For years, travellers have been mystified by Mexico—from the laid-back way of life, the food, the culture, Mayan history and the beaches, there’s so much the country has to offer.
Nevertheless, Mexico has also been a crime hotbed, with kidnappings, gang-related violence, and drug cartels being reported frequently. This makes it daunting to consider travelling to Mexico.
If you’re planning to travel to Mexico soon, fret not; this article will guide you on how to stay safe in Mexico. The article will cover public transport and uber safety, safe places to visit, and much more.
Therefore, we’ve got you covered if you’re worried about your upcoming vacation to Mexico or backpacking through the country. Whatever your concern, this article will alleviate it, and thus you’ll be well prepared to tour Mexico and have a fantastic time there.
Mexico’s Safety
Mexico has a rich history, culture, nature, music, and food; however, crime looms over this nation, with warring gangs causing an influx in violence and murder rates. Kidnappings and petty theft are also common, and many first-time travellers are usually concerned about their safety when they visit the country.
Nevertheless, the crime rates don’t reflect how visitors are treated when they travel to Mexico. Warring drug cartels are just that; violence between different drug cartels.
Tourist destinations aren’t rocked with the crime rates affecting other parts of the country, indicating that Mexico’s government is working to ensure these areas are open for business.
Most popular destinations in Mexico are unaffected by crime thanks to the efforts p[ut in to make these areas safe. The only threats tourists face when visiting the country are pickpocketing and robberies (particularly on public transport); fortunately, they are avoidable.
It’s not a guarantee that one will feel safe in Mexico, as anything can happen at any time, especially if you’re in the wrong place at the wrong time. This is often the worst-case scenario for most tourists, and it’s avoidable if you follow the proper safety measures.
That said, it’s not all gloom and doom; Mexicans are open, helpful, fun-loving, religious, family-oriented, and friendly.
There’s no such thing as the ultimate safety guide, and this post is no different. Whether Mexico is a safe country to visit will have varying answers depending on who you’re asking. However, this guide is written with savvy tourists in mind.
In this guide, you’ll find advice and knowledge for staying safe while touring Mexico. While the information won’t be cutting-edge details on current events, it’s layered with veteran travellers’ expertise. As you tread the guide, ensure you do your due diligence and practise common sense, and you’ll have the best time touring Mexico.
Is it Safe to Travel To Mexico Currently?
As mentioned, Mexico is marred by violence due to drugs and warring gangs. Since Mexico is between coca-producing countries and the United States of America (the largest drug market globally), it’s awash with many gangs wanting to control drug flow.
In the northern states of Tamaulipas, Sonora, Sinaloa, Nuevo Leon, Durango, Chihuahua, and Coahuila, drug-related violence occurs between gangs and also with security forces. These altercations happen anytime without warning; therefore, it’s best to stay out of the way.
Take the necessary precautions but be assured that since you aren’t part of the violence in the country, the chances of being targeted are minimal. When visiting Mexico, trouble will only come to you if you’re looking for it.
If you conduct adequate research about where you’ll stay, you’ll have a perfectly safe trip. Some areas are safer than others; we’ll get more details in a bit.
Practising common sense always pays off regardless of where you’ll be staying. If you notice anything off about a place, get out of the place, Always be aware of your surroundings, be smart, and make the right choices and you’ll have a blast during your visit.
Safest Places To Visit in Mexico
Some areas in Mexico are safer than others; the safest place for tourists is Riviera Maya, the Caribbean coastline on the country’s northeastern Yucatan Peninsula. However, since it’s a large area, we’ve listed the safest locations in the area below:
1. Isla de Mujeres
This is among the safest places for families to visit in Mexico. As its name suggests, Isla de Mujeres is an island situated 13 kilometres off the coast of Cancun (also pretty safe).
While visiting this area, you’ll enjoy a stress-free vacation with several snorkelling spots and breathtaking coral reefs. You can also explore the ancient Mayan temple remains and the turtle sanctuary.
