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Update April 12, 2024

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Mexico Travel Advisory

Travel advisory august 22, 2023, mexico - see state summaries.

Reissued after periodic review with general security updates, and the removal of obsolete COVID-19 page links.

Country Summary: Violent crime – such as homicide, kidnapping, carjacking, and robbery – is widespread and common in Mexico. The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in many areas of Mexico, as travel by U.S. government employees to certain areas is prohibited or restricted. In many states, local emergency services are limited outside the state capital or major cities.

U.S. citizens are advised to adhere to restrictions on U.S. government employee travel. State-specific restrictions are included in the individual state advisories below. U.S. government employees may not travel between cities after dark, may not hail taxis on the street, and must rely on dispatched vehicles, including app-based services like Uber, and regulated taxi stands. U.S. government employees should avoid traveling alone, especially in remote areas. U.S. government employees may not drive from the U.S.-Mexico border to or from the interior parts of Mexico, except daytime travel within Baja California and between Nogales and Hermosillo on Mexican Federal Highway 15D, and between Nuevo Laredo and Monterrey on Highway 85D.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Mexico.

Do Not Travel To:

• Colima state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Guerrero state  due to  crime .
• Michoacan state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Sinaloa state due to  crime  and  kidnapping
• Tamaulipas state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping.
• Zacatecas  state due to  crime  and  kidnapping .

Reconsider Travel To:

• Baja California  state due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Chihuahua state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Durango state  due to  crime .
• Guanajuato state  due to  crime and kidnapping .
• Jalisco state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Morelos state  due to  crime .
• Sonora state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .

Exercise Increased Caution When Traveling To:

• Aguascalientes  state due to  crime .
• Baja California Sur state  due to  crime .
• Chiapas state  due to  crime .
• Coahuila state  due to  crime .
• Hidalgo state  due to  crime .
• Mexico City  due to  crime .
• Mexico State  due to  crime .
• Nayarit state  due to  crime.
• Nuevo Leon  state due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Oaxaca state  due to  crime .
• Puebla state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Queretaro state  due to  crime .
• Quintana Roo state  due to  crime .
• San Luis Potosi state  due to  crime and kidnapping .
• Tabasco state  due to  crime .
• Tlaxcala state due to  crime .
• Veracruz state  due to  crime .

Exercise Normal Precautions When Traveling To:

• Campeche state
• Yucatan state

Visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas .

If you decide to travel to Mexico:

• Keep traveling companions and family back home informed of your travel plans. If separating from your travel group, send a friend your GPS location. If taking a taxi alone, take a photo of the taxi number and/or license plate and text it to a friend.
• Use toll roads when possible and avoid driving alone or at night. In many states, police presence and emergency services are extremely limited outside the state capital or major cities.
• Exercise increased caution when visiting local bars, nightclubs, and casinos.
• Do not display signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive watches or jewelry.
• Be extra vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Follow the U.S. Embassy on Facebook and Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Mexico.
• Mariners planning travel to Mexico should check for U.S. maritime  advisories  and  alerts , which include instructions on reporting suspicious activities and attacks to Mexican naval authorities.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .
• Visit the CDC page for the latest travel health information related to your travel. 

Aguascalientes state – Exercise Increased Caution

Exercise increased caution due to crime.

Criminal activity and violence may occur throughout the state.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Aguascalientes state.

Baja California state – Reconsider Travel

Reconsider travel due to crime and kidnapping.

Transnational criminal organizations compete in the border area to establish narco-trafficking and human smuggling routes. Violent crime and gang activity are common. Travelers should remain on main highways and avoid remote locations. Of particular concern is the high number of homicides in the non-tourist areas of Tijuana. Most homicides appeared to be targeted; however, criminal organization assassinations and territorial disputes can result in bystanders being injured or killed. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

U.S. government employees must adhere to the noted restrictions:

• Mexicali Valley:  U.S. government employees should avoid the Mexicali Valley due to the heightened possibility of violence between rival cartel factions.  The boundaries of the restricted area are: to the east, the Baja California/Arizona and Baja California/Sonora borders; to the south, from La Ventana (on Highway 5) due east to the Colorado River; to the west, Highway 5; and to the north, Boulevard Lazaro Cardenas/Highway 92/Highway 1 to Carretera Aeropuerto, from the intersection of Highway 1 and Carretera Aeropuerto due north to the Baja California/California border, and from that point eastward along the Baja California/California border.
• Travelers may use Highways 2 and 2D to transit between Mexicali, Los Algodones, and San Luis Rio Colorado during daylight hours. Travelers may also use Highways 1 and 8 to transit to and from the Mexicali Airport during daylight hours.  Travel on Highway 5 is permissible during daylight hours.

There are no other travel restrictions for U.S. government employees in Baja California state. These include high-traffic tourism areas of border and coastal communities, such as  Tijuana ,  Ensenada , and  Rosarito .

Baja California Sur state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Baja California Sur state.

Campeche state – Exercise Normal Precautions

Exercise normal precautions.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Campeche state.

Chiapas state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Chiapas state.

Chihuahua state – Reconsider Travel

Violent crime and gang activity are common. Most homicides are targeted assassinations against members of criminal organizations. Battles for territory between criminal groups have resulted in violent crime in areas frequented by U.S. citizens and U.S. government employees, including restaurants and malls during daylight hours. Bystanders have been injured or killed in shooting incidents. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

U.S. government employee travel is limited to the following areas with the noted restrictions:

• Ciudad Juarez:  U.S. government employees may travel to the area of Ciudad Juarez bounded to the east by Bulevar Independencia; to the south by De los Montes Urales/Avenida Manuel J Clouthier/Carretera de Juárez; to the west by Via Juan Gabriel/Avenida de los Insurgentes/Calle Miguel Ahumada/Francisco Javier Mina/Melchor Ocampo; and to the north by the U.S.-Mexico border.  Direct travel to the Ciudad Juarez airport (officially called the Abraham González International Airport) and the factories located along Bulevar Independencia and Las Torres is permitted.  Travel to San Jerónimo is permitted only through the United States via the Santa Teresa U.S. Port of Entry; travel via Anapra is prohibited.

U.S. government employees may only travel from Ciudad Juarez to the city of Chihuahua during daylight hours via Federal Highway 45, with stops permitted only at the Guardia Nacional División Caminos station, the Umbral del Milenio overlook area, the border inspection station at KM 35, and the shops and restaurants on Federal Highway 45 in the city of Ahumada.

• U.S. government employees may travel between Ciudad Juarez and Ascension via Highway 2.
• Nuevo Casas Grandes Area (including Nuevo Casas Grandes, Casas Grandes, Mata Ortiz, Colonia Juárez, Colonia LeBaron, Paquimé and San Buenaventura):  U.S. government employees may travel to the Nuevo Casas Grandes area during daylight hours via Mexico Federal Highway 2, and subsequently Federal Highway 10, to Nuevo Casas Grandes.  Employees are permitted to stay overnight in the cities of Nuevo Casas Grandes and Casas Grandes only.
• City of Chihuahua:  U.S. government employees may travel at any time to the area of the city of Chihuahua bounded to the north by Avenida Transformación; to the east by Avenida Tecnológico/Manuel Gómez Morín/Highway 16/Blvd.José Fuentes Mares; to the west by the city boundary; and to the south by Periférico Francisco R. Almada.
• U.S. government employees may travel on Highways 45, 16, and 45D through the city of Chihuahua and to the Chihuahua airport (officially called the General Roberto Fierro Villalobos International Airport). 
• U.S. government employees may travel to Santa Eulalia to the east of the city of Chihuahua, as well as to Juan Aldama via Highway 16 to the northeast.
• U.S. government employees may travel south of the city of Chihuahua on Highway 45 to the southern boundary of Parral, including each town directly connected to Highway 45, including Lázaro Cárdenas, Pedro Meoqui, Santa Cruz de Rosales, Delicias, Camargo, Ciudad Jiménez, and Parral itself.
• U.S. government employees may only travel on official business from the city of Chihuahua on Highway 16 to Ciudad Cuauhtémoc bounded by Highway 21 to the north and east, Highway 5 to the west, and Bulevar Jorge Castillo Cabrera to the south. 
• Ojinaga:  U.S. government employees must travel to Ojinaga via U.S. Highway 67 and enter through the U.S. Port of Entry in Presidio, Texas.
• Palomas:  U.S. government employees may travel to Palomas via U.S. highways through the U.S. Port of Entry in Columbus, New Mexico, or via Highway 2 in Mexico.

U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of Chihuahua, including  Copper Canyon .

Coahuila state – Exercise Increased Caution

Violent crime and gang activity occur in parts of Coahuila state. 

U.S. government employees must adhere to the following travel restrictions:

• Zaragoza, Morelos, Allende, Nava, Jimenez, Villa Union, Guerrero, and Hidalgo municipalities : U.S. government employees may not travel to these municipalities.
• Piedras Negras and Ciudad Acuña:  U.S. government employees must travel directly from the United States and observe a curfew from midnight to 6:00 a.m. in both cities.

There are no other restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Coahuila state.

Colima state – Do Not Travel

Do not travel due to crime and kidnapping.  

Violent crime and gang activity are widespread. Most homicides are targeted assassinations against members of criminal organizations. Shooting incidents between criminal groups have injured or killed bystanders. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.  

Travel for U.S. government employees is limited to the following areas with noted restrictions: 

• Manzanillo:   U.S. government employee travel is limited to the tourist and port areas of Manzanillo.  
• Employees traveling to Manzanillo from Guadalajara must use Federal Toll Road 54D during daylight hours.  

U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of Colima state. 

Durango state – Reconsider Travel

Reconsider travel due to crime.

Violent crime and gang activity are common in parts of Durango state.

• West and south of Federal Highway 45:  U.S. government employees may not travel to this region of Durango state.

There are no other restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Durango state.

Guanajuato state – Reconsider Travel

Gang violence, often associated with the theft of petroleum and natural gas from the state oil company and other suppliers, occurs in Guanajuato, primarily in the south and central areas of the state.  Of particular concern is the high number of murders in the southern region of the state associated with cartel-related violence. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

• Areas south of Federal Highway 45D:  U.S. government employees may not travel to the area south of and including Federal Highway 45D, Celaya, Salamanca, and Irapuato.

There are no other restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Guanajuato state, which includes tourist areas in:  San Miguel de Allende ,  Guanajuato City , and  surrounding areas.

Guerrero state – Do Not Travel

Do not travel due to crime.

Crime and violence are widespread. Armed groups operate independently of the government in many areas of Guerrero. Members of these groups frequently maintain roadblocks and may use violence towards travelers. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping in previous years.

Travel for U.S. government employees is limited to the following area with the noted restrictions:

• Taxco:  U.S. government employees must use Federal Highway 95D, which passes through Cuernavaca, Morelos, and stay within downtown tourist areas of Taxco. Employees may visit Grutas de Cacahuamilpa National Park during the day with a licensed tour operator.

U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of the state of Guerrero, including to tourist areas in  Acapulco ,  Zihuatanejo , and  Ixtapa .

Hidalgo state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Hidalgo state.

Jalisco state – Reconsider Travel

Violent crime and gang activity are common in parts of Jalisco state. In Guadalajara, territorial battles between criminal groups take place in tourist areas. Shooting incidents between criminal groups have injured or killed innocent bystanders. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

• Jalisco-Michoacan border and Federal Highway 110:  U.S. government employees may not travel to the area between Federal Highway 110 and the Jalisco-Michoacan border, nor travel on Federal Highway 110 between Tuxpan, Jalisco, and the Michoacan border.
• Federal Highway 80:  U.S. government employees may not travel on Federal Highway 80 south of Cocula.

There are no other restrictions on travel for U.S government employees in Jalisco state which includes tourist areas in:  Guadalajara Metropolitan Area ,  Puerto Vallarta (including neighboring Riviera Nayarit) ,  Chapala , and  Ajijic .

Mexico City (Ciudad de Mexico) – Exercise Increased Caution

Both violent and non-violent crime occur throughout Mexico City. Use additional caution, particularly at night, outside of the frequented tourist areas where police and security patrol more routinely. Petty crime occurs frequently in both tourist and non-tourist areas.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Mexico City.

Mexico State (Estado de Mexico) – Exercise Increased Caution

Both violent and non-violent crime occur throughout Mexico State. Use additional caution in areas outside of the frequented tourist areas, although petty crime occurs frequently in tourist areas as well.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Mexico State.

Michoacan state – Do Not Travel

Do not travel due to crime and kidnapping.

Crime and violence are widespread in Michoacan state. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

Travel for U.S. government employees is limited to the following areas with the noted restrictions:

• Federal Highway 15D:   U.S. government employees may travel on Federal Highway 15D to transit the state between Mexico City and Guadalajara.
• Morelia:  U.S. government employees may travel by air and by land using Federal Highways 43 or 48D from Federal Highway 15D.
• Lazaro Cardenas:  U.S. government employees must travel by air only and limit activities to the city center or port areas.

U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of the state of Michoacan, including the portions of the  Monarch Butterfly Reserve  located in Michoacan.

Morelos state – Reconsider Travel

Violent crime and gang activity are common in parts of Morelos state.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Morelos state.

Nayarit state – Exercise Increased Caution

Criminal activity and violence may occur throughout Nayarit state.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S government employees in Nayarit state.

Nuevo Leon state – Exercise Increased Caution

Exercise increased caution due to crime and kidnapping.

Criminal activity and violence may occur throughout the state. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Nuevo Leon state.

Oaxaca state – Exercise Increased Caution

Criminal activity and violence occur throughout the state.

U.S. travelers are reminded that U.S. government employees must adhere to the following travel restrictions:

• Isthmus region:  U.S. government employees may not travel to the area of Oaxaca bounded by Federal Highway 185D to the west, Federal Highway 190 to the north, and the Oaxaca-Chiapas border to the east.  This includes the cities of Juchitan de Zaragoza, Salina Cruz, and San Blas Atempa.  
• Federal Highway 200 northwest of Pinotepa:  U.S. government employees may not use Federal Highway 200 between Pinotepa and the Oaxaca-Guerrero border.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees to other parts of Oaxaca state, which include tourist areas in:  Oaxaca City ,  Monte Alban ,  Puerto Escondido,  and  Huatulco .

Puebla state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Puebla state.

Queretaro state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Queretaro state.

Quintana Roo state – Exercise Increased Caution

Criminal activity and violence may occur in any location, at any time, including in popular tourist destinations.  Travelers should maintain a high level of situational awareness, avoid areas where illicit activities occur, and promptly depart from potentially dangerous situations. 

While not directed at tourists, shootings between rival gangs have injured innocent bystanders.  Additionally, U.S. citizens have been the victims of both non-violent and violent crimes in tourist and non-tourist areas.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Quintana Roo state. However, personnel are advised to exercise increased situational awareness after dark in downtown areas of Cancun, Tulum, and Playa del Carmen, and to remain in well-lit pedestrian streets and tourist zones.

San Luis Potosi state – Exercise Increased Caution

Criminal activity and violence may occur throughout the state.  U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in San Luis Potosi state.

Sinaloa state – Do Not Travel

Violent crime is widespread. Criminal organizations are based in and operating in Sinaloa. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

• Mazatlan:  U.S. government employees may travel to Mazatlan by air or sea only, are limited to the Zona Dorada and historic town center, and must travel via direct routes between these destinations and the airport and sea terminal.
• Los Mochis and Topolobampo:  U.S. government employees may travel to Los Mochis and Topolobampo by air or sea only, are restricted to the city and the port, and must travel via direct routes between these destinations and the airport.

U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of Sinaloa state.

Sonora state – Reconsider Travel

Sonora is a key location used by the international drug trade and human trafficking networks. Violent crime is widespread. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping. Travelers should maintain a heightened level of awareness of their surroundings in all their travels in Sonora.  Security incidents may occur in any area of Sonora.

• Travel between Hermosillo and Nogales:  U.S. government employees may travel between the U.S. Ports of Entry in Nogales and Hermosillo during daylight hours via Federal Highway 15 only. U.S. government employees may not use ANY taxi services, public buses, nor ride-share applications due to a lack of secure vetting and/or dispatching procedures. Travelers should exercise caution and avoid unnecessary stops as security incidents, including sporadic, armed carjackings, and shootings have been reported along this highway during daylight hours. Travelers should have a full tank of gas and inform friends or family members of their planned travel.
• Nogales:  U.S. government employees may not travel in the triangular area north of Avenida Tecnologico, west of Bulevar Luis Donaldo Colosio (Periferico), nor east of Federal Highway 15D (Corredor Fiscal). U.S. government employees also may not travel in the residential and business areas to east of the railroad tracks along Plutarco Elias Calle (HWY 15) and Calle Ruiz Cortino, including the business area around the Morley pedestrian gate port-of-entry. U.S. government employees may not use ANY taxi services, public buses, nor ride-share applications in Nogales due to a lack of secure vetting and/or dispatching procedures and the danger of kidnapping and other violent crimes.  
• Puerto Peñasco:  U.S. government employees may travel between Puerto Peñasco and the Lukeville-Sonoyta U.S. Port of Entry during daylight hours via Federal Highway 8 only. They may not travel on any other route to Puerto Peñasco. U.S. government employees may not use ANY taxi services, public buses, nor ride-share applications in Puerto Peñasco. due to a lack of secure vetting and/or dispatching procedures and the danger of kidnapping and other violent crimes.
• Triangular region near Mariposa U.S. Port of Entry:  U.S. government employees may not travel into or through the triangular region west of the Mariposa U.S. Port of Entry, east of Sonoyta, and north of Altar municipality.
• San Luis Rio Colorado, Cananea, and Agua Prieta : U.S. government employees may travel directly from the nearest U.S. Port of Entry to San Luis Rio Colorado, Cananea (via Douglas Port of Entry), and Agua Prieta, but may not go beyond the city limits. Travel is limited to daylight hours only. Travel between Nogales and Cananea via Imuris is not permitted. U.S. government employees may not use ANY taxi services, public buses, nor ride-share applications in these cities due to a lack of secure vetting and/or dispatching procedures and the danger of kidnapping and other violent crimes.
• Eastern and southern Sonora (including San Carlos Nuevo Guaymas and Alamos):  U.S. government employees may not travel to areas of Sonora east of Federal Highway 17, the road between Moctezuma and Sahuaripa, and State Highway 20 between Sahuaripa and the intersection with Federal Highway 16. U.S. government employees may travel to San Carlos Nuevo Guaymas and Alamos; travel to Alamos is only permitted by air and within city limits.  U.S. government employees may not travel to areas of Sonora south of Federal Highway 16 and east of Federal Highway 15 (south of Hermosillo), as well as all points south of Guaymas, including Empalme, Guaymas, Obregon, and Navojoa.  U.S. government employees may not use ANY taxi services, public buses, nor ride-share applications in these areas due to a lack of secure vetting and/or dispatching procedures and the danger of kidnapping and other violent crimes.

U.S. government employees may travel to other parts of Sonora state in compliance with the above restrictions, including tourist areas in: Hermosillo , Bahia de Kino , and Puerto Penasco .

Tabasco state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Tabasco state.

Tamaulipas state – Do Not Travel

Organized crime activity – including gun battles, murder, armed robbery, carjacking, kidnapping, forced disappearances, extortion, and sexual assault – is common along the northern border and in Ciudad Victoria. Criminal groups target public and private passenger buses, as well as private automobiles traveling through Tamaulipas, often taking passengers and demanding ransom payments.

Heavily armed members of criminal groups often patrol areas of the state and operate with impunity particularly along the border region from Reynosa to Nuevo Laredo.  In these areas, local law enforcement has limited capacity to respond to incidents of crime. Law enforcement capacity is greater in the tri-city area of Tampico, Ciudad Madero, and Altamira, which has a lower rate of violent criminal activity compared to the rest of the state.

U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

• Matamoros and Nuevo Laredo:  U.S. government employees may only travel within a limited radius around and between the U.S. Consulates in Nuevo Laredo and Matamoros, their homes, the respective U.S. Ports of Entry, and limited downtown sites, subject to an overnight curfew.
• Overland travel in Tamaulipas:  U.S. government employees may not travel between cities in Tamaulipas using interior Mexican highways. Travel between Nuevo Laredo and Monterrey is limited to Federal Highway 85D during daylight hours with prior authorization.

U.S. government employees may not travel to other parts of Tamaulipas state.

Tlaxcala state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Tlaxcala state.

Veracruz state – Exercise Increased Caution

Violent crime and gang activity occur with increasing frequency in Veracruz, particularly in the center and south near Cordoba and Coatzacoalcos. While most gang-related violence is targeted, violence perpetrated by criminal organizations can affect bystanders. Impromptu roadblocks requiring payment to pass are common.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Veracruz state.

Yucatan state – Exercise Normal Precautions

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Yucatan state, which include tourist areas in:  Chichen Itza ,  Merida ,  Uxmal , and  Valladolid .

Zacatecas state – Do Not Travel

Violent crime, extortion, and gang activity are widespread in Zacatecas state. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

• Zacatecas City : U.S. government employee travel is limited to Zacatecas City proper, and employees may not travel overland to Zacatecas City.
• U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of Zacatecas state.

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U.S. Issues Travel Warning for Mexico Ahead of Spring Break

The warning is asking travelers to “travel smart” and “be informed."

marako85/Getty Images

The United States is warning travelers heading to Mexico to be aware of their surroundings ahead of the spring break holiday season.

The warning , which was issued this week by the U.S. Embassy and Consulates in Mexico, reminds travelers to “travel smart” and “be informed” as “thousands of U.S. citizens visit Mexico during spring break” each year. The embassy continued that “while the vast majority travel safely,” visitors should be aware of issues with crime, drugs, unregulated alcohol, drownings, and more. 

“Crime, including violent crime, can occur anywhere in Mexico, including in popular tourist destinations. Travelers should maintain a high level of situational awareness, avoid areas where illicit activities occur, and promptly depart from potentially dangerous situations,” the embassy warned. “U.S. citizens should exercise increased caution in the downtown areas of popular spring break locations including Cancun, Playa Del Carmen, and Tulum, especially after dark.”

The warning also reminded American travelers that drug possession and use is illegal in Mexico, including medical marijuana. It also advised that unregulated alcohol may be contaminated, that counterfeit medication is common, and that guns are illegal in Mexico.

When it comes to the country’s popular beaches, the embassy reminded travelers some beaches may have strong rip tides and “may lack lifeguards, warnings, or signs of unsafe conditions.”

The U.S. Embassy and Consulates in Mexico issued a similar spring break warning last year .

The U.S. Department of State classifies different states in Mexico under different warning levels. While travelers can “exercise normal precautions” when traveling to the Campeche and Yucatan states, the State Department warns them to “exercise increased caution” when heading to places like Baja California Sur (where Los Cabos is), Mexico City, and Quintana Roo (where Cancun is) due to crime.

The State Department also asks American travelers to “reconsider” going to the state of Jalisco, which is home to popular destination Puerto Vallarta , due to the danger of crime and kidnapping.

The State Department recommends Americans who do travel to Mexico keep people at home informed of their travel plans and enroll in the department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to both receive alerts and make it easier to locate them if an emergency occurs.

Travelers heading to international destinations can view all current travel advisories on the State Department's website at  travel.state.gov .

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Is Playa Del Carmen Safe for Tourists? Your Complete 2024 Guide

Is Playa del Carmen safe for tourists? This is a common question for first-time travelers and seasoned adventurers alike. Once you have set your sights on a Mexican beach vacation, and you have decided to travel to the sunny shores of Playa del Carmen, safety may be on your mind. 

However, hopefully after reading all of the detailed information below, you will feel confident in your choice and get even more excited about your trip. This article has been written by full-time travelers who live in the Mexican Yucatan and know Playa Del Carmen extremely well. Rest assured, you are in good hands here. 

Table of Contents

Is Playa Del Carmen Safe for Tourists?

Mexico doesn’t always have the best reputation when it comes to safety and security and it often seems as though the country is in the media for all the wrong reasons, especially in the United States. Although bad things can happen from time to time (just like anywhere in the world), with the right precautions and common sense measures, your trip to Playa Del Carmen and wider Mexico can be completely safe and trouble-free. 

So yes, Playa Del Carmen is safe for tourists for the most part. This guide will run through the things that you need to be mindful of when traveling to this popular beach town, and offer some useful safety tips that are good practice for visiting anywhere in Latin America. 

