These 30 Safest Places to Visit in Mexico Are Our Favorites
Are you planning a trip to Mexico? You may be wondering about the safest places to visit in Mexico.
After all, the famously diverse and beautiful country is huge, and there are a lot of territories to cover.
We have spent over three months living in Mexico and riding our motorcycles throughout the country.
And despite what you often see in the media, I am here to tell you that much of Mexico is a safe and beautiful place to visit.
After exploring over 20 of the 32 states in Mexico, we gained first-hand experience and pretty great knowledge of the stunning beaches, delicious food, and rich culture.
As well as the safest and best places worth visiting.
In this article, I will go over everything from major cities to small towns so that you can feel confident and secure on your next trip to Mexico.
Whether you are looking for beaches, mountains, or ruins, this guide will cover the top 30 safest places to visit in Mexico.
Is Mexico Safe?
Mexico is a large and diverse country, and the level of safety varies depending on the region. Major cities are generally safer than rural areas, and tourist destinations are safer than other parts of the country.
Mexico gets such a bad rap in the media, sometimes only showing you reports of violent crime, dangerous places, and bad things happening.
Just like the United States, there are parts of Mexico that may be more dangerous than others.
However, there are so many safe places to enjoy the best things this beautiful country has to offer.
You may hear in the news about drug-related violence and problems with drug cartels in the country.
However, by using your common sense by being aware of the risks before traveling to Mexico and staying away from drug-related situations, you can have a safe and enjoyable time in the country.
There are many steps that visitors can take to stay safe and have a great vacation while visiting Mexico.
First and foremost, be aware of your surroundings, use common sense, and avoid traveling at night or alone in unfamiliar areas.
Second, as you would in many busy cities, keep your valuables out of sight and avoid wearing flashy jewelry or clothing. Finally, it is always best to consult your hotel, tour guides, or locals before venturing into unfamiliar areas.
I’ll go over these safety tips more later on. Now let’s talk about the best and safest places to visit in Mexico.
The 30 Safest Places to Visit in Mexico for 2023
Here are the 30 safest places you can visit in Mexico.
Merida
Merida, perhaps the safest city in Mexico, is the capital of Yucatán. The town is probably one of the best places for travelers to use as their base if they want to explore the Yucatán Peninsula and surrounding areas.
Merida is known for its colonial architecture, traditional food, and dynamic cultural scene. The locals are very friendly, and crime rates are minimal.
From the moment you arrive in Merida, you can feel the people’s warmth and the city’s vibrant energy.
Merida is one of the oldest cities in North America, founded by the Spanish in 1542. Today, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site, and it’s easy to see why. The city is full of beautiful buildings, and there are plenty of museums and archaeological sites to explore.
One of the most incredible tours from Merida you can take is to see the Pink Lagoon and flamingos at Las Coloradas. Red algae, shrimp, and plankton love the salty waters of the Pink Lagoon and give it an amazing color.
This tour not only takes you to see the iconic Pink Lagoon (and flamingos that eat the sea life) but also to tour the famous Mayan ruins at Chichen Itza and swim in a cenote!
Be sure to book it quickly, though. This 5-star rated tour is very popular and is likely to sell out.
There are tons of awesome things to do and even more to see in Merida, from exploring the ancient ruins to strolling through the colorful markets.
And, of course, no visit to Merida would be complete without trying the delicious food.
Puerto Vallarta
You can find Puerto Vallarta on the Pacific Coast of Mexico, about midway between Los Angeles and Cancun. The city is popular with tourists, attracting visitors from all over the world.
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, is a place where gorgeous sandy beaches meet lively nightlife and vibrant culture.
Here, you can explore hidden coves and white sand beaches, and sizzle your taste buds with world-renowned Mexican dishes. and
There are also so many amazing outdoor activities such as parasailing and deep-sea fishing.
The city is an excellent spot for tourists, known for its beautiful beaches, friendly locals, and delicious seafood.