The island is relatively small and just seven kilometres long; with its several snorkelling spots, cool waters, outstanding resorts, and white beaches, it’s one of the safest places to visit.
2. Playa del Carmen
This is a coastal city along the Yucatan Penisula, renowned for its stunning coral reefs and beautiful white beaches. Playa del Carmen also features an extended pedestrian walkway parallel to the sand and is filled with bars, cafes, restaurants, and shops.
Crime rates in this area are low since it’s among the most popular tourist destinations, and the government has put a lot of effort into keeping it safe. Playa del Carmen offers everything from crazy parties and relaxation to beaches and nature.
There’s something for everyone in this city, and tourists don’t have to worry about safety. You can chill at the beach and explore cenotes and caves to learn more about the country’s culture.
3. Oaxaca
This is one of the areas where Mexico’s historical periods shine through. You can see examples of Mexico’s history in almost all streets, from the prehispanic era to the colonial era to the modern world.
Tourists can visit numerous archeological sites, culinary delights to be sampled, and bio-fluorescent lagoons to explore; Oaxaca is the best city to visit if you want a unique but safe experience.
Areas To Avoid While In Mexico
When visiting any country, places are better avoided if one wants a safe trip. This also goes for Mexico; gangs run some areas, and it would be best to stay out of their way. Before visiting an area, ensure you’ve conducted adequate research to ascertain its safety.
We’ve highlighted some no-go areas to help you stay safe during your trip to Mexico. Even though some of these areas have safe places one can visit, it’s better to be cautious and keep off altogether. Here are the areas to keep in your itinerary:
- Tijuana is the most dangerous city in Mexico and has the highest murder and crime rates. Since it’s a border state, you should keep it off completely or practise extreme caution when visiting.
- (Ciudad) Juárez – This area ranks second for murder rates, and it’s a place you want to avoid during your visit. Drug-related violence and gang wars have risen in this area recently, making it a no-go zone for tourists.
- Acapulco – Once a popular tourist destination, Acapulco has become a dangerous city, ranking seventh for murder rates. If you still decide to visit, you must be very careful, stay out of trouble and don’t walk at night.
Other states in Mexico that you’ll want to avoid include Nuevo Leon, Tamaulipas, Michoacan, Chihuahua, Guerrero, Sinaloa, Durango, and Baja, California.
23 Best Safety Tips For Visiting Mexico
The following 21 safety measures can help you stay safe during your trip to Mexico. While it’s travelling to Mexico is generally safe, there’s no such thing as being too cautious. Here are some of the best safety precautions to take to ensure you remain safe during your visit:
- Do due diligence; researching the area you plan to visit will help you avoid a turf war.
- While in a car, keep the doors locked and windows shut, as most robberies and carjackings occur at traffic lights.
- Use first-class bus companies since security checks when passengers board, and they use toll roads.
- Take your belongings while using public transportation since pickpocketing is common.
- Use regulated cabs from official taxi ranks (Sitios)
- Don’t walk around at night, even if it’s near your hotel.
- Most robberies occur near ATMs, be cautious when withdrawing cash at an ATM. Only withdraw some money from an ATM during the day or in malls/shops.
- Have a money belt, as it usually confuses thieves.
- Be wary of people who ask too much about your details, as they may be scammers.
- Don’t wear flashy jewellery or clothes, as it’ll make you look rich and increase your chances of getting kidnapped or robbed.
- If kidnapped, comply with the kidnappers to avoid getting injured.
- Mexico is a hot country; ensure you apply sunscreen.
- Learn a bit of Spanish to help you get around.
- Restrooms marked M is for women as in Spanish, women are called Mujeres hence the M.
- Only carry essential items when visiting Mexico; don’t carry valuables if necessary. Carry mosquito repellent when visiting Mexico, as mosquitoes in this country carry the West Nile virus.
- Ask staff at the hotel for tips on staying safe and the best places to eat.
- Drink in moderation to keep your wits about you.
- Stay away from drugs; they are the source of the country’s problems. Don’t get involved or contribute to it.
