Is Mexico Safe to Visit Now? 27 Tips to Reduce Risks [2023]

Is Mexico safe to visit right now?

Whether you’re planning a trip to Mexico for spring break or the summer, it is important to be aware of the safety issues in the country. As a traveler who frequently visit Mexico and follow the news, I want to help you make an informed decision about your trip.

In this comprehensive guide, I will cover exactly what you need to know about safety in Mexico before visiting, including potential dangers in Mexico as well as tips for traveling smart and minimizing your risks.

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Is Mexico Safe to Visit Right Now?

Mexico has been a popular travel destination for many years, attracting more than 35 millions tourists each year with its rich history, beautiful beaches, and bustling cities. While it’s true that there have been some safety concerns related to drug cartels, Mexico is generally safe and the vast majority of travelers to Mexico have a safe and enjoyable trip.

In fact, many popular tourist destinations in Mexico, such as Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Cozumel, have seen significant improvements in safety in recent years.

The Mexican government has taken steps to improve safety for travelers, including increased police presence in tourist areas, improved emergency response times, and strengthened cooperation with international law enforcement agencies.

Despite these efforts, crime rates do still exist in certain parts of Mexico such as Sinaloa and Colima. To minimize your risks, it’s important to stay informed about the latest travel advisories and warnings and take common-sense precautions.

Mexico Travel Advisory 2023

The U.S. State Department issued a Level 4 “Do Not Travel” advisory for six states in Mexico: Colima, Guerrero, Michoacan, Sinaloa, Tamaulipas and Zacatecas. This is the highest warning level issued by the State Department and travelers are advised to reconsider travel to these parts of Mexico due to crime and civil unrest that may occur.

Safe Places to Travel to Mexico

Quintana Roo (home to Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Puerto Morelos, Tulum, Cozumel, and Isla Mujeres) is under Level 2 which advises travelers to exercise increased caution – the same advisory level as France and Spain.

Other popular spring break Mexico destinations like Puerto Vallarta and Cabo San Lucas, Los Cabos are also under Level 2, with no travel restrictions for U.S. government employees.

Traveling to Yucatan state, home to Chichen Itza, Merida, Uxmal, and Valladolid, is considered safe by the U.S. government. While it is a relatively safe area, it’s always wise to exercise precautions and stay alert.

Mexico Safety Guide: 27 Tips for Traveling to Mexico

Traveling to Mexico can be an incredible experience, but it’s important to take precautions to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. To help you feel safe and secure, I’ve compiled a list of essential tips and things you should know about safety in Mexico.

1. Research the areas

Before traveling to Mexico, it is important to research the areas you plan to visit and stay informed of any potential dangers or areas to avoid. This will help ensure a safe and enjoyable trip by allowing you to make informed decisions about where to go and what to do.

2. Purchase travel insurance

No one wants to think about what could go wrong on a vacation, but accidents can happen anywhere, at any time. Travel insurance can be a lifesaver in case of unexpected events, such as trip cancellations, lost or stolen property, or medical emergencies.

It’s honestly not worth taking the risks when you can be covered for cheap, and I recommend Safety Wing for budget-conscious travelers.

3. Consider staying at all-inclusive resorts

While outsiders can enter regular hotels easily, all-inclusive resorts have many security guards to monitor access and prevent non-guests to enter the property.

Additionally, all-inclusive resorts typically include all meals and entertainment, reducing the need to venture outside the resort after dark. As a result, staying at all-inclusive resorts can be a safer option while traveling in Mexico.

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4. Make copies of important documents

Make copies of important documents like your passport, visa, and insurance information, and keep them in a safe place. This can help ensure that you have access to these critical documents in case of loss or theft while traveling.

5. Be aware of your surroundings

Always pay attention to your surroundings and be vigilant against pickpocketing, theft, and other forms of crime. Keeping your valuables close and being mindful of your surroundings can help reduce your risk.

6. Keep important documents and valuables in a hotel safe

Robberies and pickpocketing are quite common in Mexico, so to protect your valuables, you should keep them in a hotel safe or a locked bag. This can help prevent theft or loss.

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7. Be careful when withdrawing money

To minimize the risk of theft while accessing cash, only use ATMs in the bank or a well-lit protected areas.

8. Shield keypad when entering PIN

It is important to shield the keypad with your hand or another object when you enter your PIN to prevent potential theft of your personal information. This simple step can help protect your bank account and financial data from theft and fraud.

9. Protect yourself from car rental scams in Mexico

Purchasing car insurance in advance with a reputable company can help you avoid insurance scams when renting a car in Mexico. I learned this the hard way and wasted a lot of time any money.

To prevent this from happening to you, I would highly recommend using Discover Cars as they offer low daily car rental rates and full coverage insurance starting at just $7/day.

10. Use caution with credit cards

Be cautious when using credit cards, especially in small, independent shops or on the street, as these transactions may not be secure. It is best to use credit cards in larger, more established businesses.

11. Don’t accept food or drinks from strangers.

Be mindful of accepting food or drinks from strangers, as these items could be spiked or otherwise dangerous. It is best to only consume items from reputable sources.