To enjoy Puerto Vallarta to the fullest, get off the beaten path and take an ATV Tour! This tour takes you on an ATV ride on trails through the Sierra Madre Mountains and is rated very highly by travelers.
Puerto Vallarta is a perfect place to get away from the usual tourist-filled spots and get your blood pumping while you explore the outdoors!
Campeche
Mexico is rich in culture, history, and natural beauty. And while there are many wonderful places to visit, one of the most special is Campeche.
Campeche is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located on the Gulf of Mexico. It is well known for its white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and historic sites.
Spanish explorers founded the city, and it soon became an important trading port. The town was fortified in the 17th century in response to pirate attacks and has two hilltop fortresses that are now museums.
Today, visitors can stroll through the atmospheric streets, admire the colorful buildings, and learn about Campeche’s fascinating past.
The city is renowned for its historic walled quarter, military architecture, and surviving baroque colonial buildings.
Campeche is generally one of the safest (and most Instagram-able) cities in Mexico to visit, and travelers can enjoy all the city offers without worry.
And be sure to try the local food! Campeche is known for its fresh seafood, Mayan cuisine, and delicious ice cream.
La Paz
La Paz is a beautiful city located on the Baja Peninsula. It is known for its stunning beaches like the Playa Pandara, delicious seafood, and fun nightlife.
In addition, La Paz is surrounded by the Sea of Cortez, a very diverse sea. It’s also a two-hour drive from the famous Cabo San Lucas. So visitors can plan a day trip there.
La Paz is also considered to be among the safest Mexican cities. The crime rate in La Paz is relatively low, and no areas are considered particularly dangerous for tourists.
We spent quite a bit of time in La Paz after riding our bikes down the Baja California Peninsula. There are a lot of neat sites to see, awesome places to stay, and things to do.
You can even try snorkeling with whale sharks! They are gentle giants that eat the plankton from the sea.
La Paz is a beautiful place to visit. Its safety makes it an ideal destination for travelers looking for a relaxed and enjoyable vacation.
Mazatlan
Mazatlan is a popular tourist spot in Mexico. It is known for its beautiful beaches, like Stone Island and Playa Cerritos, and its dynamic culture.
In addition, you can visit places like Plaza Malcado and enjoy beautiful architecture. We arrived in Mazatlan by ferry when we crossed over from La Paz with our motorcycles on the Baja California Peninsula.
The first thing you may notice in Mazatlan is the iconic boardwalk. Resorts popular with tourists, fancy hotels, and shops line the roads near the boardwalk, along with a beautiful view of the Pacific Ocean.
It also has fantastic nightlife with lively clubs and bars.
If you are up for some adventure to get your adrenaline pumping, there is a great Mazatlan ziplining tour that you should definitely experience.
The city is known for its seafood, romantic atmosphere, fun excursions, and colonial architecture. Mazatlan is located on the Pacific coast of Mexico, in Sinaloa.
Cozumel
Tourists can confidently visit Cozumel because of the island’s exceptionally low crime rate. This makes it one of the safest places to visit in Mexico!
The city is known for its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and excellent scuba diving.
If you enjoy snorkeling, Cozumel is an ideal location for that. It is very popular for its many beach clubs, the most popular being Mr. Sanchos Beach Club.
Get an all-inclusive day pass to Mr. Sanchos Beach Club HERE.
Cozumel is also home to several historic sites, including the ruins of the Mayan city of San Gervasio.
If you get the chance, I strongly recommend taking a Cozumel snorkeling tour with a glass bottom boat!
This tour is a 5-star rated tour that provides water, soft drinks, and cold beer for free. They also have a photographer along in case you want to buy underwater pictures when you’re done.
And snorkeling equipment is included!
Cozumel is located on the east coast of Mexico, about 20 miles from Playa del Carmen. While staying in Playa del Carmen, we decided to go on a day-trip adventure and took a ferry to explore the island.
If you get the chance, I strongly recommend getting off the beaten path and visiting Cozumel by ferry (the best way to visit!). And exploring all the beauty the island offers.
