Cancun remains a leading vacation spot, famous for its beautiful beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and, of course, the nightlife. But many travelers are asking, “Is Cancun safe to travel to in 2025?”
The short answer: Yes, Cancun is generally safe for tourists, particularly in the Hotel Zone and popular tourist areas. However, staying informed and practicing common sense will help you stay safe.
Remember, common sense ain’t all too common.
The U.S. media frequently highlights the dangers of Mexico, including roaming criminal gangs, tourist kidnappings and ransoms, corrupt officials, and other threats.
Is Cancun as dangerous as the media portrays it to be?
For years, I wouldn’t travel to Mexico because the U.S. media painted this horrific picture of Mexico, and I wouldn’t travel across the border because I believed Mexico was dangerous.
I would be killed, kidnapped, and held for ransom by the cartel because both the U.S. media and the Mexico Travel Advisory that the U.S. Government issued stated I would be murdered if I even thought about traveling to Mexico.
If Mexico was all that dangerous, people wouldn’t keep returning to a dangerous country year after year, would they? But with that being said I was held up in the airport and made to pay $400 USD for having too many electronics.
Mexico is Cracking Down on Travelers Carrying Electronics
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If you thought airport headaches only happened in the U.S., think again. Mexico has recently tightened its customs enforcement, and many travelers—myself included—are being stopped and charged simply for bringing in more than one or two electronic devices.
I experienced this firsthand, and it struck a nerve when I shared it in a Reel on Instagram.
The video has since been viewed over 1.2 million times, with thousands of people in the comments saying they’ve had similar run-ins with Mexican customs.
Here’s the thing: Mexico allows travelers to bring in one laptop, one cellphone, and a tablet or camera duty-free. Anything beyond that can be subject to import taxes—even if it’s clearly for personal use.
I was stopped, questioned, and made to pay a fee despite being a frequent traveler who travels to Mexico often, and I thought I knew all of the rules when traveling to Mexico.
The situation felt invasive and unnecessary, but I should have known the rules before traveling.
👉🏽 Watch it for yourself here: Mexico Charged Me for Electronics – Instagram Reel
If you’re traveling to Mexico for work, content creation, or even just with family gadgets, take inventory and be prepared.
You may want to consolidate devices, carry receipts to show ownership, and avoid packing brand-new electronics in boxes or wrapping.
Customs officials are stepping up inspections, and ignorance of the rules won’t save you from surprise charges.
I had to pay $400 pesos each for my computer and drone on the spot!
Exceed these limits, and you might face a 19% duty on the estimated value of your extra device. Depending on the customs officer’s assessment, that could add up to nearly $200 for an iPad Pro or $300 to $400 for a MacBook Pro.
Cancun Travel Advisory 2025
The U.S. State Department has issued a Level 2 Travel Advisory for Quintana Roo, including Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and the Riviera Maya.
This means travelers should exercise increased caution due to crime. While violent crime is rare in tourist zones, petty crime, such as pickpocketing and scams, can occur.
It is essential to stay vigilant and informed by consulting U.S. State Department and Mexican government updates.
Cancun Safety Overview
- Hotel Zone: The Hotel Zone remains one of the safest places in Cancun. Police officers heavily patrol tourist areas, and most resorts have their own security.
- Downtown Cancun: While downtown Cancun offers a more authentic experience, it’s important to be cautious, especially at night. Stick to well-lit areas and avoid traveling alone.
- Playa del Carmen and Riviera Maya: These neighboring destinations are generally safe but follow the same precautions as you would in Cancun.
- Isla Mujeres: A tranquil island just off Cancun’s coast, Isla Mujeres is considered one of the safest places for families and solo travelers alike.
Is Cancun Safe Right Now?
Understanding Crime Rates in Cancun
While Quintana Roo experiences some organized crime, most incidents occur outside tourist zones and involve rival gangs rather than innocent bystanders.
According to recent reports, Cancun threat level in the Hotel Zone and other popular tourist destinations is lower compared to major cities like Mexico City or even some U.S. cities like New Orleans or Memphis.
However, petty crime remains a concern, so secure your belongings and stay aware of your surroundings.
Key Safety Tips for Cancun in 2025
- Avoid Displaying Wealth: Leave expensive jewelry at home and keep valuables out of sight.
- Stick to Bottled Water: Avoid drinking tap water to prevent health issues.
- Be Cautious with Credit Cards: Use them only at reputable establishments to avoid fraud.
