Is Tulum Mexico Safe? A Comprehensive Guide for Travelers

During our journey through the enchanting lands of Latin America, there is one place that truly stands out for its beauty, but we wonder: Is Tulum Mexico safe?

Answering this question isn’t too difficult, but the response is somewhat ambiguous because a person’s safety largely depends on each tourist’s ability to take precautions.

Is Tulum Mexico safe? To answer this, you need to understand a bit about this vast resort town and the circumstances surrounding it. This will help you grasp the reality of the places we are visiting in Mexico.

Tulum is located in the southern section of Quintana Roo on the Yucatán Peninsula in Mexico. It used to be a beach town that attracted few visitors, as people preferred its quiet beaches and Mayan ruins. But everything has changed in this area.

The region is quite charming because much of its territory still has low hotel infrastructure, which is why many people ask, “Is Tulum Mexico safe?”

As of today, it boasts the best-preserved Mayan ruins and picturesque white sandy beaches, making it undoubtedly a beautiful part of Mexico.

Regarding this, the Overseas Security Advisory Council states that Tulum is “moderately safe.” Meanwhile, for the state of Quintana Roo, which includes Tulum, the U.S. State Department’s travel advisory is at Level 2, or “exercise increased caution.”

We should remember that the United States issues these advisories based on perceived safety and the presence of law enforcement officers.

Unlike six other Mexican states, where the advisory is Level 4, or “Do Not Travel,” Tulum remains a relatively safe place.

However, keep in mind that countries like France, Italy, and Spain also have Level 2 travel advisories, to give you a clearer perspective.

Is Tulum Mexico safe?

Speaking in general terms, it is a place that falls below the average level of violence in Latin America. Of course, this means you should take basic safety precautions and exercise increased caution when visiting certain areas.

On the other hand, the authorities are making great efforts to provide a sense of security and reduce crime rates in the area.

One of the aspects that generates insecurity is organized crime in Tulum. In this regard, the Federal Government of Mexico has taken significant measures in recent months.

Many of the peaceful moments in this paradise have been disrupted by clashes between organized gangs, which have resulted in several public executions, increasing the urgency for government intervention.

In response to this alarming situation, it has been decided to increase the presence of security forces in the area.

Read here: The oldest church in Mexico

Is there a problem with criminal gangs in Tulum?

That’s why, whenever a viral video or news story appears, both foreign and local tourists wonder: Is Tulum, Mexico, safe?

In most cases, the crime is related to the activities of drug trafficking gangs. The crimes committed by drug trafficking gangs have increased, and this is due to the violence between gangs, which is not directed at tourists.

However, at times, tourists have literally found themselves caught in the crossfire.

Another measure taken in Tulum in 2024 by the authorities is the installation of 500 new surveillance cameras along the coastal area. This is expected to provide greater protection for the tourists who visit each year, especially during the holiday season.

But as we continue our safety tour along this beautiful coast, after asking, “Is Tulum, Mexico, safe?” let’s think a bit about the night.

If you want to learn more about Mexico, I invite you to read: Discover the Best Day Trips From Mexico City

Can I walk at night in Tulum?

The truth is, it’s not highly recommended, especially not alone. One aspect that is not very convenient is that the beach hotels and the city center are not necessarily within walking distance, so you should take a taxi. The good news is that taxis are abundant in Tulum.

Therefore, take precautions, and unless it’s a very short distance, do not walk at night in Tulum.

Remember that crime rates increase exponentially at night anywhere in the world.

Safety Tips in Tulum

At this point, you’re probably still wondering, “Is Tulum, Mexico, safe?” Well, as you can see, it’s a moderately safe place, but you can definitely enjoy your trip. You just need to follow some safety tips when visiting Tulum:

• When walking, especially at night, stay very alert and aware of your surroundings. Do your best to adapt to the situation.
• Beware of pickpockets; they love to target careless tourists, so always keep your phone out of reach of others.
• Likewise, if you have a lot of nice jewelry or an expensive watch, leave them at home or in the hotel room safe. You don’t want to attract the wrong kind of attention.
• Tulum is not the most dangerous place at night, but some areas are not as well-lit as they should be. Avoid walking alone at night if you can, especially between the city center and the beachfront hotel zone.
• Another tip: if you don’t have international roaming, download an offline map to use as a guide. Just be sure not to take out your smartphone too often to avoid it being stolen.
• Be cautious with your money; don’t carry it all with you, and distribute what you do have between your wallet and pocket.
• Download a GPS app on your phone and laptop.
• Be very careful at ATMs; not only can skimmers be placed on outdoor ATMs (to steal your PIN), but robberies are much more common at them.
• Be cautions of people who want to meet you for strange reasons.

Things to Consider in Tulum:

Is it safe to rent a car in Tulum?

There are some car rental scams that travelers should be aware of, not just in Tulum but anywhere in Mexico. Use reputable companies if necessary, or those recommended by the hotel.

Can you drink the tap water in Tulum?

First, find out if the water at restaurants is filtered, and then ask if the ice cubes are filtered as well.

Bottled water may not be the most eco-friendly option, but when in Tulum, carry it with you to be safe.

What do you recommend before going to Tulum?

Besides what has already been mentioned, an important tip is to try to go with a trusted group, and better yet, find an agency that can guide you on your tour so you can worry less about certain aspects of your vacation in Tulum.