? All these I shall answer below. Let’s get straight into it.

Is it Safe to Drive in Queretaro Mexico? – Low Risk

If you want to reap the whole experience of chauffering yourself around in Queretaro, I will be pleased to inform you that it is generally safe. Queretaro has low theft occurrences when driving.

You also won’t experience any form of aggravated assault on the roads of Queretaro. However, be privy to the state’s driving regulations drafted by the Mexican government to prevent getting pulled over. When you find yourself traveling areas you don’t know, use a GPS to make your travels easier and more accurate.

There being no travel restrictions, most of the routes are safe. Here are some of them:

1. Boulevard De Las Ámericas – Jardines De San Jose.
2. Boulevard De Las Ámericas – Fracc. Vistana.
3. Chedraui – Fracc. Vistana.
4. San Pablo – El Portico.

As for the capital of the state, generally, the safety index related to vehicles according to Numbeo, lies between 37.38 and 54.48.

Is it Safe in Buses in Queretaro Mexico? – Low Risk

In Queretaro, buses are the most common means of transport. They are generally safe and will get you from point A to B without exposing you to danger since you will travel with crowds.

However, exercise caution when using public transportation so you don’t lose your belongings. Also, it will save you from pickpockets. I recommend using reliable bus services like Senda, which often ply the Queretaro route.

Other safe bus services include:

1. Futura
2. Chihuahuenses
3. Anahuac

You can also use Busbud to get a premium experience. This service was mainly made for tourists to enable you to travel with ease.

Is it Safe in Taxis in Queretaro Mexico? – Low Risk

When using taxis, to ensure you are safe, only board registered and authorized taxis. Apps like Uber are available to get you rides like in the States. When traveling, regardless of the means, however, a safety tip I will leave with you is to pre-plan your routes so that if anything seems out of the ordinary, you can call it out early on.

You can also use apps like DiDi to get around. DiDi has better rates and drivers; therefore, I would recommend it. You can get it on apps like Google Play.

Is Queretaro Safe at Night? – Moderate Risk

If you are looking for the safest city for a night walk the Queretaro is a great choice. It is one of the few cities in Mexico boasting quiet security during the night. While the statistics are in your favor, you don’t want to risk it by walking alone in poorly lit and isolated areas, as it could still make you an easy target. According to Numbeo, the safety rate is 64.02%.

If you have an affinity for night walks and the nightlife, don’t let the new environment restrict you. Just be sure to always have your belongings with you and be safe. Also, keep tabs on your environment.

Safe Places to Tour in Queretaro: UNESCO World Heritage Site

This state boasts several places you can visit and get lost in the enthralment of the location. One of the best places to check out in this Mexican city is Downtown Queretaro. It is popularly known as the historic center (Centro Historica), featuring several artifacts from colonial architecture to art galleries. Here are some of the cities you can also tour:

1. Cadereyta de Montes: This city is in the Northeastern part of the state and boasts several attractions like the Peña de Bernal.
2. Tequisquiapan: This town is colorful and has rich colonial architecture. Their festivals, like the Wine and Cheese Festival, are also quite intriguing.
3. Santiago de Querétaro: This is the biggest city in Central Mexico, located near San Miguel de Allende. The city has several tourist centers, including the Querétaro Museum of Art, and several art tours and activities.

4. El Marqués: While not a very popular city, there are great places to visit in the city of El Marqués, including the Parque Bicentenario and Balvanera Golf and Country Club.

There are other great areas in the neighborhood you can tour, including:

• El Refugio
• Campanario
• Juriquilla
• Candiles

As for the capital city feel free to visit and witness colonial architecture in the ancient building in the historic center of Queretaro and the rural areas to explore the landscape. Here are some recommendations for a while:

1. The Theater of the Republic Tours and Activities, where you will witness firsthand the Mexican anthem being sung for the first time in the colonial city.
2. The Iglesia de Santa Rosa de Viterbo

3. The Vinedos la Redonda to see the numerous wineries and vineyards.

Safety Tips and Precautions for Queretaro

After reviewing that this historic center in Central Mexico is quite a safe place to visit, there are a few precautions to take. Here are some tips that may come in handy.

1. Avoid buying illegal drugs

Mexico City is not a region unfamiliar with drugs. In Queretaro, however, the pandemic is not as severe, with statistics showing the drug epidemic at 31.75%. Still, refrain from purchasing any illegal substances since they could be adultered substances that may affect your health. Additionally, you could face serious jail time if caught.

2. If stopped by an officer, ask for proof of identity

While in thehistoric center or even in the city, if an officer stops you, ask them for some ID to prevent falling prey to scams. Unfortunately, while it has declined, Queretaro’s biggest issue stems from corruption and bribery, with the statistical figures regarding Numbeo as high as 64.60%. Be careful when dealing with them.

3. Avoid being flashy

Armed robbery and theft are vices still eminent in Queretaro, sitting at 38.71 % and 36.61% respectively. However, you will be safe if you maintain a low profile and don’t attract unnecessary attention. You can also acquire an anti-theft bag like the Goloni Lightweight Canvas Backpack to safeguard your items.

4. Don’t visit unfamiliar neighborhoods

If, for instance, you stay at Juriquilla, do not wander off into places like San José El Alto. Use the GPS or a map to guide you in moving around.

5. Plan your travels

Whether you are driving or using public means, pre-planning your trip will give you an idea of where you are heading. Aside from ensuring you don’t get lost, this will save you from vices like car theft, which statistically is at 37.38%.

6. Get travel insurance

During your trip to this magic town, I highly recommend acquiring travel insurance to cover any unforeseen medical or adventurous misfortunes. You can get this service from trusted dealers like NY Travel Insurance.

7. Always have an emergency contact.

When traveling, all sorts of things could happen. It is safe to keep an emergency contact in your itinerary if you get into trouble. If you’re mugged, for instance, which is possible due to the 36.11 % statistical figure, according to Numbeo, having an emergency contact can greatly help you.

If you find yourself needing helping one of the many cities, you can call 911 for emergency services and tourist services at 078.

FAQ

‌Conclusion

So, is Queretaro Mexico a safe place to visit? Yes, visiting Querétaro state is quite safe for travelers. As for the capital city, it has a low crime rate index of 39.76%, according to Numbeo.

This gives you the leeway to enjoy sites like the Querétaro Museum of Art Tours and Activities, a historical center where you’ll witness activities that took place in the colonial period, among others. The Museum of Arts, the UNESCO World Heritage site, and the Aqueduct of Querétaro.

But there are some places I would advise you to practice extra caution, including San José El Alto and Corregidora. Other than that, beware of scams in crowded places, use only authorized taxis, and enjoy your time there!