Driving in Mexico can be a thrilling adventure or a serious risk, depending on the route you take. While toll highways offer better infrastructure and security, they are often expensive and still not entirely crime-free. On the other hand, free roads, though more affordable, tend to have poor maintenance, fewer security patrols, and higher crime rates.
Each year, official reports identify the most dangerous highways in Mexico based on crime statistics, road conditions, and accident rates. The latest 2025 data reveals alarming trends, with highway robberies increasing by 16%, particularly affecting cargo trucks, buses, and passenger vehicles.
Which Are the Most Dangerous Highways in Mexico?
According to December 2024 crime reports, the northern and central regions of Mexico recorded an average of 6 to 8 daily highway robberies, while national figures exceeded 40 incidents per day. The most dangerous roads are concentrated in State of Mexico, Puebla, and Guanajuato.
1. The «Red Triangle» (Triángulo Rojo) – Puebla
One of the most notorious crime hotspots in Mexico, this dangerous highway zone includes:
- Tecamachalco
- Palmar de Bravo
- Tepeaca
- Quecholac
- Acatzingo
These areas are infamous for truck hijackings, armed robberies, and fuel theft. Criminal organizations often target cargo vehicles and passenger buses.
2. Arco Norte – Tula Section
Although Arco Norte is a popular toll highway, its Tula segment has become a crime-ridden zone, particularly for:
- Armed assaults on motorists
- Cargo theft
- Vehicle hijackings at rest stops
3. Mexico-Tulancingo Highway – Singuilucan
This road has witnessed a spike in violent assaults, with criminals using fake police checkpoints to rob travelers. Victims report being forced off the road and stripped of their belongings.
4. Mexico-Tuxpan Highway – San Alejo Toll Booth
Toll booths in San Alejo are frequently targeted by criminals, making this section particularly dangerous at night. Many drivers avoid stopping here unless absolutely necessary.
State-by-State Breakdown of Dangerous Highways
State of Mexico
- Ecatepec
- Soyaniquilpan de Juárez
- Huehuetoca
- Tultitlán
These urban highways see frequent carjackings, highway robberies, and vehicle break-ins, particularly at night.
Puebla
- San Martín Texmelucan
- Puebla City
- Acatzingo
- Cuautlancingo
The Puebla corridor has long been a hotspot for cargo theft and assaults on travelers. Criminals use spike strips to stop vehicles before robbing them.
Guanajuato
- Irapuato
- Salamanca
- Silao de Victoria
Guanajuato has one of the highest rates of fuel theft and highway crime. In 2025, authorities are increasing police presence in an effort to curb violence in these regions.
How to Stay Safe While Driving in Mexico
If you’re planning a road trip in Mexico, follow these expert safety tips:
- Use Toll Roads Whenever Possible: While not 100% safe, toll highways (cuotas) have better security and emergency services.
- Avoid Night Travel: Most highway robberies occur between 8 PM and 4 AM. Try to travel during daylight hours.
- Plan Your Stops: Avoid isolated rest stops and only refuel at well-lit, busy gas stations.
- Use GPS and Real-Time Traffic Apps: Waze, Google Maps, and local news apps provide real-time updates on road conditions and crime hotspots.
- Keep Your Doors Locked and Windows Up: This reduces the risk of quick grab-and-go robberies at stoplights or slow-moving traffic.
- Stay Aware of Fake Police Checkpoints: If stopped, request identification and contact authorities if something feels suspicious.
Final Thoughts
While Mexico offers beautiful landscapes and cultural destinations, road safety remains a major concern for travelers. As crime rates on highways continue to increase in 2025, drivers should take extra precautions, use secure routes, and stay informed before hitting the road.
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