25 Most Dangerous Cities in Guerrero

Guerrero, on Mexico’s southwestern coast, is a region renowned for its stunning beaches and vibrant culture. Yet, beneath this beauty lies a grim reality of violence and crime. This post unveils the 25 most dangerous cities in Guerrero, shedding light on their unique challenges. Understanding these dangers is vital for locals and visitors, as it provides valuable insight into the complexities of life in this area.

1. Acapulco

Eye-level view of a sunset over Acapulco Bay — Sunset over Acapulco Bay highlighting its beauty despite danger.

Acapulco, once a glamorous hotspot for the elite, now faces escalating crime rates largely attributed to drug cartels. In 2022, the city reported a shocking 50% increase in homicides compared to the previous year. Tourists are urged to stay alert, particularly in neighborhoods notorious for drug trafficking.

2. Zihuatanejo

Wide angle view of Zihuatanejo’s beautiful coastline — The beautiful coastline of Zihuatanejo, where danger lurks beneath the surface.

While Zihuatanejo is famed for its beautiful beaches, it struggles with rising crime. In recent years, locals have reported increases in robbery, with theft incidents rising by 30%. To address these concerns, local authorities are enhancing public safety initiatives, including increased police patrols.

3. Iguala

Eye-level view of Iguala’s historic plaza — Historic plaza in Iguala, a city facing numerous challenges and dangers.

Iguala’s tragic history, marked by the 2014 disappearance of 43 students, continues to linger. The unrest has led to ongoing violence driven by cartel activities. In 2023 alone, Iguala reported over 100 violent crime incidents, illustrating the persistent insecurity in the region.

4. Chilpancingo

High angle view of the main avenue in Chilpancingo — Main avenue in Chilpancingo, showcasing the city’s roads amid security issues.

As Guerrero’s capital, Chilpancingo battles severe organized crime issues. The 20% increase in violence in recent years has compelled residents to take precautions as they navigate daily life. Security forces have intensified their presence, but fear still permeates the community.

5. Coyuca de Benitez

Close-up view of Coyuca de Benitez's lush landscape — Lush landscape of Coyuca de Benitez, hiding the dangers of its criminal activities.

Though known for its picturesque lagoons, Coyuca de Benitez grapples with gang violence. Reports indicate that residents experience at least three violent incidents per week, disrupting the natural beauty of the area. Locals are increasingly advocating for community safety initiatives to combat the threat.

6. San Marcos

Wide angle view of the market in San Marcos — Market scene in San Marcos, where daily life continues amid security concerns.

San Marcos faces a surge in criminal activities, including extortion and robbery, with reports showing a 40% increase since the onset of the pandemic. Despite these dangers, residents remain resilient, striving to keep their community vibrant through local markets and events.

7. Taxco

Eye-level view of Taxco’s famous silver mines — Silver mines of Taxco, a beautiful yet dangerous area for its residents.

Known for its silver craftsmanship and colonial charm, Taxco harbors underlying dangers stemming from gang rivalry. In 2023, residents reported that they felt unsafe, with over 50 incidents of violent crime directly linked to ongoing turf wars among local gangs.

8. Tierra Colorada

Close-up view of the rural landscape around Tierra Colorada — Rural landscape near Tierra Colorada, a place facing hidden dangers.

Tierra Colorada, though small, is not immune to Guerrero’s crime wave. In this relatively isolated community, law enforcement struggles to respond quickly, with crime rates climbing due to illicit activities. Residents often feel vulnerable and apprehensive about their safety.

9. La Montaña

Wide angle view of the mountainous landscape in La Montaña — Mountainous terrain of La Montaña, symbolizing the struggles of its communities.

La Montaña has socio-economic challenges posing serious risks to its communities. A staggering 75% of residents live below the poverty line, which makes them susceptible to gang recruitment. The lack of opportunities perpetuates the cycle of crime in the region.

10. Chilapa

Eye-level view of downtown Chilapa — Downtown Chilapa, where violence permeates everyday life.

Chilapa has become synonymous with cartel warfare, creating a tense atmosphere for residents. The city reported over 100 violent incidents in 2022, leading many to adjust their daily routines to ensure their safety. Community members are calling for more significant governmental support.

11. Puebla Viejo

Close-up view of the quiet streets of Puebla Viejo — Quiet streets of Puebla Viejo, a deceptive calm amidst chaos.

Puebla Viejo, despite its small size, grapples with violent crime. Reports from local authorities indicate that gang-related activities have surged, prompting weekly patrols in affected areas. Residents remain on edge, balancing their daily lives against potential threats.

12. Ometepec

High angle view of the main square in Ometepec — Main square of Ometepec, where culture meets underlying threats.

Ometepec stands out for its cultural richness but faces dire crime issues. The increase in drug trafficking has fueled violence. Recent data shows that violent crime incidents have doubled in the past few years, leaving residents anxious about their safety heading out.

13. Tlapa

Eye-level view of Tlapa’s bustling market — Bustling market in Tlapa, highlighting daily life despite inherent risks.

