Albuquerque Safety Guide
Health, security, and travel safety information
Emergency Numbers
Save these numbers before your trip.
Healthcare
What to know about medical care in Albuquerque.
Healthcare System
Albuquerque has a well-developed healthcare system with multiple hospitals, urgent care centers, and specialized medical facilities. The U.S. healthcare system is private and operates on a fee-for-service basis, meaning medical care can be extremely expensive without insurance.
Hospitals
Major hospitals include UNM Hospital (2211 Lomas Blvd NE), Presbyterian Hospital (1100 Central Ave SE), and Lovelace Medical Center (501 Martin Luther King Jr Ave NE). Numerous urgent care centers are available for non-life-threatening issues and typically have shorter wait times and lower costs than emergency rooms.
Pharmacies
Major pharmacy chains (Walgreens, CVS, Walmart) are widely available throughout the city, many with 24-hour locations. Most common over-the-counter medications are readily available. Prescription medications from other countries may not be honored; visitors should bring adequate supplies of prescription medications in original containers.
Insurance
Travel health insurance is strongly recommended for international visitors, as medical costs can be extraordinarily high. U.S. residents should verify their insurance coverage extends to New Mexico. Even a minor emergency room visit can cost thousands of dollars without insurance.
Healthcare Tips
- Bring copies of prescriptions and carry medications in original containers with labels
- Keep your insurance card and policy information easily accessible
- Urgent care centers are more affordable than emergency rooms for non-critical issues
- Stay hydrated in the dry climate and use sunscreen - altitude sickness and sun exposure are common issues
- Many pharmacies offer walk-in clinics for minor ailments at lower costs than urgent care
Common Risks
Be aware of these potential issues.
Albuquerque has one of the highest auto theft rates in the United States, and vehicle break-ins are common throughout the city, including in tourist areas and hotel parking lots.
While less common than vehicle crimes, pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur in crowded tourist areas, especially during major events like the Balloon Fiesta.
At 5,312 feet elevation (higher at Sandia Peak), visitors may experience altitude sickness symptoms including headaches, nausea, fatigue, and shortness of breath, especially if arriving from sea level.
The high altitude intensifies UV radiation, and the dry climate combined with low humidity can lead to rapid dehydration and severe sunburn.
Albuquerque has a visible homeless population, particularly in downtown areas. While most individuals are not dangerous, aggressive panhandling and unpredictable behavior can occur.
Some neighborhoods have higher rates of property crime and should be avoided, particularly after dark.
Scams to Avoid
Watch out for these common tourist scams.
Individuals approach tourists offering unofficial tour guide services, particularly in Old Town, then demand excessive payment or lead visitors to overpriced shops where they receive commissions.
One person creates a distraction (spilling something, asking for directions, or causing a commotion) while an accomplice steals belongings from your vehicle or person.
Vendors sell mass-produced items falsely marketed as authentic Native American crafts at inflated prices, particularly targeting tourists unfamiliar with genuine artisan work.
Someone approaches with a story about needing money for gas, a tow truck, or to get home, sometimes becoming aggressive if refused.
Rental companies may try to charge for pre-existing damage or claim damage wasn't properly documented, leading to unexpected charges.
Safety Tips
Practical advice to stay safe.
Vehicle Safety
- Never leave anything visible in your car, including GPS devices, phone chargers, or bags - even empty ones
- Park in well-lit areas and use parking garages when available
- Take all belongings with you, even for quick stops
- Consider using a steering wheel lock as a visible deterrent
- If your rental car has out-of-state plates, be extra vigilant as these are often targeted
- Lock your car even while pumping gas or loading groceries
Personal Safety
- Stay aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts
- Avoid walking alone after dark, especially in unfamiliar areas
- Keep your phone charged and easily accessible
- Let someone know your itinerary, especially if hiking
- Use rideshare apps or taxis rather than walking late at night
- Keep valuables hidden and don't display expensive jewelry or electronics
- Carry only the credit cards and cash you need for the day
Accommodation Safety
- Choose hotels in well-reviewed areas; the Uptown, Northeast Heights, and areas near Old Town are generally safer
- Use hotel safes for passports, extra cash, and valuables
- Don't open your door without verifying who it is; call the front desk if unsure
- Keep your room number private and don't announce it in public areas
- Check that windows and doors lock properly
- Park in hotel parking garages rather than street parking when possible
Health and Altitude
- Drink at least 64-80 ounces of water daily, more if active
- Limit alcohol for the first 48 hours while acclimating to altitude
- Use lip balm and moisturizer frequently due to dry climate
- Take it easy your first day and avoid strenuous exercise until acclimated
- Carry water with you at all times, especially when hiking
- Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before sun exposure and reapply every 2 hours
Outdoor Activities
- Tell someone your hiking plans and expected return time
- Carry extra water, snacks, sunscreen, and a first aid kit
- Stay on marked trails and don't hike alone in remote areas
- Start hikes early to avoid afternoon heat and thunderstorms
- Wear appropriate footwear and bring layers as temperature can change rapidly
- Be aware of wildlife and know how to respond to encounters
- Check weather forecasts and avoid hiking during thunderstorms
Money and Valuables
- Use credit cards when possible rather than carrying large amounts of cash
- Notify your bank of travel plans to avoid card blocks
- Keep backup cards and emergency cash in separate locations
- Use ATMs inside banks or well-lit, busy locations
- Make copies of important documents and store separately from originals
- Consider using RFID-blocking wallets to prevent electronic theft
Information for Specific Travelers
Safety considerations for different traveler groups.
Women Travelers
Women travelers can generally feel safe in Albuquerque with standard precautions. The city is accustomed to solo female travelers and women are commonly seen dining, shopping, and exploring alone. However, as in any U.S. city, situational awareness and common-sense precautions are important, particularly after dark.
- Avoid walking alone after dark; use rideshare services or taxis instead
- Trust your instincts - if a situation feels uncomfortable, remove yourself
- Keep your phone charged and easily accessible
- When hiking, go with a group or stick to popular, well-trafficked trails during busy hours
- Be cautious about sharing your accommodation details or travel plans with strangers
- Consider staying in hotels in safer neighborhoods like Uptown, Old Town area, or Northeast Heights
- If someone makes you uncomfortable, move to a public area or business and ask for help
- Keep drinks in sight when at bars or restaurants
- Have a plan for getting back to your accommodation before going out
- Join group tours for activities rather than exploring remote areas alone
LGBTQ+ Travelers
LGBTQ+ rights are protected in New Mexico. Same-sex marriage is legal, and the state has anti-discrimination laws that include sexual orientation and gender identity protections in employment, housing, and public accommodations.
- Albuquerque has several LGBTQ+-friendly establishments, particularly in the Nob Hill neighborhood
- The city hosts Albuquerque Pride annually, typically in June
- Downtown and Nob Hill areas are particularly welcoming and have active LGBTQ+ scenes
- While generally accepting, exercise discretion in more conservative or rural areas outside the city
- The Albuquerque Social Club and other organizations provide community resources and events
- Most major hotels and tourist attractions are LGBTQ+-friendly
- Same-sex couples should have no issues booking accommodations or services
- If you experience discrimination, New Mexico law provides protections - contact local LGBTQ+ organizations for support
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is highly recommended for all visitors to Albuquerque due to the extremely high cost of healthcare in the United States. A single emergency room visit can cost thousands of dollars, and serious medical situations can result in bills exceeding $100,000. Even minor urgent care visits typically cost several hundred dollars without insurance. Additionally, given Albuquerque's higher property crime rates, coverage for theft and lost belongings provides valuable protection.
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