ISO: PR
San Juan, the vibrant capital of Puerto Rico, is a colorful tapestry of colonial history, stunning beaches, and lively cultural experiences. As tourists plan their visit to explore its charming Old San Juan district and relax on the shores of Condado Beach, they often ask questions about safety, such as ‘Is San Juan safe?’ and ‘Is San Juan dangerous for tourists?’, especially considering its bustling urban environment and nightlife.
In this guide, we provide essential safety tips for exploring San Juan. We focus on navigating the historic streets and popular tourist areas with caution, particularly in crowded places like El Morro and La Fortaleza. We offer advice on beach safety, ensuring that visitors can enjoy San Juan’s beautiful coastline securely. Additionally, we provide insights into using local transportation and enjoying the vibrant night scene responsibly. Our objective is to ensure that tourists can fully experience the rich culture and beauty of San Juan, making their stay both enjoyable and safe in this lively Caribbean capital.
Travel Risk Levels San Juan
Overall Risk San Juan:
Medium
Lisbon presents a low to moderate overall risk for travelers, with safety precautions needed in specific areas and situations.
Transport and Taxi Risk San Juan:
Medium
Public transport is reliable, but tourists should be vigilant on popular tram routes like Tram 28, as pickpockets target these areas. Only use licensed taxis or reputable rideshare services.
Pickpocket Risk San Juan:
Medium
High pickpocket risk in areas like Rossio Square, Santa Justa Lift, and on crowded trams. Always secure your belongings and be cautious in these tourist-heavy zones.
Physical Crime Risk San Juan:
Medium
Physical assault incidents are relatively rare, but caution is advised in dimly lit areas of Bairro Alto and some parts of Alfama late at night.
Natural Disaster Risk San Juan:
High
Lisbon has a low risk of natural disasters, though occasional strong winds from the Tagus River can occur.
Terrorism Risk San Juan:
Low
The threat of terrorism in Lisbon is low; however, maintaining awareness in crowded spaces is prudent.
Scams Risk San Juan:
Medium
Beware of common scams such as shortchanging in shops near tourist areas, or inflated taxi fares from the airport. Always count your change and agree on taxi fares before the ride.
Women Travelers Risk San Juan:
Medium
Lisbon is generally safe for women travelers, but it’s advisable to avoid isolated areas late at night and practice standard safety measures.
Tap Water Risk San Juan:
Low
The tap water in Lisbon is safe and potable, but tourists may prefer bottled water due to taste differences.
Public Behavior Risk San Juan:
Respect local customs; avoid loud or boisterous behavior, particularly in residential neighborhoods late at night.
LGBTQ Acceptance Risk San Juan:
Low
Lisbon is a progressive city for LGBTQ+ rights, but discretion is recommended in conservative or less central areas.
Police and Officials Corruption Risk San Juan:
Medium
Instances of corruption are not typically encountered by tourists, but it’s wise to keep all transactions transparent.
Business Risk San Juan:
Medium
Lisbon’s business environment is welcoming but navigating local bureaucratic processes can be challenging for new entrepreneurs.
FAQs
Travel FAQs for San Juan
Is San Juan safe for tourists?
San Juan is generally safe for tourists, especially in popular tourist areas like Old San Juan, Condado, and Isla Verde. Visitors should exercise standard safety precautions, such as being aware of their surroundings, avoiding isolated areas at night, and securing personal belongings.
Are there any particular areas of San Juan that are considered unsafe?
Some neighborhoods outside the main tourist areas may be less safe, especially at night. Tourists are advised to stay in well-known and frequented areas and to be cautious if venturing into less familiar parts of the city.
What are the safest districts to stay in San Juan?
Tourist-friendly areas such as Old San Juan, Condado, Santurce, and Isla Verde are popular and generally considered safe. These areas offer a variety of accommodations and are close to beaches, restaurants, and cultural attractions.
Are police officers and emergency services in San Juan responsive?
