Is Cancun Safe for Travel in 2024?

Cancun, Mexico
Safety Score
63

Cancún is a city in southeast Mexico on the northeast coast of the Yucatán Peninsula in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo. It is a significant tourist destination in Mexico and the seat of the municipality of Benito Juárez. The city is on the Caribbean Sea and is one of Mexico’s easternmost points.

Warnings & Dangers in Cancun

Overall Risk

OVERALL RISK : MEDIUM

Cancun is a relatively safe place to travel. Despite all the crime around, if tourists are in the hotel zone, they are not in danger.

Transport & Taxis Risk

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK : MEDIUM

Public transport is unreliable, often late, and pickpockets are frequent. It is best to use a taxi service, but never call a taxi from the street.

Pickpockets Risk

PICKPOCKETS RISK : MEDIUM

Petty pickpockets and wallet thefts happen on beaches outside of tourist areas. Keep track of your belongings. Also, pickpocketing can be on public transport.

Natural Disasters Risk

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK : MEDIUM

Cancun is at risk of hurricanes between May and November. Study the weather conditions in the city before your trip here.

Mugging Risk

MUGGING RISK : MEDIUM

Armed attacks and robberies happen, as do kidnappings. However, they usually do not concern tourists. Do not walk alone at night in dangerous places. In the event of an attack, give the burglars what they ask for to save lives.

Terrorism Risk

TERRORISM RISK : LOW

The risk of terrorism is low in Cancun. The global risk of terrorist attacks in public areas exists worldwide, so tourists should be vigilant.

Scams Risk

SCAMS RISK : MEDIUM

Scams in the city are often associated with attempts to defraud tourists. Be careful, buy goods and services in licensed places. Be considerate of those who ask for or offer help. Also standard are all sorts of tricks and street tricks, thanks to which scammers lure money from tourists.

Women Travelers Risk

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK : MEDIUM

Women traveling alone can be safe in Cancun if they do not leave resorts and tourist areas at night. Women should avoid drawing undue attention to themselves and wear modest clothing.

How Safe Is Cancun for Tourists?

Cancun is not the safest city to travel to.

The crime index here is at an average level.

The main problems are associated with high levels of corruption, drug trafficking, and petty theft.

Tourists can stay safe if they follow specific rules.

It’s important to remember – nothing is free.

If someone offers you goods and services without mentioning the price, it means that you will be surprised by it later.

Although Cancun used to be a safe place, the resort town has been a crime victim since 2018.

The rise of banditry and murder, especially around the beaches, has made it enormously unsafe even in broad daylight.

Tourists are advised to stay in  ​​their hotels; these areas are protected and safe for travelers.

Do not use ATMs outside of a bank – there are ATMs throughout Cancun.

Use only those available from banks or your hotel.

If you are walking in the city at night, take care of the company.

It’s best not to be alone after sunset, especially if you are returning from a bar.

The ocean currents in Cancun, depending on the season you visit, can be substantial.

Intense waves can pull deep into the ocean; this is always worth remembering.

Do I Need a Visa to Visit Cancun?

A foreign national wishing to enter Mexico must obtain a visa unless they are citizens of one of the 67 eligible visa-exempt countries or one of the three Electronic Authorization System eligible countries. A valid passport is a must.

Which Currency Is Used in Cancun?

The Mexican peso is the currency of Mexico. The peso was named the eight-real coins issued in Latin America by Spain—similarly to calling 1¢ (US) coin a penny or a 10¢ piece a dime.

How's the Weather like in Cancun?

In Cancún, the summers are hot, oppressive, wet, and overcast, and the winters are comfortable, muggy, and mostly clear. Best Time to Visit Cancun for Good Weather: Cancun weather can be fantastic almost all year round, though it is particularly excellent from the end of December through April.

What Do I Need to Know about Airports in Cancun?

Cancún International Airport is located in Cancún, Quintana Roo, on the Caribbean coast of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula. It is Latin America’s third and Mexico’s second busiest airport, after Mexico City International Airport.

Should I Get Travel Insurance for My Travels?

A travel insurance policy is a must when visiting a foreign country or city. Make sure you got it before starting your journey; the customs officer may ask for it.

What Are Some Things to Do in Cancun?

Cancun is known for its beaches, numerous resorts, and nightlife. It’s composed of 2 distinct areas: the more traditional downtown area, El Centro, and Zona Hotelera, a long, beachfront strip of high-rise hotels, nightclubs, shops, and restaurants. Cancun is also a famed destination for students during universities’ spring break period.

Is the Water in Cancun Safe to Drink?

Tap water is not recommended to drink. You can use bottled water or boil tap water.

Is Uber Safe in Cancun?

There is an Uber taxi in Cancun. You can call a taxi from the app on your phone. The cost of the trip will depend on the distance and time of day.

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