- Secure Travel Insurance: It’s a good idea to invest in travel insurance for medical emergencies or unexpected cancellations.
- Use Reputable Transportation: Stick to hotel-arranged transport or rideshare apps instead of hailing taxis from the street.
- High Level of Situational Awareness: Stay alert in crowded areas to avoid becoming a target of petty theft or scams.
Common Questions About Cancun Safety
Is Cancun Safe for Families? Yes, Cancun’s Hotel Zone and Isla Mujeres are excellent options for families, offering safe beaches and family-friendly activities.
What About Solo Travelers? Solo travelers should take extra precautions but will find plenty of safe destinations in Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Riviera Maya.
Is Downtown Cancun Safe at Night? While downtown Cancun has many attractions, it’s safer to explore during daylight hours. If visiting at night, stick to busy areas and travel in groups.
Areas to Avoid in Cancun
While Cancun is mostly safe, certain areas require extra caution:
- Outskirts of Downtown Cancun: Crime rates are higher in these less-touristy areas.
- Deserted Beaches at Night: Always stay in well-lit, populated areas after sunset.
- Unfamiliar Streets: Avoid wandering into areas you are not familiar with.
Safety of Cancun and the Riviera Maya
The Riviera Maya, encompassing Playa del Carmen, Tulum, and Cozumel, is another popular destination in Quintana Roo.
Like Cancun, it’s considered safe for tourists, especially in resorts and tourist zones. However, avoid isolated areas and use trusted transportation options.
Travel Advisory Highlights
- Drug Cartels: While cartel activity exists, it rarely affects tourists who stay within designated safe areas.
- Petty Crime: Pickpocketing and scams can happen, especially in crowded areas.
- Taxi Drivers: Use hotel-arranged taxis or rideshare services to avoid potential issues.
- Tourist Zones: These areas remain the safest places to explore and enjoy.
Cancun is located in the State of Quintana Roo, which includes Playa Del Carmen, Tulum, Cozumel, and the Riviera Maya. It is not far from Puerto Vallarta and Isla Mujeres.
These areas bring in a lot of dollars into Mexico, which is undoubtedly one of the safer areas in the country, especially compared to other states.
According to the US State Department, Cancun is a welcoming community and stands out as one of Mexico’s safest regions, characterized by its minimal crime rates.
While many people worry about cartels or criminals preying on tourists in areas like Cancun or Mazatlan, there are much more common risks for travelers, like not using your common sense and buying drugs in a foreign country.
If you can’t spend the weekend in another country without smoking weed, you should probably be checking yourself into rehab instead of traveling to Cancun.
Most of the tourists that have been killed in Mexico are due to them buying drugs from the cartel because they were too afraid to fly with weed, so someone thought it was a good idea to buy drugs in a foreign country.
Use the up-to-date links below to stay informed about any current advisories for increased caution that might affect your travel plans.
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Mexico Travel Advisory
For the latest Cancun Travel Advisory and Warnings, visit the US State Department’s Website. Right now, the State Department website warns that ” Violent crime – such as homicide, kidnapping, carjacking, and robbery – is widespread in Mexico.”
However, when you read further, it states, “Exercise Normal Precautions When Traveling To Cancun.
Latest update
As of September 06, 2024, the US Department of State has advised US citizens overseas to exercise increased caution due to the potential for terrorist attacks, demonstrations, or violent actions against US citizens and interests.
The US Embassy and Consulates in Mexico have also issued travel warnings for the 2025 summer break season.
Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions
Level 2: Excercise Increased Caution
Level 3: Reconsider Travel
Level 4: Do Not Travel
Mexican Military Called In To Help Protect Tourists In Cancun
The deployment of the Mexican military to safeguard tourists in Cancun has been a crucial measure to ensure the safety and enjoyment of travelers visiting this popular destination.
The Mexican military’s presence reassures tourists, as dedicated personnel are committed to maintaining a safe environment.
These troops collaborate with local law enforcement agencies to deter criminal activity, such as drug-related violence and theft, and provide visitors a sense of security.
Their presence protects tourists and supports the local economy by maintaining Cancun’s status as a premier vacation spot.
How is The Mexican Government Keeping Cancun Safe?
The Mexican government employs a multi-faceted approach to ensure the safety of Cancun’s residents and visitors.
Law enforcement agencies work diligently to maintain a strong presence throughout the city, regularly patrolling popular tourist areas and collaborating with local businesses to enhance security measures.