Check your government travel advice before traveling 

As with visiting any new country, it is important to do your research. It is always a good idea to first check your country’s government travel advice before visiting. 

The United States Department of State advises travelers that Mexico is listed with a “Level 4: Do Not Travel” advisory due to both the crime rate and the ongoing impact of the global pandemic. 

However, this is inaccurately skewed by the increased crime rate in certain areas. The State Department breaks down each individual state and region into categories. 

The Yucatan state is categorized under “Exercise Normal Precautions¨ and the state of Quintana  Roo where Playa Del Carmen is located is referenced as a place where you need to ¨exercise increased precautions¨. 

The State Department lists the Yucatan Peninsula as one of the safest regions in Mexico.

The United States Department of State also suggests that all travelers register in the STEP program. You can find the link for the STEP program here: Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (state.gov) . 

The STEP program is a free service that allows United States citizens traveling or living in another country to receive the latest security updates from the nearest consulate or embassy. 

The UK and Canadian travel advisories are also good sources of information. The information on these government pages is updated periodically to reflect the latest developments across the country. 

Crime rates in Playa del Carmen 

According to Numbeo, the entire country of Mexico has an overall 54.13 crime index . Although it varies by city, this is based on the overall likelihood of corruption, gang violence, vandalism, bribery, drugs, and theft.

By comparison to the country as a whole, Playa del Carmen is rated 47.48 and is mostly related to worries of petty theft, corruption, and drug use.

However, when you compare this to popular cities in the United States, these numbers and general concerns should not discourage you in the slightest. 

New York City, the most popular tourist destination in the United States, is rated 49.48 due to increased crime levels over the past several years, the same worries of petty theft, corruption, and drug use.

The second most popular tourist destination in the United States is Los Angeles. Los Angeles is rated 52.65 due to increased crime levels and worries over theft and muggings, drugs, vandalism, and bribery.

If you have ever traveled to either of these cities in the United States and felt safe, just remember that Playa del Carmen is considered to be safer than both New York and Los Angeles.

Keeping Safe in Playa Del Carmen 

A lot of staying safe in Playa Del Carmen comes down to using common sense. Take the same safety precautions that you would at home or when traveling in any global city and you should be fine. 

Do some research on where to stay before booking accommodation 

As listed above, it is important to research where you will be staying before booking your hotel accommodation. While there are no “bad neighborhoods” in Playa del Carmen, crime rates are higher around Colosio, which is north of downtown Playa del Carmen. 

It is unlikely you would stay here, however, as there is not much for tourists to see here, and is mostly residential.

There are a wide variety of hotels and areas to choose from in Playa del Carmen. Unless you are renting a car in Mexico , staying within Centro or Quintas del Carmen will make it simple to quickly walk, grab a taxi or ride a bicycle to any place you need to go. 

Both of these areas are right on the beach and have a variety of excellent restaurants to choose from. In addition, both of these areas are also known to be the safest in Playa del Carmen.

When booking any hotel accommodation, not just in Playa del Carmen, it is always a good idea to read the reviews for the hotel and to take a look at photographs posted by other travelers. Trip Advisor, Expedia, or even Google Maps (and Google Maps Street View) are great resources for this. 

You can also search the hotel’s Instagram location tag to see a more realistic view of what the hotel and surrounding area may look like. These photos are often unedited by the hotel’s marketing teams and will give you a more honest look at where you might be staying.

You should also always check the location of your hotel on a map to make sure you are in a good neighborhood.

Is Playa del Carmen safe at night?

Playa del Carmen is very safe at night and concerns over safety should not stop you from checking out some of the city’s best bars and restaurants. The city really comes to life when the sun goes down and a large crowd of expats and Digital Nomads combine to give PDC one of the best social scenes in Mexico. 

For the best tacos in Playa del Carmen, check out El Fogon or El Sabor. Or, if you are looking for a different kind of dining experience, you can head down (literally) and eat dinner in a cave at Alux. 

If you are looking for a great bar, check out McCarthy’s Irish Pub. An Irish Pub in Mexico? It may seem odd, but they have great happy hour specials on Mexican beer. (50 pesos for 2 beers from 2 pm to 9 pm every day)!

For the best cheap margarita in Playa del Carmen, check out Bip Bip on fifth avenue. Margaritas are two for the price of 1 at 35 pesos (about $2).

If you want to dance the night away, head over to Clan Destino Bar or Santino for some Latin dancing. You can also check out Mamitas or Mandala Beach Clubs for an awesome time.

And if you end up partying until the early hours of the morning, check out La Cueva de Chango for the best Mexican breakfasts in the area. Try the huevos rancheros or chilaquiles!

How to stay safe in Playa Del Carmen at night

As with traveling to any place, even within your home country, there are a few general rules and common sense tips you should follow to stay safe at night. Always watch your alcohol intake, never leave your drink unattended in a bar and never walk home alone at night, particularly if you have had a few drinks.

Some additional safety tips for experiencing Playa Del Carmen by night are summarized below. 

• Travel in a group or with a friend/partner
• Walk like you know where you’re going, even if you don’t. Portraying confidence goes a long way
• Always be aware of your surroundings and stick to central tourist zones where possible
• Don’t walk with headphones in so you can be aware of what’s going on around you
• Keep your head out of your phone
• Keep your valuables out of sight
• Stay in well-lit and well-populated areas
• Exercise caution and avoid places you know are generally unsafe after dark
• If you are traveling alone, let others know where you are, where you are going, and when you get back to your accommodation safely

Scams to be aware of in Playa Del Carmen 

Scammers seem to exist in every part of the world and Playa del Carmen is no different. Here are some of the most common scams in Playa del Carmen to be mindful of.

Traveling to Playa Del Carmen (or Mexico in general) is not synonymous with being scammed but it is useful to read up on the below so that you are not caught off guard and you know what kind of tricks are commonplace. 

Bird poop scam

There is a well-dressed couple in Playa del Carmen that will approach you and pretend to clean bird poop off of your head. Of course, they are doing this to distract you as they try to steal your valuables.

Recognizable face scam

This scam is where someone on the street will pretend that they recognize you from somewhere or that they are the manager of your hotel. They then tell you that you need to go with them, only to lure you into an overpriced store and pressure you to make a purchase. You should be particularly alert if you are staying at an all-inclusive resort that requires you to wear a bracelet or a wristband. Many tricksters memorize the specific color/design of the wristbands from different hotels and will use that knowledge as an ¨in¨ to gain your trust. 

The bracelet scam 

The bracelet scam is a popular trick that takes place in countless cities across the world – from Paris to Playa Del Carmen. You might be wandering along the beach when an overly-friendy local comes to chat with you and ask where you are from while tying a friendship bracelet on your wrist. They will then demand payment for the bracelet and refuse to remove it. The price is often excessive at $20 or so for one small string bracelet and if you refuse to pay, the person may make a scene. 

Unregulated alcohol

Always make sure you are getting your alcohol from a legitimate source as there have been reports of spiked or unregulated alcohol being sold to tourists.

Encounters with corrupt police in Playa Del Carmen

Be wary of police officers that try to collect a fine (read: bribe) from you even if you did not do anything wrong. If you are in this situation, politely ask the officer for the ticket. As a tourist, you have rights in Mexico. For example, a tourist should receive only a warning (as long as no harm was actually done). A tourist is entitled to two warnings on two separate occasions before a ticket can be issued.  

Added extras on the bill 

There are a lot of excellent restaurants in Playa Del Carmen that serve up delicious Mexican and international food. Unfortunately, there are also a lot of tourist traps. Always take note of the prices that you see detailed on the menu when you take your order and then check the prices again when you receive the bill to make sure that everything has been calculated correctly. Tipping in Mexico is usually expected but it is not compulsory and it is illegal for a gratuity charge to be added to the bill or for somebody to insist that you tip them. Tipping is something that is reserved for when you feel like you have received exemplary service. In touristic parts of Mexico like PDC, people can get pushy about tips and they can even become huffy and rude if they feel that you haven’t tipped them enough. 

(Even if you tip 20-25%, some people are often visibly disappointed!) Ultimately, it is for you to tip what you feel comfortable with. If a gratuity charge appears on the bill and you don’t feel comfortable with it, or if things that you didn’t order appear on the bill, don’t be afraid to speak up about it.

Always count your change if you are paying in cash. Being short-changed is not uncommon.

The mustard/ketchup scam

The mustard/ketchup scam is a common trick that happens in malls, airports, grocery stores, and food courts across Quintana Roo. Basically, somebody may come up behind you and accidentally bump into you spilling mustard or some other salsa onto your shirt. 

They will then apologize profusely, trying to wipe it off or insisting you follow them to a restroom, while their cohort takes the opportunity to pickpocket you while you are distracted. 

Theft from buses and public places 

The ADO and Noreste buses are a convenient, comfortable, and cost-effective way to get around the state of Quintana Roo. This rings true whether you are taking the airport bus from Cancun Airport to Playa Del Carmen, or taking excursions out to visit Chichen Itza or Chacchoben. 

Your suitcases are usually safe in the storage section under the bus. When you board the bus, a tag will be placed on your baggage handle and you will be given a ticket with a number that corresponds to the number on your baggage tag so that it is not a free-for-all where just anyone can grab any bag when you disembark. 

The only issue then is with bags within the overhead bins. There have been robberies and thefts from ADO buses in Quintana Roo so you should always make sure that you have your eyes on your belongings at all times, and place your backpack under the seat in front of you rather than in the overhead bins where you can. 

There are bathrooms onboard most Mexican buses. If you are traveling a relatively long distance, your bus may stop somewhere for a while and the driver may give passengers a 10-15 minute break to grab food and stretch their legs. Never leave your bag unattended on the bus and either ask a travel companion to watch it for you or take it on and off the bus with you. 

Gas Station scams

Pay close attention to the fuel meter in your car when you first pull up to a gas station. A common scam is for the gas attendant to not zero out your meter, making you pay for more fuel than you received.

Always agree on the taxi fare with your driver before entering the taxi. One of the most common scams in Quintana Roo is for a taxi driver to completely forgo the use of the meter and charge you an outrageous amount when you arrive at your destination. 

Cartel activity in Playa Del Carmen 

Fear of the cartel, or cartel activity, can be a major deterrent for those considering a trip to Mexico. However, as Playa del Carman is a popular tourist destination, the area tends to be more shielded from cartel violence and influence.

While the cartels’ influence in the area has seemingly risen with the demand for tourism, almost all cartel-related crimes surround the drug market. More tourists mean more possible drug sales and potential for distribution, as tourists tend to have more money to spend than locals do.

However, please remember that if you do not go looking for trouble, trouble will likely not look for you. Cartel crimes, especially involving tourists, are rarely random. 

While unfortunate, the victims of these crimes are often those who put themselves into dangerous situations. The chances of you being caught in the crossfires of some sort of fight by being in the wrong place at the wrong time are extremely slim.

Overall, you should not let the fear of the cartels keep you from traveling to Playa del Carmen. Do not purchase or become involved with drugs so as not to indirectly contribute to this problem. 

Prebook your airport transfer from Cancun 

Cancun International Airport (CUN) is the closest international airport to Playa Del Carmen, located just 42 miles/68km away from the beach town. It takes approximately 60 minutes to get from the airport to PDC. 

There is a direct bus that services this route and runs every 20 minutes between Cancun airport terminal 2 and Playa del Carmen Terminal Turística. Still, if you have a lot of bags and there are a few of you traveling together, you might want to organize a private transfer. Some luxury resorts offer free shared and private shuttles for their guests so it is worth checking if that is an option. Failing that, a private transfer will cost you around $70 USD (MXN 1,400).

Your driver will be waiting for you in the airport arrivals with a sign displaying your name. You will be asked to provide your flight number and information when you make the booking so that the driver can time their arrival at the airport accordingly. (So you don’t have to worry if your flight is delayed or late for any reason as the transfer company will be monitoring this before they set out). Avoid taking a cab from outside Cancun airport as the rates are exorbitant. 

Cancun Airport arrivals scam

A common scam is also for people to approach visitors arriving at Cancun airport and tell them that their transfer has been canceled but they are willing to help you get to your destination. They may even hand you their phone to speak to an accomplice posing as the transfer company to tell you that the driver was stuck in traffic. 

Avoid anyone that approaches you at the airport. If you arrive and you cannot find your driver holding a sign with your name, use the free wifi to contact the company you organized the transfer through. 

Safety tips for renting a car in Playa Del Carmen 

Opting to rent a car can give you a lot more freedom and flexibility during your Yucatan itinerary. While buses are a good way to get around, there are a lot of Yucatan beaches and ruins that are not well-serviced by public transport, and having access to a car means that you are not at the mercy of awkward, infrequent bus schedules. Plenty of reputable international rental companies operate in Playa Del Carmen including the likes of Hertz, Sixt, and Avis. You should expect to pay between $30 and $40 USD a day for a small, economy-sized car in Playa Del Carmen including full-coverage insurance. Independent local rental companies often offer better prices than the likes of big-name global chains and shouldn’t be written off. However, you should always check past reviews of the specific rental company you plan on using as rental scams are rife in Mexico. Discover Cars is a great platform to use if you are considering renting a car as it allows you to compare and contrast the prices offered by various different rental companies and secure the best possible deal. Generally speaking, if something seems too good to be true, it usually is. 

Steer clear of rentals that look far too cheap (e.g. $5-$8 a day) and make sure that you book with a trusted company. Booking your rental car online in advance will help you secure much more competitive prices than if you try and rent a car at the last minute upon your arrival. 

Take photographs of any rental vehicle before you leave the lot and also when you return it. This way, the rental company cannot claim that you damaged the vehicle in any way and try to charge you.

Is it safe to drive in Playa Del Carmen and wider Quintana Roo? 

Driving in Playa Del Carmen and the state of Quintana Roo is really not all that different from driving in the United States. The roads here are well-paved, well-maintained, and free from damage or potholes. 

Sure, there may be a few people who speed or drive a bit more erratically. But speed limits and road rules are enforced in Mexico and the fines/penalties for speeding or endangering others can be steep so most people don’t risk it. It would be a stretch to say that you have to drive defensively. Signs are displayed in English and Spanish so it is easy to navigate your way around the Yucatan peninsula, but it also pays to pick up a Mexican sim card so that you can use GPS/Google Maps on your phone.

Car rentals are available at Cancun International Airport or in most towns, like Playa del Carmen, Tulum, etc. All tourists in Mexico are able to rent a car as long as they have a valid driver’s license from their home country. 

If you plan on driving in Playa del Carmen, there are a few things to note to make sure you stay safe.

Useful tips for driving safely in Playa Del Carmen and the Riviera Maya 

• Most of the streets in Playa del Carmen are one-way, so pay attention to road signs.
• Watch out for other motorists, bicycles, and scooters.
• If you get into an accident, be sure to take lots of photographs so the other driver cannot put the blame on you.
• Watch out for speed bumps as they are all over the roads in Quintana Roo.
• Stay clear of 5 th Avenue. This is a pedestrian-only street.
• Try to avoid driving between cities at night as roads are poorly lit and often without street lights entirely, making it difficult to see hazards like stray dogs and wildlife
• There are two toll roads between Quintana Roo State and the Yucatan State. These are 180 cuota and the 305 Highway between Playa Del Carmen and Nuevo Xcan. Tolls must be paid in cash in pesos and cards are not accepted. 

Parking and security can be difficult in some areas. Always park in the designated parking lots, lock your car, and do not leave any valuables in the car.

Police and corruption can also be an issue in some areas. Always carry your passport and other documentation with you. 

Never argue with the police or try to bribe them. If someone tries to stop you and get you to pay a bribe, you should ask to be taken to their boss (¨jefe¨). This is usually enough to get them to leave you alone. You should also report all incidents to your rental agency.

If you follow the tips above and use your common sense, you will have a safe and enjoyable time driving in Playa del Carmen and wider Quintana Roo.

Useful safety tips for visiting Playa Del Carmen 

A handful of useful safety tips for traveling to Playa Del Carmen are detailed below. A lot of these are universal and are important to remember when traveling to any new country. 

• For women, you should walk with your purse or bag in front of you in crowded markets, rather than slung over your shoulder or behind you.
• For men, keep your wallet in your front pocket.
• Dress casually. Flashy, expensive-looking outfits and accessories can draw unwanted attention.
• Always keep your personal belongings with you at all times.
• Make copies of your passport or other important documents in case you misplace the original.
• Let your family and friends know where you will be.
• Keep your valuables, such as phones or cameras, out of sight.
• Avoid walking around at night. If you must, try not to walk alone.
• Research the area you are traveling to, especially if you are traveling alone.
• Stay in well-lit and well-populated areas.
• Always be aware of your surroundings.
• Be mindful of your consumption of alcohol.
• Do not carry too much cash
• Learn a little Spanish if you can. Even the basics will go a long way. 

Petty theft is the most common crime among tourists, although if you stick to the above safety tips, it is unlikely. However, in the unlikely event you do happen to be the victim of a mugging or petty theft, the safest way out of the situation is to hand over whatever it is the person is asking for. 

Your cell phone or wallet is never worth the risk of violence. 

The most important thing to remember when traveling to any country is to simply use your common sense! If something doesn’t feel right, chances are it isn’t!

Is Playa Del Carmen safe for solo travelers?

Generally, solo travel to Playa del Carmen is safe, even for solo female travelers. (This entire website has been created and written by solo female travelers living in Mexico ). 

However, this is perhaps best reserved for travelers that have some experience traveling alone, or who may be conversational in Spanish. If you do choose to travel to Playa del Carmen alone you may want to consider the following tips:

• Research your destinations before you travel
• Stay in a hotel or hostel with good reviews and in a safe area
• Learn some basic phrases in Spanish
• Use Couchsurfing, Meeting, and Digital Nomad Facebook groups to meet other solo travelers and expats
• Let your friends or family know where you will be
• Always be mindful of your consumption of alcohol and do not leave your drink unattended.
• Keep your plans off social media and never post your location in real-time – especially not your hotel/accommodation or places that you go to regularly. 

If you are traveling solo to Playa del Carmen, you may also want to consider staying in a hostel. This is a great way to meet fellow like-minded travelers and make new friends.

If you are a first-time solo traveler and have your heart set on Playa del Carmen, you can rest easy knowing that like most of Latin America, Playa del Carmen has plenty of tourist infrastructure and can be safe, even for first-time solo travelers. Just use your common sense and follow the tips above.

Food safety in Playa Del Carmen 

One other thing to mention regarding safety in Playa del Carmen that many travelers may be concerned about is the quality of the drinking water. You should never drink tap water anywhere in Mexico.

You should also be cautious when drinking beverages with ice or eating fresh fruits that you cannot peel. For example, eating watermelon, pineapple or a banana is much safer than eating a berry that may have recently been washed with tap water. 

You should also use your common sense with street vendors . Street food is an amazing way to try local cuisine, and often at a great price. 

However, no one wants to be sick on vacation and street food can leave you feeling unwell if you are not careful. A great tip for street food is to eat where the locals eat. 

If you see a long line of locals around a food stand, get in line and you’re sure to be in for a treat. While you are in line, watch the food vendor. 

Is the cook making the dishes to order? Is the food pre-prepared? Always make sure that your food is being cooked to order, and cooked properly for that matter, before digging in. 

Of course, sometimes it can be our own hygiene that makes us sick while traveling and not just the way the food is prepared. Always carry a little bottle of hand sanitizer with you. When you can, wash your hands thoroughly before eating Mexican street food as a lot of it (like tacos, burritos, etc) requires you to eat with your hands which is less than ideal if you have been handling currency, etc. Failing that, be sure to use a good amount of hand sanitizer to clean your hands. 

Don’t hail taxis on the street, have your hotel call a trusted driver

Not every place you will want to visit in Playa del Carmen will be within walking distance. Or, it if is later in the evening, you may need to grab a ride back to your hotel.

Please note that Uber and Lyft are not available in the state of Quintana Roo outside of Cancun.  

For safety reasons, you should never hail a taxi on the street. Always ask your hotel front desk staff to call a trusted driver. 

It is likely that the hotel will have several trusted, reputable companies ready at the call to get you where you need to go. If you are out at a restaurant or bar late at night and need to get back to your hotel, ask a member of the restaurant staff.

Once you find a driver that you trust, take their business card and number so that you always have someone that you can contact when you need a ride. 

Taxi scams in Playa Del Carmen

Taxi drivers will often approach travelers soliciting rides. If you do choose to take a ride with such a driver, you could find yourself in a large taxi van, and paying a much higher price than you would a normal taxi, sometimes even up to three times as much! This is a common scam to overcharge tourists.

There are also “fake taxis” throughout Mexico. If you hail a taxi in busy areas such as Playa del Carmen, you run the risk of getting into an unregistered taxi. Even licensed taxi drivers have been known to rent out their taxis to gang members and there is an increased risk of theft.

Busy tourist areas will often have a booth where you can request a taxi at a fixed price. While this is safer than hailing a taxi on the street, requesting a taxi from your hotel staff is always your safest bet. 

Hurricane season and natural disasters in Playa Del Carmen 

Hurricane season in Playa del Carmen lasts from June through October each year. However, these storms are the most likely to occur during the months of September and October. 

Although the beaches will still be hot, these months see the most rain and potential for high winds. In general, it may be best to avoid travel during these months so as not to risk any possible storms ruining your vacation. 

Fatal hurricanes are not common but the winds and storms are often powerful enough to knock out the electricity/wifi in a particular area for a couple of days. While the area has also had several earthquakes, these are incredibly unlikely. 

The best time to visit Playa Del Carmen is around November or March/April. This is outside of the humid, rainy hurricane season and allows you to avoid the crowded peak season of December to early March when everything is more expensive.

Be careful with your money

Never carry big wads of cash around with you and only withdraw what you need for a day or two. Generally speaking, around 4,000 pesos (Circa $233 USD) should be the maximum amount of cash you keep on you at any given time. 

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Playa Del Carmen and across the wider Yucatan peninsula and most hotels, stores, and restaurants have POS devices. Be careful when withdrawing money from ATMS, particularly on 5th Avenue/La Quinta Avenue. 

A lot of ATM machines have been tampered with and may have been fitted with a card-skimming reader that steals all your sensitive data. Try to avoid unmonitored machines and only make withdrawals from legitimate bank ATMs such as Scotia Bank, BBVA, Citibanamex, etc. 

Purchase comprehensive travel insurance before visiting Playa Del Carmen 

It is prudent to purchase comprehensive travel insurance before traveling anywhere for the first time and the same rings true of traveling to Mexico. Unfortunately, despite our best planning and caution, we never know what is around the corner and today’s health isn’t promised tomorrow. 

A good travel insurance plan will include at least $250,000 USD worth of medical coverage. Always read the small print so you know exactly what is covered. Look for policies that also offer additional extras such as repatriation, and coverage in the event of loss/theft of luggage and electronics. Things like hiking, scuba diving, and ATV rentals are often not included in a standard policy and need to be purchased as an additional add-on. 

This is important to keep in mind if you plan on doing any of these adventurous things during your time in Playa Del Carmen, as they are a major draw for a lot of people.

Is Playa Del Carmen safe? Final thoughts

Overall, if you use your common sense and street smarts, Playa del Carmen is very safe for tourists. Just relax, trust your instincts, and enjoy the ocean breeze. If you are still concerned about Playa Del Carmens safety, you might also enjoy reading these Mexico travel tips , or this post on overall safety in Mexico. Have a wonderful trip and enjoy your time in Mexico! 

Buen Viaje! Melissa xo 

Melissa Blanco

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With its warm climate, beautiful beaches and proximity to the U.S., Mexico is a popular tourist destination for many Americans. But recent incidents may have some people wondering if they should reconsider their travel plans.

Over the past few months, taxi drivers have been harassing Ubers in Cancun  and there was the death of three Americans in Mexico City in October. Now an updated  Travel Advisory warns of crime and kidnapping.

"We get this one a lot, especially by folks who haven't traveled as much, haven't left the country before, or have read stories about 'Mexico being dangerous' but maybe don't recognize it's a large, diverse country, much like ours," Jack Benoff, president of  Vacationeeze , which specializes in destination weddings in Mexico, told USA TODAY. Many of Benoff's clients plan trips to Cancun and Riviera Maya, known for their turquoise beaches and myriad resorts. 

