Cancún is becoming more dangerous, there is no way around it. Cartel presence in Cancún has become more visible in recent years. But their activities do not target tourists which makes the city feel safe for solo female travelers. Solo female travelers should visit Cancun knowing where is safest to stay, which neighborhoods to avoid, and how to navigate the party scene safely. This guide gives you all the information you need to know before you visit!
Overview
Are cartels a threat to travelers in Cancun?
Cartels have always been present in Cancun. They have historically kept a low profile, operating mostly in the construction industry. However, cartels have begun to fight over control of the city which has led to shootouts on the beach and bodies being dumped in tourist areas. These headlines are scary. But they should not dissuade vacationers from visiting the relaxing beach town.
Cartels want to keep a low profile. To avoid media attention, they don’t target foreign women tourists for human trafficking, kidnap for ransom schemes or other life-threatening illegal endeavors. As such, cartel violence in Cancun does not pose a large threat to solo female travelers.
Is Downtown Cancun safe to walk around?
Downtown Cancun has less security forces and more pickpockets than the resort zone. This makes it more dangerous to visit than the hotel area. However, it should still be a fine to visit in the daytime. To stump pickpockets, put your valuables in a rip-proof crossbody bag.
Are Cancun’s resorts safe for women?
Resorts are statistically the safest place for women in Cancun. But all-inclusive resorts have their own risks. Women foreigners have experienced sexual assaults and drink-spiking while at resorts. There are even reports of abuses by resort staff. Here are some other tips to avoid these threats:
- Don’t give out your room key. Women have reported being sexually assaulted after resort staff offered to escort them to their room. In multiple different accounts, the staff member asked the victim for their room key.
- Use a doorstop with alarm. Some accounts of sexual assault detail resort staff entering a woman’s room using a key. Use a door stop with an alarm to prevent people from entering your room while you sleep. This one is my personal favorite.
- Watch your drink(ing). Cancun is a party town. Women should enjoy the nightlife. But keep an eye on your beverage and don’t lose consciousness. Many of the reported incidents occurred while the victim was under the influence. To avoid drink spiking while dancing, Nightcap is my favorite.
Does the U.S. State Department say Cancun is safe?
The U.S. State Department has labeled Cancun’s home state, Quintana Roo, is Level Two “Exercise Increased Caution.” It is in good company, other countries with the same rating include the United Kingdom and Germany. The State Department warns that, “travelers should maintain a high level of situational awareness, avoid areas where illicit activities occur, and promptly depart from potentially dangerous situations.” I could not agree more. Travelers in any part of Mexico should have a good dose of common sense.
6 Safety Tips For Solo Female Travelers in Cancun
1. Stay in the Hotel Zone!
Cancun’s Hotel strip is by far the safest neighborhood in the area. Here are three hotels that She Travels Safely recommends. Hotel recommendations have been vetted for 24/7 security guards, respectful staff, and no recent safety incidents.
Mayan Monkey Hostel
This hostel offers 10 and 12-bed female-only dorms! It has strict security protocols including bracelets to tap into the rooms. The hostel is a 30-second walk from the beach and has a co-working space for digital nomads. $30-40 per night.
Hotel Casa Turquesa
Museum-villa style hotel with a private beach is great for budget travelers! This is a no-frills hotel so keep in mind that you will have to pay for extras. $80-$100 per night.
Live Aqua Beach Resort Cancun
This adults-only splurge is perfect for solo female travelers! Relaxing and modern all-inclusive resort with several different restaurants embedded inside. Multiple price options for all-inclusive dining. $350-400 per night.
2. Avoid Neighborhoods On the Outskirts of Downtown Cancun.
Local criminal groups operate in neighborhoods on the outskirts of downtown Cancun. Female travelers should avoid these areas unless visiting a specific location. Wandering around is fine within the hotel zone, but don’t stray too far when in downtown Cancun. You may end up in the wrong neighborhood.
Areas To Avoid —
- Alfredo V. Bonfil Community
- Tres Reyes Community
- Santa Cecilia Community
- Valle Verde Community
This map shows where I feel comfortable visiting and where I want to avoid while traveling alone in Cancun.
3. Know How to Safely Get Around Cancun
Bus
The bus is the best way to get around within Cancún’s hotel zone. The line runs on Boulevard Kukulcán as well as Avenida Tulum in the downtown area. Tourists typically use routes R1 and R2. Local security often patrols the bus, making it very safe for tourists.