Specialized tourist police units are dedicated to assisting and safeguarding visitors, providing a reassuring presence for international travelers.
Additionally, investment in modern surveillance technologies and communication systems aids in swiftly monitoring and responding to incidents.
Community policing initiatives foster a sense of trust and cooperation within the local community, while public awareness campaigns educate tourists about safety measures.
By adopting these comprehensive strategies and continuously addressing security concerns, the Mexican government is committed to preserving Cancun as a safe and inviting destination for all.
Cancun Travel Advisory Fact vs. Fiction
There are more than 40,000 police officers stationed throughout all of Quintana Roo, which means that Cancun’s safety is important to the country.
If you get up and go to the grocery store every day, run at your local park, or even go to a concert, you should always take precautions no matter the destination.
Are you worried about traveling to Chattanooga, Houston, Chicago, New Orleans, or Memphis? All of these cities have a higher crime rate than Cancun.
The Mexican Tourism Authority and the government want you safe because tourism is Mexico’s number one revenue generator. They have pointed to the low number of victims of crime compared to the 28 million American tourists who travel to Mexico each year.
Know that Cancun is safe, and keep these numbers in mind when planning your vacation for summer and fall travels for 2025.
As I stated earlier, Cancun is safer than most of America’s biggest cities. If you are not worried about traveling within the U.S., especially with the current racial tensions, you should be asking if Cancun is safe.
Cancun Crime vs. United States Crime
Mexico is statistically much safer than the United States.
So why is the U.S. State Dept. sending out Travel Alerts, calling Mexico “A Failed State”, and saying that ALL parts of the country (including popular tourist resorts like Puerto Vallarta and Cancun) are now unsafe for travel?
They also fail to mention that most of that violence is drug traffic-related or that you could count the number of tourists who are affected by it on the one hand.
Did you know that, according to the FBI, an estimated 15,241 persons were murdered in the U.S. in 2009 111 U.S. citizens were killed in Mexico last year, and almost all of them were involved in illicit drug trafficking, gun-running, or smuggling people across the border to/from the U.S?
Imagine 111 people out of the nearly 8 million visitors (about 1 million of whom make Mexico their full-time home). Do you know who else had 111 murders in one year?
Well, Boston, for starters. Then there was Las Vegas, Orlando, and Indianapolis. Is the State Department advising tourists to stay away from those places?
Statistically speaking, despite media sensationalism, U.S. travelers are safer in Cancun than in most U.S. cities.
Cancun currently has a crime index of 55.82. When you look at the crime rate in Memphis, Cancun is much lower than the rating of 76.27. See the comparison here.
Comparing Cancun to Other Destinations
When comparing Cancun’s safety to other destinations like Mexico City, Puerto Vallarta, or Baja California Sur, Cancun ranks highly as a safe place for tourists.
The Hotel Zone offers a controlled environment, making it one of the safest areas in Mexico.
How to Deal with Police Extortion in Cancun
We’ve all heard the stories about the corrupt cops south of the border. With stories ranging from extortion to kidnapping, the police in Mexico and the rest of Latin America do not have the best reputation.
Police extortion of tourists detained for minor offenses is often a problem, and there have been some grotesque incidents.
However, the authorities cracked down hard and dismissed hundreds of officers, including some top officials. They claim the problem is under control.
If you are stopped for a traffic violation in Mexico, you will be asked for your driver’s license, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance. You will also be told what you did wrong.
Of course, in the U.S., we would then be issued a ticket requiring us to pay a fine or appear in court later.
If it is a minor infraction, don’t bribe them; even so, they may ask for some money; the amount depends on the seriousness of the infraction; if you pass a red light, it is better if they only give you the traffic ticket,
If you drive without a license, the car must be impounded, and the fine is higher; in that case, I suggest you offer 200 pesos (if you look Mexican) if you are blond with blue eyes, maybe about 500 pesos.
If you drink alcohol in the street, the fine is 1500 pesos or 24 hours of jail; you will probably have to pay your full fine.
Those are the most common crimes for which a police officer can pull you over; the amount will be considerably higher if you steal or kill.
The key is to remain calm and accept your mistake. When it is inevitable that they take you to jail, then subtly offer the bribe. It is like a negotiation: start with a low amount, and they will go up to agree on an amount.
