Is It Safe to Travel to Cancun? Safety Tips

07/04/2024 Jennifer

I love exploring new places and Cancun, Mexico is high on my list. But, I must check how safe it is before I go. In this guide, we’ll look at key things affecting safety in Cancun. This includes travel warnings, crime rates, Mexican government safety efforts, and COVID-19 measures. We’ll cover tips for those traveling alone or with family. By the end, I should know if Cancun is a safe pick for my next trip¹.

Keeping safe is crucial to me, so I’ve looked into Cancun’s situation closely. Unlike some parts of Mexico, Cancun is seen as safe for Americans¹. Yet, it’s wise to stay alert and be careful for a smooth and worry-free journey¹.

Assessing Cancun’s Safety: Official Travel Advisory

Planning a trip to Cancun, Mexico, means looking into the latest safety updates. The U.S. State Department and other agencies keep an eye on security there².

State Department’s Travel Advisory for Mexico

The U.S. State Department advises to “Reconsider Travel” to Mexico because of violent crimes like homicide and robbery³. Yet, for Cancun’s area in Quintana Roo, it signals “Exercise Increased Caution”². This shows Cancun isn’t overly dangerous, but visitors should always be alert, especially at night in busy areas.

Quintana Roo State: Exercise Increased Caution

In Quintana Roo, the advice is to “exercise increased caution” because of crime³. This means being extra careful in Cancun, Playa Del Carmen, and Tulum, especially after dark³. The warning also mentions the dangers of unregulated alcohol, which can lead to severe issues for tourists³.

The advisory highlights the risk of serious crimes across Mexico, even in well-visited spots³. It points out areas with higher dangers for crimes and kidnapping, stressing the need to be very cautious³.

Although Cancun’s situation isn’t the worst in Mexico, travelers must stay alert. They should follow the State Department advice diligently for a safer and more pleasant trip²³⁴.

Crime Rates and Safety Concerns in Cancun

Cancun is always a hot topic when it comes to safety and crime. But, we must look at the facts clearly. In 2022, it had a whopping 30 million visitors, making it Mexico’s top spot⁵. This means it’s trusted by many. Plus, even with 64 homicides, Cancun is safer than cities like Tijuana, which faced 138 murders per 100,000 people⁵⁶.

Cancun’s Crime Index Compared to Other Cities

In Cancun, the crime rate is about 60%. This is similar to places like Los Angeles and Miami⁶. Yet, New Orleans is riskier, with a rate of 81.67%. Notably, gang violence is usually not a threat to tourists in Cancun⁶.

Robbery and pickpocketing are the main worries in Cancun. But, the risk of being targeted is low for tourists. This puts Cancun in a better light regarding safety⁶.

For specific risks, Cancun ranks high for cartel violence. But, kidnapping is seen as a medium risk. The most common crime around is petty theft⁷. When driving, be cautious as it’s considered a moderate risk. However, buses and taxis are usually safe. At night, some areas need extra care, but there are also many safe spots to enjoy, like Cancun Centro and the hotel zone⁷.

Quintana Roo, the state where Cancun is, reported over 54,000 crimes in 2023. Despite this, Cancun itself is at a 55.73% crime index. This suggests it might be safer than people think⁷.

Nearly 500 kidnappings were reported in Mexico in 2022. Special care is advised in downtown areas after dark. US citizens should be particularly cautious, especially about certain areas and substance use⁷.

So, while there are safety concerns in Cancun, it’s no different from many other tourist spots. By being careful and alert, visitors can enjoy Cancun’s wonders without worry.

Mexican Government’s Efforts to Enhance Security

The Mexican government is working hard to make Cancun and Quintana Roo state safer⁸. They’ve sent about 3,000 to 4,724 soldiers to look after Cancun alone. Add to that, 3,800 more are keeping the highways safe. This big team uses helicopters, patrol cars, boats, and off-road vehicles to watch over the area⁸.

In Cancun and other loved spots, the government wants you to be safe⁸. Some Brits have faced danger from criminals, even with some help from people working in hotels, taxis, and security. And, fights between criminal groups have led to shootings in Cancun, especially putting tourists at risk⁸.

It’s key to be careful, especially at night in downtown Cancun, Tulum, and Playa del Carmen⁸. Try to stay in bright, busy areas. And, listen to the advice of locals and tour guides. These steps are crucial for your safety⁸.

The military has joined in to make these places even safer⁸. Cancun and several other tourist destinations are getting attention and protection. Though some hotel workers might not be very helpful, the military’s extra watch should make things better for visitors⁸.

Even with the government’s hard work, staying safe is still up to you when you visit places like Cancun⁹. Mexico is super popular, and its border with the US is the busiest in the world. Yet, bad things happening to visitors is actually quite rare⁹.

Following the advice of those who know the area well is smart⁹. Use legal taxis, don’t show off expensive items, watch out for scams, and use ATMs where many people are around. Doing these will lower your risks and let you enjoy the stunning places Mexico has⁹.