Taxi
Taxi’s off the street can be dangerous. Episodes of women being drugged and/or robbed after getting into illegal taxis are reported occasionally in Cancun. Instead, download the ‘Mi Taxi’ app to ensure a safe ride.
Car
Driving is not the best way to get around Cancun. Local police pull over tourists at a higher rate, sometimes asking for bribes. Speeding and tailgating are also commonplace. I would not personally drive in the Cancun area.
On Foot
Walking is the best way to get to know Cancun intimately. But be careful! Cars act as if they have right-of-way, so don’t expect them to stop for you!
4. Staying Safe in Cancun’s Party Scene
Catcalling
Catcalling happens often in Cancun, though mostly in the party scene. Locals are used to tourists, meaning that they don’t often stare or catcall. Sometimes older men will stare a little longer than is comfortable. Local men rarely approach you on the street in my experience. If they do, ignoring them is the best course of action. If they are persistent, I always go into a store and immediately alert the staff.
Wandering Hands
In Cancun’s party scene, men often feel entitled to touch women’s bodies. Men often grab your arm, waist, or even other body parts in an attempt to get your attention. In my experience, it is best to swat them away or give then a menacing glare if you’re not interested. If they start to crowd your personal space, a good foot-stomp may be in order.
Watch Your Drink
Date rape drugs are commonly used in Cancun, unfortunately. Men (mostly tourists) oftentimes slip them into drinks they buy you or even your own drink. Only accept drinks that are handed to you directly from a bartender. Nightcap is once again my favorite way to keep my drink safe while dancing.
Don’t Walk Alone
Don’t walk alone at night. For women, it is best to avoid walking alone at night. The hotel area is fine to walk in a group. But opting for a taxi in the early morning hours is best.
Beware of Corrupt Cops
Local police in Cancun are often corrupt and target foreign tourists to pay bribes in return for expedited services or really any services at all. Many will make up “fines” that you need to pay. If this happens, I would pay the “fine” in the moment. In my experience most U.S. banks offer bribe reimbursement.
Stay Connected
When going out, it is best to have a working phone. You won’t be able to contact anyone or use Google Maps without a Mexican SIM. You can buy a Telcel prepaid SIM at an OXXO convenience store or even at the airport!
5. Know Common Tourist Scams in Cancun.
Photo Scam
In this scam, someone asks you to take their picture and then drops the phone in the handoff process. Then, they ask you for money to fix the phone that “you broke.” Don’t let scammers take advantage of your natural kindness.
Fake Emergency Phone Call
Ignore people who ask to use your phone, have an ‘emergency,’ or even just want to know the time. They will often steal your phone right out of your hands.
Credit-card Skimming
Fake ATMs will steal your credit card information, avoid using ATMs that are not affiliated with a bank branch. While in restaurants & bars, ask the waiter to bring the payment machine to your table, never let your card leave your sight.
Virtual Kidnapping
Strangers ask you to fill out a form or petition with your phone number and later you get a call claiming that a family member or friend has been kidnapped, asking for a ransom. Do not give your phone number to people you don’t know. If this happens, immediately call the police and freeze your bank account.
Express Kidnapping
Under this scheme, fake taxi drivers drug or threaten you before driving you to ATMs to take out money. This scam does not usually target foreigners, but if you have decent Spanish you may be targeted. Do not hail taxis off the street or accept rides from taxis you did not arrange in advance. This scheme is very rare in Cancún, but occurs on occasion.
6. Save Emergency Numbers
Saving embassy and consulate numbers in my phone brings me immense peace of mind. I also write them down and store them in my hotel room. This way, should something bad happen, I am not panicking but instead have a direct line to my country’s services and already know the emergency line.
- For any emergency, dial 911.
- For the U.S. Consulate in Cancun, dial +52 999 942 5700.
- For the British Consulate in Cancun, dial +52 998 881 0100.
- For the Australian Consulate in Cancun, dial +52 999 942 5700.
Is Cancun safe for solo female travelers?
Female travelers should watch their drinks, be cautious around resort staff, and avoid neighborhoods on the outskirts of the downtown area. But overall, Cancun feels like a safe beach town. Aside from a few violent incidents, tourists rarely feel the presence of cartels in the hotel area. Solo female travelers with a good head on their shoulders should not let security concerns dissuade them from living it up in Cancun!