The police and emergency services in San Juan are responsive and efficient. In case of an emergency, dial 911 for assistance.
Is there a tourist police service in San Juan or any support service for tourists who experience crime?
San Juan has a tourist police force dedicated to the safety and assistance of visitors. They can be found in major tourist areas and can provide help in case of crime or other issues.
What medical services are available for tourists in San Juan?
San Juan offers good medical facilities, including hospitals and clinics that cater to a variety of medical needs. Tourists should have travel insurance that covers medical care.
Do I need any particular vaccinations before going to San Juan?
There are no specific vaccination requirements for San Juan. However, standard travel vaccinations such as Hepatitis A and Typhoid are recommended. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice.
How do I access a pharmacy or a doctor in San Juan if I need one?
Pharmacies are widely available in San Juan, and many are open 24/7. For medical consultations, tourists can visit local clinics or hospitals. Most hotels can also provide information on accessing healthcare services.
What should I do if I find myself near a demonstration when in San Juan?
If you encounter a demonstration in San Juan, it's best to maintain a safe distance and avoid involvement. While demonstrations are generally peaceful, they can disrupt traffic and public transportation.
How can I ensure my accommodation is in a safe area of San Juan?
Choosing accommodations in established tourist areas like Old San Juan, Condado, or Isla Verde is recommended. These areas are well-policed and offer a variety of hotels catering to tourists.
Are nightclubs and late-night venues in San Juan safe?
Nightlife in San Juan is generally vibrant and safe, especially in popular tourist areas. However, as with any city, it's important to remain cautious, particularly with personal belongings and when choosing transportation late at night.
Is it safe to walk back to my accommodation at night?
Walking at night in busy and well-lit areas of San Juan can be relatively safe. However, it's advisable to use taxis or ride-sharing services when traveling late at night, especially if you're not familiar with the area.
What facilities are available for children's safety in San Juan?
San Juan offers family-friendly attractions and public spaces that are generally safe for children. Parents should supervise their children, particularly in crowded areas and near water.
Are there any specific areas in San Juan or attractions that are not recommended for children?
Most tourist attractions in San Juan are suitable for families with children. However, some nightlife venues and certain cultural events may not be appropriate for younger children.
Is it safe to cycle around San Juan?
Cycling in San Juan can be enjoyable, particularly in areas with bike lanes and along the beachfronts. However, traffic can be heavy, so cyclists should be cautious and follow local traffic laws.
Are pedestrian areas well-marked and safe from traffic in San Juan?
Pedestrian areas, especially in tourist-heavy zones like Old San Juan, are generally safe and well-marked. However, pedestrians should remain vigilant, particularly when crossing streets.
Will the language barrier be an issue in emergencies in San Juan?
English and Spanish are both widely spoken in San Juan, so language barriers are minimal, especially in emergencies and tourist areas. Most service providers and medical personnel are bilingual.
Are there readily available translation services or apps that I can use in San Juan?
Translation apps can be helpful for non-English or non-Spanish speaking tourists in San Juan. However, given the bilingual nature of the city, communication is generally not a problem for English or Spanish speakers.
Weather
Annual weather in San Juan, San Juan
Puerto Rico, a US territory in the Caribbean Sea, has a tropical climate with hot, humid weather all year round. Best to visit during the dry season (November to April).
| Month |
Avg Temp (°C) |
Avg Temp (°F) |
Rainy Days |
| January |
25 |
77 |
8 |
| February |
25 |
77 |
6 |
| March |
26 |
78 |
5 |
| April |
27 |
80 |
6 |
| May |
27 |
81 |
9 |
| June |
28 |
82 |
10 |
| July |
28 |
82 |
10 |
| August |
28 |
82 |
11 |
| September |
28 |
82 |
13 |
| October |
28 |
82 |
12 |
| November |
27 |
81 |
10 |
| December |
26 |
78 |
9 |