Sayulita
Located just north of Puerto Vallarta on Mexico’s Pacific Coast, Sayulita is a small town known for its surfing, laid-back atmosphere, and safety.
Visiting Sayulita, Mexico, is an experience like no other. Located on the beautiful Pacific Coast of Jalisco, this small fishing village will mesmerize you with its bohemian vibes and colorful culture.
Of course, visitors should always take precautions when traveling to any foreign country. Still, in Sayulita, there is no need to worry about being the victim of crime.
Visiting Sayulita allows you to dive into a realm of adventure and relaxation. Its crystal-clear waters, golden beaches, and rolling hills make it one of the best places for nature lovers.
In addition to its safety, Sayulita is also known for its delicious seafood, beautiful beaches like the Playa Sayulita, Sayulita Beach, and lively nightlife.
Izamal
Izamal is one of the safest places to visit in Mexico and an excellent place to visit. The crime rate in the city is relatively low, and visitors should take the same precautions as they would in any other large city.
In addition, Izamal is known for its well-preserved colonial architecture and vibrant yellow buildings.
The city also has several important historical sites, including the ruins of a Maya pyramid. Izamal is located in Yucatan, about an hour and a half from Merida.
While the city is relatively small, it is a popular tourist spot due to its safety and beautiful setting. As a result, visitors to Izamal can feel confident that they are in one of the best historical, safest places in Mexico.
Los Cabos
In terms of crime rates, this municipality has a far lower rate than the rest of Mexico, and several big U.S. cities are less secure than Cabo.
Los Cabos is the perfect destination to relax and recharge in style.
Imagine swaying your toes in the invigorating warm waters of the Pacific Ocean while marveling at the picturesque beauty of the Sea of Cortez. With its palm-fringed beaches and desert mountain backdrops.
The city is known for its beautiful beaches like the Cabo San Lucas beach, luxurious resorts, deep sea fishing trips, and talented chefs.
Los Cabos is located in Baja California Sur, making it a popular destination for travelers worldwide.
From kayaking to snorkeling, surfing, or stand-up paddle boarding. There are also some incredible hikes in Cabo that you need to check out.
There’s no shortage of ways to have an amazing time in this part of Mexico.
And if all that weren’t enough, there are also plenty of opportunities to dine on tantalizing Mexican dishes and explore the vibrant art and culture of the region.
Whether you’re there to swim in the blue-turquoise waters, soak up the sun on a secluded beach, or explore ancient ruins, Los Cabos is at the top of the list for safe areas in Mexico.
San Miguel De Allende
Because the majority of the population in San Miguel de Allende is older ex-pats, families, and tourists, it is considered one of the safest places to visit in Mexico.
In addition, San Miguel de Allende has a low crime rate.
If you’re looking for a breath of fresh air and to dispel any preconceived notions you might have had about Mexican culture, this is the city for you.
San Miguel de Allende is a place you won’t soon forget after experiencing its colonial architecture, beautiful churches, and vibrant arts scene.
Sitting high up in the hills of Central Mexico and filled with lively music, dancing, and incredible cuisine, this charming town is truly one-of-a-kind.
Rich with Spanish colonial heritage, its narrow cobblestone streets are lined with colorful buildings adorned with refreshed masks and gorgeous flower bouquets.
In addition to being a popular tourist city, San Miguel de Allende is called home by many retirees from the United States and Canada.
This city is an enchanting trip to Mexico and should be on everyone’s bucket list.
Ensenada
Ensenada’s crime rate is low—possibly the lowest in all of Mexico! Making it one of the top safe areas in the country to make our list.
Visiting Ensenada, Mexico, is always a great time. The culture and people are truly inspiring; the beautiful view of the Pacific Ocean is breathtakingly gorgeous.
The streets are full of culinary delights, either at a sit-down restaurant or street taco joint in the downtown area.
Shopping in this enchanting Mexican town offers unique finds. Such as both handmade artisan goods or clothing and jewelry made in Mexico.