In Tlapa, drug-related crime and violence are increasing concerns. Residents report balancing their daily routines with looming threats. According to local surveys, over 60% of citizens express fear about their safety, particularly in certain neighborhoods.

14. Atoyac de Álvarez

Wide angle view of Atoyac de Álvarez’s scenic landscape — Scenic landscape of Atoyac de Álvarez, hiding the darkness of its crime rates.

In Atoyac de Álvarez, the picturesque scenery hides a troubling truth. Crime rates related to drug issues have climbed, making it dangerous for residents. With reported violent crimes increasing by 15% in the past year, locals seek more effective policing to regain their sense of safety.

15. Cuajinicuilapa

Close-up view of Cuajinicuilapa’s rural area — Rural area of Cuajinicuilapa, where hidden threats loom.

Cuajinicuilapa struggles with cartel violence impacting daily life. Statistics from community surveys reveal that nearly 80% of residents feel unsafe, as armed groups exert influence in the area. The crisis has led to increased vigilance among locals.

16. Tlapehuala

High angle view of Tlapehuala’s landscape — Landscape of Tlapehuala, a community wrestling with its security challenges.

In Tlapehuala, crime affects both the residents and the local economy. The increase in robberies by 25% has deterred business development, as citizens hesitate to invest in their town. Residents yearn for a return to normalcy and safety.

17. El Coahuayote

Eye-level view of El Coahuayote’s rural surroundings — Rural surroundings of El Coahuayote, a community under strain from crime.

El Coahuayote faces pressing issues related to drug trafficking and inevitable violence. Weekly reports show around two incidents of violence on average across the community, making daily life increasingly tense for families.

18. Petatlán

Close-up view of Petatlán’s coastal scenery — Coastal scenery of Petatlán, where danger lurks in the shadows.

Petatlán is witnessing a spike in gang-related activities, complicating life for residents and local businesses. Surveys reveal that only 30% of locals feel safe shopping or dining out, highlighting the ongoing fear of violence.

19. San Luis Acatlán

Eye-level view of rural life in San Luis Acatlán — Rural life in San Luis Acatlán, where challenges prevail.

San Luis Acatlán, while beautifully rural, faces mounting crime challenges. With 60% of the population reporting feeling unsafe, residents have taken to forming community watch groups to help ensure their safety.

20. Huamuxtitlán

Wide angle view of Huamuxtitlán’s lush hills — Lush hills of Huamuxtitlán, hiding societal issues beneath its beauty.

Huamuxtitlán confronts a social climate troubled by organized crime. With poverty detrimental to nearly 70% of its population, youthful recruits often fall prey to gangs, further complicating the community’s struggle for safety.

21. Mochitlán

Close-up view of Mochitlán’s agricultural landscape — Agricultural landscape of Mochitlán, where danger impacts farming communities.

Mochitlán’s agricultural community faces escalating violence and crime. Recent reports show that local businesses have experienced a 30% drop in productivity due to extortion fears, creating a tense environment for families and farmers alike.

22. Buenavista de Cuéllar

High angle view of Buenavista de Cuéllar’s town square — Town square of Buenavista de Cuéllar, where residents face uncertainties.

Buenavista de Cuéllar has witnessed a rise in violence, with crime attributed to organized gangs infiltrating the area. Data indicates that violent incidents have increased by 45%, creating a sense of unease among local families.

23. San Pedro Yeloixtlahuaca

Eye-level view of the rustic landscapes of San Pedro Yeloixtlahuaca — Rustic landscapes of San Pedro Yeloixtlahuaca, a place under threat of violence.

San Pedro Yeloixtlahuaca’s rural population grapples with escalating crime. Residents report feeling increasingly threatened, with 60% stating they feel unsafe in their own neighborhoods due to crime-related incidents.

24. Ahuacuotzingo

Close-up view of Ahuacuotzingo’s scenic views — Scenic views of Ahuacuotzingo, where danger looms on the horizon.

Ahuacuotzingo is infamous for drug-related violence, affecting community cohesion. In 2023, homicide rates increased by 35%, prompting a push for stronger law enforcement presences to restore safety for residents.

25. Coyotepec

Wide angle view of Coyotepec’s small village — Small village of Coyotepec, masking deeper issues of crime and safety.

Coyotepec may appear calm, but it bears the heavy toll of crime. Almost 50% of locals report personal experience with crime, which complicates daily life as community members seek new ways to feel safe.

Navigating Safety in Guerrero

Guerrero is a state where beauty coexists with danger. The cities discussed here reflect the numerous challenges faced by their inhabitants. From once-popular tourist destinations to small towns struggling against gang-related violence, the dangers are broad and complex.

Awareness of these threats is vital for anyone planning to visit or live in Guerrero. By recognizing the risks, individuals can take proactive steps to ensure their safety. Engaging with local communities, staying informed about crime updates, and heeding travel advisories are crucial for navigating the complexities of life in Guerrero.

By being knowledgeable and vigilant, visitors and residents alike can safely experience the enchanting culture and scenery Guerrero has to offer while recognizing the unseen dangers that lurk beneath the surface.

KWAL Adventure and Travel Magazine