Spring break is a much-anticipated period for school, college, and university students, especially in North America. This is when they get to leave exams and term papers behind through camping, water sports, winter sports, and partying, be it in a cozy town or at a luxury resort.
In the U.S., some of the best spring break destinations are stunning, relaxing vacation spots, like Oahu, Yosemite National Park, and Grand Canyon National Park, one of the world’s most visited natural wonders. But what about south of the border? Are Mexico’s tourist hostspots, such as Cancún, Tulum, Reynosa, and Puerto Peñasco, safe?
Here’s an overview of the latest advisory and travel warnings from the U.S. Department of State, as well as a selection of some of the most popular spring break destinations in Mexico and their current criminal activity.
On January 27, 2025, the U.S. Government issued a “Level 4: Do Not Travel” advisory to Mexico, a popular spring break destination. This security alert mostly concerns crime and kidnapping, but it doesn’t encompass the entire country, only specific places plagued with criminal organizations, such as:
- Rio Bravo
- Valle Hermoso
- San Fernando
- Reynosa
- Tamaulipas
WARNING: Per the alert, dirt roads around those areas should be avoided, especially at night. Stay away from abandoned objects (they could be explosives), even on paved and well-lit roads, and keep up with the local news.
For its part, the U.S. Mission to Mexico regularly updates its safety message for spring break travelers. Here are some important precautions to keep in mind during your trip.
| Dos | Don’ts |
| Get health insurance that covers Mexico | Use drugs, even medical marijuana |
| Drink responsibly | Carry a firearm |
| Remain in friendly groups | Use isolated ATMs |
| Contact the embassy or the nearest consulate for help | Carry a large amount of cash |
The U.S. travel advisory system encompasses four levels. Level 1 means “Exercise normal precautions,” while Level 2 is “Exercise increased caution.” Level 3 means “Reconsider travel,” and Level 4 is “Do not travel.”
Mexico is an attractive travel destination, thanks to its proximity to the U.S., affordable options, and a plethora of natural and cultural sites. From the serpent heads at Teotihuacán’s Temple of the Feathered Serpent, just outside of Mexico City, to Mexico’s most beautiful oceanic hideaways, like Cabo San Lucas and Puerto Vallarta, the country has a lot to offer for every type of traveler.
Many popular areas in this country may look okay on the surface but do have notable crime rates, like Cozumel, Tulum, and Cancun. But is Tulum safe? What about Cozumel? Is Cancun safe? After all, these locations boast world-class, all-inclusive resorts, delectable cuisine, white-sand beaches, and tempting deals specifically tailored for spring breakers.
Per the Bureau of Consular Affairs, Quintana Roo, the state that comprises Cancún, Cozumel, Tulum — now with improved transportation and direct flights to the U.S. — and Isla Mujeres, generally falls under the “Exercise increased caution” advisory due to possible violence between rival gangs, homicides, and assaults (especially in Tulum).
TYT Newsroom