Cancun has grown a lot, from a few people in 1970 to over 700,000 today¹⁰. It offers cool things like the Underwater Museum of Art with hundreds of sculptures. There’s also the second-biggest Maya Barrier Reef and the world’s longest underwater cave. Plus, from May to September, you can swim with the big but gentle whale sharks near Cancun¹⁰.

The government’s work in Cancun and other spots is great, but you need to be alert too. By staying updated and following local tips, you’ll have a great and safe time. This way, you can really enjoy the amazing nature and culture Mexico has to show¹⁰.

COVID-19 Precautions and Testing in Cancun

Travelers heading to Cancun wonder about COVID-19 rules and safety. The good news is Cancun doesn’t need a COVID-19 test for entry¹¹. The U.S. also doesn’t require a test when you return¹¹.

Entry Requirements and Testing Options

In Cancun, you might get your temperature checked when you arrive. If you show symptoms, you could be checked more or asked to quarantine¹¹. Yet, people from the U.S. don’t have to quarantine when they get home¹¹.

Many places in Cancun provide COVID-19 tests. PCR tests cost between $53 and $250. Antigen tests are $11 to $55¹¹. You can get your test results by email in a few hours¹¹.

COVID-19 Safety Measures

Cancun follows health advice, like keeping apart and washing hands often¹¹. Wearing masks is not a must, but it’s a good idea in some public spots¹¹. Every business in Cancun must offer hand sanitizer¹¹.

The Cancun airport is very careful about cleanliness. People from the U.S. don’t face any special rules when they come or go from Mexico¹¹.

Cancun is considered a “Safe Destination” by the WTTC. It usually has fewer than 100 active COVID-19 cases from over 800,000 residents¹¹. Most hotels give free COVID-19 tests. Extra tests cost $12.00 to $25.00¹¹.

Although Cancun is seen as safe, people should be careful. It’s smart to keep up with COVID-19 news and rules¹¹. Travelers from the U.S. and Canada need a negative COVID-19 test before leaving Cancun, as their countries require¹². Kids over 2 also need to be tested¹².

The COVID-19 situation changes, so it’s important to stay updated. Mexico has had over 7.07 million COVID-19 cases and nearly 330,000 deaths by September 20¹³. The U.S. CDC rated Mexico as high risk for COVID-19 on that date¹³.

Travelers should focus on staying safe while enjoying Cancun¹¹.

Natural Disaster Preparedness in Cancun

Cancun is loved by many, welcoming over 8 million people each year¹⁴. The U.S. Bureau of Consular Affairs sees it as mildly risky due to crime. It is also hit by hurricanes often¹⁴.

Hurricane Season and Evacuation Plans

From June to November, Cancun faces hurricane risks. Events like Gilbert in 1988 and Wilma in 2005 have shown its dangers¹⁴. Cancun has well-prepared evacuation strategies. There are 24 safe shelters for up to 17,000 people¹⁴.

Earthquake and Volcanic Activity

Although not common, earthquakes can happen in Cancun. Mexico’s location means it’s in an area with frequent seismic activity¹⁴. Flooding in rainy seasons is more likely, but not a big danger¹⁴.

The U.S. Bureau of Consular Affairs rates Mexican states for different risks, including crime. Quintana Roo, home to Cancun, is deemed low-risk for COVID-19¹⁴.

By knowing about natural disaster risks and local actions, you can stay safe in Cancun. This understanding helps make your trip both secure and fun¹⁴¹⁵¹⁶.

Carbon Monoxide Awareness and Prevention

Traveling to places like Cancun is thrilling. Yet, it’s very important to think about safety. This is especially true regarding the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Recent events in Mexico City are a sad reminder of how dangerous this gas can be¹⁷.

No such incidents have been reported in Cancun. Still, you should make sure your holiday place has a working carbon monoxide detector. Always carry a spare in case the first one fails. Know the signs of carbon monoxide poisoning: nausea, headache, vomiting, and breathing problems¹⁷.

Recent events in Mexico highlight the danger of carbon monoxide for travelers¹⁸.
Make sure your place in Cancun has a detector, and bring an extra just to be safe¹⁹.
Recognize the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning to stay safe¹⁷.

While the risk in Cancun is low, it’s wise to be ready. Put safety first by taking the right steps. Then, enjoy Cancun with peace of mind¹⁹.

Remember, carbon monoxide dangers are not just in Mexico. They’re a global issue. Every year, over 400 people die in the U.S. from this gas¹⁹. Those who rent out places, like Airbnb, Vrbo, or hotels, must have detectors. This keeps their guests safe¹⁹¹⁸.

As a traveler, you can also do your part by bringing your own detector to hotels. Many don’t have them. This extra step will give you and your family a safe stay in Cancun¹⁹¹⁸.

Beach Safety in Cancun

Cancun’s beautiful beaches attract visitors from all over the world²⁰. In 2022, more than 30 million people came and most had a great time²⁰. Still, it’s important to keep safety in mind when enjoying the water and sand.