Is the Hotel Zone Safe in Cancun
Crime rates in the Hotel Zone are lower than in many major U.S. cities. The local authorities and tourist police keep a vigilant watch, and hotels often have security measures in place.
Still, like anywhere else, it’s wise to keep an eye on your belongings, avoid wandering into dimly lit areas at night (unless you’re on a stargazing mission), and maybe limit your tequila intake to a reasonable level.
If you’re staying in the Hotel Zone, try booking one of these luxury hotels, known for their privacy and safety in the Quintana Roo area.
Transportation Safety in Cancun
As I stated earlier, taxis in Cancun can generally be considered safe. Still, please understand that if you get into an unauthorized taxi and they attempt to rip you off because of a broken meter or some other nonsense, it will be tough not to become a victim.
Car Travel
Note that if driving at least 12 miles beyond the border of Mexico, a temporary import permit is mandatory if your car is registered in the U.S. Save some time going through border control by having the requirements such as your passport or passport card, an entry permit, and valid proof of vehicle registration.
When considering renting a car in Mexico, be cautious about the requirements and determine the necessary rental coverage.
Like the U.S., a renter must be at least 25 years old, have a valid credit card, and have had a license for at least two years.
Regarding coverage, though, it can help to at least purchase civil liability Mexican car protection so you aren’t stuck in Mexico needing to pay the cost of accident damage.
If your comprehensive travel insurance policy had rental collision damage coverage, you could also file a claim for any of the expenses you incurred due to the accident.
Here are some tips to keep in mind when using taxis in Cancun:
- Use Official Taxis: Opt for official taxis from reputable companies whenever possible. These taxis are usually well-maintained and regulated by authorities, which can enhance your safety.
- Authorized Taxi Stands: Use designated taxi stands, such as those at airports, hotels, and popular tourist areas. Avoid hailing taxis from the street, as this can sometimes lead to encountering unlicensed or unregulated drivers.
- Negotiate Fare or Use Meters: If the taxi doesn’t have a meter, agree on the fare before starting the ride. In taxis with meters, ensure the meter is running and insist on its use to avoid overcharging.
- Share Your Location: Ensure someone knows your whereabouts and the taxi’s license plate number before entering. You can also share this information with a friend or family member.
Remember that you will need pesos to pay, and you will need the exact amount because taxi drivers will not make changes, so remember to have plenty of small bills.
Also, the standard Mexico tipping rate is 15-20%.
Taxi & Rideshare Services
Getting around in Cancun is relatively easy and convenient, with various transportation options available for both locals and tourists.
While the city has a reliable public transportation system, many travelers prefer the flexibility of ride-sharing services like Uber. I highly recommend them over using a taxi, so click here to download the mobile app today.
Uber rideshare offers the convenience of door-to-door transportation and often has competitive pricing compared to traditional taxis.
If you opt for traditional taxis, ensure that the taxi is authorized and uses a meter to avoid any pricing disputes because there will be hell to pay if you get in an unauthorized taxi.
But use caution. There have been reports of violence between taxi drivers and Uber drivers due to contract disputes.
Safety Tips Renting cars
Want to cruise around Cancun on your terms? Renting a car is the way to go! Check out cool rides on discovercars. com—they’ve got the hookup. Just a heads up, snag extra insurance—Third Party Liability and Public Liability Insurance are a must.
Oh, and the rule of thumb is to stick to daylight driving. Roads get a bit tricky after dark!
Travelers Diarrhea
Travelers’ diarrhea, or Montezuma’s revenge, is an intestinal infection caused by eating or drinking contaminated food or water.
Food handlers who do not wash their hands after they use the bathroom can transmit the infection to people who consume the contaminated food.
You should never drink unfiltered tap water in Mexico. Stick to bottled water to avoid traveler’s diarrhea or Montezuma’s revenge.
If you’re staying at one of the many luxury resorts in Cancun, you should be fine and will not have to worry about getting sick from the water.
The typical symptoms of traveler’s diarrhea include:
Areas to avoid in Cancun
Now that we have discussed the safest areas in Cancun for tourists, here is a list of places you should avoid when traveling to Cancun or, at a minimum, be mindful of your surroundings:
- Downtown Cancun – Cancun is exceptionally safe, and downtown Cancun is no different, so there is no reason to be afraid but be extra diligent and precautious if you are traveling outside of Cancun at night and always notify someone of your location if you are traveling alone.
- Shopping in Cancun – If you are like me, you love shopping and exploring the local markets, but please take proper precautions. Do not flash money, wear expensive jewelry, and keep your purse closed because pickpocketers will watch and wait to make their move.
