Is Ixtapa Safe for Travel in 2024?

Ixtapa, Mexico
Safety Score
74

Ixtapa is a resort city in Mexico, adjacent to the Pacific Ocean in the municipality of Zihuatanejo de Azueta in the state of Guerrero. It is located 5 km northwest of the municipal seat, Zihuatanejo, and 245 km northwest of Acapulco.

Warnings & Dangers in Ixtapa

Overall Risk

OVERALL RISK : LOW

Ixtapa 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

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK : MEDIUM

Public transport is not well developed. Traffic on the roads can be hectic and unsafe. Pickpockets are common on buses. Use only licensed taxi services.

Pickpockets Risk

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

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK : MEDIUM

One of the possible natural disasters is the hurricane, and its season runs from June to November. Both the Pacific and Atlantic coasts can be affected.

Mugging Risk

MUGGING RISK : LOW

The risk of severe robbery and armed attack in Ixtapa is shallow. Avoid communicating with suspicious individuals and do not walk late at night in areas remote from the city center.

Terrorism Risk

TERRORISM RISK : LOW

The risk of terrorism is low in Ixtapa. The global risk of terrorist attacks in public areas exists worldwide, so tourists should be vigilant.

Scams Risk

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

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK : LOW

Women traveling alone can feel quite safe in Ixtapa. The main thing is to adhere to the usual precautions and monitor your surroundings.

How Safe Is Ixtapa for Tourists?

Ixtapa is generally considered a reasonably safe city to travel to.

The crime index here is at a low level.

Usually, the city attracts many tourists who come here to spend their holidays.

The greatest danger here is tropical storms and hurricanes, which can cause floods and landslides; travelers are advised to familiarize themselves with the current situation before arriving in a specific area.

Security here is provided by the police.

In general, you should, therefore, always carry at least a copy of your documents with you to show to the police if they ask.

While the Mexican government is making efforts to protect major tourist destinations and has succeeded in ensuring that these locations do not experience the same levels of drug-related violence and crime as some other cities, incidents have been reported.

In most cases, tourists have not been subjected to violent incidents, but there is still the possibility that someone near the incident could be hurt.

If you are the victim of a crime in some cases, you must immediately report the incident by contacting the nearest police station.

Watch your belongings and your surroundings everywhere here.

Do not trust those who ask or offer you help – they may be petty scammers.

Do I Need a Visa to Visit Ixtapa?

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 Ixtapa?

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 Ixtapa?

In Ixtapa, the wet season is muggy and overcast; the dry season is primarily transparent and warm year-round.  The best time of year to visit Ixtapa for warm-weather activities is from late November to mid-April.

What Do I Need to Know about Airports in Ixtapa?

Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo International Airport is an international airport in the state of Guerrero on the Pacific coast of Mexico. It receives thousands of tourists all year round to visit the beaches and resorts. It operates national and international air services to the cities of Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo.

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 Ixtapa?

Sitting along the Pacific coast roughly 322 km southwest of Mexico City, Ixtapa is a stunning resort destination in the Mexican state of Guerrero. Near the main beach of El Palmar, you’ll find high-rise hotels, a variety of restaurants, and world-class golf courses. Just southeast of Ixtapa lies the city of Zihuatanejo, famous for its many beaches that line the scalloped coves of the bay.

Is the Water in Ixtapa Safe to Drink?

Tap water is not drinkable in Ixtapa. You should buy bottled water or boil tap water.

Is Uber Safe in Ixtapa?

There is no Uber taxi in Ixtapa. You can use any other local taxi services.

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