Cancun receives millions of passengers per year, but given the recent unrest on February 22, 2026, there are some doubts about whether Cancun is safe or not.
The quick answer is: yes, Cancun is safe. However, here are some reasons why it still is in 2026.
Is Cancun safe?
Yes, Cancún is a safe destination for tourists.
Cancun is Mexico’s main tourist destination, and visitor safety is essential. In response to the recent incidents related to drug trafficking, authorities in Cancun and the state of Quintana Roo have strengthened their security presence to better manage the situation and ensure public safety.
The Governor of Quintana Roo, Mara Lezama, has closely followed up on the events that took place on Sunday, February 22, providing updates and clarifications to the public.
As of today, security in Cancun has been reinforced, and all activities have continued as normal since that same day. Cancun Airport, highways, ports, and schools are operating without any danger, despite claims circulated by unreliable sources. These rumors were officially denied by the governor after several AI-generated images went viral, falsely portraying situations intended to create panic among residents and international visitors.
It is also important to emphasize that Cancun is a world-class international destination. For that reason, it is carefully monitored and protected by authorities to guarantee the safety and well-being of both visitors and local residents.
Safe Areas in Cancun
In Cancun, there are several areas you can visit with confidence and peace of mind. Here are some of the main areas that are considered safe for both tourists and locals:
Hotel Zone
The Hotel Zone is one of the most protected and well-maintained areas in Cancun. It is constantly monitored by federal and local police, and all hotels and resorts have their own private security services. This area is specifically designed for tourism and receives special attention to ensure visitor safety.
Downtown Cancun
Downtown Cancun is located around Mercado 28 (Market 28), near the central Walmart and Parque de las Palapas. This area is safe for both visitors and residents and offers a more local experience, with restaurants, shops, and cultural activities.
South Cancun
One of the quietest areas in the city is South Cancun. Although it is not a tourist zone, it is considered one of the safest residential areas for locals. If your Airbnb or accommodation is located in this part of the city, there is no reason for concern.
Is It Safe to Go Out at Night in Cancun?
Yes, it is completely safe to go out at night in Cancun, especially in the Zona Hotelera. The bar and nightclub areas remain active late into the night and have private security on-site.
That said, it’s important to use common sense. Avoid excessive alcohol consumption and try not to wander into unfamiliar or poorly lit areas. As with any major tourist destination, staying aware of your surroundings will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable night out.
Is Transportation Safe in Cancun?
Yes, there are safe transportation options in Cancun, but there are also some services that may overcharge or attempt to take advantage of visitors.
The best option is to book private transportation in advance, use Uber, take ADO buses, or rent a vehicle. You can also use the public buses that operate within the Hotel Zone and downtown if you’re simply moving around those areas. They are a budget-friendly option for short distances.
It’s generally recommended to avoid unregulated taxi services, as some may overcharge or charge significantly more than the standard fare. Whenever possible, choose verified and reputable transportation providers.
Safest Destinations in Mexico
For added peace of mind, some of the safest destinations in Mexico are located in the southern region of the country, particularly in the Yucatan Peninsula, and Cancun is part of this area.
Here is a list of some of the safest states in Mexico:
| Aguascalientes | Baja California Sur | Chiapas |
| Coahuila | Hidalgo | Mexico City |
| Mexico State | Nayarit | Nuevo León |
| Oaxaca | Puebla | Querétaro |
| Quintana Roo | San Luis Potosí | Tabasco |
| Tlaxcala | Veracruz | Yucatán |
| Campeche |
Cancun travel safety tips
Your safety is important to everyone. Here are some helpful recommendations to help you stay even safer during your visit to Cancun in 2026:
- Avoid carrying or displaying large amounts of cash.
- Use eco-friendly sunscreen when visiting natural areas.
- Purchase travel insurance before your trip.
- Keep digital copies of your important documents.
- Use ATMs located inside hotels or shopping centers.
- Book a private airport transfer in advance to avoid scams from illegal transportation providers or unauthorized taxis.
- Avoid going to places you are unfamiliar with.
- Shop only at authorized and reputable businesses.
- Count your cash carefully and stay informed about currency exchange rates.
Conclusion: Is Cancun Safe?
Yes, Cancun is safe for tourists. As with any international destination, it’s important to take normal travel precautions to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Each year, Cancun welcomes millions of visitors from around the world, and international travelers continue choosing this destination for their vacations. Thanks to its well-developed tourism infrastructure, built and strengthened over more than 56 years, Cancun has remained a reliable and prepared destination for global tourism. Reinforced security measures further contribute to providing a safe environment for visitors.
Cancun continues to be one of the most important destinations in the Mexican Caribbean, and yes, it is one of the most prepared to welcome international travelers.