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Staying safe: US tourists warned about popular Mexico spots plagued by drug cartel intimidation, violence

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The State Department updated the Travel Advisory for Mexico  on Oct. 5, which is done regularly. Several tourist destinations, like Mexico City, Sayulita and Cancun, now have warnings related to cartel-related crime.

"The safety and security of U.S. citizens overseas is one of the department’s highest priorities, and we provide U.S. citizens with relevant information so they can make well-informed decisions before they travel," a State Department spokesperson said. 

Read below to learn more about the Travel Advisory for Mexico's most popular tourist destinations and safety tips for visiting those areas. 

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What is the updated Travel Advisory for Mexico?

Rather than providing one overall assessment for the entire country, each state is assessed individually, because some areas have an increased risk of crime and kidnapping.

► The agency issued a "do not travel to" warning for the Colima, Guerrero, Michoacan, Sinaloa, Tamaulipas and Zacatecas state because of violent crime. 

► A "reconsider travel to" warning has been issued for Baja California and Jalisco, where Puerto Vallarta is.

► Mexico City, Nayarit, Baja California Sur, Quintana Roo and Oaxaca are issued an "exercised increased caution when traveling to" warning. Baja California Sur is home to Cabo San Lucas, San Jose del Cabo and La Paz. In Nayarit, many tourists visit the surf town Sayulita. Quintana Roo is home to Cancun, Tulum, Riviera Maya, Cozumel and Playa del Carmen. Surfers also like to visit Puerto Escondido in Oaxaca. 

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What are some safety travel tips for visiting Mexico?

The State Department has several resources to help keep travelers safe. The agency encourages U.S. travelers to read the entire Mexico Travel Advisory and its Traveler's Checklist , which details more information about traveling abroad.

There is also the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program , a free service for U.S. travelers to receive safety alerts about their destination from the U.S. Embassy in real time.

"Generally speaking, if you're in a resort town and at a reputable location, you're at a much lower risk," travel agent Benoff said.

Most resorts have security guards and gates, so staying on the property is pretty safe. "If you're leaving the resort property, ensure you have the correct address to where you're going and let the front desk know you're leaving and when you plan to return," he said.

"​Use the same safety precautions you would when traveling anywhere."

A few of his top tips include:

• Don't flaunt cash.
• Use an ATM inside a bank or resort.
• Use the safe in your room.
• Bring two printed copies of your passport and other important documents, like medication or driver's licenses. 
• Consider t ravel insurance to help protect stolen or lost personal property. 

Kathleen Wong is a travel reporter based in Hawaii. You can reach her at [email protected]

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Mexico Travel Warning: What the Update Means for Travelers

By Ryan Craggs

Since the U.S State Department updated its travel warning for parts of Mexico to include the state of Quintana Roo, home to popular tourist spots like Cancun, Tulum, and Playa del Carmen, travelers have been asking what exactly that means for imminent and future travel south of the border. We contacted the State Department directly for an update on the region.

"This was a routine update to the previous travel warning issued on December 8, 2016," State Department spokesperson Pooja Jhunjhunwala told Condé Nast Traveler .

While the warning, which was updated on Wednesday, explicitly states that U.S. citizens have been the victims of violent crimes, Jhunjhunwala said the State Department "continues to warn U.S. citizens about the risk of traveling to parts of Mexico due to criminal organizations active in the country," but that "there is no evidence that organized criminal groups have targeted U.S. visitors and residents based on their nationality."

Jhunjhunwala added that the "Mexican government dedicates substantial resources to protect visitors to major tourist destinations," and addressed the recent reports that tourists had been targeted with allegedly tainted alcohol at a handful of resorts in the Yucatan Peninsula.

"On July 26, we updated the country specific information page for Mexico to include a point on 'alcohol' stating that there have been allegations of tainted or substandard alcohol served in resorts resulting in illness or blacking out, and to seek medical attention if you begin to feel ill," Jhunjhunwala said. "The Department issues travel warnings when we recommend U.S. citizens not travel to specific areas due to dangerous or unstable conditions such as high risk of terrorist activity, rampant crime or violence, or the departure of Embassy staff due to security concerns."

When asked to comment, Mexico's Tourism Board wanted to clarify the travel warning's explicit inclusion of violence in Baja California Sur and Quintana Roo, two of the country's most popular coastal regions.

"As the travel warning explains, there have been situations among individuals involved in criminal activities," a spokesperson said. "We can add that the overwhelming majority of those incidents have taken place in locations not frequented by international tourists (such as inner-city areas or private properties)."

The spokesperson added that the Mexican government and tourism industry has long-standing progams in place to avoid violent incidents in areas frequented by tourists, and that so far in 2017, the nation had seen 9.6 percent more American visitors between January and July compared to the same period in 2016.

In fact, last year, Canada, France, the United Arab Emirates, and the United Kingdom were among a spate of countries issuing warnings to travelers visiting the U.S. Those warnings, according to USA Today , focused on the U.S.'s "mass shootings, police violence, anti-Muslim and anti-LGBT attitudes and the Zika virus."

A number of Condé Nast Traveler staffers have visited Mexico in recent months, and said they hadn't noticed any significant changes. Caleb Bennett, design director for Traveler , visited Mexico in December 2016, and again in April 2017. He said in Mexico City, he never felt any danger, and that "Ubers have developed a certain degree of trust there and with that safety net, it’s easier to navigate." He added that "Zacatecas felt even more safe. I never really questioned my safety there other than the normal safe guarding you’d do anywhere."

Andrea Whittle, an associate editor at Traveler , visited Tulum last week, saying, "Tulum [was] still chugging along," and the only change she saw was attributable to construction and development in the area.

"I witnessed absolutely no violence, nor did I feel the threat of it," Whittle said. "Also, it's important to note that other countries have issued travel warnings about certain parts of the U.S. in the past year. I think it’s always important to put these things into perspective."

All that is to say: While an updated warning is certainly cause for concern, travelers simply need to be aware of what's possible and what to avoid in order to remain safe. As Whittle recommends, keeping valuables at home or in a hotel safe, and keeping important contact phone numbers, such as for your hotel or rental car company, on hand will make the experience less stressful.

These are all practical guidelines—the Mexico travel warning included.

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Is It Safe to Travel to Mexico? Here’s What You Need to Know.

A spate of incidents, including a kidnapping and the death of two Americans near the border, have prompted travel warnings from the U.S. government.

By Elisabeth Malkin and Isabella Kwai

Two Americans found dead after they were attacked and kidnapped near the border. Airports shuttered amid gang violence in Sinaloa. Turmoil among taxi drivers in Cancún.

A number of recent security incidents have raised concerns about the risks of traveling to Mexico, where more than 20 million tourists flew last year to visit the country’s beaches, cities and archaeological sites, or to obtain health care .

Ahead of the spring break holiday, a popular time for American tourists to visit the country, the U.S. Embassy issued a travel alert , urging visitors to exercise caution by avoiding dangerous situations and drinking responsibly, among other recommendations. “Crime, including violent crime, can occur anywhere in Mexico, including in popular tourist destinations,” the alert said. And the State Department has warned tourists to steer clear of six states, including the state of Tamaulipas, where the recent kidnapping occurred — and to exercise increased precautions in other popular destinations like Playa del Carmen, Cancún, Tulum and Mexico City.

An overwhelming majority of visitors enjoy a safe vacation in Mexico, and tourists are largely sheltered from the violence that grips local communities. But the attack and kidnapping of four Americans in the border city of Matamoros, two of whom were later found dead, along with recent disorder in Cancún and violence in early January that forced the closure of three airports in northwest Mexico, is prompting questions about whether the country’s broader unrest is spilling into other destinations.

What happened on the border?

On March 3, four Americans from South Carolina traveling in a white minivan crossed the border from Brownsville, Texas, into the city of Matamoros, in the Mexican state of Tamaulipas. One of the Americans was scheduled for cosmetic surgery.

Soon after the Americans crossed the border, gunmen fired on their vehicle and then abducted the group in a pickup truck. Officials later said that two of the group were found dead at a rural location alongside the other two, who had survived.

The Americans were attacked as a result of “confusion,” according to Irving Barrios, the state prosecutor in Tamaulipas. Matamoros has a long history of violence and highway shootouts, though that reputation has partially subsided in recent years. Then, in late February, one gang moved into the city to wrest control of drug sales from another, said Eduardo Guerrero, the director of Lantia Intelligence , a security consulting company in Mexico City.

“There are places in the country where the situation can change abruptly from one week to another,” he said. While the motives in the attack remain unclear, the Americans had “very bad luck,” Mr. Guerrero said, because they likely stumbled into a battle between the two gangs.

What happened earlier this year in Cancún?

Uber has been challenging the taxi unions for the right to operate in Cancún and won a court decision in its favor on Jan. 11. The ruling infuriated the powerful unions, which are believed to have links to local organized crime figures and former governors. Taxi drivers then began harassing and threatening Uber drivers.

The conflict generated widespread attention after a video of taxi drivers forcing a Russian-speaking family out of their rideshare car went viral, and after unions blocked the main road leading to Cancún’s hotel zone. That prompted the U.S. Embassy in Mexico to issue a security alert .

Mr. Guerrero said that the authorities will try to negotiate some kind of compromise, but there was a probability of more violence ahead.

Have authorities curbed violence that might affect tourists?

As a rule, criminals in Mexico are careful not to kill tourists, Mr. Guerrero explained, because doing so “can set in motion a persecution that can last years,” the consequences of which can be “very dissuasive,” he said.

But the rule doesn’t always hold. And in two popular destinations for foreign tourists — Los Cabos , at the tip of the Baja California peninsula, and the Caribbean coast — local and state officials have recently sought help from the United States to take on organized crime that threatened to drive off tourists.

A spasm of violence at the end of 2021 and early 2022 rattled the tourist industry along the Riviera Maya, the 80-mile strip of Caribbean resorts south of Cancún. Two visitors were killed in crossfire between local gangs in Tulum; a gunfight on a beach in Puerto Morelos sent tourists running for cover into a nearby hotel; a hit man gained entry to a luxury hotel in Playa del Carmen and killed two Canadian tourists believed to have links to organized crime.

The federal government sent National Guard units to patrol the beaches, and Quintana Roo state authorities asked U.S. law enforcement agencies, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Drug Enforcement Administration, to provide intelligence, Mr. Guerrero said. Local authorities, flush with tourism revenues, invested in the police, which is typically the weakest link in Mexican law enforcement.

The joint approach led to a lull in gangland gun battles in Quintana Roo’s tourist areas, and experts say that drug sales to meet foreign demand no longer take place on the street, although they are continuing more discreetly.

The success in tamping down drug violence in Quintana Roo follows a similar improvement in Los Cabos a couple of years ago when U.S. authorities also collaborated with local officials in the state of Baja California Sur. The murder rate soared in Los Cabos in 2017 amid cartel wars, and although tourists were not targeted, that year police chased gunmen into the lobby of a luxury hotel in San José del Cabo, and a cooler containing two heads was left in a tourist area.

What about tourist areas in other states?

Even in states where crime is very high, tourist areas have generally been spared. San Miguel de Allende, a haven for U.S. retirees, is an island of relative peace in a state, Guanajuato, that has been riddled with cartel violence .

The Pacific Coast state of Jalisco, home to the resort of Puerto Vallarta, picturesque tequila country and the cultural and gastronomic attractions of the state capital, Guadalajara , is also the center of operations of the extremely violent Jalisco New Generation Cartel . The cartel’s focus of violence is in the countryside; Puerto Vallarta and the beaches to its north, including the exclusive peninsula of Punta Mita and the surfers’ hangout of Sayulita, are all booming — and, despite drug sales, the cartel’s control seems to limit open conflict.

Mexico City has become a magnet for digital nomads and shorter term visitors , and concerns about violence there have receded. The city’s police force has been successful in reducing violent crime, particularly homicides, and the number of killings has been cut almost in half over the past three years.

Are there any other safety concerns?

Street crime is still a problem almost everywhere, especially in bigger cities and crowded spaces. Kidnapping and carjacking are a risk in certain regions and many businesses that cater to tourists operate under extortion threats. While tourists may not be aware of underlying criminal forces, their power sometimes spills out into the open in spectacular shows of violence.

The attack in Matamoros is only the most recent example. Mexican border cities, which have long endured waves of violence, are not typically tourist destinations, although Americans often cross the border to visit family, seek out cheaper health care or dine at restaurants.

Three airports in the state of Sinaloa, including the beach destination Mazatlán, were closed on Jan. 5 amid gang violence after Mexican security forces arrested Ovidio Guzmán López, a son of Joaquín Guzmán Loera, the crime lord known as El Chapo, who is serving a life sentence in the United States. A stray bullet fired by cartel gunmen shooting at a Mexican military plane as it landed at the airport in the state capital, Culiacán, clipped an Aeromexico plane preparing to take off for Mexico City. Nobody was hurt and the plane returned to the terminal.

In August, gunmen positioned burning cars and buses to block roads around Guadalajara in response to a military raid on a meeting of criminal bosses. In October, a local politician was shot and killed in an upscale steakhouse in suburban Guadalajara as terrified diners crawled to safety.

Pierre de Hail, the president of Janus Group Mexico, a risk management company in Monterrey, is skeptical that security has improved. “There is too much random risk,” he said. “It’s all about being in the wrong place at the wrong time.”

What precautions should tourists take?

Mr. de Hail recommends researching the resort and news from the area you’re visiting. The U.S. State Department provides state-by-state information about travel risks in Mexico. As of early March, the department had issued its strongest possible warning — Level 4: Do Not Travel — for six states, including Tamaulipas and Sinaloa. Quintana Roo and Baja California Sur are at Level 2, indicating that visitors should exercise increased caution. (By comparison, the same Level 2 advisory is applied to France and Spain.)

The Matamoros incident shows how violence can flare up in places that have been quiet recently. Mr. Guerrero suggests searching on the internet before traveling for news of recent outbreaks.

Mr. de Hail also suggests buying travel insurance in case of a medical emergency or theft, and recommends that tourists keep a low profile to avoid attracting attention, he said, warning that it is easy to misread situations.

As anywhere, common sense should prevail, Mr. de Hail said: Don’t wear expensive watches or jewelry, and avoid dark and deserted places. He recommends making a copy of your passport, remaining alert while walking home at night and not leaving your drinks unattended. “I have had numerous cases of people asking for help because they were extorted coming back from bars,” he said.

He added: “If you’re staying in a place that has a report of strikes or demonstrations, don’t go there. You’re a fish out of water.”

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram , Twitter and Facebook . And sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to receive expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2023 .

Isabella Kwai is a breaking news reporter in the London bureau. She joined The Times in 2017 as part of the Australia bureau. More about Isabella Kwai

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Things to know before going to Playa del Carmen to make your trip more memorable

Mar 8, 2022 • 11 min read

Beyond Playa del Carmen’s touristy core, there’s a world of parks, weekend markets and neighborhood restaurants to discover © Emma Shaw / Lonely Planet

Playa del Carmen  on Mexico’s Riviera Maya  might offer the ideal mix of beach-town characteristics.

At the midpoint between party-central Cancún and boho-chic Tulum , this mid-sized city has everything from wellness retreats to raving parties to gourmet restaurants. It’s a favorite among digital nomads and sun-seeking families, thanks to its walkable streets, easily accessible beaches, and proximity to Mayan ruins, coral reefs and cenotes (natural swimming holes).

It’s no secret that Playa del Carmen is a magnet for tourists, yet the beach town maintains a sense of convivial authenticity that appeals to travelers looking for a well-rounded destination. As an expat here, I have learned a thing or two about navigating this energetic beach town. Here are my first-hand tips to help you make the most of your time in Playa del Carmen. 

Planning your trip to Playa del Carmen

Visit during shoulder season for fewer crowds and better prices.

As the fastest-growing town in the Riviera Maya, Playa del Carmen attracts hordes of travelers, especially during the peak season from December to April. Picture-perfect skies and cool nights are standard – but so are high prices. And the streets practically bulge at the seams during Christmas and spring break.

The low season runs from May to June and from September to November. Despite the soaring temperatures, we recommend visiting during the shoulder season in July and August, when crowds are thinner. While there may be some downpours and a power outage or two if a tropical storm hits, the sun always makes an appearance in between showers.

Choose the best area to stay 

Playa del Carmen may seem small-scale at first, but once you venture out to the various neighborhoods you’ll find a world of verdant parks, weekend markets and authentic taquerias to discover. Centro – stretching from the ferry terminal to Calle 8 – is tourist central and the city’s bustling heart. This is where you’ll find plenty of bumping nightclubs, salsa bars and flashy souvenir stores.

Next door, Gonzalo Guerrero is a lively jumble of international restaurants, taco trucks and supermarkets sprawling to Calle 40. This area suits those who aren’t hard-core partiers but still want to be near the center of the action. Further northeast is Zazil-Ha, an up-and-coming area that appeals to medium-term visitors and creative types with its affordable short-term rentals and co-working spaces.  

South of Centro lies the gated community of Playacar, which caters to couples and families with young children seeking green spaces and tranquility. Here you’ll find several family-friendly all-inclusive resorts, plenty of short-term rentals and one of the best beaches in Playa del Carmen . Note that you’ll need be ready to pedal or walk 15 minutes to town.

Check out a different beach each day

The thing that sets Playa del Carmen apart from next-door neighbors Cancún and Tulum is the town’s remarkable access to the sand . In a bid to avoid coastlines jam-packed with waterfront resorts and private beach clubs, Playa del Carmen was laid out to allow the public easy access to most of its beaches. This means that you don’t have to spend extravagant amounts on a beachfront hotel room or an overpriced day pass to enjoy the powder-puff white sand. 

Make reservations for activities and day tours online

It’s wise to book boat tours and day trips well in advance, especially if you’re visiting at high season. (A month ahead will usually suffice.) An exception is the ferry to Isla Cozumel , which has regular departures daily and can be booked at the ferry terminal only one day ahead of travel. Making reservations beforehand also means you won’t have to deal with tourist touts and other pier-side hassles. 

Etiquette in Playa del Carmen

Dress casually .

Leave your denim jeans or high heels at home: the fashion style in Playa del Carmen is low-key and casual. Laid-back backpackers and well-heeled travelers alike tend to sport singlets, board shorts and flip-flops by day. It’s perfectly fine to wear a linen shirt and cargo shorts to a plush dinner and even a night out at Coco Bongo.

The female dress code is just as informal, with coverups, sundresses and sandals the norm. Beachwear is a free-for-all; you won’t be judged no matter what you want to wear. Bring a light jacket for chilly nights if you’re traveling in the rainy season.

Walk everywhere, and seek out the side streets

One of Playa del Carmen’s winning traits is its walkability. With an efficient grid layout, this is a compact city that’s easy to navigate on foot. Most of the action is centered along Quinta Avenida (Fifth Avenue), a pedestrianized boulevard lined with knickknack shops, souvenir stands, restaurants and bars. The further you get from Fifth Avenue, the less traffic and more local hideouts you’ll find. 

Rent a bike to go beach-hopping

Playa del Carmen isn’t quite as keen on two-wheeled transport as Tulum – yet. But it’s getting there. The city now boasts a city-wide bike-sharing system, with lime green BiciPlaya bikes for rent from numerous kiosks dotted around town. Download the app, and you’ll be able to unlock a bike and bop around town for just M$98 ($4.80) per day.

The best bike path in the city runs along Tenth Avenue, parallel to the beach, from Playacar residential area to Avenida Constituyentes. You’ll often find pedestrians spilling onto the bicycle lane, so go slowly. Avoid riding on the main avenues as drivers tend to disregard cyclists.

Drive with caution and learn the traffic rules 

If you’re planning to explore the ruins, cenotes and adventure parks surrounding Playa del Carmen, hiring a car will give you the freedom to explore at your own pace. While it’s relatively easy to drive in Riviera Maya, car rentals in Mexico come with their own set of challenges. You’ll find no shortage of attractive deals online – but they don’t usually include third-party liability insurance (required by law), airport fees and taxes. Be prepared to pay a higher price than your initial quote.

There isn’t a lot of traffic in Playa del Carmen itself, but once you venture to the 307 Federal Hwy, you’ll find a constant barrage of vehicles, particularly at peak hours. Watch out for the “TOPE” signs, as there are more speed bumps than you can count, even on the highway itself. Avoid driving at night, as it’s hard to see all the speed bumps and potholes in the dark. 

Be careful of where and when you withdraw cash

Although credit cards are accepted at more and more small businesses, Playa del Carmen still runs on cash, and you’ll need small bills to enjoy its local taco joints, neighborhood bars and side-street shops. 

Avoid changing money before getting to Mexico, as you won’t get the best rates. Note that not every ATM is safe to use in Playa del Carmen, as there have been cases of card cloning and counterfeit notes. Avoid the ATMs on Fifth Avenue, and always use an ATM inside a bank rather than one on the street. We recommend taking cash out at Cancún airport upon arrival for peace of mind.

Interestingly, banks and ATMs tend to have long lines at the middle and end of every month. That’s when locals get paid, and many of them are eager to withdraw their earnings. ATMs not only have a long wait at these times, but some also run out of cash.

Tipping is appreciated 

With a vibrant restaurant culture, Playa del Carmen has a slew of dining options with varying etiquette and tipping expectations. Ten to 15% is the standard at most restaurants that don’t fall into the high-end or gourmet category. Tipping is not expected in casual cafes and local joints where you order at the counter, though most have a tip jar if you’re feeling generous.

Note that prices listed on menus in Mexico represent the total price; neither taxes nor tips are supposed to be added. Some restaurants offer a suggested sum for tips, which is fine; others sneak the tips into the total price, which is not. Make sure to always check your bill carefully.

Learn some Spanish to blend in

Hassling is common on the streets of Playa del Carmen, especially along tourist-clogged Fifth Avenue and Parque Fundadores . Sure, you can get by without speaking a word of Spanish as English is commonly spoken here – just be prepared to pay gringo prices. If you want to be treated fairly, learn some Spanish vocabulary that goes beyond the standard “Una cerveza, por favor!” (“A beer, please!”). 

For those planning to stay more than a week in town, sign up for an intensive Spanish class at the established International House Riviera Maya . If you already have a basic level, join in the free conversation evenings run by Chichén Itzá Language School to meet new people and improve your language skills over cocktails.

Health and safety in Playa del Carmen

What to know about cartel activity in playa del carmen.

An unfortunate string of shootings has plagued Playa del Carmen in recent months, sounding alarm bells in the tourism industry. Two Canadian tourists were shot dead in Hotel Xcaret in January 2022, and the manager of Mamitas Beach Club was found murdered in the same week. The Mexican authorities have admitted an increasing presence of drug-related crime in Playa del Carmen. 

Be mindful that the crimes here are usually organized and cartel-related, and violence tends to be targeted rather than random acts of terror. Playa del Carmen, for the most part, is safe for tourists and expats who steer clear of illicit activities. The only way most tourists interact with cartel members is when they buy drugs – and make no mistake: all the dealers are part of a cartel.

It is important to always keep your wits about you and stay vigilant. Keep yourself informed of the latest happenings in Playa del Carmen before you travel.

Don’t be alarmed by the presence of police and military

Don’t be surprised to find military troops and police cars whizzing through the streets of Playa del Carmen: recent incidents have caused a need for heightened security. Several police checkpoints have been set up along the 307 Hwy, including one at the Playa del Carmen exit. 

Since the police will do random checks and ask for your documents, make sure you have your rental contract and valid driver’s license within easy reach. If you’ve violated a traffic rule, there’s a chance you’ll be asked to pay a fine. Tickets are never paid on the streets, so any request for cash is a request for a bribe. Ask politely to have the ticket written and offer to pay it at a police station instead. This way, you won’t be feeding corruption, and the fine will usually cost you less than the bribe.

Don’t do drugs or get drunk on the streets

With a raving bar scene, Playa del Carmen inevitably has its fair share of petty theft and robberies, which tend to happen at night. Solo travelers should avoid getting drunk alone or taking drugs on the streets. Stick with your group if you plan on late-night shenanigans. Keep an eye on your drink, and don’t accept drinks from strangers. 

