A Guide To Staying Safe In Mexico

Mexico has mystified people for years due to its laid-back culture, rich traditions, Mayan history, beaches, and food. Nevertheless, the country is infamous for kidnappings, gang violence, and drug cartels which puts off most travelers. 

If you’re considering traveling to Mexico, you may wonder if it’s safe. This article will walk you through everything you need to know about Mexico’s safety, from whether taxis and public transportation are safe to whether you can travel with your children. 

Mexico’s Safety Levels

As a country, Mexico is rich in nature, history, music, culture, and food but crime looms over the country. Warring drug gangs have increased the violence and murder rates. Kidnappings and petty theft are also common. 

That said, the violence and crime rates don’t reflect how travelers are treated when they visit Mexico. Tourist destinations don’t experience the same crime levels as other parts of the nation. This indicates that the government makes efforts to open these areas for business. 

Many people who visit Mexico are usually unaffected by crime as the government has worked to remove it from tourist destinations. Pickpocketing and robberies—particularly on public transport—are the only threats tourists face and are avoidable. 

It isn’t guaranteed that you will feel safe during your trip to Mexico or that you’ll be safe, as things can happen anytime. Following safety, habits can help you avoid being in the wrong situation at the wrong time. 

It isn’t all doom and gloom; most Mexicans are open, helpful, fun-loving, family-oriented, and friendly. Whether Mexico is safe or not will depend on who you’re asking. But if you do your due diligence and practice common sense, you’ll have a safe trip. 

Planning Your Trip to Mexico 

Drugs and warring gangs have led to an increase in crime rates in Mexico. Since the country is in cocaine-producing South American countries and America (the biggest drug market globally), it’s filled with different gangs who want to control drug flow in the nation. 

 In the northern states of Tamaulipas, Sonora, Sinaloa, Leon, Nuevo, Durango, Chihuahua, and Coahuila, violence isn’t limited to drugs; it also happens between the police and the gangs. 

 Be cautious but also rest assured that you won’t be targeted as long as you aren’t part of the violence. Trouble won’t come looking for you unless you look for it. 

 You’ll have a safe trip if you’ve done due diligence on the area you wish to visit. Regardless of where you are during your trip, always use your common sense and stay out of trouble. 

Safe Places to Visit in Mexico

Some areas in Mexico are safer than others; the safest place for tourists in Mexico is Riviera Maya, a Caribbean coastline stretch on Yucatan Peninsula. Here are some other places that are safe for tourists: 

1. Isla de Mujeres

Located 13km off Cancun, Isla de Mujeres is among the safest places for families in Mexico. The small island offers great resorts, white sandy beaches, calm waters, and snorkeling opportunities. 

The island also has a turtle sanctuary, and an ancient Mayan temple remains to be explored.  

2. Playa Del Carmen

This city is renowned for its stunning coral reef and beautiful beaches, and its located along Yucatan Peninsula. The city has a pedestrian path parallel to the sand filled with bars, shops, cafes, and restaurants. 

There’s something for everyone in this city, from learning about Mexican culture and chilling at the beach to exploring cenotes and caves. 

3. Oaxaca

This is among the places where Mexico’s historical periods shine through. The streets, like the modern, colonial, and pre-Hispanic periods, express all periods. Oaxaca is the best city for unique experiences as it offers amazing cuisine, bio-fluorescent lagoons, and archeological sites to explore.  

Places to Keep off While You’re in Mexico

As with most other countries, there are sites it’s better to avoid to have a safe trip. Cartels run some areas in Mexico, and you wouldn’t want to get in their way; before visiting anywhere, do adequate research to ensure it’s safe. Here are some places to keep off your Mexico itinerary: 

• Tijuana – This is the most dangerous city in Mexico and has the highest murder and crime rates. 
• Acapulco – This once-famous tourist destination ranks 7th for murder rates. Don’t walk around at night if you do decide to visit. 
• Juarez (Ciudad) – This city has been ranked second in murder and crime rates recently due to gang warfare. 

You must be careful with other states: Nuevo Leon, Tamaulipas, Michoacán, Chihuahua, Guerrero, Sinaloa, Durango, and Baja California. 

