how dangerous is mexico

"Mexico is so dangerous! With all the violence in the country right now, I sure as heck wouldn't be taking my entire family into a country like that willingly," is one of the many comments and expressions of concern we've received about crossing into and driving through Mexico. So, how dangerous isΒ Mexico?

Why all the worry? I suppose from all the media reports, and even safety warnings on the U.S. government pages, you have to believe you're putting your life in jeopardy just by stepping foot across the border.

So how safe (or unsafe) is Mexico really? We were going to find out for ourselves.

After camping out near the Great Wall, and listening the the border patrol 4-wheelers chasing illegals all night, we enjoyed a beautiful morning. Greg and I created some videos for our course, then we made breakfast and indulged in some 'lasts' - like our last carton of Greek yogurt.

Packing up, we completed some necessary errands - such as a stop at the bank for some cash - then were in the lane headed to the border by about 11:00 a.m.

We recorded the entire border crossing process, sharing the procedure as well as prices, etc. so that you can see for yourself what it's like to cross into this 'dangerous' country.

How dangerous is Mexico? Find out for yourself:

Click here if you can't see the videos below.

Crossing the border into Mexico Part 1

Crossing the border into Mexico Part 2

Have you visited Mexico recently? What was your impression?

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20 Responses

  1. Glenn Dixon

    Well, you guys *are* a bit crazy! But, having said that, we spent ten days in Mexico back in 2008. The drug war was just kicking into high gear then, but we had no issues.

    Stay alert!

    Reply
  2. Andy Z.

    So great to see how much fun you’re having! We’re still talking about Mexico for Christmas… we’ll see. You’re doing it… inspiring dreams in others. Thanks, again, for sharing.
    Cheers,
    -Andy

    Reply
    • Rachel

      Thanks Andy,

      Loved to see you over Christmas if you come πŸ™‚ If not, somewhere else along the road for sure!

      Reply
  3. Carol Kaatz

    Thanks for sharing your experience…I enjoyed coming along for the ride! Love you all!

    Reply
  4. Heidi

    I LOVE IT!!!!!!! When we crossed the Canadian border a month ago we almost got our video camera taken away. The border guy was so mad. It was pretty funny.

    I can’t wait to follow the rest of your adventures and can’t wait to join you!

    Reply
  5. Tyler Chilman

    I have been following your progress and it’s been awesome to live vicariously through your travels. I spent a short time in Mexico City, Puebla and did some climbing on Pico De Orizaba. We have had nothing but positive experiences discovering Mexico. We enjoy Mexico’s rich heritage, people, history and beauty of the countryside and mountains. We also spent some time climbing and sightseeing in Argentina and Chile and had a wonderful experience. In the future I would like to take the family down through Baja and see the sights.
    Thanks for your posts, pictures and videos!
    Tyler

    Reply
    • Karen

      I spent time in the interior of Mexico in the 80’s and absolutely loved it. I know, lots changes over the years, but can’t wait to get back there. Also went in for the day from Belize a couple years ago with my dh, and now he really wants to go back (although he recognizes some fear he has via media over the years. At least he recognizes it and is willing to overcome it)

      We have friends who have been going to Baja for about 12 yrs, and bought a small house on the beach a few years ago, and they’ve had no problems. They haven’t been anywhere other than Baja, but have made lots of friends over the years that travel, and everybody (but what hits the news) seems to have a great time with little worries.

      Also friends of dh who have recently become Mexican citizens after spending 20 yrs down south on the Pacific as missionaries. That speaks volumes.
      It’s not like USA or Canada (where I am) are the safest places in the world, either. Every place can get a bad rap.

      Reply
      • Rachel

        Mexico is very tranquilo. We are absolutely LOVING it here. The ‘danger’ and war and violence is no where to be seen. No one here that we have talked to has seen anything like that. It is completely overdone by the media.

  6. Iliana

    Hola!!
    I just stared following you couple days ago. And wow!!! So jealous. I heard that you are in Chapala area at the moment? We live in this area in we will love to meet you if possible.

    Saludos.

    Reply
  7. Ashley LeBarton

    Hi Rachel and Greg πŸ™‚
    Im not sure if you guys remember me but im the girl that you guys met at the Mexican Border that you video recorded about the dangers of Mexico. I just watched the video and it was awesome. Greg gave me a card with your information on it and ive kept it in my wallet all these months. Today is the first time ive been on your blog and ive spent hours reading everything. You guys are so amazing and inspiring. Im going to read it more often and im excited to keep up with where you guys are and the experiences you’re having.
    Im happy that i met you guys.

    Reply
    • Rachel

      Hi Ashley!

      We totally remember you. How are you doing? Thanks for letting us interview you about the ‘dangers’ of Mexico, considering that you’re an expert πŸ™‚ Please keep in touch and thanks for reading!

      Reply
  8. Michelle

    I`m from Germany but live most of the time in the states πŸ™‚ I`m begging my hubby for going to Mexico. We both really enjoy your videos. I love the part when the lil boy says MOM this looks like Utah πŸ™‚ You guy`s are a inspiration. Thank you

    Reply
  9. Lee

    hey guys! love the videos that you guys have out there. I personally live in Cancun at the moment with my wife and I LOVE mexico! thanks for sharing the videos. You guys are COOL! keep them coming and next time you’re in the Cancun area, let me know!

    Reply
    • Rachel

      Thanks Lee!

      We have friends that just moved to Cozumel, we’ve been *considering* a trip back that direction… we’ll see πŸ˜‰

      Reply

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