Is Cancun Safe for Travel? Advice from Travel Experts [2024]

I spent a little bit of time in Cancun and I honestly felt safe . The city is among the popular tourist destinations and is full of peoples from united states. The country is famous for drug-related violence or drug cartels, but the Mexican authorities makes everyone fell safe, especially in the popular tourist areas. I was actually amazed to see police officers everywhere , and very well equiped .

In the evening you will need a high level of situational awareness as there is illicit activities, like in every countries . If you are a female travelers, make sure to check your surroundings and who you talk to . In the recent years, there were not many stories of issues with tourists , so we can consider Cancun a safe place .

Best way to stay safe ? As everywhere I’m the world , there is petty crime activities, and the main safety tips are to not wear anything flashy or not getting lost in remote suburbs at night . So good idea not to be alone and out of the tourist hubs at night . Exercise caution with the people you meet and if you want security, the safest areas are in beach resorts or tourist zones.

But overall, Cancun is definitively a safe place !

Is Cancun Safe for Travel In 2024?

Short answer is yes !

Whenever I return home from my vacation in Cancun, one question I always encounter from any person I met is “Is it safe to travel to Cancun Mexico?” To be honest, I have been having a great time in all my vacation. However, just like any other part of the world, Cancun also has its challenges when it comes to safety issues. When visiting any country or city, it is always a great idea to check with your government for any warnings and follow basic safety precautions. Illegal activities and cartel violence is more outside the touristic areas .

Mexico is a great tourist destination and they always strive at ensuring all their international visitors return back. That is why they do work hard in improving the safety conditions of Cancun especially in the tourist hotspots. Gang violence is not in the tourist areas.

So it is a good reason to visit Cancun !

PLAN OF THE ARTICLE :

• How Safe Is Cancun?
• Is Cancun Safe ? Common Scams to Avoid During Your Stay in Cancun
• Key Practices That Will Ensure You Are Safe During Your Stay In Cancun
• Safety in Cancun : how Dangerous Is Cancun For Solo Travelers?

⚠️ Don’t forget our complete guides about Mexico

✅ Is it safe to travel to Cancun Mexico

✅Plan a trip to Tulum 

✅Visit Cancun in October

✅Fishing trip Cabo San Lucas

✅Cancun in August 

☝🏻 And way more

🔍 Just type ” Mexico “ or the topic you choose in the search bar for all our articles

How Safe Is Cancun?

It is a fact that crime takes place in every corner of the world. Cancun is no exception. Although it is quite impossible to get intimated by other people’s bad travel experience or snippets on the news, it is always of great essence to see the bigger picture. In general, Cancun is a safe destination provided you take into consideration some basic travel safety measures.

Just like other nations across the world, Mexico too has a huge wealth disparity among its population. The income gap between most of the tourists visiting Cancun and the locals is quite big. For example, in places like the Cancun Hotel zone, you will definitely reduce your guard since you will be more comfortable being alone in such an area. However, keep in mind that scams, pickpocketing and petty theft are some of the most common crimes in Cancun. Hence, maintaining an awareness level is one of the best ways to avoid being a victim.

There are some simple steps that will go a long way in helping you out. For instance, never leave your stuff unattended, always keep your wallet or purse close to you, maintain a low profile with your cash and electronics and ensure you always maintain a general spatial awareness in public spaces.

When you search on the internet about Mexico, you will always stumble upon news articles about Mexico gang and lots of drug related violence in popular areas like Cancun. However, most gang crimes never prioritize tourists as their targets and it’s easier for tourists to avoid the riskier areas. Although it is always a good thing to be informed about these crimes, they are not worth feeling paranoid about canceling a trip.

It is important that any traveler makes it a habit of taking basic safety precautions in Mexico as it will make any travel experience less stressful and will enable you enjoy all the fun experiences in Cancun.

Cancun Crime Rate

Cancun Crime level is approximately 60% which is comparable to some major cities that you will never bother visiting. For example, cities like Miami and Los Angeles have their crime rates at 57.4% and 58.5% respectively. The above cities do not even come close to New Orleans which has a crime rate of 81.67%.