Be aware of common scams

Mexicans are a friendly bunch – yet it can be hard to differentiate between genuine hospitality and a sales gimmick. Follow the rule of not trusting anyone selling on the streets and you’ll do just fine. When a local approaches you saying, “Do you remember me? I’m your waiter!” just smile, nod and walk away. It’s almost certain that your “friend” is just trying to lure you into their overpriced shop.

A common scam in Playa del Carmen (one familiar to expats) is the distraction scheme. A couple usually approaches and offers to clean the bird poop from your hair or the tomato ketchup on your back, distracting you and thus swiping your valuables while your guard is down.

Know the price you should pay before getting in a taxi

Uber does not operate in Playa del Carmen, but official white-and-green cabs are readily available. They tend to charge tourists more than residents, so check with a local to suss out how much you should pay. Always agree on a price before getting in: a ride within Centro should not be more than M$50 ($2.50). Alternatively, ask your Airbnb host or hotel concierge for a reliable driver that you can contact through WhatsApp.

Don’t drink the tap water

The water in Playa del Carmen is not potable, and you should never drink water from the faucet. It is OK, however, to brush your teeth using it, and many find local tap water acceptable for rinsing vegetables, cooking pasta and washing rice. The water served at restaurants is always purified drinking water, and so is the ice, so feel free to ask for a “vaso de agua” when you dine out.

Several companies in Playa del Carmen deliver large 20-liter barrels of purified water right to your doorstep. You can also stock up at any OXXO convenience store in town; there’s one at almost every corner in the town center.

You might also like: The best beaches in Playa del Carmen for spring break relaxation A guide to Playa del Carmen for digital nomads A perfect weekend in Playa del Carmen

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Is Playa del Carmen Safe in 2024? A Local’s Perspective

Are you interested in visiting Playa del Carmen and wondering if it’s safe? You’ve come to the right guide!

As a travel blogger that lives in Playa del Carmen , it’s probably one of the most common questions I get asked about living in Mexico.

While Mexico receives a lot of media attention on international media channels, the truth is that it’s not much more dangerous than many other major cities in the world–as long as you know what to avoid.

In this post, I’m sharing everything you need to know about safety in Playa del Carmen , including my personal safety experience, honest advice, common scams to watch out for, and my best Playa del Carmen safety tips.

I’ve learned a lot from my many years in Playa del Carmen, so whether you’re a tourist, expat, digital nomad, or solo female traveler traveling to Playa del Carmen, I’ve got you covered in this comprehensive Playa del Carmen safety guide.

Ready to find out how to stay safe in Playa del Carmen? Let’s get started!

Is Playa del Carmen Safe?

Playa del Carmen is generally a safe place to visit as long as you avoid illegal activity and follow proper safety precautions.

The town is one of the most popular beach destinations in Mexico and relies heavily on tourism, so the Mexican government takes security measures to ensure that visitors have a safe experience.

That said, crime does exist and you should always be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against illegal activity.

However, as long as you use common sense, most tourists will not have any problems when visiting Playa del Carmen .

🚨 Do you need travel insurance for Mexico? Yes! Most insurance plans in your home country will not cover incidents abroad. I recommend using Travel Insurance Master, which is a handy travel insurance marketplace where you can compare policies. Get a FREE quote by clicking here !

How Safe is Playa del Carmen?

Let me just start by saying that I absolutely love living in Playa del Carmen.

It’s one of the most beautiful resort towns in Mexico with so amazing things to offer–beautiful beaches, incredible Playa del Carmen cenotes , and a welcoming community.

I wouldn’t have lived here for so long as a solo female expat if I didn’t feel comfortable or if it was super dangerous.

But crime does exist in Playa del Carmen and bad things do happen sometimes so I want to be as open and honest as I can about my experience. 

I truly believe if you are more aware and follow some of these safety travel tips, you more than likely will have no issues visiting Playa del Carmen. 

But once you know the facts, then you can make an informed decision if you feel comfortable traveling to Playa del Carmen.

Playa del Carmen Crime Index

Numbeo  is an online global database of perceived crime and safety rates in major cities and countries throughout the world.

One statistic that Numbeo uses to measure crime rates is “Crime Index”, which is an estimation of overall level of crime in a given city or a country based on the following scale from 1-100:

• Very Low: <20
• Moderate: 40-60
• High: 60-80
• Very High: >80

The reported Crime Index for Playa del Carmen is currently  47.19 , which is considered a  moderate level of crime .

For comparison, Mexico City has a Crime Index of 67.86 and Chicago has a Crime Index of 66.06.

Compared to other large cities around the world, the Playa del Carmen crime rate is lower and is generally a safe destination for travelers.

Playa del Carmen Safety Index

In addition, another metric Numbeo uses is “Safety Index” which is basically the opposite of Crime Index. If a city has a high Safety Index, it is considered very safe.

Currently, Playa del Carmen is reported to have a Safety Index of  52.81 , which is considered a  moderate level of safety .

For comparison, Mexico City has a Safety Index of 32.14 and Chicago has a Safety Index of 33.94.

Playa del Carmen Travel Advisory

Officially, the U.S. State Department has issued the travel advisory for the Mexican state of Quintana Roo (where Playa del Carmen, Cancun, Cozumel, Isla Mujeres, Tulum, and Riviera Maya are located) as a Level 2 -“Exercise Increased Caution” due to crime and kidnapping. 

There are currently no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Quintana Roo state but it is recommended to exercise increased caution after dark and to remain in well-lit pedestrian streets and tourist zones.

Playa del Carmen currently has the same travel advisory level as destinations in the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Italy, and Spain–demonstrating that traveling to Mexico is just as safe as a trip to Europe.

Smart Traveler Enrollment Program

If you are a U.S. citizen, it is recommended to register for the Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) , which allows you to submit your travel plans to the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate in Mexico. 

You’ll then receive news and safety alerts by email for the areas you’re traveling to. I’m enrolled and have found it to be very helpful and informative. 

Mexico Safety in the Media

It’s no secret that there’s lot of media hype about violent crime in Mexico, especially on American news channels and social media. 

I’m not saying these stories are false but I do think that the media does a good job at blowing many of these incidents out of proportion.  

For example, the incident that happened last year in the border town of Matamoros was over 1,300 miles away from Playa del Carmen in a state with a long-held “Do Not Travel” advisory.

To advise travelers not to travel to Playa del Carmen because of an incident that happened in a completely different part of the country would be like saying you shouldn’t travel to California because of something that happened in New York.

So, it’s important not to let sensationalized news stories cloud your judgement and to do your own research into the safety situation in Playa del Carmen before making a decision.

Crime in Playa del Carmen

Crime does exist in Playa del Carmen, as it does is most major cities around the world. These are the most commons types of crime in Playa del Carmen:

Petty Crime

Petty theft is one of the most common crimes in Playa del Carmen since it is primarily a vacation town where tourists are more prone to relax and indulge in alcoholic beverages–making them an easy target. 

One important thing to remember is that Mexico is considered a third-world country.  There are many people here that are struggling to make a living so the chances of theft and exploitation are high.  

However, as long as you take proper precautions and keep a close eye on your belongings at all times, you can avoid getting taken advantage of.

Always be aware of your surroundings, watch your alcohol consumption, and never let your guard down.

I always wear a belt bag or crossbody purse whenever I’m walking around town or out and about.

And even when dining at restaurants, keep your purse in your lap and never unattended. I’ve seen security footage posted on Facebook where thieves will create a distraction and steal purses or bags from the back of chairs.

Additionally, be sure to use your hotel safe and securely lock your hotel room or apartment rental at all times.

Drug-Related Crime

I’m not naïve to the fact that there are drug cartels in the Playa del Carmen, Cancun, and Tulum areas, which make them less safe than nearby island destinations like Cozumel or Isla Mujeres . 

Drug violence exists in the Mexican Caribbean region because it’s a popular vacation destination and there’s a market for drug trafficking.

However, from my experience the drug-related incidents have been very targeted and are usually not directed at tourists. 

That’s not to say that there isn’t a risk of injury for innocent bystanders but as long as you are not involved in drugs and illegal activity, you more than likely won’t be exposed to these dangers.

Corruption and Bribery

Another unfortunate type of crime in Playa del Carmen is corruption and bribery by authority figures such as police officers and military personnel.

Now I’m not saying that every authority figure in Mexico is corrupt–there are plenty of honest and hardworking police officials but there are also some bad ones out there that ruin their reputation.

Some police officers have been known to abuse their power for money–they will usually target intoxicated male tourists and threaten to arrest them if they don’t hand over their cash. 

These incidents are more rare and most tourists will not have much interaction with these types of figures or situations but it’s an important thing to be aware of. 

Is Playa del Carmen Safe for Tourists?

If you’re visiting Playa del Carmen on vacation, you have very little to worry about in regards to safety. 

The entire Riviera Maya region depends primarily on tourism so it’s generally safe for visitors. 

But at the same time you also have to be a responsible traveler, take proper precautions, and avoid being a target. 

There are millions of tourists that travel to Mexico every year and very few have any issues with safety in Riviera Maya .

Playa del Carmen Resort Safety

If you’re visiting Playa del Carmen or the Riviera Maya and don’t plan to leave the resort, you honestly won’t face many risks. 

However, if you are staying at a Playa del Carmen all-inclusive resort , you’ll want to be careful of your alcohol consumption and try not to stay out late alone–even if it’s just at the hotel bar. 

There have been incidents at resorts in recent years where alcohol has been tainted but this is definitely not the norm.

And I’ve seen recently where more hotels in Playa del Carmen are taking more safety measures against tainted alcohol like destroying the empty bottles after use so they can’t be refilled.

You’ll also want to utilize the hotel safe to lock up your valuables, credit cards, passport, and travel documents. 

Don’t just assume your valuables will be safe in your hotel room.  You never know who has access to your guest room including housekeeping, maintenance, security, and other resort staff. 

Playa del Carmen 5th Avenue Safety

Fifth Avenue (Quinta Avenida) is Playa del Carmen’s most popular pedestrian-only street and main tourist area.

It’s a great place for shopping in Playa del Carmen , but it is a crowded and lively place which makes it an attractive location for pickpocketers. 

Always be vigilant of your surroundings and hold on securely to your purse and cell phone. 

For ladies, I would definitely recommend a crossbody purse or belt bag . Men should always keep their wallets in their front pockets.

👉 This is the belt bag I personally use and recommend for traveling safely in Mexico

Also, it’s important to know that you will more than likely be offered drugs while walking down 5th Avenue.  Just ignore it and keep walking.

As I mentioned, if you avoid the drug scene in Playa del Carmen you will avoid trouble. 

Playa del Carmen Beach Safety

Many of the beaches in Playa del Carmen will be very crowded and have no shortage of vendors trying to sell you their goods and handicrafts. 

Never bring valuables to the beach and keep an eye on your belongings at all times.  It’s an easy environment for bag snatchers to make a quick getaway. 

Whenever I go in the water, I always secure my beach bag and keep a close and watchful eye on it.

If you want to be extra cautious, you can use a Pacsafe , which is a portable safe you can strap to a beach chair or permanent fixture. 

Playa del Carmen Nightlife Safety

If you are going out to the nightclubs or bars in Playa del Carmen , always keep an eye on your drink or keep a hand over it. Drink spiking can happen, especially for ladies.

This is not something I’ve heard of a lot but it does happen, sadly as it does in many bars around the world. 

Watch your alcohol consumption and never accept drinks from strangers.

Playa del Carmen Water Safety

It’s important to know that the water in Playa del Carmen is not safe to drink for both tourists and locals. It’s best to stick to bottled or purified water while visiting.

I would also recommending bringing along a collapsible water bottle to stay hydrated during your trip.

It can be very easy to opt for soft drinks and alcoholic beverages so having a water bottle on hand can be a huge help.

Or if you really want to save money, you can buy a water purifier bottle to remove contaminants from tap water.

💧 Check out my full Playa del Carmen water safety guide for all of the answers to the most frequently asked questions about drinking the water in Mexico.

Playa del Carmen Taxi Safety

Another safety concern in Playa del Carmen is around taking taxis. I have taken a lot of taxis in Playa del Carmen and have personally never had any bad experiences but unfortunately it does happen. 

Many of the taxi drivers are friendly and are just trying to make a living but there are also not-so-friendly taxi drivers that give them a bad name.

I’ve also heard a few stories of bad things happening–like kidnapping and thefts at knife point. 

This is more likely to happen at night so I would avoid taking a taxi alone at night if possible.

If you do take a taxi, be sure to follow these safety tips:

• Confirm the price upfront: Always confirm the price of the taxi before getting in.  Taxis drivers will definitely overcharge for tourists.  
• Try to speak Spanish: If you can speak Spanish with the driver, you are more likely to get a fair rate.
• Never sit in the front seat:   This sets you up for someone to hop into the backseat and attack you from behind. Also don’t get in a taxi if there is someone in the passengers seat.  Chances are they are working together.
• Record the taxi number: It’s a good idea to save the taxi number in your phone or send it in a quick text message to a friend in case of emergency or if you leave anything behind.
• Double check for personal belongings: Always be sure to check the backseat of the taxi before exiting for any items that may have been left behind.  If you do leave something, chances are you will not get it back.
• Don’t take taxis from 5th Avenue:  The 5th Avenue Playa del Carmen taxi zone will be charged the tourist rate which will be double or triple the normal price.  In most cases, you can walk one block up to 10th Avenue and hail a taxi at the normal rate.

🚗 It’s also important to know that Uber in Playa del Carmen is currently not available or safe to use . While it was approved to operate in January 2023, opposition from the local taxi union has still made it unsafe for Uber drivers and passengers.

Rental Car Safety in Playa del Carmen

If you want to explore some more off-the-beaten-path locations around the Yucatan peninsula during your trip, you can consider booking a rental car for the freedom to drive places on your own.

Rental Car Scams

Unfortunately rental car scams are very common in Mexico and Playa del Carmen is no exception.

There are a lot of car rental horror stories including long wait times, not getting the car you booked, and extreme upcharges for insurance.

You may be tempted by advertisements online for Mexico car rentals as low as $1 per day but then you’ll get nailed for all the added fees and insurance premiums.

When renting a car in Playa del Carmen , you’ll want to be very cautious and do your research online in advance.

I recommend using  Discover Cars  because you can compare multiple car rental companies and see detailed ratings for overall value, ease of pick-up, efficiency of agents, car condition, and overall time spent.

Just be sure to read the fine print and check reviews carefully as rental car scams are unfortunately common in Mexico.

Traffic Checkpoints

When driving around Playa del Carmen and the Riviera Maya region, you’ll also want to drive very carefully, avoid going over the speed limit, and abide by all traffic laws.

It’s not uncommon for there to be traffic checkpoints along the major highways where police officers or military personnel will stop and search vehicles.

As long as you are not doing anything against the law, you more than likely will just be able to slow down and drive past these checkpoints.

⚠️ You’ll also want to be careful for speed bumps (“topes”) in Mexico–they are extremely common and can sneak up on you!

Is Playa del Carmen Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

When it comes to safety for solo female travelers, Playa del Carmen is a relatively safe place to visit if you take proper precautions.

As a solo female expat who’s lived in Playa del Carmen for many years, I have learned to be super cautious and now know what to avoid in Playa del Carmen.

Since the town is such a busy tourist destination, solo travelers can feel safe during the day being out and about, shopping, or going to the beach.

It’s best to stick to the main streets and tourist areas closer to 5th Avenue, as there are usually a lot of other people around.  

However, solo female travelers should be careful about staying out late alone. It is also important to watch your alcohol consumption, as this can make you more vulnerable to crime.

I’m not saying female travelers can’t have any fun but it’s best to be careful not to become a target.

For the most part, I have never had any major safety issues in Playa del Carmen as a female but I have learned from others’ experiences and have always erred on the side of caution.

Common Scams in Playa del Carmen

These are a few common scams in Playa del Carmen to watch out for:

Airport Transfer Scam

The arrivals area of Cancun Airport can be a very hectic place and is unfortunately an area where a lot of people get taken advantage of.

The airport transfer scam happens when exiting the airport and looking for your prearranged airport transportation.

Someone will approach you and tell you that your Cancun airport transfer has been canceled and that no other vehicles are available. 

They’ll even call the alleged “transfer company” and have you speak to an accomplice on the phone that acts as a reservation agent. They’ll then offer to drive you to your destination at an exorbitant rate.

It’s best to ignore anyone that approaches you at the airport unless you are 100% sure they are your transportation company.

👉 I recommend booking your Cancun Airport transfer with Cancun Airport Transportation for the safest and most reliable ride.

The ADO is the airport bus and one of the largest bus companies in Mexico.

I’ve taken the ADO bus in Playa del Carmen many times and have never had any issues but it’s not uncommon for belongings to be stolen from the overhead bins. 

The thief will walk down the aisle with their hands up for stability and move the overhead items along with them. 

If you can, don’t use the overhead bins and keep your personal belongings on the floor in front of you or on your lap.

Overcharging or Added Service Charges

If you are dining at one of the restaurants in Playa del Carmen , it’s not uncommon for them to add an automatic gratuity or service charge.

In fact, it’s actually illegal in Playa del Carmen for them to add an automatic gratuity to the bill.

Always take the time to review your restaurant bill carefully and speak up if it’s incorrect.  And if paying in cash, be sure to count your change to make sure it’s correct.

Ketchup Scam

The ketchup scam may sound far-fetched but it is a real thing!

This scam happens while you are waiting in line at grocery stores such as Walmart , Mega, Chedraui, Sam’s, or Costco. 

Basically, someone comes up behind you and “accidentally” spills a ketchup packet on your shirt or clothing. 

They then offer to help you clean it by escorting you to the bathroom, where another accomplice is waiting to steal your money. 

So if you see ketchup or any other kind of stain, it’s a red flag alert–literally!

Bill Swap Scam

Another common scam in Playa del Carmen is the bill swap or quick switch scam.

In recent years, Mexico released a $500 MXN bill that is blue in color.  Since $20 MXN bills are also blue, it’s not uncommon for gas station attendants to try and return your $500 bill with a $20 bill in the hopes that you don’t notice. 

Or, if you hand them $500 MXN, they’ll do a quick switch and say that you only handed them $20 MXN. Always keep an eye on the bills!

It’s also not uncommon for card skimmers to be placed on ATMs, especially on Fifth Avenue Playa del Carmen.

If you need to withdraw cash, the safest places are inside a local bank such as Scotiabank, CiBanco, Santander, or Bancomer.

When using ATMs, you’ll want to go during the day and avoid withdrawing huge amounts of cash.

Playa del Carmen Mexico Safety Tips

Here’s a recap of some of the safety tips I mentioned in this post and a few other recommendations of things I have learned on staying safe in Playa del Carmen:

• Keep valuables in your hotel safe: Be sure to keep any valuables locked in your hotel safe. For added security on the go, I would also recommend purchasing a Pacsafe , which is a portable safe that can be secured to fixtures in your hotel room or beach chair.
• Keep your personal belongings close at all times: When walking on 5th Avenue or in crowded touristy areas, I would recommend wearing a crossbody purse or belt bag with zipper closures. If you want to be extra cautious you can buy a travel pouch to wear under your clothes.
• Never leave your purse out of sight: Always keep your purse in your lap or in close sight when dining at restaurants. It’s common for thieves to snatch bags left on the floor or hanging behind chairs.
• Keep your passport in the hotel safe: It’s better to keep your passport locked in the hotel safe. Instead, you can carry a photocopy of your passport or have one saved as a picture on your phone.
• Don’t carry large amounts of cash: Only carry the amount of money you’ll need for the day’s activities as flashing large amounts of cash around can make you a target.
• Keep at least one credit card at the hotel: Don’t carry of all your credit cards with you so you still have access to funds if your wallet were to get stolen. This happened to me in Mexico City and I definitely learned my lesson!
• Don’t buy drugs: As I mentioned, avoid the drug scene in Playa del Carmen and you will avoid trouble. If you are offered drugs while walking down 5th Avenue, simply ignore it and keep walking.
• Don’t walk home alone: Use the buddy system if you can and avoid walking home alone late at night. If you have to walk home alone, be sure to text a friend that you arrived safely.
• Don’t accept drinks from strangers: Drink spiking can happen so it’s best not to accept drinks from strangers or at least ones that you haven’t seen prepared.
• Stay in safe neighborhoods: If you’re not staying at a Riviera Maya resort , then you’ll want to stay in downtown Playa del Carmen (Centro), which is the main tourist area and the safest place for walking around and being out and about during the day and night. If you’re traveling solo and staying at an AirBnB or apartment rental, consider picking up a portable door lock , which is an inexpensive safety tool that can be used to prevent unauthorized entry.
• Abide by the traffic laws: Always drive safely, at or below the speed limit, and abide by the traffic laws to avoid being pulled over and targeted for a bribe.
• Watch your alcohol consumption: By all means let loose in Playa del Carmen–it is your vacation after all! But you’ll want to be careful of your alcohol consumption and make sure you are with people you trust and drinking in a safe environment. Intoxicated tourists can make easy targets.
• Don’t be a target : Avoid wearing expensive clothing, flashy jewelry, and accessories which can make you stand out as a target for theft, exploitation, and getting overcharged.
• Stay hydrated: Since you can’t drink the water in Playa del Carmen, it can be harder to stay hydrated when you have to rely on bottled water. Make a conscious effort to stay hydrated during the hot days and pack a collapsible water bottle to take with you while you’re at the pool or beach.
• Learn some basic Spanish: It’s a good idea to learn some basic Mexican Spanish phrases before your trip to Playa del Carmen. There are a lot of English speakers in Playa del Carmen but knowing some Spanish can definitely help you to avoid getting taken advantage of.

Do You Need Travel Insurance for Playa del Carmen?

Travel insurance is absolutely essential for any trip to Mexico, as there is always a safety risk whether it be from the food, water, or another type of unfortunate accident. 

Most insurance companies in your home country  do not  cover incidents abroad, which is why travel insurance with international coverage is so important to have.  

I recommend using Travel Insurance Master , which is a handy travel insurance marketplace where you can compare policies and find the best coverage for you. 

👉 Get a FREE QUOTE from Travel Insurance Master by  clicking here !

Playa del Carmen Safety: FAQs

Here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about safety in Playa del Carmen Mexico:

Playa del Carmen is safe to walk around at night as long as you stick to the main tourist areas around 5th Avenue. Avoid illegal activity, never leave your drink attended, and avoid walking home alone to reduce your safety risk.

Yes, Playa del Carmen is generally safe for solo travelers as long as you follow basic safety precautions and avoid illegal activity. Solo travelers can feel very safe during the day but should use caution when walking alone at night.

When visiting Playa del Carmen, avoid illegal activity, purchasing drugs, and walking alone away from the main tourist areas.

Yes, Playa del Carmen is considered to be slightly safer than Cancun with a lower crime index and higher safety rating. However, you should take the same precautions when visiting both towns.

Yes, Playa del Carmen is generally considered to be safer than Tulum as there has been an increase in drug violence in Tulum in recent years. However, you should take the same precautions when visiting both towns.

Yes, Playa del Carmen 5th Avenue is safe as it’s a very populated area both day and night. Just be sure to avoid the drug scene and partaking in any illegal activity.

Yes, it is safe to take colectivos in to get around Playa del Carmen but it is best to take them during the day.

Conclusion: Playa del Carmen Safety Guide

So, is it safe to travel to Playa del Carmen? It’s no secret that crime does exist in Playa del Carmen, as it does in many popular tourist destinations around the world. 

But as long as you are cautious and follow some of these safety tips, I do believe it is safe to travel to Playa del Carmen.  

As I said, I love living in Playa del Carmen and don’t want to discourage you from visiting because the destination has so many amazing things to offer. 

But I also want to be transparent.  Do your own research and travel only if you feel comfortable.

Safety is never guaranteed but you’ll more than likely have a very enjoyable vacation in Playa del Carmen.

• Is Playa del Carmen Worth Visiting?
• Can You Drink the Water in Playa del Carmen?
• Where to Stay in Playa del Carmen

🇲🇽 Traveling to Mexico soon?

These are the Mexico travel resources I use and recommend:

🏨 Hotels : I always find the best deals for Mexico hotels and resorts on Expedia or Booking.com . If you prefer a vacation rental, check VRBO as they are often cheaper than AirBnB’s added fees!

