Safety Tips for Tulum

Tulum, a once-sleepy beach town on Mexico’s Caribbean coast, has grown into a world-renowned destination for its natural beauty, rich culture, and vibrant nightlife. However, as its popularity has surged, questions about safety in Tulum have become increasingly relevant.

Is it safe in Tulum?

While Tulum has seen some increases in crime recently, it remains a popular destination for travelers. For a safe and enjoyable experience, it’s recommended to exercise extra caution after dark and stick to well-lit streets and tourist-friendly zones.

Crime in Tulum

Tulum has experienced a rise in crime in recent years, particularly as the area attracts more tourism and development. Key points to consider:

Theft: Robberies occasionally occur in Tulum, particularly in less crowded or poorly lit areas. Additionally, bike theft is a common issue, so it’s important to always use a sturdy lock and avoid leaving bikes unattended for extended periods.
Violent crime: Lethal clashes between rival criminal groups linked to drug cartels have occurred in Tulum. These incidents have never been directed at tourists. There was one case a few years ago where a tourist was hit by a stray bullet. Statistically, considering that millions of tourists visit Tulum each year, the risk for foreigners is low though. Violent robberies or harassment is virtually non-existent in the area.
Police: Local police are visible in Tulum, particularly in tourist-heavy areas. However, some visitors report mixed experiences with law enforcement, ranging from helpful assistance to concerns about corruption or bribes during minor infractions or even theft, where people got stopped by police, searched and had their cash money stolen.

Read more in our article on crime in Tulum.

Safety Risks around Transportation

Transportation in Tulum is generally safe, but there are some risks:

Taxis: Taxis are widely available, but fare disputes are fairly common, so it’s important to confirm the price before starting your ride. Some taxi drivers have engaged in criminal behavior, including physically assaulting Uber drivers to deter them from operating in Tulum (which is why there is no Uber in Tulum). It’s advisable to avoid any conflicts with them.
Rental vehicles: Driving in Tulum comes with challenges such as poorly maintained roads, unmarked or poorly lit speed bumps, and police checkpoints, which have been reported to sometimes involve bribe extortion or even theft. Corrupt police are known to specifically target vehicles with rental plates, aiming to exploit unsuspecting tourists for money.
Filling up on gas: If you’ve rented a car, scooter, or ATV, be cautious at gas stations, as scams are common. One frequent trick involves quickly swapping a bill and claiming you gave them a smaller denomination. Another scam involves manipulating the meter to add a ‘1’ in front of the price (e.g., charging 180 pesos instead of 80 pesos). Of course you might be scammed in other ways, but these we have seen happen personally and are probably the most common ones.

Other Safety Risks

Substance use: Using illegal substances or excessive alcohol can increase your vulnerability to crime. There have been reports of outrageously high taxi rates charged to intoxicated individuals. Likewise, the police might see you as an easy target, which could lead to hefty “fines”.
Heat and dehydration: The tropical climate can be harsh, so staying hydrated and using sunscreen is crucial.
Dangerous animals: Although not a huge risk, there are some dangerous animals in Tulum that you should be mindful of.

How to Stay Safe in Tulum

Choose Accommodations Wisely: Opt for well-reviewed hotels or rentals in secure areas, such as Aldea Zama, La Veleta or the hotel zone.
Avoid Risky Areas: Limit visits to isolated or poorly lit areas, particularly late at night.
Keep Valuables Secure: Use a hotel safe for passports and valuables, and avoid flashing expensive items.
Use Reputable Services: Book tours and private car services through reputable companies.
Stay Informed: Check local advisories and weather updates during your stay.

Cultural Considerations

Tulum is a laid-back destination, but showing respect for local customs helps avoid conflict. Mexicans tend to be formal in their language and generally avoid confrontation. Speaking loudly or using confrontational body language, which are more common in some other countries, can be seen as highly offensive here.

Final Thoughts

Is Tulum safe? The answer depends on your perspective. For most visitors, Tulum is a safe and enjoyable destination as long as basic precautions are taken. However, like any tourist hotspot, it is not entirely without risks. By being mindful and informed, you can enjoy Tulum’s stunning beaches, fascinating ruins, and vibrant culture with peace of mind.