You can easily fall victim of fear mongering when you do not put these things into consideration. When you analyze the rates further, you will realize cities with higher crime rates relate mostly to drugs and gangs. Despite tourists not being a major target for the gangs, when touring the city, avoid areas where drugs are being peddled.

Areas to Avoid While in Cancun

When touring Cancun, it is important that travelers stay within tourist areas such as certain shopping zones, gated resorts and tourist attraction locations.

However, there are certain neighborhoods which are well known for their higher crime rates that any traveler needs to avoid. The areas include Santa Cecilia, Bonfil, Valle Verde and Tres Reyes.

Is Cancun Safe ? Common Scams to Avoid During Your Stay in Cancun

Check our guide about visiting Cancun in October or visiting Cancun in August

There are scams that you should always be aware of when planning for your trip to Cancun. Some of the most common ones are:

Picture Scam

Whenever a local requests you to take their picture that is a common scam in Cancun. They will always hand you their camera or phone and request you to take their picture. When you return the camera or mobile phone, they will intentionally drop it and accuse you of breaking it and making a demand that you make a payment. When in Cancun, never take anyone’s camera or phone to photograph them.

Overcharging by Taxis

Whenever you request a cab in Cancun, ensure you meter is turned on. Ensure you also plan well before requesting for a cab to know how long the journey will take.

Friendly ATM Helper

When in Cancun, you will definitely want to make some withdrawal from your ATM. There are people who will approach you claiming they can help you avoid the local bank fees. However, their goal is always to scan your credit or debit card using their card skimmer. They will then watch you key in your pin details so that can later on drain your account.

Friendly Bar People

It is a common habit for two amiable ladies or guys to approach you for a small talk. They will always give the impression they are on the same page as you. Thereafter, they will propose you join them for a drink at a nearby joint which they are partners with. If not keen, they will always work with the staff at the joint and hike the prices if you are paying the bills. In case you want to meet anyone you do not know, recommend a bar and always make sure you request for a bar menu to confirm the prices. Never leave your drink to go to the toilet as they can easily drug you.

Bird Poop Scam

Your first reaction whenever someone places a white paste on your shoulder is to look up the skies thinking it’s a bird poop. Thereafter, a nice local will offer you clean it as they curse the bird for the mess. When helping you, they will always steal from you. In case you find yourself in such a situation, always decline any form of help from the locals. If not an emergency, always help yourself out. Ensure everything you own are hidden especially the credit cards or money.

Guessing Game Scam

It is common to come across a man or woman holding three boxes whenever you are strolling through the Cancun streets. There will always be a throng of people attempting to determine which box has a ball placed inside. Whenever someone from the group guesses correctly, he or she will receive cash award. They repeat this with a different person in the group and he or she too wins. More people get attracted to the street game. There are high possibilities you might get attracted to this game or someone from the group will invite you to try your luck. When you go to such a place, the groups will pickpocket you of any valuables when you are trying to focus on which box has the ball.

Check our guide about visiting Cancun in October or visiting Cancun in August

Are you going to Tulum ? Check our full guide HERE

Key Practices That Will Ensure You Are Safe During Your Stay In Cancun

Whenever you are vacationing in Cancun, it is important to keep in mind that despite enjoying a vacation in a top city in Mexico and a popular tourist destination that does not mean that you should let all your common sense leave you. Several people always think they are invisible while out in vacation. However, this is when things go wrong. If you are visiting Cancun and you use your common sense well and exercise a few safety precautions, you will always have a great experience.

Here are some of the things you need to keep in mind whenever you are visiting Cancun

Airport Safety

One of the most vulnerable places when in Cancun is when you just land at the airport. The arrival area is always overcrowded and quite confusing. You can easily fall for a travel scam if not keen. You need to exercise lots of caution and think before you accept any ride offer or help from any person you do not know. Despite violent offenses being low, you can still be a victim of scammers when arriving at Cancun through the airport. There are lots of fake taxi drivers and pickpockets in the crowded areas.

As a frequent traveler to Cancun, I do advice that you organize a private transfer to your hotel in advance. Always keep your eye on your valuables and never leave anything unattended. Go directly to the ATM alone when you need to make some withdrawals.

