Is it Safe to Visit Cuernavaca? Everything You Need to Know

Cuernavaca, also known as the “City of Eternal Spring,” is a popular tourist destination in Mexico. With its pleasant climate, stunning architecture, and rich history dating back to the ancient Aztecs, this city has a lot to offer. However, safety is always a concern for travelers, especially in Mexico. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at safety in Cuernavaca and whether it’s a safe place to visit.

The Current Safety Situation in Cuernavaca

Like many cities in Mexico, Cuernavaca has experienced its fair share of safety issues in the past. In recent years, there have been reports of drug-related violence and crime. However, it’s important to note that these problems are not unique to Cuernavaca and are not affecting the city as severely as some other parts of Mexico.According to the State Department, the crime rate in Cuernavaca is lower than in other parts of Mexico. In fact, the State Department gives the city a Level 2 Travel Advisory, which means that visitors should exercise increased caution due to crime. However, this is not a “do not travel” warning, and visitors can feel safe as long as they take sensible precautions.

Sensible Precautions to Take in Cuernavaca

While Cuernavaca is generally safe, it’s always a good idea to take precautions when traveling to any foreign country. Here are some sensible steps you can take to make your trip to Cuernavaca as safe as possible:

1. Stay in a Safe Area

Cuernavaca has some safe areas, and it’s best to stay in those areas as a tourist. Some of the safer neighborhoods in Cuernavaca include Rancho Cortes, Vista Hermosa, and Lomas del Mirador. Avoid staying in areas with a higher crime rate, such as Civac and Ocotepec.

2. Always Be Aware of Your Surroundings

It’s important to always be aware of your surroundings and stay alert. Keep an eye out for any suspicious activity or individuals and avoid walking alone at night, especially in poorly lit areas.

3. Use Licensed Taxis

When using taxis in Cuernavaca, it’s important to use licensed taxis only. Avoid hailing taxis from the street and instead ask your hotel or restaurant to call a reputable taxi company for you.

4. Keep Your Valuables Secure

Keep your valuables, such as your passport, cash, and phone, in a secure location on your person or in a hotel safe. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash or wearing expensive jewelry that could draw unwanted attention.

5. Learn Some Spanish

While many people in Cuernavaca speak English, it’s always a good idea to learn some basic Spanish phrases. Not only will this help you communicate better with locals, but it can also make you feel more comfortable and confident in unfamiliar situations.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while Cuernavaca has experienced some safety issues in the past, it is generally a safe place to visit as long as you take sensible precautions. By staying in safe neighborhoods, being aware of your surroundings, using licensed taxis, keeping your valuables secure, and learning some Spanish, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip to Cuernavaca.So, if you’re thinking of visiting the City of Eternal Spring, go ahead and plan your trip with peace of mind. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and pleasant climate, Cuernavaca is definitely worth a visit.

Insider’s Guide: Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting Cuernavaca

Cuernavaca is a beautiful city located in the state of Morelos, Mexico. Known as the “city of eternal spring,” it boasts a warm and pleasant climate throughout the year. Many tourists come from all over the world to explore and experience the city’s rich history, architecture, cuisine, and culture. While Cuernavaca is generally a safe city, it is essential to understand what to expect and how to stay safe during your visit. In this insider’s guide, we will cover everything you need to know before visiting Cuernavaca.

Safety Precautions

While Cuernavaca is a relatively safe city, it is necessary to take precautions like you would do when traveling to any foreign city. Here are some tips to ensure you have a safe trip, including:

– Always keep your personal belongings like cash, jewelry, and electronics in a safe place.
– Avoid carrying a lot of cash. Use debit/credit cards or withdraw as you need.
– Be aware of the surroundings and avoid walking alone at night.
– Take the necessary precautions to avoid getting sick. Drink bottled water and avoid street food!

Local Attractions

Cuernavaca offers several exciting things to do that cater to all types of travelers. Here are some of the most popular attractions:

Palacio de Cortés

Once a residence of conqueror Hernán Cortés, Palacio de Cortés is now a museum showcasing the history of the region, including pre-Hispanic artifacts and colonial-era art. The stunning architecture and artwork, including the intricate murals, are impressive and worth exploring.

Jardín Borda

Jardín Borda is a beautiful 18th-century mansion surrounded by lush gardens. Today, the mansion serves as a museum, and its gardens host concerts, theater performances, and other events. Visitors can stroll through the beautifully landscaped gardens, explore the mansion, and enjoy the stunning views.

Catedral de Cuernavaca

Located in the city’s center is the stunning Catedral de Cuernavaca, one of the oldest cathedrals in Mexico. The architecture and design are unique, and visitors can appreciate both the Gothic and Baroque styles present. Inside the cathedral, visitors can explore various religious artifacts and customs.

Dining Spots

Cuernavaca is a city known for its delicious cuisine, from street food to fine dining. Here are some fantastic dining spots for local cuisine:

La Provence

La Provence is a French-inspired restaurant located in the heart of Cuernavaca. From its cozy ambiance to its delicious pastries and baked goods, this restaurant is a must-visit for breakfast or brunch.

Las Mananitas

Located in an old Spanish-colonial mansion from the 19th century, Las Mananitas is an iconic restaurant in Cuernavaca. The restaurant serves traditional Mexican dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.

Tacos Arabes El Califa

You can’t visit Mexico without trying some of the best street food. Tacos Arabes El Califa is a family-run business that serves the most delicious tacos arabes (middle eastern-influenced tacos). Be sure to visit this stand for some fantastic and affordable food to go!

Cultural Experiences

In addition to the local attractions mentioned above, Cuernavaca offers unique cultural experiences like:

Learn Spanish

Cuernavaca is known for its language schools. Students come from all over the world to study Spanish in this charming city. Immersing yourself in Spanish grammar and vocabulary while exploring local culture can be a fantastic way to enhance your trip.

Day trips

Cuernavaca is a fantastic base for some great day trips. Take an excursion to nearby Tepoztlán, a charming pueblo mágico known as the birthplace of Quetzalcoatl, the ancient Aztec god. Another option is to visit the ancient city of Teotihuacán, located about an hour away from Cuernavaca!

Local History

Cuernavaca has a rich history that dates back centuries. Here are some must-visit historical sites:

Zapata Museum

Zapata Museum is a tribute to one of Mexico’s most iconic revolutionary leaders, Emiliano Zapata. The museum has artifacts, documents, and exhibits about Zapata’s life and the revolution in which he played a crucial part. It’s a great opportunity to learn about Mexican history and the country’s evolution to a new era.

Borda Gardens

The Borda Gardens have a rich history dating back to the 18th century when they were used as party spaces for the wealthy. The location has been modified over the years, with the most significant additions happening during Jose de la Borda’s ownership, who also built the Borda Palace. Today, it’s an entertainment and cultural center and a beautiful spot for outdoor activities.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you have enough time in Cuernavaca, consider exploring these hidden gems:

Chapultepec Ecological Park

The Chapultepec Ecological Park is located in the hills above Cuernavaca and is a beautiful place for hiking, bird watching, or just being surrounded by nature’s calm and quiet. The park also has beautiful waterfalls and tranquil lagoons.

Amatlan de Quetzalcoatl

Amatlan de Quetzalcoatl is a quiet little village known for its pottery. The town has a relaxed and authentic vibe, making it an excellent spot to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of the city.

In conclusion, Cuernavaca is a beautiful city worth visiting. The destination offers plenty of activities, from cultural experiences to beautiful landscapes and delicious food. Consider this insider’s guide when planning your next Mexican adventure!