✈️ Flights : I recommend using Skyscanner for the best Mexico flight deals. Be sure to sign up for their price alerts for your preferred travel dates.

🚗 Rental Cars : I recommend using Discover Cars because you can compare multiple car rental companies and see detailed ratings for overall value, ease of pick-up, efficiency of agents, car condition, and overall time spent.

🚙 Cancun Airport Transportation : I recommend booking a private transfer with Cancun Airport Transportation for the quickest and most hassle-free option!

🤿 Tours & Activities: I always use Viator or GetYourGuide for booking tours and activities in Mexico. You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, plus they have excellent customer service if you were to have any issues.

🚨 Travel Insurance: After my Dad broke his hand in a taxi accident in Playa del Carmen, I always recommend buying travel insurance before your trip for added peace of mind! I recommend Travel Insurance Master for short trips or Safety Wing for digital nomads.

☀️ Biodegradable Sunscreen : Don’t forget to add biodegradable sunscreen to your Mexico packing list ! Regular sunscreen is prohibited when swimming in the ocean and cenotes in Mexico, so you’ll need to pack some biodegradable sunscreen for sun protection. I recommend Sun Bum Sunscreen , which is reef-friendly, vegan, and cruelty-free.

Allison Sicking is the founder of Viva La Travelista. After moving to Playa del Carmen, Mexico in 2018, she created her travel blog to empower others to travel safely and confidently in Mexico and other Spanish-speaking countries. Using her Spanish language skills and expertise in Mexico travel, she is passionate about teaching others to travel Mexico like a local.

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Mexico travel advice

Latest updates: The Need help? section was updated.

Last updated: April 29, 2024 07:16 ET

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Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, mexico - exercise a high degree of caution.

Exercise a high degree of caution in Mexico due to high levels of criminal activity and kidnapping.

Guerrero - Avoid all travel

This advisory excludes the cities of Ixtapa/Zihuatanejo, where you should exercise a high degree of caution.

Regional Advisory - Avoid non-essential travel

• all Chihuahua
• all Colima, except the city of Manzanillo
• all Coahuila, except the southern part of the state at and below the Saltillo-Torreón highway corridor
• all Durango, except Durango City
• Highway 45 between León and Irapuato
• the area south of and including Highway 45D between Irapuato and Celaya
• all Michoacán, except the cities of Morelia and Patzcuaro
• the Lagunas de Zempoala National Park
• the municipality of Xoxocotla
• the area within 20 km of the border with Sinaloa and Durango
• the city of Tepic
• all Nuevo León, except the city of Monterrey
• all Sinaloa, except the cities of Los Mochis and Mazatlán
• all Sonora, except the cities of Hermosillo and Guaymas/San Carlos and Puerto Peñasco
• all Tamaulipas
• all Zacatecas

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Deteriorating security situation in Guerrero State

Hurricane Otis struck Guerrero State on October 25, 2023. The security situation remains volatile and unpredictable after the storm. Damage to transportation and communications networks have left many towns and cities isolated, increasing the risk of criminal and gang activity.

Certain areas are particularly affected by banditry and violence, including:

• the highway between Acapulco and Zihuantanejo
• the highway between Acapulco to Chilpancingo

You should avoid all travel to Guerrero State. If you are in Guerrero despite the advisory, you should take necessary precautions to ensure your safety, including:

• avoid travelling alone or after dark
• exercise extreme vigilance
• monitor local media for the latest updates on the situation
• follow the instructions of local authorities

Levels of crime, particularly violent crime, are high throughout Mexico. Arrest and detention rates are low and don’t deter criminal activity.

Criminal groups, including drug cartels, are very active. ‎Clashes between cartels or gangs over territory, drugs and smuggling routes are common.

In some parts of the country, military, navy and federal police forces have been deployed to combat organized crime and improve security conditions. They maintain a visible presence by:

• patrolling the streets
• setting up roadblocks
• conducting random vehicle checks  

If you plan on travelling to Mexico:

• remain vigilant at all times
• stay in tourist areas
• be very cautious on major highways
• avoid travelling at night
• monitor local media closely

If you’re the victim of a crime, you must report it immediately to local authorities. No criminal investigation is possible without a formal complaint. Complaints must be made in person before leaving Mexico. You should hire a local lawyer to represent your interests and follow up on your case after you return to Canada. Failure to do may result in incomplete investigations or long delays in bringing cases to trial.

Violent crime

There are high rates of violent crime, such as homicides, kidnappings, carjacking and assaults, including in popular tourist destinations such as the Mayan Riviera (Cancún, Playa del Carmen, Puerto Morelos and Tulum), and Acapulco.

Criminal groups and drug cartels are present in tourist areas. Inter-gang and cartel fighting has taken place in restaurants, hotels and nightclubs frequented by tourists.

Innocent bystanders have been injured or killed. You may be in the wrong place at the wrong time and become a victim of violent crime.

Border areas often see higher criminal activity and violence, including in rural areas. Confrontations between organized criminal groups and Mexican authorities continue to pose a risk. Shootouts, attacks and illegal roadblocks may occur without warning.

You should travel to Mexico by air to avoid international land border crossings, particularly along the border with the United States, in the following cities:

• Ciudad Juárez
• Nuevo Laredo

If crossing an international land border:

• remain extremely vigilant
• use only official border crossings

Armed robbery

Armed robbery occurs. Foreigners have been targets of robberies that sometimes involve assault.

Robbers will follow a victim after they exchange or withdraw money at airports, currency exchange bureaus ( casas de cambio ) or ATMs.

• Stay in hotels and resorts with good security
• If you are threatened by robbers, stay calm and don’t resist
• Avoid withdrawing or exchanging money in public areas of the airport

Canadian travellers have been physically and sexually assaulted. In some cases, hotel employees, taxi drivers and security personnel at popular tourist destinations were involved. In some cases, hotel staff are not helpful and try to dissuade victims from pursuing the incident with police.

• Avoid walking after dark, especially alone
• Avoid isolated or deserted areas
• Avoid excessive alcohol consumption

Are you a victim of sexual violence? – Government of Canada and British Embassy Mexico City

Credit card and ATM fraud

Credit card and ATM fraud occurs in Mexico. When using debit or credit cards:

• pay careful attention when others are handling your cards
• use ATMs located in public areas or inside a bank or business
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Overcharging

Some bars and nightclubs may try to charge exorbitant prices. Discussions about overcharging may lead to threats of violence and security guards may force you to pay. Avoid running a tab or leaving your credit card with bar or restaurant staff.

Overseas fraud

Police officers

Legitimate police officers have extorted money from tourists or arrested tourists for minor offences such as :

• drinking alcohol on the street
• urinating on public roads
• traffic violations

They have requested immediate cash payment in exchange for their release. Travellers driving rental cars have been targeted.

If this occurs:

• don’t hand over your money or your passport
• ask for the officer’s name, badge and patrol car number
• ask for a copy of the written fine, which is payable at a later date, or insist on going to the nearest police station

Virtual kidnappings

Extortion, including virtual kidnappings, is the third most common crime in Mexico. Criminals use a variety of tactics to gather information about potential victims for extortion purposes, including using social media sites or eavesdropping on conversations

In a virtual kidnapping, criminals contact the victim’s hotel room landline and threaten the victim to stay in their room. The criminals then instruct the victim to provide information needed for the caller to use to contact family and friends, to demand the immediate payment of ransom for their release.

• Don't discuss travel plans, your room number or any other personal information around strangers
• Never leave your cellphone unattended
• Ensure your cellphone is password protected
• Don't divulge personal business details to strangers in person or over the phone or on social media, especially when using hotel phones
• If you're threatened on the phone or hear screams, hang up immediately
• When you answer the phone, wait for the caller to speak. If the caller asks who is speaking, hang up immediately.
• Don’t answer unrecognized or blocked phone numbers
• Don’t answer hotel landlines

Kidnappings

Mexico has one of the highest kidnapping rates in the world. Kidnapping, including virtual and express kidnapping, is a serious security risk throughout Mexico.

Kidnappers target all classes. Canadian citizens and contractors working for Canadian businesses have been kidnapped, mostly in areas that are not under the control of police and security forces.

If you're kidnapped:

• comply with the kidnappers’ requests
• don’t attempt to resist

Express kidnappings

Express kidnappings occur in large urban areas. This is a method of kidnapping where criminals ask for a small and immediate ransom.

Thieves most commonly work in cooperation with, or pose as, taxi drivers. They force victims to use their debit or credit card to withdraw money from ATMs in exchange for their release.

• Use only a reputable taxi company or a trusted ride-sharing app
• Book taxis through your hotel or an authorized taxi stand ( sitio )

Petty theft

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, is common in Mexico.

• Be aware of your surroundings at all times, even in areas normally considered safe
• Ensure that your belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
• Avoid showing signs of affluence, such as flashy jewellery, cell phones, headphones and designer bags
• Carry only small amounts of money
• Be cautious when withdrawing cash from ATMs

Home break-ins

Tourists staying in rental homes have been the victims of break-ins and burglaries. Whether you're staying in private or commercial accommodations, make sure you lock windows and doors securely.

Women’s safety

Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse.

Some incidents of assault, rape and sexual assault against Canadian women have occurred, including at beach resorts and on public buses. 

• Exercise caution when dealing with strangers or recent acquaintances
• Be wary of rides or other invitations

Advice for women travellers

Spiked food and drinks

Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances. These items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

Unregulated alcohol

Some bars, restaurants and resorts have served counterfeit alcohol. Some travellers have reported getting sick or blacking out after drinking alcohol.

• Be cautious if you choose to drink alcohol
• Seek medical assistance if you begin to feel sick

Alcohol, drugs and travel

Height standards for balcony railings in Mexico can be considerably lower than those in Canada. Falls have resulted in deaths and injuries.

• Exercise caution when standing close to balcony railings

Demonstrations

Demonstrations take place regularly throughout the country. Protests and roadblocks are common in:

• Mexico City, including to and from the airport
• the states of Chiapas, Guerrero, Michoacán and Oaxaca

Such incidents may last a long time, leading to shortages of fresh food, medicine and gasoline.

Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Water activities

Coastal waters can be dangerous. Riptides are common. Several drownings occur each year.

Many beaches don’t offer warnings of dangerous conditions and they don’t always have lifeguards on duty.

Rescue services may not be consistent with international standards.

• Consult local residents and tour operators for information on possible hazards and safe swimming areas
• Always obey warning flags at beaches
• Follow the instructions and warnings of local authorities

Water sports

Tour operators may not adhere to international standards. Many operators don’t conduct regular safety checks on their sporting and aquatic equipment.

Also, Canadians have been involved in accidents where operators of recreational vehicles, such as watercraft, have demanded compensation exceeding the value of the damage caused to the vehicle or equipment.

If you undertake water sports, such as diving:

• choose a well-established and reputable company that has insurance
• ensure that your travel insurance covers the recreational activities you choose
• wear the appropriate safety equipment, such as helmets and life jackets
• ensure that equipment is available and in good condition
• don’t consume alcohol before the activity

If in doubt concerning the safety of the facilities or equipment, don’t use them.

Water safety abroad

Adventure tourism  

Outdoor activities, such as white water rafting, kayaking, scuba diving, snorkelling, bungee, zip lining, paragliding, hiking, mountain biking, etc and other adventure activities can be dangerous if unprepared. Trails are not always marked, and weather conditions can change rapidly, even during summer.  

Tour operators may not always adhere to international safety standards. 

If you intend to practice adventure tourism: 

• consider hiring an experienced guide from a reputable company 
• obtain detailed information on your activity and on the environment in which you will be setting out  
• buy travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation   
• know the symptoms of acute altitude sickness, which can be fatal  
• pay attention to the symptoms of dehydration and heatstroke, both of which can be fatal  
• avoid venturing off marked trails  
• ensure that you’re adequately equipped and bring sufficient water   
• stay informed about weather and other conditions that may pose a hazard  
• refrain from using facilities or equipment if you have doubts on their safety  
• inform a family member or friend of your itinerary  

Road travel

Road conditions and road safety.

Road conditions and road safety can vary greatly throughout the country.

Road conditions can be dangerous due to:

• sharp curves
• poorly marked or hidden road signs
• construction sites
• roaming livestock
• slow-moving or abandoned vehicles

Toll highways are typically safer and better maintained than secondary highways.

Mexican driving styles are very different from those in Canada. Many drivers don’t respect traffic laws, and police don’t strictly enforce these laws. Drivers often drive at excessive speeds and may be aggressive or reckless. Drinking and driving laws are not strictly enforced. Accidents causing fatalities are common. Police don’t regularly patrol the highways.

Roadblocks and checkpoints

Illegal roadblocks and demonstrations are common. Heavily armed gangs have attacked travellers on intercity highways. Criminals especially target sport utility vehicles and full-size pickup trucks for theft and carjacking.

The military searches for drugs and firearms at military checkpoints throughout the country.

• Avoid road travel at night between cities throughout the country
• Ensure that you only stop in major centres, at reputable hotels or at secure campsites
• Keep your car doors locked and the windows closed, especially at traffic lights
• Avoid hitchhiking which is not a common practice in Mexico
• Don’t leave valuables in the vehicle
• Rent cars that don’t have stickers or other advertisements for the rental company on them, as rental cars have been targets for robbery, sometimes using force
• Ensure operators provide insurance and helmets if renting scooters
• Travel on toll roads to lower the risk of targeted roadblocks and robberies
• Never attempt to cross roadblocks, even if they appear unattended

Public transportation

Remain vigilant in airports, at bus stations, on buses and on the metro.

The Mexico City metro is often very crowded and a popular place for pickpocketing. There are metro cars dedicated to women and children during rush hours. They are located at the front of the trains.

The Metrobus in Mexico City, which has dedicated lanes and stops, is relatively safe. There are sections dedicated to women and children at the front of the buses.

The “colectivos” and “pesero” mini-buses that stop when hailed are frequently targeted for robbery.

When travelling to other cities, use bus companies that offer VIP or executive class transportation. These buses only travel on toll roads, which lower the risks of targeted roadblocks and robberies, and follow a speed limit.

Taxis and ridesharing services

Disputes between taxi and ridesharing application drivers may occur, especially in Quintana Roo. They may result in:

• altercations

Although tourists have not been targeted, you may be caught up in these incidents and harassed or injured. 

In Mexico City, all government-authorized taxis have licence plates starting with “A” or “B.” Taxis from designated stands have both the logo of their company and the plate number stamped on the side of the car. Official taxis in Mexico City are pink and white. Users can validate the pink and white taxis on the CDMX app.

• Avoid hailing taxis on the street
• Don't share taxis with strangers

When arriving at an airport in Mexico, pre-pay the taxi fare at the airport (inside or outside the terminal) and ask to see the driver’s official identification. You can also use a ridesharing app to arrange for a pickup at certain airports. Not all airports in Mexico allow ridesharing service pickups.

If you use a trusted ridesharing app, confirm the driver’s identity and the licence plate before getting in the car.

Mi Taxi  – CDMX app (in Spanish)

Cruise ship travel

Plan carefully if you plan to take a cruise departing from or stopping in Mexico.

Advice for cruise travellers

Pirate attacks and armed robbery against ships occur in coastal waters of the Bay of Campeche. Mariners should take appropriate precautions.

Live piracy report  - International Maritime Bureau

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Mexican authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for the expected duration of your stay in Mexico.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: not required Business visa: required Work visa: required Student visa: required

Required documents

To enter Mexico, you must present a valid passport and a duly completed tourist card (Multiple Immigration Form). Carry documents to prove the purpose of trip, such as hotel or tour booking confirmations, as immigration officers may request them.

Tourist card

You must obtain a tourist card to enter the country unless you stay in Mexico for less than 72 hours within the northern border zone. 

If you don’t obtain a tourist card upon arrival, you may face:

It is highly recommended to keep your digital tourist card, or tourist card if entered by land, with you at all times as proof of your legal stay in Mexico. You may be asked to show it to Mexican officials when exiting the country or if you are stopped on an immigration check point.

If you are stopped at an immigration check point and you are unable to prove your legal stay, you may be fined, detained or expelled from the country.

Entering by land

If entering Mexico by land, you must stop at the immigration office located at the border to obtain a tourist card, even if not explicitly directed by Mexican officials. Immigration officials will write down on your tourist card the number of days you are allowed to stay in Mexico.  

You may complete the tourist card form online before your arrival. However, you must print the form and present it to the migration official at the port of entry.

Multiple Immigration Form  - Government of Mexico

Entering by air

If entering Mexico by air, you are advised to download your tourist card issued by Mexican officials upon entry.

Depending on your airport of entry:

• the immigration official will stamp your passport and note the number of days you are allowed to spend in Mexico or
• you will go through an E-gate kiosk where you will scan your passport and self-register your entry in the country. Only use this option if you are entering Mexico as a tourist.

Once in the country, whether you entered via a E-gate or not, you will be able to access the digital tourist card online. You have 60 days to download it.

If you are unable to show your tourist card or digital tourist card upon departure, you will have to pay for a replacement at the immigration office of any international airport before boarding.

Make sure to plan sufficient time at the airport to obtain a new card in time for your flight.

Portal access for digital tourist card  - Government of Mexico

Length of stay

An immigration official will determine the number of days you can remain in Mexico and note it on your tourist card. The maximum length granted for a tourism-related trip is 180 days; the maximum number of days is not granted by default.

If you're seeking the maximum number of days, you may be required to:

• explain the purpose of your trip to the immigration official
• provide details about your trip (accommodations, funds, return flight, etc.)

You won’t be able to request an extension or change the condition of your stay from inside the country.

Canadians travelling to the northern border zone (within 21 kilometres of the U.S. border) for work don’t require a visa for stays of 72 hours or less.

If you require a business or work visa, you should take care of the process yourself. If a prospective employer is processing your visa for you:

• obtain copies of all correspondence between the employer and Mexican immigration authorities
• verify that these copies are stamped by the immigration authorities as proof that your papers are being processed
• request a receipt from your employer for any document that you provide for purposes of obtaining the visa
• avoid surrendering your passport to your employer

Volunteer, religious, research and eco-tourism activities

You may not be able to undertake volunteer, religious/missionary, research or certain forms of eco-tourism activities while visiting as a tourist. Contact the Mexican Embassy or closest Mexican consulate for information the type of visa required for these activities.

Tourism tax

Most visitors to Mexico must pay a tourism tax.

This fee is normally included in airline ticket prices. Visitors arriving by road or sea will have to pay this fee at any bank in Mexico. There is a bank representative at every port of entry. The bank receipt must be attached to the tourist card for submission at departure.

You don't have to pay this tax if:

• you're entering by land for tourism purposes, and your stay will not exceed 7 days
• you're travelling to the northern border zone for less than 72 hours
• you're travelling to Mexico on a cruise ship

Dual citizenship

If entering and leaving Mexico as a dual citizen, you must identify yourself as a Mexican citizen. You must carry valid passports for both countries.

Laws about dual citizenship

Criminal records

Canadians with a criminal record or a warrant for arrest may be refused entry and returned to Canada or to a third country on the next available flight.

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• Zika virus: Advice for travellers - 31 August, 2023
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024
• Dengue: Advice for travellers - 8 April, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.

* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

Malaria  is a serious and sometimes fatal disease that is caused by parasites spread through the bites of mosquitoes.   There is a risk of malaria in certain areas and/or during a certain time of year in this destination. 

Antimalarial medication may be recommended depending on your itinerary and the time of year you are travelling. Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic before travelling to discuss your options. It is recommended to do this 6 weeks before travel, however, it is still a good idea any time before leaving.    Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times:  • Cover your skin and use an approved insect repellent on uncovered skin.  • Exclude mosquitoes from your living area with screening and/or closed, well-sealed doors and windows. • Use insecticide-treated bed nets if mosquitoes cannot be excluded from your living area.  • Wear permethrin-treated clothing.    If you develop symptoms similar to malaria when you are travelling or up to a year after you return home, see a health care professional immediately. Tell them where you have been travelling or living. 

In this destination, rabies is carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions , including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. Rabies treatment is often available in this destination. 

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals). 

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Typhoid   is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

Salmonellosis is a common illness among travellers to this country. It can be spread through contaminated food or beverages, such as raw or undercooked poultry and eggs, as well as fruits or vegetables.

Practice safe food and water precautions . This includes only eating food that is properly cooked and still hot when served.

Pregnant women, children under 5 years of age, those over 60 years of age, and those with weakened immune systems are at greater risk of becoming seriously ill.

Cases of multidrug-resistant (MDR) Salmonella have been reported among Canadian travellers returning from Mexico. These strains of Salmonella do not respond to some of the recommended antibiotics if treatment is needed.

Most people recover on their own without medical treatment and from proper rehydration (drinking lots of fluids).

• Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Travellers with severe symptoms should consult a health care professional as soon as possible.

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

There is a risk of chikungunya in this country.  The risk may vary between regions of a country.  Chikungunya is a virus spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Chikungunya can cause a viral disease that typically causes fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times. There is no vaccine available for chikungunya.

• In this country,   dengue  is a risk to travellers. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
• Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
• The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region.
• Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites . There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue.

Zika virus is a risk in this country. 

Zika virus is primarily spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can also be sexually transmitted. Zika virus can cause serious birth defects.

During your trip:

• Prevent mosquito bites at all times.
• Use condoms correctly or avoid sexual contact, particularly if you are pregnant.

If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, you should discuss the potential risks of travelling to this destination with your health care provider. You may choose to avoid or postpone travel. 

For more information, see Zika virus: Pregnant or planning a pregnancy.

American trypanosomiasis (Chagas disease)   is a risk in this country. It is caused by a parasite spread by infected triatomine bugs. The infection can be inactive for decades, but humans can eventually develop complications causing disability and even death.

Risk is generally low for most travellers. Protect yourself from triatomine bugs, which are active at night, by using mosquito nets if staying in poorly-constructed housing. There is no vaccine available for Chagas disease.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Medical services and facilities

The quality of care varies greatly throughout the country.

Good health care is available in private hospitals and clinics, but it’s generally expensive. Most private facilities won’t agree to deal directly with medical insurance companies and will require payment with a credit card in advance or a bank transfer/direct deposit.

Mental health services are extremely limited in Mexico, particularly outside of Mexico City. Services and treatment standards may differ substantially from those in Canada.

Medical evacuation can be very expensive and you may need it in case of serious illness or injury.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Medical tourism

Medical tourism is common in Mexico. Canadian travellers have had serious health complications following cosmetic or other elective surgeries abroad.

Before leaving for medical travel, you should do your research, especially on:

• the health and financial risks
• the medical facility where the procedure will be performed
• language barriers, which can lead to misunderstandings about your medical care and conditions
• travel insurance that includes coverage for the type of medical procedure you will be undergoing

You should discuss your medical plans with your primary healthcare provider in Canada before travelling. Most provincial and territorial health care programs are extremely limited in their coverage offered abroad.

• Make sure that the healthcare providers you choose are authorized by the Mexican health authorities
• Ask to see the credentials of the healthcare providers
• Obtain a written agreement detailing the proposed treatment or procedure
• Receiving medical care outside Canada
• If you become sick or injured while travelling outside Canada or after your return
• Medical tourism – Government of Mexico (in Spanish)

If you take prescription medication, you’re responsible for determining their legality in Mexico. 

• Bring sufficient quantities of your medication with you
• Always keep your medication in the original container
• Pack your medication in your carry-on luggage
• Carry a copy of your prescriptions

Medication cannot be sent to Mexico from Canada via courier services.

Many types of medication—both over-the-counter and prescription—are readily available with little oversight. Counterfeit medication is common in certain parts of Mexico. If you need to purchase medication while in Mexico, make sure to get it from a reputable location.

Federal Commission for protection against sanitary risk  (in Spanish)

Air quality in Mexico City

In Mexico City, you may experience health problems caused by high altitude or by air pollution, which is at its peak during the winter months.

Consult your doctor before booking your trip if you have lung, heart or respiratory problems.

Death in Mexico

If you plan to retire or spend long periods of time in Mexico, or travel there for medical procedures, you should:

• share your plans or wishes with relatives
• make sure important documents can easily be located
• make arrangements in case of your death while in the country
• What if I Die in Mexico? – Fact sheet
• Death Abroad Factsheet

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Penalties for breaking the law in Mexico can be more severe than in Canada, even for similar offences.