Safety Guide for Your Trip to Mexico

Traveling to Mexico is safe, but you can always be careful. To ensure you are safe during your visit, here are some tips you should keep in mind: 

• Conduct adequate research – Since things can easily change, ensure you aren’t visiting a state that isn’t a crime hotbed. 
• Keep car doors and windows shut – Do this when you’re at traffic stops, as robberies and carjacking happen at such times. 
• Use first-class bus firms – These bus companies conduct security checks on passengers and use toll roads. 
• Take care of your possessions while using the metro, as pickpocketing is common. 
• Use regulated taxis from taxi ranks – all other taxis are unregulated and illegal.
• Don’t walk alone at night – This applies even if you’re near your hotel.
• Be cautious when withdrawing cash from ATMs – ATMs are the best spots for robbery attacks; only withdraw cash during the day or while inside a mall. 
• Have a security traveling belt – These bags fool thieves and keep your money safe. 
• Be on the lookout for scams – Be wary of individuals who ask for too many private details, as they’re most likely scammers. 
• Don’t wear flashy jewelry or clothes – Complying with them is the best way to avoid getting injured. 
• Always wear sunscreen – In Mexico, the sun can be quite relentless. 
• Learn a few Spanish phrases– This will assist you in getting around.
• Toilets labeled ‘M’ are for women – The Spanish term for women is Mujeres (M). 
• Carry mosquito repellent – some mosquitoes in Mexico cause the West Nile virus.
• Ask for local tips at where you stay – The staff where you’ll be staying will have recommendations about places to eat and stay safe. 
• Don’t over-indulge in alcohol – You must be sober always to know what’s happening around you. 
• Avoid drugs – Since drugs are the country’s main challenge, don’t get involved, as it may land you in trouble. 
• Avoid traveling at night – Most crimes usually happen at night. 
• Only use reliable adventure sports operators – They have experienced tour guides and the latest equipment.
• Stay away from politics – Mexico’s constitution prohibits foreigners from getting involved in the country’s politics. 
• Don’t put ice in your drinks – Even though Mexico is hot, it’s best to avoid using ice cubes as you might get sick. 
• Have an earthquake application –The app will alert you when an earthquake is about to occur.

Traveling To Mexico Solo

Traveling to Mexico solo can leave you feeling vulnerable, as even though everyone is a target, being alone makes you more appealing to criminals. 

Nevertheless, backpacking solo in Mexico can be a rewarding experience as there are a lot of activities you can do and discover. If you’re traveling solo, here are some additional precautions you should take: 

• Make friends with other tourists: This is a great way to avoid loneliness, and it’ll help you seem more intimidating to criminals—criminals don’t target groups as it’s more work. 
• Learn Spanish: Most Mexicans don’t speak English unless they reside in touristy areas; learning Spanish will help you get around. Additionally, knowing some phrases will help locals open up to you. 
• Book a safe hotel: If you check into a hotel or hostel that doesn’t feel right, check out immediately. There are many fantastic hotels in Mexico, and it’s better to guarantee your safety, even if it means coughing up a few extra coins. 
• Be open-minded: Even though exploring Mexico can be overwhelming, you won’t enjoy your trip if you get panicked by the noise and the hustle and bustle. 
• Ask for help when you’re lost: Mexicans are very helpful and friendly, approach anyone personable politely, and they’ll help you out. 
• Don’t walk alone during the night whether you’re female or male. 
• Don’t leave your drinks/food unattended: Someone might spike them, resulting in you getting assaulted or robbed. 
• Use pesos: If you use the dollar, the exchange rate won’t favor you. 
• Blend in: looking like the average tourist by wearing things like sombreros won’t heighten your traveling experience. 
• Heed government warnings. 

While Mexico isn’t the safest county for backpackers, it isn’t a no-go zone; with extra attention and appropriate habits, Mexico is safe for those traveling alone. 

Traveling To Mexico As A Solo Female Traveler

As a woman, deciding where to travel solo can be difficult. Females should be able to travel solo wherever without having to worry about the implications. 

A bad rep doesn’t mean you should write off an entire country. Many parts of Mexico are safe for solo female tourists. Rember that most sensational headlines don’t usually tell the whole story. 

Of course, there are several things you can do as a female to ensure you’re as safe as possible during your trip. Here are some of them: 

• Make friends with other female travelers in your hotel: Several women who travel solo, and acquainting yourself with them will help you exchange ideas on the best safety measures to take, help you make friends, and you’ll also know some interesting places they’ve visited. 

• Don’t overindulge: Drinking too much puts you at risk of being assaulted. Only drink something you’ve bought yourself, and always watch your drink, so it doesn’t get spiked. 

• Don’t travel alone during the night and only use taxis from the official sites.

