Safety/Security in El Potrero Chico

We haven't been to EPC in 20 years and want to hear from folks who have been there recently. We will be flying to Monterrey and taking a shuttle staying there in January 2025. Thanks, folks. 

Don't go.

Check this out:

https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/mexico-travel-advisory.html

I personally wouldn't travel to Mexico unless is inside a M1A2 Abrams battle tank, lol. 

Per the above link Nuevo Leon, where EPC is, is under an increased caution, level 2 travel advisory. Same as Italy is right now. I've been down three times over the last 6 years for a total of 7 weeks. Everything was great and the people are lovely every time. Bad things can happen, of course, you've got to weigh the risks and decide how much risk you want to tolerate. I haven't been in two years, perhaps someone with more recent experience can shed some light. We always get Milton to pick us up and take the toll road from monterrey. 

Thanks, all. We plan on using the shuttle with La Posada and dress the part like dirtbags. Would still like to hear some recent experience from travelers.

Experiences like the people that were caught in the middle of a gun fight a few months ago?

Just go. You’re climbers right? You know about risk. And Italy!!, oh my gosh might as well just not leave the house forever or dare cross the street.. 

I was there last year, going again this year. If you take a shuttle from the airport to the climbing hostels and mostly stay in EPC, you’ll be fine. Dress the dirtbag part. No issues for me last year tho I’m going for much longer this year.

My wife and I were there for a ~2.5mo between the last couple years and loved it.  There was definitely noticeably more "heat" last year than the previous, at least when we where there.  But it was still super livable.  We rented a car and drove regularly, often at night, which contrary to what the internet people will tell you is totally not scary and very typical. Maybe crossing the big highways from Texas at night is another story, do some research if you plan to do that.  We stayed in San Pedro which is extremely nice and I'd wager safer than Seattle, and spent time in Monterrey as well.  Some of the best restaurants I've been to were there, and I guess the Michelin Star people agree. We once drove out really far, maybe 5hrs, for another (crappy) climbing spot and crossed through a "non-government" checkpoint, I wouldn't do that again. (My family is from Lebanon so that was not even close to my first time. It's just like crossing a boarder usually- be chill, patient, and respectful.  But if you turn around, it better be because ygd.) Safety anywhere like this obviously ebbs and flows and requires common sense.  It's usually very easy to be safe, I wouldn't hitchhike, I wouldn't hang with sketch randos at a bar I just met, I wouldn't get belligerent or make a scene, I wouldn't fuck around and find out.  I would go climb, eat good food, and enjoy the vibe.

A couple photos from where we stayed.  The city is def not a hell hole...

And the climbing is sweet!

Fear Monger

Considering you are afraid to list ticks or have a real profile it doesnt surprise me that you need a tank to feel safe.  EPC has been safe the years I've went. Friendly caring people and great food. 

giraud b wrote:

Check this out:

https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/mexico-travel-advisory.html

I personally wouldn't travel to Mexico unless is inside a M1A2 Abrams battle tank, lol. 

Jimmy Bricker wrote:

Holy hell!

Jimmy Bricker wrote:

Please learn how the quote function works. 

Marc801 C wrote:

Please learn how the quote function works. 

Please learn that you can't control the internet