Foreign nationals are often held in pre-trial detention and there can be lengthy delays before a trial.

Many petty crimes (such as public urination, failure to pay a bill or disorderly behaviour) can result in a 72-hour detention by police. Paying a fine can secure an early release from detention.

Detention conditions are below the standards of Canadian prisons.

• Overview of the criminal law system in Mexico
• Arrest and detention

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect lengthy prison sentences.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Smoking is prohibited in all public places except for clearly marked designated smoking areas. This includes but is not limited to:

• restaurants

You may be fined if you’re caught smoking in public.

Electronic cigarettes

It’s illegal to bring electronic cigarettes/vaping devices and solutions into Mexico.

You could have these items confiscated by customs officials if you have them in your possession. You could also be fined or detained.

It is strictly prohibited to sell or distribute these devices and solutions in Mexico.

Imports and exports

The Mexican government strictly enforces its laws concerning possession, importation and trafficking of firearms.

Anyone entering Mexico with a firearm or ammunition without prior written authorization from Mexican authorities is subject to imprisonment.

It is also illegal to enter the country with certain types of knives.

Importing vehicles and boats

Mexico has very strict rules regarding the importation of foreign vehicles and boats.

You must enter Mexico with the proper import permit and insurance, since it cannot be obtained once you are in Mexico. You may face a fine and have your vehicle seized if you enter Mexico without the proper permit.

You must present a paper document of your vehicle registration to obtain a vehicle importation permit from the Mexican authorities. If you present a digital document of your vehicle registration, your vehicle may be refused entry into Mexico.   

• Vehicle importation  – Government of Mexico (in Spanish)
• Temporary vehicle import application system  – Banjército
• Travelling to Mexico by land  – Mexican Embassy in Canada

Cigarettes and alcohol

If you are older than 18, you are allowed to bring into Mexico up to:

• 10 cigarette packs
• 25 cigars or
• 200 grams of tobacco
• 3 litres of alcohol and
• 6 litres of wine

If you bring more alcohol and cigarettes into Mexico than allowed, even if you declare your imported items, you will be subject to a high import fee. You will still be subject to a significant fee if you decide to relinquish your imported items

It’s illegal to possess archaeological artefacts or to export such items from Mexico.

• Goods you can bring to Mexico as part of your personal luggage  – Government of Mexico
• Goods you cannot bring into Mexico  – Government of Mexico
• Agricultural product restrictions  – Government of Mexico (in Spanish)

Political activity

It’s illegal for foreigners to conduct political activity in Mexico, including participating in demonstrations.

2SLGBTQI+ travellers

Mexican law does not prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex. However, homosexuality is not widely accepted in Mexican society, particularly in rural areas.

2SLGBTQI+ travellers could be discriminated against based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression or sex characteristics. Transgender and gender non-conforming individuals are disproportionately targeted for violence and can face discrimination.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Mexico.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Mexico, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

Travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and Mexico.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Mexico, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Mexican court.

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Mexico to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

• List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
• Travelling with children
• The Hague Convention - Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Emergency Watch and Response Centre

There are no clear procedures or regulations about surrogacy in Mexico.

If you're considering surrogacy, seek advice from legal professionals knowledgeable in Canadian and Mexican laws and citizenship procedures.

Identity documents

The names on your identity documents must be identical to those on your birth certificate to obtain official Mexican documents, such as marriage certificates, immigration documents or passports.

Middle names are often left off Canadian identity documents. This has caused significant difficulties for many Canadians. If you plan on residing in Mexico or dealing with the Mexican Civil Registry, obtain a Canadian passport that will meet Mexican requirements.

Identification

You should carry photo identification.

Authorities can ask you to show identification and a proof of your legal status in Mexico. They can demand to see your tourist card at any time. You must carry the original at all times. You must carry the original at all times, and should also carry a photocopy of the identification page of your passport.

Investments

If you plan on buying property, or making other investments in Mexico, seek legal advice in Canada and in Mexico. Do so before making commitments. Related disputes could take time and be costly to resolve.

Mexican real estate agents are not licensed or regulated.

• Choose your own lawyer
• Avoid hiring a lawyer recommended by a seller

Problems with timeshare arrangements occur.

Timeshare representatives may be very persistent. They use pressure tactics and offer free tours, meals, gifts or alcoholic beverages.

It's illegal for timeshare companies to ask you to sign a waiver that prevents you from cancelling a contract. You're legally entitled to cancel a timeshare contract without penalty within 5 working days. Contracts must be cancelled in writing directly with the timeshare company.

Before purchasing a timeshare:

• gather as much information as possible
• review carefully the contract; anything not included in the contract will not be honoured
• provide your credit card only if you are sure you want to make the purchase
• keep copies of all correspondence

If you suspect a fraud in the real estate procedures, contact the Federal Attorney’s Office of Consumer immediately.

• Federal Attorney’s Office of Consumer (PROFECO)  – Mexican Government (in Spanish)
• Should I buy a timeshare in Mexico? - Embassy of Mexico in Canada
• Should I sell my timeshare in Mexico? - Embassy of Mexico in Canada

Rental accommodations

Rental agreements between two individuals in Mexico are considered a private matter and are not regulated by the government.

If you encounter difficulties with a rental agreement, you must obtain the services of a Mexican lawyer.

You should carry an international driving permit.

International Driving Permit

Auto insurance

Mexican liability insurance is mandatory. Canadian automobile insurance is not valid in Mexico.

You can obtain insurance at the Mexican border. You should obtain full coverage, including coverage for legal assistance.

Automobile insurance is much more expensive in Mexico than in Canada. Many local drivers don’t have any form of car insurance.

If you’re involved in an accident, and you don’t have Mexican liability insurance, you could be prevented from leaving the country until all parties agree that adequate financial satisfaction has been received. If you’re found to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs at the time of an accident, or if you don’t have a valid driver’s licence, your insurance will be considered invalid.

If you’re involved in a traffic accident, you may face serious legal problems, including imprisonment. You could be taken into custody until responsibility for the accident is determined and all fines are paid. You must report any accident you’re involved in to the police.

Driving restrictions in Mexico City

The Hoy No Circula (No Driving Today) program restricts some cars from driving in Mexico City and in some municipalities of the State of Mexico, from Monday to Saturday, from 5 am to 10 pm.

You will face driving restrictions depending on:

• your car’s emission sticker
• the last digit of your license plate
• where your license plate was issued

Hoy No Circula program is strictly enforced. You may face heavy fines and temporary confiscation of your vehicle if you don’t comply. Consult the Hoy No Circula calendar before driving.

Electric and hybrid cars are exempted from these restrictions. Gas-fueled cars of a 2008 model or later may obtain a tourist pass valid for selected drive days.

• Hoy no circula – Government of Mexico (in Spanish)
• Tourist pass  – Government of Mexico (in Spanish)
• Ministry of Environment  – Government of (in Spanish)

Buying/selling a vehicle

You must be either a temporary or a permanent resident if you wish to buy a car in Mexico.

It’s illegal to sell your imported vehicle in Mexico. If you do, your vehicle may be seized and you may be subject to a fine and deportation.

The currency of Mexico is the Mexican peso.

In some parts of Mexico, particularly tourist destinations, hotels and other service providers may advertise prices in USD.

There is a limit to the amount of U.S. dollars that residents and foreigners can exchange in Mexico, depending on your immigration status. The rule doesn’t apply to Canadian dollars but some financial institutions, hotels and currency exchange bureaus don’t make the distinction.

When carrying more than US$10,000 or the equivalent in other currencies, cash, cheques, money orders or any other monetary instrument, you must declare the amount exceeding US$10,000. Failure to make this declaration is against Mexican law and often results in detention.

Mexico is subject to various natural disasters, such as:

• earthquakes
• volcanic eruptions
• torrential rains, floods and mudslides
• forest fires

In the event of a natural disaster:

• monitor local news to stay informed on the evolving situation
• follow the instructions of local authorities, including evacuation orders
• Secretary of Integrated Risk Management and Civil Protection  – Government of Mexico City (in Spanish)
• National Center for Disaster Prevention  (CENAPRED) – Government of Mexico (in Spanish)
• Get prepared

Hurricane season

Hurricanes usually occur from mid-May to the end of November. During this period, even small tropical storms can quickly develop into major hurricanes.

These severe storms can put you at risk and hamper the provision of essential services.

If you decide to travel to a coastal area during the hurricane season:

• know that you expose yourself to serious safety risks
• be prepared to change your travel plans on short notice, including cutting short or cancelling your trip
• stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
• carry emergency contact information for your airline or tour operator
• follow the advice and instructions of local authorities
• Tornadoes, cyclones, hurricanes, typhoons and monsoons
• Large-scale emergencies abroad
• Active storm tracking and hurricane watches and warnings  - United States’ National Hurricane Center

Flooding and landslides

Heavy rains can cause flooding and landslides. Roads may become impassable and infrastructure damaged.

Earthquakes and tsunamis

Mexico is located in an active seismic zone. Earthquakes, tsunamis and volcanic eruptions can occur.

A tsunami can occur within minutes of a nearby earthquake. However, the risk of tsunami can remain for several hours following the first tremor. If you’re staying on the coast, familiarize yourself with the region’s evacuation plans in the event of a tsunami warning.

Useful links:

• National Seismological Institute  – Government of Mexico (in Spanish)
• Latest earthquakes  - U.S. Geological Survey
• Tsunami alerts  - U.S. Tsunami Warning System
• Centre for Studies and Research of Volcanology  - University of Colima (in Spanish)

Forest fires

Forest fires may occur, particularly during the dry season from:

• January to June in the centre, north, northeast, south and southeast
• May to September in the northwest

The air quality in areas near active fires may deteriorate due to heavy smoke.

In case of a major fire:

• stay away from the affected area, particularly if you suffer from respiratory ailments
• always follow the instructions of local emergency services personnel, including any evacuation order
• monitor local media for up-to-date information on the situation

Daily report on wildfires – Government of Mexico (in Spanish)

Local services

In case of an emergency, dial 911.

Roadside assistance

The Angeles Verdes is a highway patrol service that provides free assistance on all major toll highways from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

You can download the App on your mobile device.

In case of an emergency, you can also dial 078 or 800 006 8839 (toll-free in Mexico) to reach them.

Consular assistance

Aguascalientes, Chiapas, Chihuahua, Coahuila, Durango, Estado de Mexico, Guanajuato, Hidalgo, Michoacán, Morelos, Mexico City, Oaxaca, Puebla, Querétaro, San Luís Potosí, Tabasco, Tamaulipas, Tlaxcala, Veracruz, Zacatecas.

Campeche, Yucatán, and Quintana Roo north of the municipality of Solidaridad, including Puerto Morelos, Isla Mujeres and Holbox

Baja California, Sonora

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada to Mexico, in Mexico City, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

Is Playa del Carmen Safe for Tourists in 2024

Wondering about Playa del Carmen safety?

That’s great! As someone who’s traveled solo all over Mexico, I know that keeping your personal safety as a top priority is the best way to stay safe while traveling to Playa del Carmen, Mexico — or anywhere.

Now, let’s examine the Is Playa del Carmen safe for tourists? question.

For decades, Playa del Carmen has been one the most popular tourist destinations in Mexico.

Located in the Yucatan Peninsula, right on the Caribbean Sea, there’s palm trees, turquoise waters, coral reefs just off-shore, and some of the best white sand beaches in Mexico.

While Mexico is portrayed as a totally unsafe country in the mainstream U.S. media, know that millions visit Playa del Carmen each year — with most coming from the U.S. and Canada.

If Mexico were as unsafe as it’s portrayed, people would just stop coming, wouldn’t they!?

Well, they aren’t, so that might tell you something. According to Mexico Secretary of Tourism statistics , an astounding 35 million international travelers visited Mexico from just January to August 2021.

Even with all the sinister news reports, millions still flock to Mexico.

As a large country, looking at Mexico travel safety and Playa del Carmen travel safety are two different things, so let’s bring our focus down to Playa itself.

In this article you’re going to discover everything you need to know about Playa del Carmen safety, so let’s get right to it.

Is Playa del Carmen Safe for tourists

Is playa del carmen safe right now.

For the most part, Playa del Carmen is considered safe for the majority of visitors, with the biggest threats usually being hurricanes, hangovers , sunburns and mosquitoes .

However, no place on Earth is 100% safe, so it untrue to paint Playa del Carmen as some travel utopia.

In Playa del Carmen, you’ll want to pay extra attention to your valuables and never leave anything unattended.

With such a big party scene, you’ll also want to watch your alcohol intake, never take a drink from a stranger and never leave your drink unattended with strangers.

Crime in Playa del Carmen Mexico

As with most tourist areas and towns in the world, petty theft isn’t uncommon in Playa del Carmen.

This isn’t a huge problem, and if you don’t leave your valuables unattended and stay aware of your surroundings, you likely won’t be a victim of petty crime in Playa del Carmen.

👮 If you are the victim of a crime, the place to report it is the Agéncia del Ministério Público Playa del Cármen. Visit their Facebook page here .

how safe is playa del carmen?

Unfortunately, there’s no way to answer this question with 100% certainty.

As with all of Mexico, the vast majority of Playa del Carmen visitors are completely safe.

There are isolated incidents of crime like any other place on Earth, but for the most part, it’s one of the best places to visit in Mexico .

Shootings in Playa del Carmen Mexico

In recent years, there have has been an uptick in reports of shootings in Playa del Carmen Mexico. As with most violence in Mexico, it mostly has direct ties to the cartels. However, these types of things will jar anyone’s sense of safety, especially innocent bystanders.

In January 2022, a shooting at Xcaret Water Park left two Canadians, Robert Dinh and Thomas Cheruka, dead over a debt they owed to the cartels. While I can’t say this won’t happen again, I can say it’s a very rare occurrence — and 100% related to the cartels, which you should avoid at all costs.

When I say “avoid at all costs,” I’m really saying not to buy drugs from them. I don’t want to tell anyone how to live their life, only that the vast majority of crime in Mexico is cartel-related, so if you have no involvement with cartels, the probability of Playa del Carmen safety increases.

Drugs & Cartels in Playa del Carmen

The Mexican drug cartels cast a dark shadow on an otherwise amazing country.

As I live in Mexico, I know first-hand what a meta topic this is, and I try to navigate it carefully.

What I do know is that not buying drugs in Playa del Carmen is the best way to avoid the cartels, and not support them.

Since moving to Mexico in 2018, I have lived in a few places, including Tulum and Playa del Carmen . There is definitely a cartel presence in these areas, as well as in nearby Cancun , as these are three of the biggest Mexico party towns.

On a personal note, I have never been approached to buy drugs as much as I have in Tulum and Playa. With a simple no gracias , I was always left alone.

In places where I was approached by multiple people in a row, I took it upon myself to find another place to hang out.

⚠️ Here is the best advice I can offer for Playa del Carmen safety:

Avoid anything related to the cartels, don’t buy drugs off them, and stay as far away from them as physically possible — and you’re well on your way to safe travels in Playa del Carmen Mexico.

Is Playa del Carmen safe for solo travelers?

Mexico gets a bad wrap in the mainstream media, and perhaps you’ve been warned not to do any Mexico solo travel , but make sure you consider the source.

As you probably know, the news has a habit of reporting the doom and gloom side of life because that’s what sells.

If you know any solo female travelers, especially those who have done solo travel in Mexico , consider asking them.

The best information on solo female travel comes from women who have actually done it — and those who have will likely encourage you to go.

As someone who’s traveled solo all over Mexico, I consider Playa del Carmen safe for solo travel in Mexico. I was even living in Playa de Carmen for a bit, and never felt in any danger.

I know I am just one voice in this conversation, so check out this first-hand account from Christine, who has also done solo travel in Playa del Carmen.

Playa del Carmen attracts all kinds of travelers, from solo travelers to families, luxury travelers to backpackers.

It’s great for solo travel in Mexico because there are just so many solo travelers there so it’s easy to meet others, especially if you’re staying in one of the best Playa del Carmen hostels.

Is Playa del Carmen safe for families?

Playa del Carmen is both safe for families, and a popular place for families to visit.

If you rent a car , there are plenty of Playa del Carmen day trips the kids will love, but even if you don’t, the city is very walkable. One of the best things to do in Playa del Carmen with kids is the 3-D Museum.

Is Playa del Carmen safe for American tourists?

Analytics data tells me most readers to this site are from the U.S., but this answer applies to travelers no matter what your home country is.

For the most part, Playa del Carmen is safe for American tourists (and all tourists) as long as you follow general travel safety measures at all times.

Is Playa del Carmen safe at night?

Playa del Carmen is a pretty small town, so walking alone at night isn’t considered too dangerous.

However, always listen to your intuition , meaning that if it feels safer to take a taxi ride instead of walking, do that. While there’s no Uber in Playa del Carmen , taxis operate all day and night.

Is Playa del Carmen safer than Cancun?

Many want to compare nearby Playa del Carmen to Cancun , or wonder Is Playa del Carmen safer than Cabo ?

There’s no way to give a definitive answer to these questions. As some of the top Mexico resort towns , they all have good and bad points — and they are safe for most visitors, though not all .

Wondering, How safe is Cancun Mexico? For a deep dive, head to Is Cancun Safe to Travel to Right Now?

Is Riviera Maya safe to visit?

The Riviera Maya is a long stretch of Caribbean coastline on Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, located in-between Playa del Carmen and  Tulum .

It’s one of the safest and nicest places in Mexico for a relaxing vacation on the beach, with many of the best resorts in Mexico.

Playa del Carmen Travel Advisories for Mexico

For official travel advisories for Playa del Carmen, check the U.S. State Department website .

They evaluate state by state, not city by city, so it’s not always easy to get an accurate picture of the situation in Playa itself. 💡 Wondering, What state is Playa del Carmen in? It’s in Quintana Roo state .

Playa del Carmen Travel Tips: Check The Yucatan Times and Riviera Maya News for coverage of current Playa del Carmen local news in English. You’ll get updated travel advisory info, and maybe even some Playa del Carmen safety tips.

As someone who lives in Mexico I know there are safe places in Mexico , and unsafe places. Top Mexico travel destinations, like Playa del Carmen, are mostly safe.

Tourism is a huge part of the economy, and the Mexican government makes sure it stays that way so visitors keep coming back.

This is not to say that bad things don’t happen in Playa del Carmen; they do. However, isolated incidents happen everywhere — even your hometown.

You can have a safe Playa del Carmen trip by using common sense, staying aware of yourself and surroundings, and not buying drugs.

Don’t forget Travel Insurance for Playa del Carmen , so you’re covered on your trip if unforeseen health and safety issues arise. Get your FREE quote from World Nomads now!

Tourist Scams in Playa del Carmen

There aren’t a ton of things you need to be aware of while traveling to Playa del Carmen Mexico , but there are some common tourist scams in Playa to be aware of.

These things aren’t exactly the norm, but you’ll want to know about them for the sake of staying safe in Playa del Carmen.

🏧 Playa del Carmen ATM Scams

A lot of places in Playa del Carmen are cash only, so you’ll need to use ATMs in Playa. They’re located all over town, but the safest ATMs in Playa del Carmen are inside of banks, not the ones you find right on the streets.

For an added safety, I recommend the ATMs inside banks on 5th Avenue in Playa del Carmen.

When possible, avoid the ATMs inside convenience stores. If you need cash in a pinch, you can use any ATM you’d like, just exercise increased caution when doing so.

Police Corruption in Playa del Carmen

In Facebook groups for expats and digital nomads in Playa del Carmen, like Digital Nomad Crew Playa del Carmen , you can read past posts about corruption by police officers in Playa.

It’s not that all cops in Playa del Carmen and Mexico are corrupt, but the bad ones do ruin it for the good ones.

For the most part, police will only approach you if you’re breaking any laws. One of the best ways to attract police attention is by being drunk and acting rowdy in public, so you don’t want to do that.

If you’re renting a car in Mexico , be sure to obey all Mexico driving laws.

Robberies in Playa del Carmen

While not incredibly common, robberies and theft in Playa del Carmen can happen. When packing for Mexico , leave all valuables at home.

Also, only carry a small amount of cash on you — $1,000-1,500 pesos ($50-75USD) should be more than enough for the day.

Wondering, What to wear in Playa del Carmen Mexico? As it’s quite hot in Playa all year-long, think flowy sundresses, sun hats, sandals, sunglasses, and of course, bathing suits, sarongs and water shoes. ▶︎ Head here for a Mexico outfits guide.

Playa del Carmen Car Rental Scams

If you’re getting a Playa del Carmen car rental , make sure to take photos of the entire car, including the interior, in case there are any disputes when you return it.

Head here for more information on common Mexico car rental scams.

Covid-19 Safety in Playa del Carmen Mexico

The world will never be the same post-Coronavirus, but most travel restrictions in Mexico have been eradicated.

For official information on Playa del Carmen travel during Covid-19, check the CDC website and U.S. State Department website for any Mexico travel warnings and advisories.

There’s also the Semáforo Epidemiológico , or Mexico traffic light map , to inform the public about the Covid numbers in each  Mexican state .

It’s updated every two weeks, with a green light for a low number of cases, and red for a high number of cases.

🇲🇽 What state is Playa del Carmen in? Playa del Carmen is located in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo .

Safety in Playa del Carmen: 10 Playa del Carmen Travel Tips for Mexico

Millions of visitors travel to Playa del Carmen each year to soak up the rays on the beaches, eat a whole lot of tacos , swim in the Playa del Carmen cenotes , visit the Mayan Ruins , go clubbing all night, sip piña coladas poolside at the best Playa del Carmen resorts , and much more.

Before I go too far and make Playa del Carmen sound like some kind of travel utopia, I’ll stop here and say there are definitely some things to remain aware of. While in Playa, you’ll want to keep safety as your top priority by following the 10 tips below in this Playa del Carmen safety guide.

1. Stay Hydrated

Most people don’t associate hydration with safety, but the better hydrated you are, the more clear you are mentally. If you’re hydrated, you’re making great decisions and able to stay alert and aware of yourself, your valuables and your surroundings at all times.

💧 Can y ou drink the water in Playa del Carmen?

Unfiltered tap water in Playa del Carmen is not safe to drink, but you do need to stay hydrated and drink plenty of water. These reusable Water-To-Go Bottles have a three-stage filter that makes Playa del Carmen water safe to drink, so you don’t get sick in Mexico.

2. Brush up on your Spanish

It’s always a good idea to brush up on your Spanish before traveling to Mexico, just in case. Download the free Duolingo App and get in a little practice before your Playa del Carmen vacation, so you’re comfortable with everyday basics and casual niceties.

3. Carry Cash at all times

Not all businesses in Playa del Carmen take credit cards, especially mom and pop shops, so make sure you always have pesos on you. If you’ll be taking a lot of taxis and buying street tacos , you’ll need to pay for those in cash.

4. don’t carry to much cash

For most travelers, $1,000-1,500 pesos a day ($50-75USD) should suffice. One of my best Playa del Carmen tips is to use your credit card whenever possible, but in places you can’t, then pay with cash. Always try to reserve your cash, so you don’t have to keep going to the ATM in Playa del Carmen.

5. Leave valuables at home

Between the Margaritas on the beach by day, and the mojitos at the Playa del Carmen bars by night, it’s very easy to lose things. Also, anything with a very prominent designer label and any high end electronic gadgets can draw a lot of unwanted attention to you.

6. Go easy on the drinks

While I won’t tell anyone to go to Playa del Carmen and stay sober if that’s not what you want, I will say to go easy. Safety always goes way down when there’s a lot of booze involved, but again, I’m not here to lecture anyone.

Planning to party hardy? Liquid IV hydration multiplier is a game changer in the fight against hangovers! With more than 84,000 Amazon reviews , you know it works.

7. Never accept drinks from strangers

To reiterate: Never take drinks from strangers in Playa del Carmen (or anywhere), and this even applies to cute strangers. Also, don’t leave your drink unattended with a stranger, so if you’re headed to the restroom, you’ll want to take your drink with you for safety’s sake.

8. Stay in the best neighborhoods in Playa del Carmen

The main area where most visitors stay is the Playa del Carmen Hotel Zone on La Quinta Avenida, or 5th Avenue. This is the main street in Playa del Carmen, so you’ll find everything you need here on this bustling, pedestrian-only thoroughfare.