• Always be aware of your surroundings: Just looking like you know your surroundings won’t cut it; learn how to get around to avoid getting lost on sketchy roads. 

• Remain calm even when you’re lost: Walk confidently even when you don’t know where you are and ask for help from someone who looks friendly. 

• Dress accordingly: Mexico is a conservative nation in many ways; it’s only in US tourist resorts that people dress skimpily. Dressing like the locals as skimpy clothing will attract unwanted attention and make you stand out. 

• Smile: Smiling makes you look friendly, and since Mexicans are friendly and personable, you’ll blend in. It’ll also make it easier to get help when you’re lost. 

• Don’t disclose your travel itinerary or where you’re staying to people, as you can never be too sure who you’re talking to and their intentions. 

Being aware of the dangers and threats of traveling solo as a woman in Mexico is great; however, it shouldn’t skew your perception of the entire country. 

While it isn’t the perfect location for solo female travelers, there are many fantastic cultures and gastronomical delights to sample. Be confident and stay level-headed, and you’ll have a fantastic trip. 

Traveling To Mexico As A Family

For most American children, Mexico is like a second home as it’s family-oriented, and children are essential to society. You’ll be well cared for if you visit Mexico with your children. 

Traveling with your children also makes breaking down barriers between you and the locals easier, thus giving you a more memorable and authentic experience. Overall, Mexico is a safe place for families as you’ll be less likely to explore the less popular or rougher areas that backpackers frequent.  

You don’t have to stick to an all-inclusive resort’s walls; you can also visit local markets and see the country’s color and life with your children. 

Mexico gets hot; ensure your kids are well protected from the sun using sunhats and sunscreen. 

Driving To Mexico

Driving to Mexico is an excellent way to explore the country at your pace. It’s common for most US tourists to drive to this country. 

Nevertheless, driving to Mexico isn’t as straightforward as toll roads—usually run by private firms—are expensive. Still, they’re safer to use than libre roads, which are sometimes hiding places for gangs and aren’t well-maintained. 

You might encounter random checkpoints along the roads where you’ll be asked to produce your driver’s license. These checkpoints are more common in remote areas and aren’t always official, and they usually ask for money for you to be allowed to pass. 

Even toll roads aren’t well-maintained, as uneven surfaces and potholes are part of the course. To curb air pollution, the government sometimes restricts vehicles from accessing cities. 

In Mexico, the restrictions occur during the day between Monday and Friday. On such days, cars that aren’t from Mexico state or city aren’t allowed to enter Mexico City. Ensure you conduct adequate research on where you’ll be driving to. 

Overall, driving to Mexico is safe; but don’t drive at night as you’re more likely to encounter criminals at such times. There are also cars driving with no lights and animals on the road at night. 

Using Uber While Visiting Mexico

Uber is popular in Mexico and several other cities, including Los Cabos, La Paz, and Cancun. Ubers are cheap and safe; you can ride them alone or with friends. 

The drivers are usually respectful, the vehicles clean, you can pay with cash, and the drivers use Waze or Google Maps. 

Taxis In Mexico

Traveling in taxis while you’re in Mexico can be a miss-or-hot experience. There are many taxis available, and most are cheap. Some taxis have meters while others don’t, and you pay per zone or kilometer. 

Never hail a taxi off the street at night, as they’re probably unlicensed cabs. Go to a taxi rank (Sitio) and find a licensed taxi. 

Initially, the taxi business in Mexico was in jeopardy due to many tax-related crimes; however, the advent of taxi apps designed to make traveling with cabs safer helped eradicate the problem. Additionally, most drivers opted to join taxi ranks to avoid getting targeted. 

You won’t find metered taxis in smaller towns; to use taxis in these towns, write where you want to go first and agree on the cost before getting in. 

Getting around Mexico will be easy if you use licensed taxis or an app. 

Mexico’s Public Transportation System

Like in most cities, Mexico’s public transport is safe, and the most you have to worry about is pickpocketing which you can avoid with a good travel security belt. 

The metro is usually jam-packed and chaotic, but this describes most places you’ll visit in Mexico. The Metro is cheap and fast as it doesn’t have to compete with traffic. 

The police patrol the Metro during the day but not at night; therefore, don’t use it at night as you’re likely to encounter pickpockets. 

The country’s bus system isn’t regulated and is often overcrowded; it’s best to avoid it if you can. 

You can use safe caminoes (highway buses) if you want to travel around the country. The highway buses are operated by reputable bus firms and are easy to access. 

