If you’re only just learning about San Miguel de Allende, it’s a charming colonial-style city known for being colourful and full of culture.
The city encompasses 24 blocks of narrow streets, vibrant markets full of artisans, an active wine scene and some pretty impressive cuisine.
Overall, this city which is located just 4 hours from the capital and is one of the best destinations in Mexico for those who want to walk around and take in the sights, people-watch, and immerses themselves in the culture.
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Visiting San Miguel de Allende safely
That’s all good, but is San Miguel de Allende safe for unexpecting travellers and what are some common crimes to watch out for as a visitor?
That is the exact question this page answers for you as well as provides the information you will need to be able to travel to San Miguel safely!
Firstly, let’s look at the current situation and see what to expect.
Is San Miguel de Allende Safe Right Now?
Yes! San Miguel de Allende is a popular tourist city, so the crime rate is low compared to other dangerous Mexican cities with sinister reputations.
While here though, you will still need to exercise precaution and do your research, but overall, San Miguel de Allende is very safe for travellers.
You’ll have a wonderful time, especially in the tourist zone, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that encompasses the entire city centre and where most of the activities are. You can still safely venture out into other parts of the city, but be sure to avoid bad neighbourhoods to keep safe!
💡Smart Travel Tip
To avoid being a target, try to avoid walking or loitering around the bus station area too much if you can help it, that is. Or at least get a taxi or Uber from there to your hotel without hanging around too much.
San Miguel de Allende Safety Facts
- Numbeo confirms that safety in San Miguel de Allende is quite high. The crime index is 50.59 while the safety index is 49.41, and the biggest risks are property crimes, corruption, and bribery.
- The city’s focus on tourism has driven local authorities to prioritize security measures, making it safer for residents and visitors. The biggest risks are petty crimes , butthey’re not super common.
- Recently, San Miguel de Allende has had a homicide rate of approximately 3-5 per 100,000 people, which is lower than many major cities in Mexico and below the national average.
- Walking around San Miguel de Allende during the day is very safe and it’s moderately safe to do so at night. Still, you should be cautious!
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Solo Travel in San Miguel de Allende
Safety in San Miguel de Allende is high so solo travellers are common, including solo women too. In fact, many solo travellers I met in Mexico City had recently returned from the San Miguel with nothing but good reports.
However, I still recommend you plan your trip carefully if travelling alone, but you won’t feel the need to constantly look over your shoulder as you may in some Mexican cities, especially as a solo female traveller.
No matter where you find yourself in Mexico, knowing some basic Spanish conversation will help you a lot, especially when doing solo travel, but it’s not completely necessary to be able to get by while visiting here.
So, is San Miguel de Allende safe for solo travelers? Absolutely!
I recommend you visit places such as Canada de la Virgen, an amazing archaeological site, and El Jardin, which is the central square, among other places. You can also join groups such as SMAllende Friends and connect with locals and travellers in the area before you arrive.
Here, you will learn that the violent crimes that you may hear or have previously heard about are usually between criminal gangs or drug traffickers who tend to leave the innocent tourist crowds alone.
San Miguel de Allende Safety at Night
Yes, San Miguel de Allende is moderately safe at night. Because this is a popular tourist city, the streets are typically well-lit and the crime rate is not high, making evening strolls pleasant and worry-free so you can relax.
Additionally, there’s a police presence, which creates a sense of security. So, to reiterate: is San Miguel de Allende safe at night? Yes, but always be cautious, especially if you’re alone and avoid poorly lit streets at night.
There is a lively night scene in the city which is known for its rooftop bars and cocktails so it would be rude not to experience it for yourself.
Top-Rated places to stay in San Miguel de Allende:
However, when it comes to home time, remain cautious. If you stay within proximity of EL Jardin then you should be fine to walk back alone. If you feel something’s not right, get a Taxi or Uber instead of walking.
San Miguel de Allende on a budget
San Miguel de Allende has to be one of the best destinations in Mexico for backpackers, especially when starting a travel route from Mexico City.
Not only because of the level of safety in San Miguel de Allende but also because of the many adventures available in this charming colonial-style city. Whether that be the Horseback riding adventures or the chance to head out to Canada de la Virgen during your stay.
The tourist zone is a joy to explore and there’s a lot to do, but you can also venture out and explore the surrounding areas as long as it’s safe.
Research these budget hostels and prepare a solid itinerary for your trip. This will help you enjoy your stay a lot better while remaining safe.
Do your due diligence so you can be aware of the areas you need to avoid as well as other risks for tourists, such as scams. Take precautions based on said research and you will have a great time in San Miguel de Allende.
San Miguel de Allende: Safety Tips
To help you have the best possible experience while in San Miguel de Allende, I will list some practical travel safety tips that you can follow.
⤵️ Here are some useful tips to help you on your journey:
- I highly recommend the chocolate tasting tours where you can learn about cacao and it’s history and usage in this magnificent town.
- Don’t flaunt your valuables and never leave your valuables unattended. Leave expensive jjewelleryand clothes at home.
- You will find that San Miguel de Allende is somewhat of a food paradise and even caters to vegetarians and vegans, however, be careful with the water because drinking tap water in Mexico is not recommended. Always go for bottled water and avoid ice cubes.
- Only use registered taxis or Uber, which is available in Mexico.
- The sunrises and sunsets can be quite dramatic in San Miguel de Allende be sure to carry sunscreen to protect yourself during the hottest parts of the day (usually around midday onwards).
- If you’re walking around at night, stay with the crowd and avoid poorly lit areas for a more secure evening experience.
- Understand the currency a bit so you’re not shortchanged.
- Learn basic Spanish phrases, they will be helpful
- Avoid wandering around, (especially at night) near bad neighbourhoods and always pay attention to your surroundings and be present.
- To get acquainted with the city why not do the downtown food tour which is a great way to learn more about the city’s culinary delights.
- With the large ex-pat and tourist presence here, you can expect to tip staff in bars and cafés hotels, cleaning staff and guides.
Practice these safety tips along with overall common sense and you’ll be able to avoid unnecessary risks so you enjoy your trip with confidence.
Getting from Mexico City to San Miguel de Allende
San Miguel de Allende is 250 km or 155 miles from Mexico City and there are two direct ways to get there. The most popular option is the bus, which will cost around $30 and the ride should take around 5 hours in total.
When it comes to buses, there are only two companies that have direct routes from Mexico City to San Miguel de Allende, Primera Plus and ETN.
ETN buses have wider seats, they’re clean, and they offer your own video screen and headphones for entertainment. You can read more about bus travel in Mexico on this blog to understand the ins and outs.
Alternatively, you can get a private transfer. This option is more expensive, around $260, but it will be only 4 hours, and you’ll be more comfortable.
I recommend you take a direct bus, which is the most inexpensive and common option. ETN buses are the best option in terms of comfort so the trip will be a breeze. Head out early in the morning so you can arrive at San Miguel de Allende at noon and make the most of your afternoon.
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