Quinta Avenida is in Centro, or Downtown Playa del Carmen, and you’ll want to choose a place that’s between Avenida Benito Juarez (Calle 1, or 1st Street) up to Avenida CTM (Calle 46, or 46th Street). North of Calle 46, it’s mostly just houses, so not much to see or do.

Remember to brush up on your Spanish with the FREE Duolingo App before your trip. This way, you’ll know what words like calle (street), baño (bathroom) and cajero (ATM) mean.

9. Don’t buy drugs in Playa del Carmen

I can’t stress enough that you’ll want to avoid the Mexico cartels at all costs. Besides not supporting the cartels directly, buying drugs in Playa del Carmen can obviously land you in jail in a foreign country — and do you want to spend part of your vacation in Playa del Carmen in jail?!

10. Be extra careful at night in Playa del Carmen

As with many places in the world, most crimes in Playa del Carmen occur at night. Besides being extra careful at the bars in Playa del Carmen , you’ll also want to be extra careful when walking alone at night. Personally, I always took taxis home at night when I lived in Playa del Carmen.

Note: Remember not to resist if someone tries to mug you, as your safety is worth more than your belongings. You can always insure your valuables with travel insurance for a few dollars a day.

Safest Playa del Carmen Neighborhoods (Where to Stay in Playa del Carmen)

5th Avenue in Playa del Carmen Mexico

Quinta Avenida (5 Avenue) is the Playa del Carmen you’ve seen on Instagram, TikTok and YouTube. This is where you’ll find all the best Playa del Carmen resorts and boutique hotels, lively bars and clubs, chic restaurants, spas, and of course, the Playa del Carmen beaches.

🏩 For their prime location right on 5th Avenue in Playa del Carmen, the  Hilton Playa del Carmen ,  Grand Hyatt Playa del Carmen Resort  and Acanto Playa del Carmen are your best options.

The main tourist zone is between Avenida Benito Juarez, which is Calle 1 (1st Street) and Avenida CTM, which is Calle 46 (46th Street). South of 1st Street, you’ll be in thee town of Playacar , and north of 46th Street, it’s a residential area.

Centro (Downtown Playa del Carmen)

Fifth Ave. is in Downtown Playa del Carmen, and most visitors will want to stay right on this street, or as close to it as possible. The avenues in Playa del Carmen go out in increments of five, so 10th Avenue, 15th Avenue, etc. Try to stay no further out than 30th Avenue.

Playacar Beach (Upscale Resort Community)

There’s also the posh town of Playacar, Mexico, just south of Playa del Carmen. This is an affluent, gated community, with large beachfront homes, golf courses and many of the best all inclusive resorts in Playa del Carmen, like the uber-cool Palmaïa, The House of AïA Wellness Enclave .

Places to avoid in Playa del Carmen 

As with most cities, there are safe parts of town, and sketchy or dangerous areas in Playa del Carmen. There really aren’t any parts of town you need to completely avoid for safety, but there are some things to be aware of before your Playa del Carmen vacation

Stick to Main Streets

Avoid the side streets   alleyways, especially when walking at night. This isn’t something unique to Playa, as hidden corners are great places to do things you shouldn’t be doing, which in Playa usually means selling drugs — and you don’t want to be in the wrong place at the wrong time.

If you find yourself completely alone in a neighborhood at night, chances are you’ve wandered too far off the beaten path. If this happens, pull out your cell phone and use you maps app to find your way back to 5th Avenue, the main street.

🗺 Playa del Carmen Top Tips: You may want to download an offline map from Google Maps or Maps.Me , so you can access it even off-WiFi. As a general rule of thumb, this is a good practice in any area of Mexico, or while traveling anywhere else.

Best Things to Do in Playa del Carmen

Mayan Ruins in Playa del Carmen

There are Mayan Ruins in Playa del Carmen, though they may not wow you the same as some of the Mayan ruins near Playa del Carmen, like Chichen Itza and Coba. However, that’s not to say you should skip them, only that they are smaller sites you can explore in about 1-2 hours.

Best Playa del Carmen Mayan Ruins

• San Gervasio Ruins in Cozumel Island
• Xcaret Mayan Ruins (AKA Polé Ruins)
• Xaman-Ha Ruins in Playacar
• El Meco Ruins in Cancun
• Tulum Ruins in Tulum
• San Miguelito Ruins at the Cancun Maya Museum

Hit the Playa del Carmen Beaches

Playa del Carmen sits right on the bright blue Caribbean Sea, and has some of the best beaches in Mexico . You can’t go wrong with any of the beaches, but don’t miss: Playa Parque Fundadores, Playa Mamitas, Playa Calle 10 Beach, Playa Calle 2 Beach, Playa Punta Esmeralda and Playacar Beach.

🏝 For the best beach clubs in Playa del Carmen, lot of people will recommend Zenzi Beach Club, Mamitas Beach Club and Lido Beach Club.

Spend the day in Cozumel Island

No visit to Playa del Carmen is complete without taking the fast ferry service to  Cozumel Island  for some snorkeling. Cozumel’s reefs are part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, the world’s second largest coral reef system, behind the Great Barrier Reef.

At world famous Palancar Reef, just off the coast of Cozumel, you’re sure to spot all kinds of sea life, including colorful tropical fish, rays, and even sea turtles. There’s also the San Gervasio Mayan Ruins, some of the coolest and  best Mayan Ruins in Mexico .

Swim in the Playa del Carmen Cenotes

There are about 6,000 cenotes in Yucatan, and some of the best cenotes in Mexico are near Playa del Carmen. All the cenottes aree unique in theeir own way, but don’t miss these visitor favorittes, Cenote Azul , Cenote Jardin Del Eden (AKA Cenote Ponderosa) and Cenote Cristalino.

Xcaret park

Zip line through the jungle at Xcaret Park, enjoy the famed nighttime dance show, and much more. Among the best things to do in Yucatan Mexico, Xcaret is a water park that uses the beautiful native environment instead of swimming pools. ▶︎ Buy your Xcaret tickets here

Playa del Carmen Travel Guide: FAQ

Where is Playa del Carmen located?

Wondering, What state is Playa del Carmen in? Playa del Carmen is in Quintana Roo state .

This is one of the three states in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, along with Yucatan State and Campeche State. Of the three, Quintana Roo is the most visited, and Campeche is the least.

Quintana Roo is a long, thin state, stretching the entire length of coastline along the Caribbean Sea.

Because of this, you may also hear this part of the Yucatan Peninsula called the Mexican Caribbean, where so many popular Mexico beach towns are located.

Quintana Roo has some of the most beautiful beaches in Mexico, including Playa Maroma which has the best overwater bungalows in Mexico .

Also in the state, you’ll find Cancun , Riviera Maya, Holbox Island , Puerto Morelos and Laguna Bacalar , AKA the “Maldives of Mexico.”

Playa del Carmen Map

What’s the closest Playa del Carmen Airport?

The closest and best airport for Playa del Carmen is Cancun International Airport (code: CUN), located about one hour away.

As one of the busiest airports in Mexico, there are many direct flight options from most major cities in the U.S., Canada and Europe. ▶︎ Search for Cancun flights .

📍 Playa del Carmen to Cancun Airport: The distance from the airport in Cancun to Playa del Carmen is about 42 miles (68 km), and about one hour of drive time in normal traffic.

What’s the best Cancun Airport transportation?

Cancun Airport Shuttle

The best way to get from Cancun Airport to Playa del Carmen is this private shuttle service with Cancun Airport Transportation.

It is by far the safest, easiest, fastest, most stress-free and most hassle-free way to get from Cancun Airport to your hotel in Playa, with door to door service.

At just $165 USD for round trip service for up to eight people, your private shuttle will meet you curbside just outside the airport, pack up your luggage, and whisk you away to your hour Playa del Carmen hotel room in a safe, comfy, air-conditioned van.

Cancun Car Rental (Drive to Playa del Carmen)

Cancun Airport car rentals range from $25 USD per day if you only take the basic insurance, to about $40 USD per day if you opt for full coverage.

⚠️ Note: You are legally required to have Mexican car insurance, and your U.S. policy doesn’t work in Mexico.

I recommend and personally use Discover Cars whenever I’m renting a car in Cancun , or anywhere in Mexico.

They have the best rates, and also sell a full coverage policy for about $10 USD per day — the cheapest Mexico car insurance I’ve found from any rental companies.

ADO Bus in Cancun

ADO is the largest Mexico bus company, with a fleet of comfy buses that have reclining seats, AC and outlets to charge your gadgets.

You can take the ADO bus from Cancun Airport to Playa del Carmen or the Hotel Zone for about $10-15 USD each way.

Note: The ADO website is not user-friendly and they don’t take United States credit cards. For booking ADO Playa del Carmen bus tickets, I recommend using BusBud. ▶︎ Book your tickets now

How do I get around in Playa del Carmen?

Taxis in Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen isn’t a huge city, but it is spread out, and with the hot weather year-round, you won’t want to walk very far.

For this reason, the best way to get around Playa del Carmen is by using taxis. Make sure you agree on the fare before getting in, as most cab drivers don’t use meters.

🚙💨 You can of course book a rental car in Cancun , but I only recommend this if you’re taking a few Playa del Carmen day trips. If you’re just staying in Playa itself, skip the rental.

Is public transportation in Playa del Carmen safe?

Yes — There are ADO buses for traveling outside of Playa del Carmen, and colectivos (small shared vans) for traveling with town. They are both inexpensive ways to get around, and everyone uses the buses.

Colectivos are mostly used by locals, so assume no one will speak English on them.

Is there Uber in Playa del Carmen?

No — There is no Uber in Playa del Carmen, and really, no Uber in the entire state of Quintana Roo.

There’s also no other ride-shares you can use, so no Lyft in Playa cel Carmen, and basically the only way to get around is by walking, renting a bike , renting a car , or taking taxis.

Is there Uber in Cancun?

Kind of — The answer to this question is tricky, because though Uber is legal in Cancun, it’s rarely used (even by Cancun locals).

⚠️ Note: Uber can not pick you up from Cancun Airport, which is why I recommend this private shuttle .

In 2019, a court ruled Uber can operate in Cancun, but to say Cancun taxi drivers weren’t thrilled would be an understatement.

In fact, there are sometimes clashes between groups, and most locals and visitors simply stay away from Cancun Uber for this reason.

Should I rent a car in Playa del Carmen?

If you’re just staying in Playa itself, and not planning to go on any of the best day trips from Playa del Carmen, skip the car rental. If you do want a car, Cancun Airport has the best selection. When I rent a car in Mexico, I always use D iscover Cars , and highly recommend them.

Is it safe to drive in Playa del Carmen?

Yes — For the majority of visitors, it is safe to drive in Playa del Carmen and the entire Yucatan Peninsula. You’ll want to of course not speed or break any Mexico driving laws, but driving in Mexico is similar to driving anywhere in North America. For more Mexico driving tips, head here .

Is the food in Playa del Carmen safe?

If you go to Mexico and don’t eat  street tacos  —  Did you really go to Mexico?!  This country has a serious street food culture, and it would be a shame to miss out on enjoying as much of the Mexico street food as you can.

Some of the best restaurants in Playa del Carmen include El Fogon, La Cochi-Loka and Las Hijas de la Tostada, which all have a reputation for quality and good prices. If you’re picking another place, you can use these tips so you know how to choose the best cheap eats and street stalls.

Can you drink the water in Playa del Carmen?

After  I s Mexico safe? , the #2 most asked Mexico travel question is,  Can you drink the water in Mexico?  The answer is NO  —   You can’t drink the water in Mexico straight from the tap. You can buy bottles water, boil your water, or use this Water-To-Go Bottle to filters the tap water.

What’s the best time to visit Playa del Carmen Mexico?

Weather-wise, the best time to travel to Playa del Carmen is during the dry season from November to April , when you’ll have mild temperatures are low humidity. Of course, you can expect high prices tags during this time of year, so for the best deals, opt for May to October.

Are there hurricanes in Playa del Carmen?

As Playa sits right on the Caribbean Sea, it is susceptible to hurricanes, tropical storms and heavy rain storms. The Atlantic Hurricane Season runs from June 1 to November 30, but the weather is usually nice by mid- to late-October, until the rainy season starts again in April.

Average Playa del Carmen Weather

You can use the chart above to get an idea of the annual temperatures in Playa del Carmen. You should always check the Playa del Carmen forecast before your trip, but remember to add about 5-10°F to all temperatures to account for the Playa del Carmen humidity.

• Playa del Carmen busy season (high season): December to March
• Playa del Carmen slow season (low season): May to October
• Playa del Carmen shoulder season: October to November and April to May
• Playa del Carmen dry season: November to April
• Playa del Carmen rainy season: May to October
• Playa del Carmen Hurricane Season: June 1 to November 30

Are there mosquitoes in Playa del Carmen?

Yes — Playa is a tropical beach jungle, and the mosquitoes can be vicious year-round, so pack some eco-friendly bug spray and these anti-mosquito bracelets . There’s also this great reef-safe sunscreen from Bullfrog that has SPF 50 and also repels mosquitoes.

Is Playa del Carmen expensive?

Expensive is a relative term, so this answer depends. When compared to other parts of Mexico, it is expensive, though budget travel in Playa del Carmen is possible. If you’re comparing it to other top destinations, like Cancun , Puerto Vallarta and Cabo San Lucas , Playa is about average.

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly Mexico beach town, some great options include Sayulita , El Cuyo , Isla Mujeres, Huatulco and Zihuatanejo . There’s also Lake Bacalar , AKA the “Maldives of Mexico,” which is actually a lagoon but it looks like a beach.

Is Playa del Carmen worth visiting?

This depends on your travel style, as Playa isn’t for everyone. If you love experiencing all the top destinations in a country, then Playa del Carmen is certainly one of those. For travelers who want a chill and relaxing beach vacation, stay in nearby Puerto Morelos , and just visit Playa for the day.

If you understand what you’re signing up for — higher price tags by Mexican standards, large crowds and a big party scene — you’ll enjoy Playa del Carmen. If you want the Playa del Carmen vibes, but smaller crowds, Isla Holbox Island is a great alternative.

Is Playa del Carmen safe to live?

As has been said several times, Playa is safe for most but not all. This statement applies to U.S. citizens who move to Playa del Carmen, as much as it does for visitors. For the most part, Playa is a safe place, and very popular with retirees and Mexico digital nomads.

Final Thoughts: Is Playa del Carmen Safe to Travel to Right Now?

You may have noticed there was never a yes or no answer to the Is Playa del Carmen safe to travel to? question. The reality is there absolutely is crime in Playa del Carmen, and there’s also cartel presence, but most visitors travel to Playa del Carmen and simply have a great trip.

The minority of visitors have a negative experience in Playa del Carmen, but those are the voices you hear over the people who loved Playa. Personally, as someone who lived in Playa del Carmen, I think it’s as safe as much of Mexico, but with Playa’s popularity has come a rise in violent crime.

As mentioned, these are mostly isolated incidents. Now, if you’re a victim of said isolated incidents, that term has a different meaning to someone like me, who visited Playa del Carmen without incident and just got to enjoy this Mexico resort town .

In short, Is Playa del Carmen safe for tourists? has no definitive answer. It’s safe for the majority of visitors, but not all visitors. When visiting, exercise caution, use common sense, follow the same general travel precautions you would when visiting most places, and know the odds are in your favor.

Mexico Travel Planning Guide

Should i buy mexico travel insurance.

YES — With basic coverage averaging just $5-10 USD per day, enjoy peace of mind with a plan from Travel Insurance Master , one of the biggest names in travel insurance. ( Read more )

Can you drink the water in Mexico?

No — You’ll want to buy this Water-To-Go Bottle , which filters your drinking water so you don’t get sick from drinking water in Mexico.

Also, it helps keep you hydrated while traveling Mexico. ( Read more )

Is it safe to rent a car in Mexico?

Yes — Renting a car in Mexico is one of the best ways to see the country! I always rent with Discover Cars , which checks international companies and local Mexican companies, so you get the best rates. ( Read more )

Will my phone work in Mexico?

Maybe — It depends on your company, so check with your provider. If you don’t have free Mexico service, buy a Telcel SIM Card . As Mexico’s largest carrier, Telcel has the best coverage of any Mexico SIM Cards. ( Read more )

What’s the best way to book my Mexico accommodations?

For Mexico hotels, Booking.com is the best site , but for hostels, use Hostel World . If you’re considering a Mexico Airbnb, don’t forget to check VRBO , which is often cheaper than Airbnb.

What do I pack for Mexico?

Head to the Ultimate Mexico Packing List + FREE Checklist Download to get all the info you need on packing for Mexico.

What’s the best site to buy Mexico flights?

For finding cheap Mexico flights, I recommend using Skyscanner .

Do I need a visa for Mexico?

Likely Not — U.S., Canadian and European Passport holders don’t need a visa for Mexico; but check here to see if you need a Mexico travel visa. Most travelers will get a 180-Day FMM Tourist Visa passport stamp a upon arrival.

Watch CBS News

U.S. issues travel warning for popular Mexican tourist city

Updated on: March 8, 2018 / 10:34 AM EST / CBS/AP

MEXICO CITY -- The U.S. Embassy in Mexico has issued a new travel alert for the Caribbean resort city of Playa del Carmen, where an  explosion on a tourist ferry injured 26 people last month. The embassy says in an alert posted on its website that it received information Wednesday about a "security threat" in that city and U.S. government employees are prohibited from going there.

It adds that the U.S. consular agency in Playa del Carmen "will be closed until further notice."

However, Mexican officials insisted Thursday that Playa del Carmen is safe despite the U.S. security alert.

The government of the Caribbean coast state of Quintana Roo said that President Enrique Peña Nieto is scheduled to attend an event Thursday in Playa del Carmen.

The resort is near Mexico's most popular tourist destinations, like Cancun, Cozumel and Tulum.

The U.S. embassy did not specify the threat or say if it was related to the Feb. 21 blast or the subsequent discovery of apparent explosives attached to another vessel.

U.S. State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauret said in a statement that all travelers should check travel.state.gov  before they travel.

"In Mexico alone, we've issued a number of recent security alerts as soon as we received information that travelers should know," the statement said. "We encourage travelers to be aware surroundings and exercise caution."

In a previous alert last week the embassy had only barred employees from taking ferries between Playa del Carmen and Cozumel Island.

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U.S. Issues New Travel Alert For Cancun, Playa Del Carmen, And Tulum Ahead Of Spring Break

By: Author Mika Langel

Posted on Published: March 16, 2023

Share The Article

Last Updated 1 year ago

The United States has just issued a new travel warning for three Mexican Caribbean tourist hotspots, highlighting growing concern over visitors’ safety.

The travel warning comes as Cancun and other resort destinations get ready to welcome thousands of travelers during the busy Spring travel period. 

With millions of travelers flocking to Cancun and the Mexican Caribbean this year, several countries have told their citizens to exercise increased caution while vacationing in the region.

The United States is the latest country to warn its citizens over increasing crime rates in Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum.

The warning follows several violent incidents affecting U.S. travelers in Mexico and is especially aimed at visitors headed to Cancun over Spring Break.

This is the first time the United States has issued a travel alert singling out the Mexican Caribbean state of Quintana Roo.

In past instances, travel alerts issued by U.S. authorities dealt with states like Tamaulipas, where crime against tourists has made the headlines recently . 

Even though violent crime remains possible in the Mexican Caribbean, travelers are much more likely to encounter petty crime, such as the unrestricted sale of alcohol or theft. That being said, travelers are urged to maintain situational awareness at all times, especially at night. 

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Easily Earn Points For Free Travel

Travelers are being warned to exercise more precaution when visiting Mexican Caribbean resort destinations, an unprecedented move considering that they have traditionally been perceived as some of the safest areas in the country.

The travel warning specifically urges visitors to pay close attention to their surroundings in downtown areas in Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum, some of the most popular destinations for visitors. 

Although the Mexican Caribbean is overall one of the safest regions in Mexico for visitors – if not the safest – there is no denying that organized crime remains a serious issue.

Fortunately, crime affecting tourists is extremely rare, but recent cases have stirred debate on traveler safety.

The recent U.S. travel alert also takes note of cases in which inebriated American travelers have been taken advantage of by criminals. It also points to a growing number of alcohol spikings, which luckily remains a rare phenomenon overall. 

Travelers headed to Cancun and the Mexican Caribbean are urged to purchase travel and health insurance due to extortionate emergency healthcare costs, which can even exceed those in the U.S.

In its detailed travel advisory, the U.S. Embassy goes over a range of travel and safety tips that visitors should carefully read through for their next Mexican Caribbean getaway.

Specific warnings that the Embassy laid out were regarding:

• Drugs : Drugs are not tolerated in Mexico, and Americans have become ill or died from synthetic or contaminated drugs.
• Crime : Crime can occur in any destination, but travelers are urged to maintain situational awareness and avoid non-touristy areas.
• Contaminated Alcohol : Be careful what you drink, as past travelers have reported getting ill after drinking unregulated alcohol.
• Pharmaceuticals : Travelers are warned to be careful purchasing from pharmacies, as counterfeit medication is common and could potentially be dangerous.
• Assault : While rare, assault is a crime that does not discriminate due to location. Travelers in Mexico should remain situationally aware and always keep track of their drinks.
• Drowning : Rip tides are not uncommon in Mexico. If the flags are warning you not to enter the water, don’t risk your life by entering the ocean.
• Medical Emergencies : Travelers have been taken to private hospitals that can be even more expensive than the U.S. in some cases. Always purchase travel insurance and be prepared.
• Weapons : Travelers cannot bring weapons into Mexico and can receive lengthy jail sentences if they do so.
• Arrests : While Mexico may be a place to let loose, public intoxication and disorderly conduct can result in arrest.
• Immigration : Overstaying your visa can result in fines and arrest in Mexico.

Follow These Safety Tips On Your Next Cancun Trip

Millions of travelers are expected to visit Cancun this year, and the overwhelming majority of visitors can look forward to a hassle-free and safe trip. That being said, it’s always a good idea to follow basic safety precautions , especially following reports of rising crime rates.

Fortunately, most common forms of petty crime are easily preventable.

One of the most important things tourists can do prior to their arrival in Cancun is to book a private transfer to their resort . That way, visitors can avoid waiting for a taxi and potentially being overcharged. 

Travelers are recommended to stick to well-known touristy areas during their stay, including Cancun’s hotel zone, where police and law enforcement are likely to be present. Leave valuables in your resort safe , and carry small amounts of cash to cover daily spending.

The upcoming Spring Break is expected to be among the busiest ones on record. To enjoy Cancun’s bustling nightlife in a safe way, drink responsibly and stick to popular bars and nightclubs .

Travelers are urged to maintain high situation awareness , especially during late hours when petty crime is likeliest to occur. 

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Tuesday 21st of March 2023

Living in playa del carmen here and yes you have to be careful …LIKE in every big city or tourist area in the world !!!!!

To put a travel alert out for that is a bit much. Maybe we should send an alert out here …. be carefull and aware for drunk springbreakers!

I think its safer here then on an american highschool !

So people just come but like everywere just be smart and aware! Specially when you are drunk

Thursday 23rd of March 2023

@Jeroen, agreed! The warning is hyperbole. Americans are safer in Mexico than in their own school system.

Celine Michael

Friday 17th of March 2023

I'd been in Mexico many times, the hospitality, service weather are unbeatable Your warnings are exaggerated

Thursday 16th of March 2023

It's true, I have visited Mexcico for the last 20 years and last year I was drugged/ruffied by a local girl in Playa, she then used my thumb print to access all my bank accounts on my phone and robbed me of over $30,000. There were no police to help, the military personnel with the assault rifles don't care. The American Consulate would not return my calls. I'm lucky she did not kill me by overdosing me. I'm in Thailand now and will never go back to Mexico.... it's not safe and nobody will help you.

Monday 20th of March 2023

@Dave, Rank stupidity y lechery on your part.

Saturday 18th of March 2023

@Dave, I'm sorry you went through that. It is possibly the same woman who scammed some young Puerto Ricans saying that she was attacked by them to receive money. In Mexico there is great corruption to defraud and they hire women to deceive men. The Puerto Ricans were imprisoned and the lawyers assigned to them were corrupt, the police, and even the judge. They all asked for money to be able to release them.

