San Miguel de Allende lies in the very heart of Mexico. It attracts visitors and expatriates alike with its charming streets, rich culture, and vibrant atmosphere. But amidst the allure of this historic town, there are often everyday practical questions on people’s minds. One of these is: Is it safe to drink the water in San Miguel de Allende?
So, to help you out with this common concern, let’s dive into the drinkable water situation in Mexico.
Drinking Water in San Miguel de Allende
Tap Water Concerns
Like anywhere else in Mexico, drinking directly from the tap in San Miguel de Allende is a big no, unless you have a reliable filtration system installed in your home. The water quality doesn’t usually meet drinking standards, so it’s best to stay clear of this and not risk getting sick from untreated water. My mother’s always concerned about using the tap water for rinsing after cleaning her teeth. For me, this has never been a problem, as it’s such a small amount of tap water. My advice: don’t get too hung up on these things; otherwise, you’d go crazy!
Water Delivery Service
Most residents, hotels, and restaurants in San Miguel de Allende avoid the tap water by opting for water delivery services. Companies like Santorini, e-pura, Bonafont, Marnier, and Ciel offer convenient delivery of purified water in garrafón (giant plastic water bottles). Simply set up a service with a local provider, and they’ll regularly deliver fresh water to your doorstep.
We send a WhatsApp message to our preferred provider when we need fresh water and always add a small tip between $10 and 20 MXP, depending on how many gadgets they bring.
Disinfecting Produce
When buying fresh fruits and vegetables, it’s essential to properly disinfect them before consumption. For me, this should be the rule of thumb for anywhere in the world, as who knows how many hands have picked up, inspected, and put back that apple that you’ve just selected? Soaking produce in a water and bleach solution, bicarbonate of soda, or using microbicidal products like Microdyn, BacDyn, or Citro Organics (our favorite) can help eliminate harmful bacteria.
Stay in the loop
Cooking with Water
As a personal preference, when cooking pasta, boiling vegetables, or using water for stock, I always use filtered water. However, as long as you boil tap water before using it or you’re cooking something in boiling water, opting for tap water should be fine. I just think that if you’re in any doubt, go for filtered tap water or filtered bottled water (garrafón).
Common Concerns
Montezuma's Revenge (If you know, you know!)
Also known as ‘Traveler’s diarrhea’, Montezuma’s Revenge can occur due to exposure to unfamiliar microorganisms in water and food. While the likelihood of getting sick varies, using filtered water can reduce the risk. Many people warn visitors not to eat street food, saying that it’s one of the biggest culprits for stomach illnesses in Mexico. I tend to disagree with this to a certain point.
I’ve had a few nasty stomach issues from some of the fanciest places in Mexico over the years and rarely been sick from a local food stand, but that’s just my experience. Also it’s quite common to see visitors ordering a salad rather than something cooked to be more cautious. Nonetheless, if that lettuce hasn’t been disinfected, Montezuma’s revenge may come knocking at your door!
My point is that there’s no absolute right or wrong when it comes to choosing where and what to eat in San Miguel de Allende. Food standards tend to be high wherever you go, and ultimately, it’s all down to personal preference.
Ice and Mixed Drinks
Ice used in beverages and mixed drinks in restaurants is typically made from purified water, which is fine. Coffees and teas, cocktails, and agua frescas (fresh fruit water) made with purified water are also considered safe. If you’re unsure about anything, then opt for a canned or bottled drink.
For more tips on relocating and living in San Miguel de Allende, explore our comprehensive guide to expat life in this charming Mexican city.
