Mexico in 2025: The Safest Destinations Amid New Travel Alerts

Yucatán: The Crown Jewel of Mexican Safety

Yucatán was the most peaceful state in Mexico for the eighth year in a row. This remarkable achievement isn't just impressive—it's a testament to what's possible in Mexico when local governance meets community involvement.

The State Department gives its mildest safety advice—"Exercise normal precautions"—for travelers headed to two states bordering the Gulf of Mexico: Campeche (the city of the same name is pictured at the top of this page) and Yucatán. Think about it this way: Yucatán receives the same safety rating as France or Italy from the U.S., making it feel like stepping into a European vacation with Mexican soul.

The latter gets more tourists; it's home to Chichén Itzá and the Spanish colonial city of Mérida. What makes this state particularly special isn't just its safety record, but how it balances tourism with authentic cultural experiences—something that's become increasingly rare in today's travel landscape.

Mérida: Mexico's White City Phenomenon

Known as the "White City," Merida consistently ranks as one of the safest cities in Mexico. But here's what most travel guides won't tell you: Merida has a low crime rate compared to other Mexican cities, and the local government invests heavily in public safety measures.

Walking around the city, even at night, is generally considered safe. I've spoken with countless expats who've made Mérida their home, and they consistently report feeling safer there than in many U.S.

cities they've left behind. Merida is the capital city of the state of Yucatan and is considered to be the safest city in Mexico and the safest of all the places to stay for tourists.

The city in Mexico that is considered the safest and has the lowest crime rate is Merida, located in Yucatan. This is also one of the most affordable cities in Mexico, making it a popular destination for retirees and expats.

Campeche: The Underrated Gulf Coast Gem

Campeche, a small state located on Mexico's Gulf Coast, ranks seventh in the MPI, with a homicide rate of 6.2 per 100,000 people in 2024. Known for its colonial architecture and thriving oil industry, Campeche benefits from both economic stability and strong local governance.

What strikes you immediately about Campeche is how it hasn't been overrun by tourist crowds—yet somehow maintains excellent infrastructure and safety standards. Campeche, a beautiful city in its namesake state, is one of Mexico's safest cities on the Gulf of Mexico.

Though the waters may not exhibit the turquoise hues found in Playa del Carmen or Tulum, the city offers a more secure environment free from cartel violence. The city's fortress walls, built to protect against pirates centuries ago, now seem to symbolically protect against modern dangers too.

Valladolid: The Hidden Yucatecan Treasure

This picturesque town is a hidden gem in the Yucatan Peninsula. Known for its colorful streets, cenotes (natural sinkholes), and proximity to the Mayan ruins of Ek Balam, Valladolid offers a tranquil yet adventurous experience.

Valladolid is one of the safest small towns in Mexico, with a welcoming atmosphere and friendly locals. What makes Valladolid special isn't just its safety record—it's how authentic it feels compared to Mexico's more commercialized destinations.

Midway between Merida and Cancun is Valladolid, a colorful and friendly city that's within easy driving distance of several beautiful cenotes. 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.

Puerto Vallarta: Pacific Coast Safety Haven

A popular coastal destination, Puerto Vallarta is known for its stunning beaches, lively nightlife, and family-friendly activities. It's also a favorite among LGBTQ+ travelers due to its inclusive atmosphere.

While Jalisco state has areas with higher crime rates, Puerto Vallarta remains a safe haven for tourists. Its well-developed tourism infrastructure and strong local law enforcement contribute to a secure environment.

The city has something that many Mexican destinations lack: a genuine commitment to tourist safety that goes beyond just the hotel zone. Most tourist destinations in Mexico, including Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, Puerto Vallarta, and Los Cabos, have a strong presence of tourism police and generally experience lower crime rates.

However, even in these areas, it's wise to stay vigilant, especially at night.

Cancún and Riviera Maya: The Managed Risk Destinations

At present, the U.S. State Department advises visitors to "exercise increased caution" in popular tourist destinations such as Mexico City, Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum.

Most tourist destinations in Mexico, including Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, Puerto Vallarta, and Los Cabos, have a strong presence of tourism police and generally experience lower crime rates. Here's the reality check: Cancún isn't as safe as Mérida, but it's far from the dangerous wasteland some headlines suggest.

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

Exercise increased caution after dark in Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum and remain in well-lit pedestrian streets and tourist zones. The key word here is "managed"—these destinations require more awareness but offer incredible experiences when approached intelligently.

Huatulco: Oaxaca's Pacific Paradise

A beach town located in Oaxaca to the southwest of Puerto Escondido, Huatulco offers tons of water activities such as snorkeling and scuba diving, some nearby surf spots, and tours of coffee farms to boot. Huatulco is considered one of the safest places in Mexico.

Boasting nine bays and 36 beaches, Huatulco is a pristine town near Oaxaca that overlooks the Pacific Ocean. Visitor accommodations are upscale without being flashy, and protecting the environment is one of the town's top priorities.