- Travel during the day, as most crimes occur at night.
- Only use reliable sports operators as they have experienced guides and up-to-date gear.
- Avoid politics, as Mexico’s constitution prohibits visitors from getting involved.
- Don’t drink iced drinks, as they might make you feel sick.
- Earthquakes are common in Mexico; download an earthquake app to stay updated.
While some of these tips may seem extreme, following them will help you stay safe during your trip. The best way to keep safe is by avoiding dangerous situations and practising common sense.
Travelling To Mexico Solo
Visiting Mexico solo can make someone feel vulnerable at all times. Even though almost everyone in Mexico is a target, being alone makes you stand out to opportunistic criminals.
Travelling to Mexico solo can be a fulfilling experience as so many things in the country make it rewarding. There’s a lot to discover from colourful creativity, impromptu street parties, and genuine hospitality, and you also get the feeling that you’re adding something positive to the country.
If you wish to travel to Mexico solo, you can; however, you must take some additional precautions to ensure your safety. Make friends with other tourists as it’ll help you seem more intimidating to criminals and remedy loneliness. Criminals usually keep off large groups as it takes more work.
Learning Spanish can also be beneficial, as English is only spoken in popular tourist destinations. By learning Spanish, more locals will open up to you and help you get around.
If you book an unsafe hotel or hostel, just check out. There are many fantastic hotels in Mexico where you can feel safer and more comfortable. Note that central Mexico isn’t as popular among tourists as coastal Mexico is; therefore, the difference in hotel quality is huge.
Keep an open mind when visiting Mexico, as it can be overwhelming; a lot is going on dismissing it and getting panicked isn’t the best way to enjoy your visit.
The people are helpful and friendly, and if you get lost, approach anyone in a polite, personable manner, and they’ll be more than happy to help you. Walking around at night isn’t advisable whether you’re female or male.
Similarly, there’s a risk of spiking your food or drink when you leave them unattended, which could result in you getting robbed or assaulted. The exchange rate won’t be in your favour when you use dollars; therefore, use pesos at all times.
You should try as much as possible to blend in; looking like a tourist will make you stand out. Pay close attention to government warnings, and with extra attention and proper habits, Mexico is a safe destination for solo travellers.
Travelling To Mexico As A Solo Female Traveler
It’s not always easy to travel solo as a female; in a perfect world, a female solo traveller can travel to any part of the world.
Even though Mexico has a bad reputation, that doesn’t mean you should dismiss it entirely. Most of Mexico is safe for a solo female traveller; remember that most gruesome sensational headlines don’t always show the true story.
When visiting Mexico as a solo female traveller, there are several things you can do to ensure your trip runs as safely and smoothly as possible. Many other women travel alone, meet other solo female travellers in hostels and ask them how they’ve gotten by.
Getting their tips and routes they’ve used can help you navigate the country, and it’s also an excellent way for you to make friends and connect with other people. To avoid getting assaulted, buy your drinks, don’t leave them unattended, and don’t overindulge. Additionally, don’t walk alone at night and only use official taxis.
Know how to get around, so you don’t get lost in sketchy neighbourhoods. That said, when you get lost, ensure you look confident and like you know where you’re going, then head to somewhere that looks official and ask for help.
You may be shocked to know that Mexico is still conservative even though it usually appears like the land of Spring break. Observe what locals are wearing and dress accordingly; anything skimpy will stand out and invite unwanted attention.
You should also smile more often as it’ll help you look friendly from afar. Locals are generally friendly and personable; smiling will help you blend in. Smiling will also help when you need to ask for assistance.
Meet some locals, but don’t give them details like where you’re staying, itinerary, or address. While it’s essential to beware of the dangers and threats, don’t let them skew your perspective of Mexico.
While Mexico isn’t the best location for solo female travellers, there’s a wealth of great traditions and cuisine. Even though travelling solo won’t be easy, it’ll be rewarding; be confident and maintain a level head.