Shark Attacks and Avoiding Dangerous Wildlife

Shark attacks in Cancun are unusual but not unheard of. In March 2023, a shark bit a 10-year-old. To be safe, swim in areas monitored for safety. Always stay near the shore, especially since swimming at night or with open wounds may attract sharks.

Besides sharks, Cancun’s waters host other wildlife, like stingrays and jellyfish. Learn about these animals before you go. And take steps to avoid getting too close to them.

Water Quality and Cleanliness

The water in Cancun is typically clean and safe for swims. Mexico’s health department, Cofepris, checks the water regularly²⁰. The beaches in Cancun’s Hotel Zone, or Zona Hotelera, are especially safe. These areas have all-inclusive resorts and are great for evening strolls²⁰.

Cancun is known to be quite safe, overall. Violent crime is rare, notably in places popular with tourists²⁰. Nonetheless, always use common sense when out and about. This applies to the city’s beaches and beyond²⁰.

Is it Safe to Travel to Cancun?

Is Cancun safe for tourists? The answer isn’t straightforward. Cancun is mostly safe for visitors. Yet, you should be aware of some key points²¹.

But, Mexico has seen a lot of crime, like violence. This has affected places tourists love, such as Cancun²¹. The Mayan Riviera, including Cancun, has seen violent crimes. These include kidnappings and assaults, making safety a top concern²¹. Virtual and express kidnappings are also high in Mexico, with rates among the world’s highest²¹.

Robbery and fraud with credit cards and ATMs are big worries too in Mexico, including Cancun²¹²². When handling money, be careful. Sometimes, there are protests and blockades that can disrupt the area. These events, however, are rare in Cancun²¹.

The Mexican government has stepped up its efforts to keep Cancun safe²². They use police and military to keep drug violence under control. In Quintana Roo, where Cancun is, there are more security measures now²².

Between June and November, Cancun faces hurricane season. And from March to August, there’s sargassum seaweed to watch for²³. Knowing about these times can help you plan your trip better.

In all, Cancun is pretty safe compared to other Mexican areas. If you stick to safety rules, stay alert, and prepare well, you’ll have a great and safe time in Cancun²¹²².

Tip	Amount
Restaurants (if not already included)	15% gratuity
Airport and hotel porters	M$25 per bag
Gas station attendants	M$5 to M$10
Car rental liability coverage	Required by Mexican law
Recommended visit duration	7-10 days
Cancun ATMs	Dispense Mexican pesos
Uber in Cancun	Use with caution
Cancun tap water	Generally not safe to drink

²¹²²²³

The Best Time to Visit Cancun

Cancun is a well-known coastal gem in Mexico. It welcomes visitors with two main seasons. These are the dry season from November to April and the wet season from May to October. Each season has its perks, making it important to consider what you want from your trip when planning²⁴²⁵.

Dry Season vs. Wet Season

The dry season is Cancun’s busiest time. It has warm, sunny days and very little rain. You can expect average high temperatures from 82 to 84 degrees and lows of 63 to 67 degrees. There are only 2 to 7 days of rain each month. This is perfect for beach lovers, explorers, and those who enjoy nightlife²⁴²⁵.

The wet season, however, is from May to October. It sees higher humidity and more thunderstorms. Rainfall increases, with 7 to 13 days of rain a month. Yet, this season has its own charm. The landscapes are lush, and there are fewer tourists²⁵.

Advantages of Each Season

The dry season is ideal for outdoor fun and sightseeing in Cancun. But it means higher prices and more people at the attractions²⁵. On the other hand, the wet season can save you money. This is when hotel rates and flight costs drop²⁵.

In the wet season, you can see sea turtle nesting and whale shark migrations from May to September. Don’t miss the September Independence Day and the Cancun Jazz Festival in October for cultural experiences²⁶.

The best time to visit Cancun really depends on what you prefer and your budget. The dry season has clear skies and lots of energy. The wet season means savings and unique natural beauty. No matter your choice, Cancun promises a memorable trip²⁴²⁵²⁶.

Safety Tips for Solo and Family Travelers

Cancun is usually safe, but travelers must be cautious. As a solo traveler, watch your drinks in bars. Dress right, avoid walking alone at night, and talk to the resort staff to stay safe²⁷. For families, it’s good to use the ADO bus. Pick safe places to stay, know some Spanish, and have emergency numbers ready²⁷. These tips help everyone enjoy Cancun without worry.

²⁸While Mexico has a high homicide rate, Cancun itself is safe. It’s often suggested to travel in groups at night to be safer²⁸. Do not show off your money. Spread it out, and use toll roads for an added personal safety touch²⁷. Learning a bit of Spanish beforehand can help me blend in. This, in turn, makes the trip safer²⁸.

²⁸For families, know that hurricane season in Mexico is from June to November. Cancun can be hit by storms. Being prepared and knowing what to do can keep your family safe²⁸. It’s also wise to have travel insurance for any unexpected events while in Cancun²⁸.