What sets Huatulco apart is its planned development approach—it was designed from the ground up to be a sustainable, safe tourism destination. The result is a place that feels both authentic and secure, without the overcrowding that plagues other Mexican beach towns.

Durango: The Surprising Northern Safe Haven

Durango, located in north-western Mexico, is another state that has consistently ranked highly for peace. In 2024, it was ranked third in the MPI, with a homicide rate of 4.1 per 100,000 people.

This represents a significant achievement for a state that, in previous years, struggled with the violence associated with drug cartels. Durango's relative calm is the result of targeted efforts by local authorities to dismantle criminal networks and reduce the influence of organised crime.

Moreover, the state's tourism and agriculture sectors have provided an economic cushion, helping to divert attention away from illegal activities. Durango's proactive community engagement, along with strong institutional support for law enforcement, has fostered a sense of security among residents.

Mexico City: Urban Safety in Select Neighborhoods

Mexico City, the nation's capital, offers a mix of ancient history and modern attractions. From exploring the Aztec ruins of Templo Mayor to dining at world-class restaurants, it's a cultural hub with something for everyone.

While Mexico City is a sprawling metropolis, tourist-heavy areas such as Polanco, Condesa, Roma, and Coyoacán are generally safe. The U.S.

State Department ranks Mexico City Level 2, warning travelers to exercise increased caution due to both violent and non-violent crime. As with any large city, petty crime, like pickpocketing, occurs frequently, so be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded markets and on public transportation.

The trick with Mexico City is knowing which neighborhoods to embrace and which to avoid.

Los Cabos: Baja California's Luxury Escape

Los Cabos: This luxurious resort destination is known for its world-class golf courses, stunning desert landscapes, and opportunities for whale watching. The most popular tourist destination in these states is Cabo San Lucas.

The most popular tourist destination in these states is Cabo San Lucas. While Baja California as a state receives a "Reconsider Travel" advisory, Los Cabos maintains its reputation as a relatively safe enclave for tourists.

The resort areas here benefit from significant private security investments and a tourism infrastructure that prioritizes visitor safety. It's a perfect example of how Mexico's safety situation varies dramatically not just by state, but by specific location within states.

Tulum: Navigating the Yoga Capital's Challenges

As Playa del Carmen has been the site of some troubling violence in the past, the coastal town of Tulum to the south may be a safer alternative. It is also less touristy than other resort towns on the Yucatan Peninsula, offering well-preserved ruins of the former Mayan city walls and other historic structures right in town.

The State Department has explicitly stated there are no restrictions on travel to Tulum or to Chichen Itza, the magnificent archaeological site just an hour up the road. Last February, an American tourist in Tulum was killed in the crossfire of a gunfight between rival drug dealers.

Alcohol and drugs fuel the parties and music festivals in Tulum and crimes are almost always related to drug consumption or sales, says Alexis Schärer, a hotelier in Playa del Carmen. In other words, stay away from drugs and you're likely to stay clear of trouble.

Tulum's reality is complex—it's generally safe for tourists who stick to beach areas and avoid the party scene entirely.

Understanding the Current Safety Landscape

Nationally, the homicide rate fell slightly, for the third year in a row, from 25.9 per 100,000 in 2022 to 24.9 per 100,000 in 2023, although the number of reported disappearances has increased. Peace in Mexico improved slightly by 0.7% in 2024.

Nevertheless, the country has seen a 13.4% deterioration in peace levels since 2015. However, since hitting its lowest point in 2019, Mexico has recovered 6.4%.

What these statistics tell us is that Mexico's safety situation is neither uniformly terrible nor universally great—it's nuanced, improving in some areas while challenging in others. While the risks shouldn't be ignored, it's important to remember that Mexico is large and varied, that the highest crime rates are outside the most popular tourist zones, and that the dangers facing beachgoers in most resort areas remain fairly low.

Smart Travel Strategies for 2025

Around 20 million Americans vacation in Mexico every year, so everyone has a vested interest in making travel to Mexico fun, exciting, memorable, and above all safe. The key is approaching Mexico travel with intelligence rather than fear.

Most travelers can enjoy a safe trip by sticking to Level 1 and 2 areas, registering with STEP, and following local guidance; however, avoid Level 4 states entirely. Stay Updated: Regularly check the U.S.

State Department's travel advisories and local news for any updates. Use Trusted Transportation: Stick to registered taxis, ride-sharing apps, or private transportation services.

Be Cautious at Night: Avoid wandering in unfamiliar or poorly lit areas after dark. Travel Insurance: Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and theft.

Mexico in 2025 offers incredible opportunities for safe, memorable travel—if you know where to look. The destinations highlighted here represent the cream of the crop for security-conscious travelers who refuse to compromise on authentic experiences.

From Yucatán's colonial charm to Puerto Vallarta's Pacific allure, Mexico's safest destinations prove that you don't have to choose between adventure and peace of mind. Which of these safe havens will be calling your name this year?

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