@Dave, You crying like a girl, if you look for drugs in Mexico you gonna find em, don't blame any body of your lifestyle

@Dave, Woe, I'm so sorry that happened to you, man! I just came back from Tulum it was nice but didn't do the nightlife. I went on a cruise--that may be the safest bet!

@Dave, It's all BS and You know It

clock This article was published more than  1 year ago

U.S. Embassy issues Mexico travel warnings to spring breakers

The State Department is also warning against visiting six states

U.S. authorities are sending an array of warnings to Mexico-bound spring break travelers: Be alert against criminal activity, watch out for counterfeit medication, avoid unregulated alcohol, don’t possess or use drugs.

But for the most part, officials are not telling people to stay away from the country, noting that “thousands” of Americans spend spring break in Mexico every year and that “the vast majority travel safely.”

The information comes from a spring break travel alert issued this week by the U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Mexico — and it follows several high-profile eruptions of disorder or violence around the country this year. Most recently, four Americans who crossed from Brownsville, Tex., to Matamoros were kidnapped earlier this month; two were killed and a third was injured.

Is it safe to travel to Mexico? Here's what to know.

“Crime, including violent crime, can occur anywhere in Mexico, including in popular tourist destinations,” the recent travel alert says, echoing a similar one put out last year. “Travelers should maintain a high level of situational awareness, avoid areas where illicit activities occur, and promptly depart from potentially dangerous situations.”

The embassy’s alert directs travelers to the U.S. State Department’s travel advisory for Mexico, which is broken down by state and was last updated in October. Tamaulipas , where the Americans were kidnapped, is one of six states that carry a “Do Not Travel” warning.

6 Mexico vacations that check every travel style

Most Mexican states — including those with tourist hot spots such as Cancún, Cozumel, Cabo San Lucas and Oaxaca — fall under the lower Level 2 category, where travelers are urged to “exercise increased caution.” But the alert warns visitors not to let their guard down, even in those less-risky areas.

“U.S. citizens should exercise increased caution in the downtown areas of popular spring break locations including Cancun, Playa Del Carmen, and Tulum, especially after dark,” it says.

In addition to crime, the travel alert warns of the risks of unknown substances or drinks, cautioning that unregulated alcohol could be tainted, counterfeit medication could contain dangerous ingredients and drug use could result in arrest, illness or worse.

“U.S. citizens have become seriously ill or died in Mexico after using synthetic drugs or adulterated prescription pills,” the warning says.

Travelers should limit the amount of cash they carry, be careful when withdrawing money, stick to regulated taxi services or app-based ride-shares, and stay with a group in clubs and bars or when getting around at night, the embassy says. The alert recommends participating in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, which provides information on safety conditions and contact information to the U.S. government.

Understanding the State Department's travel advisories

Another U.S. jurisdiction put out a much stronger warning last week, when the Texas Department of Public Safety urged Texans to avoid trips to Mexico altogether during spring break and after.

“Drug cartel violence and other criminal activity represent a significant safety threat to anyone who crosses into Mexico right now,” the department’s director, Steven McCraw, said in a statement. “We have a duty to inform the public about safety, travel risks and threats. Based on the volatile nature of cartel activity and the violence we are seeing there, we are urging individuals to avoid travel to Mexico at this time.”

The department wrote that “many people do travel to Mexico without incident” but said that “the serious risks cannot be ignored.”

Dale Buckner, CEO of security services firm Global Guardian , told The Washington Post last month that resort destinations are typically in “somewhat of a bubble” where the government has placed extra security and violence is not usually directed at visitors.

“If you’re at one of these hubs and you’re at a high-end resort, you’re going to see security and guys with guns on the beach,” he said. “They’re intentionally creating a safer environment; for the most part, it works.”

He urged travelers to take the kind of preparation they should make before they go anywhere in the world: planning for illness or injury and the need to return home in an emergency; knowing how to get out of a natural disaster; and anticipating what to do if they were hacked or kidnapped. And he said tourists also need to plan their activities with safety in mind, avoiding unnecessary risks.

“We highly encourage people to go to Mexico and enjoy it,” he said last month. “You just need to do a little bit of homework.”

Those who work in the travel industry in Mexico say the country is vast and cannot be painted with a single brush. Zachary Rabinor, founder and CEO of travel planning company Journey Mexico , said in an email last month that his staff monitors safety situations and operates where there are no travel restrictions.

“We are confident that with proper preparation and information, travel to and within Mexico continues to be a great option,” he said last month. “While there is no 100% guarantee of complete safety when traveling anywhere, even within the U.S. and Europe, working with a trusted and professional destination specialist minimizes risk and keeps travelers in the right places at the right time.”

More travel news

How we travel now: More people are taking booze-free trips — and airlines and hotels are taking note. Some couples are ditching the traditional honeymoon for a “buddymoon” with their pals. Interested? Here are the best tools for making a group trip work.

Bad behavior: Entitled tourists are running amok, defacing the Colosseum , getting rowdy in Bali and messing with wild animals in national parks. Some destinations are fighting back with public awareness campaigns — or just by telling out-of-control visitors to stay away .

Safety concerns: A door blew off an Alaska Airlines Boeing 737 Max 9 jet, leaving passengers traumatized — but without serious injuries. The ordeal led to widespread flight cancellations after the jet was grounded, and some travelers have taken steps to avoid the plane in the future. The incident has also sparked a fresh discussion about whether it’s safe to fly with a baby on your lap .

Spider Monkey will be relocated to Playa del Carmen

A specimen of a spider monkey that lives in the trees adjacent to the new municipal palace of Playa del Carmen will be relocated by the Federal Attorney for Environmental Protection (Profepa).

The primate, which is a young female with wild behavior, was spotted last week in the treetops. Profepa personnel, in collaboration with members of the Balam Kaan Wild Participatory Environmental Monitoring Committee, are already on the site carrying out a prospecting tour. The authorities have called on citizens to avoid interacting with the spider monkey, not offer it food, and not try to pet it. Recommendations have been given to Council staff to preserve the safety of the animal while its relocation takes place.

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5 of the Best Scuba Diving Resorts in Cozumel & Playa del Carmen

Experience the captivating allure of Cozumel’s vibrant coral reefs and Playa del Carmen’s bustling streets, where the Caribbean’s natural wonders meet Mexico’s rich cultural tapestry.

Photo : zubludiving.com

Cozumel is the picturesque image of a Caribbean paradise. The tropical island in Mexico’s Quintana Roo offers divers the chance to encounter a kaleidoscope of marine life amidst the vibrant reefs. Playa del Carmen, a coastal resort town, is a forty-five-minute ferry ride away. The diverse sea life inspire enthusiasts to explore underwater caves and an array of fish in crystal clear water. We’ve listed the five best resorts in the destination for seasoned divers or novices eager to discover the beauty beneath the surface.

CATALONIAN ROYAL TULUM

This five-star, adults-only hotel is the perfect luxury getaway for divers seeking comfort – or cocktails – at the end of a dive day. There are various room types, starting at a standard superior room and going up to a Privileged Romance Deluxe, the perfect option for a dive duo getaway. Located on the gorgeous Xpu-Ha beach and surrounded by lush jungle, the hotel has a dive center for easy access to the encircling mangroves and impressive cenotes – a natural sinkhole filled with translucent fresh water. After too many days spent soaking in the sea, a hike through the ruins of Tulum is just thirty minutes away. From $294 per night

Book at  ZuBluDiving.com

ROYAL HIDEAWAY PLAYACAR

Photo: ZuBluDiving.com

Look no further for an extravagant reprieve on the Riviera Maya. The Royal Hideaway Playacar is an all-inclusive, AAA Four Diamond-rated resort whose exceptional service and attention to detail place it at the forefront of Playa del Carmen hotels. The five-star diving operator Pro Dive International oversees the on-site dive center, just a fifteen-minute boat ride from spectacular cenotes and Playa del Carmen bull shark hangouts. That is if you can tear yourself from the soft white sand and gourmet restaurants on land. From $348 per night

 Book at  ZuBluDiving.com

HACIENDA PARADISE

Hacienda Paradise is in the heart of Playa del Carmen, the ultimate stay for divers who enjoy some city hustle and bustle alongside the peace and silence of the underwater world. This affordable boutique hotel partners with Pro Dive International and is a short drive from the premises. With five dive options a day, including night dives, you might plan to spend the whole trip swimming above the colorful coral reefs in the natural park. Hacienda Paradise also promises many wellness activities, such as yoga and aromatherapy, to help reinspire your land legs. From $98 per night

OCCIDENTAL AT XCARET DESTINATION

Photo: ZuBluDiving

This hotel is located beside the Xcaret Eco-Archaeological Park and provides adventurers and art enthusiasts with a splendid staycation. The Unlimited Xcaret Experience package includes unlimited access to Mexican art exhibitions, Mayan ruins, and other activities. The dive center offers classes for those new to scuba or five planned dives daily to marvel at the Mexican coastline’s wrecks, rays, and reef fish. This tropical utopia even has its own pure and private cove. The sunrise-to-sunset experiences will make your stomach rumble, but 24 hours a day, at least one of the eleven restaurants is open and promises delicious cuisine for hungry divers. From $221 per night 

THE REEF 28

For cosmopolitan divers who enjoy access to shopping and restaurants after a day of sharks and reefs, The Reef 28 is a modern five-star hotel with a sophisticated design and chic atmosphere. Whether you’re interested in snorkeling with whale sharks, exploring underwater plummeting walls, or diving deep down into caverns, PADI five-star Reef Marina is the connected dive center affording all types of adventures. Walk the streets of Playa del Carmen’s legendary downtown to discover delectable places to drink and dine, or take a wellness route by opting to join in the yoga, tennis, and golf bookable through the hotel. From $293 per night

Book at  ZuBluDiving.com  

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17 Best Playa Del Carmen All Inclusive Adults Only Resorts

E mbark on a journey to the heart of the Riviera Maya, where the allure of pristine beaches, azure waters, and lush tropical landscapes beckons. Welcome to Playa Del Carmen, a paradise for adults seeking an escape into luxury, romance, and serenity. Our curated list of the 17 best Playa Del Carmen all-inclusive adults-only resorts offers you a gateway to unparalleled relaxation and indulgence. Each resort, with its unique charm and exceptional service, promises an unforgettable retreat tailored to adults. From intimate boutique settings to lavish beachfront estates, discover the perfect haven where every detail caters to your desire for peace, privacy, and pampering.

1. Viceroy Riviera Maya

Ranking: 9.4/10.

The Viceroy Riviera Maya stands as a pinnacle of luxury for adults seeking an exclusive getaway in Playa Del Carmen . This all-inclusive resort caters specifically to adults, offering serene beaches, private villas, and exquisite dining experiences that promise a memorable stay. Every aspect of the resort aims to provide guests with a sense of privacy and luxury, set against the backdrop of the stunning Riviera Maya .

Guests at the Viceroy Riviera Maya enjoy personalized service that begins the moment they arrive. The resort’s dedicated staff ensures every need is met, from arranging romantic dinners on the beach to recommending adventures in the surrounding area. With its focus on creating a tranquil and luxurious environment, the Viceroy Riviera Maya epitomizes the best of Playa Del Carmen all-inclusive adults-only resorts.

2. Valentin Imperial Riviera Maya

The Valentin Imperial Riviera Maya offers an unparalleled experience for adults looking for an escape to paradise. As one of the top-rated Playa Del Carmen all-inclusive adults-only resorts, it boasts majestic architecture, lush landscapes, and an atmosphere filled with romance. The resort prides itself on delivering an experience that combines the natural beauty of the location with impeccable service and luxury accommodations.

From the moment guests step into the Valentin Imperial Riviera Maya, they are enveloped in a world of sophistication and tranquility. The resort’s sprawling pools, gourmet restaurants, and spacious suites are designed to offer the ultimate in comfort and relaxation. It’s the perfect setting for those seeking to indulge in a romantic getaway or a serene retreat from the everyday.

3. Impression Moxché by Secrets

Impression Moxché by Secrets redefines the concept of luxury with its exclusive and intimate setting in Playa Del Carmen. This adults-only, all-inclusive resort specializes in providing an unparalleled experience that focuses on privacy, personalized service, and exquisite detail in every aspect. It stands out as a sanctuary where adults can enjoy the ultimate in luxury and relaxation, surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Riviera Maya.

The resort’s commitment to offering a unique and memorable stay is evident in its sophisticated dining options, world-class spa, and stunning accommodations. Guests at Impression Moxché by Secrets can expect an experience that caters to their every desire, making it a top choice for those searching for the epitome of Playa Del Carmen all-inclusive adults-only resorts. With an array of activities and amenities designed to pamper and delight, it offers a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility.

4. Secrets Moxché Playa del Carmen

Secrets Moxché Playa del Carmen emerges as a beacon of luxury for adults seeking an exclusive oasis. This all-inclusive resort, nestled in the heart of Playa Del Carmen, offers adults a perfect blend of sophistication and serenity, unmatched by any other. Guests can immerse themselves in an environment designed for luxury, with stunning oceanfront views, elegant accommodations, and gourmet dining experiences that cater to the most discerning palates.

The resort prides itself on creating unforgettable experiences, with a focus on privacy, wellness, and romance. Whether it’s a day spent at the spa or a night exploring the vibrant local culture, Secrets Moxché ensures every moment is memorable. It stands as a pinnacle among Playa Del Carmen all-inclusive adults-only resorts, offering a retreat where luxury meets paradise.

5. Hotel Xcaret Arte

Ranking: 9.2/10.

Hotel Xcaret Arte captures the essence of Mexican culture and artistry, offering a unique all-inclusive experience for adults in Playa Del Carmen. This resort stands apart by blending luxurious accommodations and services with an immersion in the local heritage and natural beauty. Guests can explore the rich traditions of Mexico while enjoying the comfort and exclusivity of an adults-only environment.

The resort’s dedication to creating a holistic experience includes access to eco-archaeological parks, where adventure and discovery await. With a variety of gourmet restaurants, art workshops, and wellness activities, Hotel Xcaret Arte offers a rich and vibrant escape for those seeking more than just a beach vacation. It epitomizes the spirit of Playa Del Carmen all-inclusive adults-only resorts, inviting guests to live a truly unique and unforgettable experience.

6. Barceló Maya Riviera

Barceló Maya Riviera stands as a testament to the allure of Playa Del Carmen, offering adults an exclusive and luxurious escape. This adults-only, all-inclusive resort combines breathtaking ocean views with sophisticated design and unparalleled service. Guests can unwind in the stunning infinity pools, indulge in culinary delights across various gourmet restaurants, or simply relax on the pristine beaches that line the property.

With a focus on providing an exceptional experience, Barceló Maya Riviera offers a variety of activities and amenities designed to cater to every interest. From water sports to cultural tours, the resort ensures every guest finds their ideal balance of adventure and relaxation. As a premier destination among Playa Del Carmen all-inclusive adults-only resorts, it creates a backdrop for memories that last a lifetime.

7. UNICO 20º87º Riviera Maya

Ranking: 9.0/10.

UNICO 20º87º Riviera Maya offers an innovative approach to the all-inclusive adult-only experience, blending luxury with authentic local culture. This Playa Del Carmen resort stands out for its commitment to creating a unique and immersive experience that reflects the spirit and traditions of the surrounding area. Guests can enjoy handcrafted cocktails, dine on gourmet cuisine inspired by regional flavors, and participate in exclusive excursions that highlight the beauty and heritage of the Yucatan.

The resort’s rooms and suites offer stunning views, modern amenities, and thoughtful touches that ensure a stay at UNICO 20º87º is nothing short of spectacular. With personalized service and a wide range of activities and amenities, this resort is a top choice for those seeking a blend of relaxation, luxury, and cultural exploration in Playa Del Carmen all inclusive adults only resorts.

8. Hotel Blue Diamond Luxury Boutique

Ranking: 8.8/10.

Hotel Blue Diamond Luxury Boutique provides an intimate and luxurious getaway for adults in the heart of Playa Del Carmen. This all-inclusive resort is a haven of tranquility, set amidst lush tropical gardens and crystal-clear waters. It offers guests an exclusive experience with its spacious suites, world-class spa, and gourmet dining options, making every moment spent here a celebration of luxury and relaxation.

Attention to detail and a focus on providing a personalized experience are what set Hotel Blue Diamond apart. Guests can indulge in tailored activities and services, from yoga sessions by the sea to romantic dinners under the stars. As one of the premier Playa Del Carmen all-inclusive adults-only resorts, it promises an escape where elegance and serenity meet.

9. Bahia Principe Luxury Sian Ka’an

Bahia Principe Luxury Sian Ka’an offers a unique blend of luxury, nature, and exclusivity, making it a standout choice for adults seeking an all-inclusive experience in Playa Del Carmen. Nestled within a tranquil environment, this resort provides an intimate setting where guests can unwind and reconnect with nature. The beautiful surroundings, combined with attentive service and premium amenities, ensure a stay that is both relaxing and rejuvenating.

Guests at Bahia Principe Luxury Sian Ka’an can enjoy access to private beaches, lush golf courses, and an array of dining options that showcase local and international cuisine. The resort’s focus on sustainability and preserving the natural beauty of its location adds to the allure for those committed to eco-friendly travel practices. It represents the best of Playa Del Carmen all-inclusive adults-only resorts, where luxury meets the majesty of the natural world.

10. Royal Hideaway Playacar

Royal Hideaway Playacar offers a refined and exclusive experience for adults seeking a luxurious getaway in Playa Del Carmen. This all-inclusive, adults-only resort is renowned for its impeccable service, elegant accommodations, and serene beachfront setting. Guests can indulge in sophisticated dining, relax in the spa, or simply enjoy the tranquility of the private beaches. Royal Hideaway Playacar embodies the essence of luxury and relaxation, making it a top choice for those seeking an intimate escape.

The resort’s commitment to excellence is evident in every detail, from the lushly landscaped grounds to the attentive service that anticipates guests’ needs. With a range of activities and amenities designed to cater to every preference, Royal Hideaway Playacar stands out as a premier destination among Playa Del Carmen all-inclusive adults-only resorts. It offers an unparalleled blend of comfort, elegance, and privacy.

11. Hilton Playa del Carmen

Hilton Playa del Carmen presents a sanctuary of luxury and comfort for adults in the heart of the Riviera Maya. This all-inclusive resort specializes in providing guests with an unforgettable experience, featuring spacious suites, world-class dining, and an array of activities and entertainment options. The resort’s beachfront location offers stunning views and easy access to Playa Del Carmen’s vibrant nightlife and shopping districts.

With a focus on personalized service, the Hilton Playa del Carmen ensures every guest’s stay is tailored to their preferences, from culinary delights to wellness and leisure activities. As a distinguished choice among Playa Del Carmen all-inclusive adults-only resorts, it delivers an exquisite blend of relaxation, luxury, and adventure. Guests can look forward to an exceptional holiday experience, marked by the highest standards of hospitality.

12. Wyndham Alltra Playa del Carmen

Ranking: 8.6/10.

Wyndham Alltra Playa del Carmen offers an engaging and vibrant experience for adults seeking a lively getaway. This all-inclusive resort is perfect for those who wish to combine relaxation with fun, offering a wide range of activities, entertainment, and dining options. The resort’s location allows guests to easily explore the local culture and attractions of Playa Del Carmen, adding an enriching dimension to their stay.

The resort’s amenities, including stylish accommodations, multiple swimming pools, and diverse culinary options, cater to the tastes and preferences of a broad array of guests. Wyndham Alltra Playa del Carmen excels in creating a dynamic and inclusive atmosphere, making it a favored choice for adults looking for an all-encompassing vacation experience among Playa Del Carmen all-inclusive adults-only resorts.

13. Paradisus La Perla

Paradisus La Perla stands out as a beacon of luxury for adults seeking an exclusive and serene retreat in Playa Del Carmen. This all-inclusive resort offers sophisticated elegance with its modern design, lush landscapes, and a commitment to providing an exceptional guest experience. Paradisus La Perla invites guests to indulge in gourmet dining, relax in the state-of-the-art spa, and unwind by the stunning pools, all while enjoying the tranquil adults-only atmosphere.

With a wide range of activities tailored to adult guests, including yoga classes, culinary workshops, and live entertainment, Paradisus La Perla ensures a memorable and enriching stay. It is a premier destination among Playa Del Carmen all-inclusive adults-only resorts, offering a perfect blend of relaxation, luxury, and adventure in a breathtaking setting.

14. Ocean Maya Royale

Ocean Maya Royale is a tropical paradise that caters exclusively to adults, providing a perfect blend of relaxation and entertainment in Playa Del Carmen. This all-inclusive resort boasts lush gardens, beautiful beachfront, and a variety of dining and activity options. Guests can enjoy everything from water sports to live music, ensuring every day is filled with new experiences. Ocean Maya Royale is dedicated to creating a fun and relaxing environment, perfect for couples and friends looking to escape the everyday.

With elegantly appointed rooms and a focus on personalized service, Ocean Maya Royale excels in making each guest’s stay special. The resort’s commitment to quality and guest satisfaction makes it a standout choice for those seeking an all-inclusive, adults-only experience in Playa Del Carmen. It’s an ideal location for those who want to combine the beauty of the Riviera Maya with the comfort and convenience of a top-tier resort.

15. El Dorado Casitas Royale

Ranking: 8.4/10.

El Dorado Casitas Royale offers an intimate and romantic setting for adults in the lush Riviera Maya landscape. This exclusive, all-inclusive resort specializes in providing couples with a secluded getaway experience, featuring private casitas with direct pool access, outdoor showers, and personalized butler service. The resort’s gourmet inclusive concept ensures a culinary journey with its array of fine dining options and premium beverages.

Designed for romance and relaxation, El Dorado Casitas Royale provides a tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life. With its serene beachfront, luxurious spa, and romantic ambiance, it stands as a cherished destination among Playa Del Carmen all-inclusive adults-only resorts. Guests leave with lasting memories, having experienced the pinnacle of luxury and intimacy in a beautiful tropical setting.

16. The Yucatan Playa del Carmen

Ranking: 8.0/10.

The Yucatan Playa del Carmen offers a unique boutique experience for adults seeking an exclusive and modern retreat. This all-inclusive, adults-only resort stands out for its contemporary design, intimate atmosphere, and exceptional service. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities, including a rooftop pool with stunning views, gourmet dining options, and stylish accommodations. The Yucatan is perfect for those looking to enjoy the vibrancy of Playa Del Carmen while indulging in the comfort and luxury of a boutique resort.

With its focus on personalized experiences and attention to detail, The Yucatan excels in providing a memorable stay for each guest. The resort’s prime location also allows easy access to local attractions, shopping, and nightlife, making it an ideal choice for travelers who wish to explore the area. As one of the Playa Del Carmen all-inclusive adults-only resorts, The Yucatan represents a fusion of modern luxury and local charm.

17. Ocean Riviera Paradise

Ranking: 7.8/10.

Ocean Riviera Paradise caters to adults seeking a lively and comprehensive all-inclusive experience in Playa Del Carmen. This resort is known for its wide array of activities, entertainment, and dining options, catering to a diverse range of interests and tastes. Guests can enjoy everything from themed pool parties and live shows to culinary classes and water sports. The resort’s spacious accommodations and attentive service ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay for all.

Despite its lively atmosphere, Ocean Riviera Paradise also offers tranquil spaces for relaxation, including secluded pool areas and a serene beachfront. This makes it a versatile choice for adults who want the best of both worlds: fun and relaxation in a single location. As a part of the Playa Del Carmen all-inclusive adults-only resorts, Ocean Riviera Paradise stands out for its commitment to providing an entertaining and varied vacation experience.

Playa Del Carmen stands out as a beacon of luxury and tranquility in the vibrant heart of the Mexican Caribbean , offering a diverse array of all-inclusive, adults-only resorts designed to cater to every taste and desire. Whether you seek the pinnacle of luxury and romance, an immersive cultural experience, or a lively retreat filled with entertainment and adventure, these resorts promise an escape like no other. Each property on our list has been carefully selected to ensure an unforgettable stay, combining exquisite dining, sumptuous accommodations, and impeccable service. Embrace the opportunity to create lasting memories in the serene and sumptuous settings of Playa Del Carmen’s finest adults-only resorts. Here, in this paradise, the ultimate adult escape awaits, promising relaxation, rejuvenation, and romance under the warm Mexican sun.

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