Travelling To Mexico As A Family
Mexico is a family-oriented country; kids are an essential part of society. You’ll be well looked after when you travel with your kids. Having children with you will help eliminate the barriers between you and the l.ocals, exposing you to a more memorable and authentic experience.
Overall, Mexico is safe to travel to for a family as you’re less likely to visit the rougher areas than most backpackers.
However, you don’t have to stick to the confines of an all-inclusive hotel. You can tour the local markets and see the country’s life and colour with your kids.
Ensure your kids are wearing sunscreen, as Mexico is a hot country, and they could suffer from sunburns. Staying hydrated throughout and wearing sunhats can also help.
Driving To Mexico
Driving to Mexico is an excellent way to explore the country at one’s pace. Driving to Mexico is common; many UD tourists cross the Mexican border using their cars.
Nevertheless, it isn’t easy as toll roads can be expensive as private firms run them. That said, these roads are safer than roads that aren’t on the main highway. Non-toll roads can be winding, poorly maintained, and sometimes used as hiding places by gangs.
There are also random checkpoints along such roads where you’ll be asked to provide your driver’s license. In remote areas, these checkpoints aren’t always official, and you’ll be asked to give cash to be able to pass.
Even toll roads need to be better maintained. Some cities have restrictions on vehicles going in to control air pollution. Mexico City has day restrictions on cars that aren’t from Mexico City or the state. Therefore, you should research which cities you can’t drive to.
Driving to Mexico is safe; however, avoid driving at night as you’re more likely to encounter gangs. Some drivers on the road also drive without lights at night, which could put you at risk of getting into an accident.
Uber in Mexico
You’ll be pleased to know that Ubers in Mexico and other major cities like Los Cabos, La Paz, and Cancun are safe.
Ubers are also pretty cheap, and you can share rides with friends. The vehicles are clean, the drivers are respectful and use Waze or Google Maps, and you can make payments using cash. You don’t have to worry about the language barrier as they know your destination.
Using taxis in Mexico can be a miss or hit experience; several inexpensive taxis are available. Whether the cab is metered or not, you pay per zone or kilometre.
Don’t hail a taxi off the street at night; go to taxi ranks and find a licensed taxi. In the past, the taxi sector suffered from tax-related crime. Recently, this has changed thanks to the creation of apps that made cab travel safer. Most taxis also opted to join the taxi ranks to avoid being targeted.
Small towns don’t have metred taxis; to use a local taxi in such towns, note where you want to go on paper and agree on the price before getting in. As long as you play by the rules, taxis are pretty safe in Mexico, such as using licensed cabs or an app, and getting around will be easy.
Public Transportation In Mexico
Overall, Mexico’s public transportation is safe—the most you’ll have to be worried about is pickpockets. With good money belt, you can avoid being pickpocketed.
Public transportation is quite chaotic, and people are usually jam-packed. The metro goes everywhere you want to go in Mexico city, and it’s fast since it doesn’t have to contend with traffic.
Police usually patrol the metro during the day; therefore, it’s advisable to avoid using it at night as pickpockets will likely be there at that time.
Avoid using the city’s bus system as it’s unregulated and often overcrowded. Another public transport you can use is the highway buses or camiones which are safe and run by reliable bus firms.
These buses search for drugs and alcohol on the driver and even check passengers as they board. These buses come in three classes:
- First-class: These buses have air conditioners, and travellers can book a seat,
- Second class: These buses take longer to reach the target destination and make more stops.
- Deluxe or Pullman: These buses operate on popular traveller routes. They cost more than first-class buses, and they’re more comfortable.
Since Mexico is big, these buses have to traverse long distances; therefore, you should opt for buses that offer maximum comfort.
Food in Mexico
The food in Mexico is fantastic; the food is so good that people travel to the country solely for the cuisine. Not every food stall and cantina will be clean; therefore, this guide will give you several tips for having the best culinary experience in Mexico without getting sick.
Trying street food should be on your basket list as it’s delicious. Opt for places that seem to be popular, as they’re more likely to be clean and have tasty treats. Avoid eating unpeeled and unwashed fruits or eating meat that looks like it’s been lying in the sun for a while.