- Surrounding Towns– Many surrounding neighborhoods and towns are highly safe and perfect for day trips, including Guanajuato, San Cristóbal de las Casas, and Oaxaca City.
Is Cancun Safe for a Solo Female Traveler?
The excellent news is Cancun is pretty chill and safe for female travelers. Stick to the classics—no deserted spots or late-night solo walks.
Grab a cab if you’re out and about after dark. Book a hotel in the hotel zone for that extra safety vibe. Remember, common sense is your best friend—especially when packing flashy jewelry.
Keep it low-key, roll with trusted taxis, and keep your expensive jewelry in the hotel safe.
Keeping Cash Safe in Mexico
Withdrawing cash: Use ATMs in daylight hours and choose ATMs located in areas with plenty of other people around or use ATMs inside shopping malls.
Carrying cash: Don’t carry large amounts of cash on your person. If you see something you want to buy and you don’t have the cash, a small deposit will always secure the item. Leave excess cash credit/debit cards you don’t expect to need at the hotel.
Bank-card cloning/skimming: Bank card (Debit or Credit Cards) cloning (or skimming) is an issue in Mexico. Never leave bank cards out of your sight.
If your card has a “chip and pin” ask waiters at bars and restaurants to bring the payment terminal to your table and cover your hand as you enter your PIN.
If the terminal is not portable, or your card does not have “chip and pin” technology, take your card to the cashier to pay: do not allow attendants to take it out of sight.
If you are paying for fuel at gas stations with a card, we recommend you only use a credit card (not a debit card) and be extra vigilant, as gasoline stations are rife with skimmers.
Valuable documents: Keep your valuable travel documents (especially your passport) safe; passport theft is rising worldwide, including in Mexico.
Store cash and other valuables in your hotel room’s safe, the hotel’s safety deposit box or purchase your safety diversion tool.
Dress down: Avoid walking around dripping jewelry and showing off expensive watches and fashion items.
ATM refills: When stand-alone ATMs are being re-filled, you might see armed guards surrounding them.
We recommend you find another ATM instead of waiting for it to be filled. It can take up to an hour for a machine to be refilled and tested before it becomes operational.
Book Tours through a Reputable Tour Company
Booking excursions through resorts in Mexico removes much of the stress of vacation planning. Travelers can land in Cancun or Tulum and float directly onto a beach beside the bright blue Caribbean Sea.
No need to worry about things to do in Puerto Vallarta; just wait to be swept into the ocean on a catamaran or jet ski, or go swimming with the sharks.
Proper excursion planning makes this possible. However, booking the wrong excursion may double stress levels.
Best Time to Travel to Mexico
Because Mexico is a big country, deciding when and where to travel depends on the weather, which area you visit, and if you are going on a Girls’ Trip in Los Cabos or a family vacation in Cancun.
The southern part of Mexico has a rainy season, which generally starts in May and until October. Don’t worry; it only rains briefly, and the sun will return.
If you want to travel in the more fabulous season, book your trip from December to February when it is cooler.
I suggest traveling to Mexico between December and April when the temperatures are more comfortable and the humidity is not at an all-time high.
If you go to Cancun during the shoulder season or the less popular months, you will be less likely to be a victim of pickpockets and scammers.
Why Travel Insurance Is Essential
Travel insurance is a must for anyone visiting Cancun. It provides coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and unexpected events, ensuring peace of mind during your vacation.
Final Thoughts: Is Cancun Safe to Visit?
Yes—Cancun is safe for travelers, especially if you stick to tourist areas, stay at reputable resorts, and use trusted transportation.
The beaches are stunning, the hospitality is warm, and millions of people visit each year without incident. But safety isn’t just about what happens in Cancun—it’s also about what happens when you return to the U.S.
With U.S. border control tightening, especially for non-citizens and people of color, we’re seeing more cases of travelers being pulled into holding areas, questioned, and even detained.
Don’t let that be you. If you’re traveling with multiple electronics, be especially cautious—Mexican customs is cracking down, and the U.S. isn’t far behind. Keep your devices minimal, your documents organized, and your phone powered down during inspections if needed.
Travel smart, stay aware, and enjoy Cancun—but remember, the real challenge might come when it’s time to head home.
For additional resources, visit the U.S. Embassy in Mexico or consult the latest updates on travel advisories.
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