12. Be careful when using Uber in Mexico

The taxi unions in many tourist areas have been harassing and threatening Uber drivers, leading to several injuries by American tourists. The situation has become so tense that the U.S. Embassy in Mexico has issued a security alert, warning of the potential for violence.

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13. Practice caution when using taxi

To reduce the risk of theft or unsafe transportation, only use licensed taxis and make sure the driver is using a meter or has agreed to a fixed rate before starting your journey.

In Mexico City, make sure to only use government-authorized taxis with license plates starting with “A” or “B”. These taxis can be easily identified as they have both the company logo and plate number stamped on the side, and are officially recognized by the government with a pink and white color scheme.

14. Learn a few basic phrases in Spanish

To be prepared for emergencies, it is helpful to know a few basic Spanish phrases, as English may not be widely spoken in all areas of Mexico. This can also make communication and navigation easier in case of an emergency.

15. Avoid walking alone at night

To reduce the risk of crime and kidnapping, it is best to avoid walking and traveling alone at night, especially outside of the tourist areas. When possible, travel with a companion or in a group for added safety.

16. Don’t carry large amounts of cash

To reduce the risk of theft, try to carry only the necessary amount of cash and to keep it in a secure bag or pocket.

17. Be cautions when purchasing street food

When traveling in Mexico, it is important to be cautious when purchasing street food to avoid the risk of food-borne illness. Street vendors may not have the same health and safety standards as restaurants, so it is wise to take precautions and choose wisely.

18. Stay in touch with family and friends

Make sure your phone can work in mexico to stay connected with friends and family and keep them informed of your travels. This can help in case of an emergency.

19. Keep your cell phone charged

To ensure that you have access to communication and emergency services, keep your cell phone charged and with you at all times.

20. Avoid excessive drinking and drug use

It’s important to be aware of the legal drinking age in Mexico and follow the law. Also, avoid excessive drinking and drug use while traveling in Mexico. Don’t buy drugs or have any association with Mexican drug cartels to keep yourself safe.

21. Use sun protection

Sunscreen in Mexico can cost you 2-4 times more than in the States. Plus, some tour operators and guards won’t let you enter protected water with non reef-safe sunscreen.

To save you money, protect your skin, and ensure a seamless water-filled adventure, I highly recommend packing SPF 50 reef-friendly sunscreen.

22. Be mindful of high altitude

If you’re traveling to regions with high altitude such as places to see snow in Mexico, it’s important to watch out for altitude sickness signs. Make sure to take a break and stay hydrated.

23. Keep your travel plans and itinerary confidential

To help maintain your safety, it’s important to keep your travel plans and itinerary confidential. This will prevent others from knowing your whereabouts and schedule.

24. Don’t drink tap water in Mexico

Avoid drinking tap water in Cancun as it is not filtered and may contain harmful parasites or bacteria. This can result in illness and spoil your vacation. Instead, consider purchasing bottled water or opting for an all-inclusive resort where they refill your minibar daily.

25. Avoid traveling at night and long distance

If you’re planning to drive in Mexico, try to avoid driving alone or at night for long distance. This is because the roads can be poorly lit and there is a higher risk of encountering dangerous driving conditions, such as potholes, wildlife, and roadblocks, as well as an increased likelihood of being targeted by criminals.

26. Take toll roads when possible

Toll roads are regularly checked and kept in good condition, reducing the likelihood of accidents and breakdowns. In addition, driving on toll roads can save time, as they are often less congested and faster than other routes. By taking toll roads, you can enjoy a more comfortable and efficient driving experience in Mexico.

27. Join a guided tour

Traveling with a guided tour in Mexico can provide a sense of security and peace of mind, as you are surrounded by fellow travelers and have the support of a knowledgeable guide. Group tours also often have pre-planned itineraries, reducing the risk of getting lost or wandering into potentially dangerous areas.

The Wrap-Up: Is it Safe to Travel to Mexico?

No place on earth is completely safe, and while there are certain areas in Mexico that have higher rates of crimes than other regions, Mexico is a relatively safe place to travel to.

Being prepared and knowing what to do in an emergency can make all the difference when you go to Mexico. It’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with local emergency services, such as the police and local hospitals, and carry important information with you, such as your passport, travel insurance policy, and emergency contact information.

Mexico is home to some of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, including Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Puerto Vallarta. Each destination offers its own unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for travelers of all ages and interests.

To help you make the most of your trip, I’ve put together a list of the safest places to visit in Mexico, based on current crime rates and the presence of tourist-friendly amenities and services.

With a little preparation and common sense, you can safely explore all that Mexico has to offer and create memories that will last a lifetime. I hope this guide has been helpful in your decision-making process and I encourage you to stay informed and up-to-date on the latest travel information before your trip.

Wishing you safe and happy travels!

Is Mexico Safe to Visit Now? 27 Tips to Reduce Risks [2023]

Is Mexico Safe to Visit Right Now?

Mexico Travel Advisory 2023

Safe Places to Travel to Mexico