Do some research about what foods you want to try before going out. This will help you avoid ordering in panic when buying street food.
Ensure the eggs you eat are well-cooked, as runny eggs are the ideal breeding grounds for germs. Before eating, wash your hands with soap and warm water. Don’t eat at big tourist hotels as they lack freshness and quality and are pricier than street food.
Chillies and lime usually kill bacteria; therefore, splash lime juice even if the food is freshly prepared. If you have a sensitive stomach, don’t have sour cream.
If you have any allergies, research how you can explain the allergy. Remember that street vendors and hotel staff may not know all the dishes with allergens; therefore, it’s helpful to know their names. If you don’t consume gluten, have a gluten-free translation card with descriptions of cross-contamination risk and Celiac disease.
In general, the food in Mexico is fantastic and eating street food is the best way to soak up the local culture. The food is usually prepared from fresh ingredients and cooked fast. Get out of your comfort zone and try some new delicacies.
Drinking Water In Mexico
Don’t drink the water in Mexico unless bottled or boiled, and avoid ice. This doesn’t mean you shouldn’t drink water, purchase adequate bottled water, ensure it’s sealed, and stay hydrated, as Mexico is pretty hot.
A refillable water bottle can come in handy if your guesthouse/hostel/hotel has a water filter on its taps. You can also carry water purification tablets to make the water safe.
Life In Mexico
Relocating to Mexico comes with difficulties and dangers. When you live in Mexico, you aren’t immune to the crimes affecting travellers. Your safety depends on the area you decide to live in. Stay away from border towns as they’re more likely to have gang-related crimes.
When backpacking or living in Mexico, be cautious, as the city is infamous for robberies, kidnappings, and murder rates. Coastal cities like Playa del Carmen and other cities on the Yucatan Peninsula are havens for tourists for a reason.
Don’t get involved in drugs, as this is the fastest way to attract the wrong people’s attention and become a target.
Renting An Airbnb In Mexico
Renting an Airbnb in Mexico is safe, but you must select a safe neighbourhood. Even though Airbnb’d review and rating system provides the safest standards, you’ll put yourself at risk when you book a room in a sketchy area. Several vacation rentals in Mexico are in gated communities providing some safety. Conduct adequate research and go through reviews, and you’ll be safe.
Is Mexico Safe For The LGBTQ+ Community?
Some areas in Mexico are hazardous for LGBTQ+ individuals, while others are safe. Puerto Vallarta and Playa del Carmen are Mexico’s most LGBTQ+-friendly places.
Frequently Asked On Mexico’s Security
Planning a trip to Mexico can be overwhelming; that’s why we’ve come up with a list of the frequently asked questions to help you plan a safe trip:
Is Mexico too dangerous to tour?
No, Mexico isn’t a dangerous place to visit if you’re cautious and practice common sense. Some various cities and regions are safe to visit. Keep off known dangerous areas, and you’ll have a fantastic trip.
What not to do when visiting Mexico?
Avoid visiting border towns as they are more prone to gun-related violence.
What’s the biggest safety concern in Mexico?
The biggest safety issue in Mexico is gang-related violence, as Mexico is located between coca-producing countries and the US, the largest drug market globally.
Bottom Line
Mexico is a safe country to visit, filled with unique sites. Nevertheless, the crime rates in some areas are pretty high; therefore, you must be cautious when visiting the country, and you’ll have an incredible trip.
Mexico is rich in history and culture, and the people are welcoming and friendly. You can expect some of the best gastronomical delights, family vibes, culture, and rich traditions during your trip.
While Mexico isn’t the safest country, that doesn’t mean you can’t have an enriching or safe trip or travel solo. Millions of people visit Mexico annually, and most don’t experience any trouble.
The country is safe to visit if you practise common sense and make pepper decisions. Be aware of the dangers of travelling to Mexico and take the necessary precautions. With the safety tips above, you will have a memorable trip.