They also conduct security checks on passengers and check the drivers for drugs and alcohol. The buses are divided into three categories:

• First-class: offers complete luxury, and they have air conditioners. 
• Second class: These buses make many stops and thus take longer to reach their destinations.
• Pullman/deluxe: These buses work in areas tourists frequent, and they’re more comfortable and expensive than first class. 

Since Mexico is a big country, buses cover long distances; therefore, you should opt for something comfortable. 

Food in Mexico 

Mexico’s food is safe and delicious; it is so good that visiting the country only to sample the cuisine is worth it. 

Not all food stalls and cantinas will have top sanitation; therefore, it’s essential to know some tips to ensure you have a great gourmet experience without getting sick. Here are a few things you should keep in mind: 

• Ensure you try out street food during your visit; however, only eat from popular places as the food will most likely be delicious, and they’re probably clean. 
• Don’t eat fruits that are unpeeled or unwashed.
• Don’t eat meat that seems like it’s been lying in the sun for long. 
• Do some research on what you’d like to sample to avoid panic buying something you might not enjoy. 
• Ensure eggs are well cooked, as runny eggs are the ideal breeding spot for bacteria. 
• Ensure your hands are clean before eating; use soap and hot water to get read of bacteria that might cause food poisoning. 
• Don’t eat at big tourist restaurants as they’re more expensive than street food and lack freshness and quality. 
• Slather your food with chillis and lime juice, which are said to kill bacteria. 
• If you have a sensitive stomach, don’t try sour cream soups. 
• If you have an allergy, research how you can in from restaurant staff, and ensure you know the names of foods with allergens. If you’re allergic to gluten, travel with a gluten-free translation card.

Generally, food in Mexico is safe to eat, and dining out is the best way to soak in local culture. The food is typically made with fresh ingredients and is cooked fast. Get out of your comfort zone and sample something new!

Mexico’s Drinking Water

Don’t drink tap water while you’re in Mexico; only drink bottles or boiled water. This doesn’t mean you shouldn’t hydrate, buy lots of bottled water and ensure it’s sealed and stay hydrated throughout the day, as Mexico can be hot.

You can also carry a refillable water bottle and drink tap water if your hotel’s taps have filters. Alternatively, you can carry water purification tablets to purify tap water yourself.  

Living In Mexico

There are many dangers involved in moving to Mexico, and living there won’t shield you from the same crimes that affect travelers. Your safety will largely depend on where you decide to live; keep off border towns as they’re hotbeds for gang-related crimes. 

Taking extra care when you’re backpacking or living in Mexico, as it’s infamous for robberies, kidnappings, and murder. Most other places are safe to live; coastal cities located on Yucatan Peninsula are safe havens for tourists for a reason. 

Don’t use drugs, as it’s the easiest way to become a target. 

Renting Airbnbs In Mexico

Renting Airbnbs in Mexico is safe if you select the right neighborhoods. Even though Airbnb’s review and rating system offer safe standards, booking a place in a sketchy area can get you in trouble. 

Some Airbnbs are located in gated communities which makes them safer. Do thorough research and read through the reviews before booking an Airbnb, and you’ll be safe. 

Mexico’s LGBTQ+ Friendliness

Some areas in Mexico are a dream for members of the LGBTQ+ community, while others are dangerous. If you wish to travel to Mexico with your partner, stay in Puerto Vallarta and Playa del Carmen as they’re LGBTQ+ friendly. 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is visiting Mexico too dangerous?

No, visiting Mexico isn’t dangerous as long as you practice common sense. Avoid areas that are infamous for their crime rates, and you’ll enjoy your trip. 

2. What should I avoid while visiting Mexico?

To ensure you’re safe during your trip, avoid walking alone at night, resisting when you’re robbed, leaving your belongings out of sight, and doing drugs. 

3. What’s Mexico’s biggest security threat?

Drug-related crimes and gang activity are the biggest threats to Mexico’s security. You should stay away from many cartels, but tourists are unlikely to be targeted, and as long as you stick to Mexico’s safe places, you’ll be alright. 

4. Which areas in Mexico are the safest to stay in?

Puerto Vallarta, Playa del Carmen, and Isla Mujeres are the safest cities to stay in Mexico. These areas have the lowest crime rates and hardly any gangs. Nevertheless, you still have to watch out for petty theft and pickpocketing regardless of where you stay while visiting Mexico.