Transportation Safety

There are several different methods you can use to get around Cancun. You can always rent a car if you are in need of more freedom. Although there are not major issues with the local transportation, for guaranteed safety, always book a licensed tour company. Get a local guide to take you around when going for a night out, excursions or city tours.

Ridesharing and Taxis Services

If you are traveling to Cancun, you can always enjoy a reliable and secure transportation by making good use of authorized taxis and applications like Uber. However, you need to make sure the driver switches on the meter when getting into a cab. Ensure you always know the route ahead of time and be aware of the approximate costs to ensure you are not scammed.

Although there are several ridesharing services in Cancun, you need to be cautious as there have been reports of violence between Uber drivers and taxi drivers due to contract disputes. In case you are staying in a resort, it is advisable that you use a taxi driver the resort has a contract with.

Public Transportation

Public transportation in Cancun is inexpensive, reliable and easy for access for any person who wants to discover the city. Despite being safe, it is advisable that you do not use public transport alone at night. So don’t take the public buses at night .

Rental Cars

You will enjoy attractions and sights at your own pace when you use a rental car in Cancun. Ensure you book with a reliable and trusted car hire agency. You will have to get public liability insurance and extra insurance third party liability and ensure you avoid being on the roads after dark. Using these tips will ensure you enjoy all the benefits associated with renting cars and guarantee you safety through the streets of Cancun.

Drinks and Food Safety in Cancun

Mexican food is generally safe to consume especially in popular destinations. However, it is advisable to avoid foods on the streets unless it is cooked or to be peeled. When looking for a restaurant, it is important you go to places that are crowded with locals. That signals fresh food.

Tap Water

When in Cancun, desist from drinking unfiltered tap water. You should always stick to bottled water. However, the use of SteriPen is very popular in Mexico as the country does not encourage the use of plastics. Despite tests showing tap water is safe for drinking, there can be microorganisms which can lead to health issues.

Street Food and Precautions to Consider in Restaurants

Street foods in Mexico are quite delicious. However, tourists should exercise lots of caution when choosing where to eat.

Avoid eating vegetables or salads that are not cooked and ensure the meet if freshly cooked. You do not want to consume something you are not sure if it is fresh or not. Steer clear of uncovered dishes and go to places that are full of people as that are a sign the foods there are fresh.

Medical and Health Safety in Cancun

It is important that you have travel insurance when visiting Cancun Mexico. Medical emergencies can happen any time. Travel insurance costs a small price and offers a peace of mind. You will also need to look at what vaccines and medications you need. Ensure all the routine vaccines are up to date. For example, Hepatitis A and B are good to get and you will also have to update your tetanus.

You also have to consider mosquito borne illnesses as they can also be an issue. Ensure you pack some sprays and put on lightweight and long sleeves whenever you are going to the jungle. There are healthcare services available you can easily accesses during your visit in Cancun in case an emergency occurs.

Safety in Cancun : how Dangerous Is Cancun For Solo Travelers?

Several people travel to Cancun as solo travelers. It is generally safe to visit alone. However, before you travel alone, it is important that you should research about the area and inform people where you will be residing. Always check with your friends and family on a frequent basis by providing them with information about where you are going so they know about your whereabouts.

When you adhere to these basic security guidelines, you can be sure of having unforgettable trip in Cancun Mexico.

Ensure you always settle for a safe hotel in a good place and only use trustworthy transportation services. Avoid any illegal drugs or visiting areas with high crime rate. Signing up with a local tours company will help offer you extra safety as you will be able to visit different places with an expert guide. Do not forget to make some friends during your stay in Cancun Mexico!

Conclusion

Overall, Cancun is a mesmerizing destination where you will enjoy rich culture, great adventures and natural beauty. There are much more things you can enjoy when visiting Cancun regardless of whether you visit it during the dry season or during the rainy season.

Despite the presence of cartel and crime in Cancun, most tourists visiting Cancun always have a great time. I have come across several forum posts and numerous articles from different people who have made an unforgettable experience and long lasting memories in Cancun. The tourism sector and local authorities in Cancun are always working hard to improve the safety of the city.