The city is also located near several historic sites. Visitors can experience the city’s history by visiting these sites. You can also get a private wine tour of Guadalupe Valley!
And if you’re looking for fun activities, there’s something for everyone. Walk along wild beaches and enjoy the sea life. You can also spend days browsing for souvenirs in the various traditional markets.
Ensenada is a safe city to visit and offers visitors many opportunities to explore Mexico’s culture and history.
Bacalar
Bacalar is located in Quintana Roo and is known for its relaxed atmosphere and beautiful lagoon.
Visiting Bacalar, Mexico, is like stepping into an otherworldly paradise.
The ancient Mayan village sits alongside the mysterious blue-green Laguna de Los Siete Colores (Seven-Colored Lagoon). Making it a breathtakingly beautiful place that only radiates with serenity and enchantment.
There are so many amazing activities in Bacalar. Such as exploring the nearby historical ruin and the crystal-clear cenotes.
Try swimming with bioluminescence at night, and exploring the remains of a 16th-century fort!
This heavenly hideaway offers experiences unlike anywhere else in the world.
If you want to fit some of the best activities in Bacalar into a day trip, check out this tour. You get to go snorkeling in two different amazing cenotes and take a boat tour through the beautiful Seven-Colored Lagoon.
Plus, snacks and drinks are included! (With an open bar!)
Bacalar is substantially safer than even the safe, popular destinations in Quintana Roo, like Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum. So travelers can enjoy its many attractions without worrying about their safety.
From swimming in the beautiful blue-turquoise waters of the lagoon to exploring the remains of a 16th-century fort, Bacalar has something to offer everyone.
Plus, who doesn’t love immersing themselves in Mexican culture with a side of the oh-so-delicious local cuisine?
If you’re looking for some serious soul-feeding, I strongly recommend visiting the municipality of Bacalar, one of the safest places to visit in Mexico.
Playa Del Carmen
Mexico is full of beautiful historical cities that offer visitors a wealth of cultural experiences.
The economy of the state of Quintana Roo and the Riveria Maya region depends heavily on tourism, which guarantees their safety and prevents crime against them.
As a result, Playa del Carmen is one of the safest places to visit in Mexico compared to many other sections of the country. However, visitors should still take common sense precautions when visiting this city.
We spent weeks staying in Playa del Carmen, and let me tell you, there are so many sites to see and areas to explore in this popular tourist destination.
The city has lively beaches like the Playa Mamitas, lively nightlife, and excellent restaurants. You can visit beautiful nearby islands just off the coast, like Isla Mujeres, Isla Holbox, and Cozumel.
Playa del Carmen’s location makes it a prime spot to visit because it gives you the ability to see so many popular areas of Mexico. Including many of the best ruins in the Yucatan peninsula.
You can find it on the east coast of Mexico, just south of Cancun. Playa del Carmen is one of my favorite places on the list of safest places to visit in Mexico.
Mexico City
This huge city is known for its Historic Center of Mexico City, as well as great food and friendly locals. Mexico City is located in the central part of the country, and its climate is mild year-round.
Visitors can explore the city’s many attractions, including the ancient Aztec ruins of Teotihuacan, and the UNESCO World Heritage site. Or enjoy a traditional Mexican meal while soaking up the vibrant atmosphere.
I recommend taking a tour to hike the nearby volcanoes and mountains near Mexico City for an unforgettable, unique experience.
At the top of some, you can even experience seeing snow in Mexico!
One of the most unforgettable volcano hikes from Mexico City is the hike up Nevado de Toluca Volcano.
This highly recommended 5-star tour provides trekking poles, lunch, and snacks and is a seriously cool adventure.
So whether you’re looking for a unique experience, culture, history, or just a relaxing vacation, Mexico City is an awesome, safe city that every traveler should experience.
Torreon
Torreon is a city in the Mexican state of Coahuila and is one of the safest places to visit in Mexico. It is known for its beautiful colonial architecture, delicious food, and friendly residents.
The city is located in the northeastern part of Mexico and is a popular place for tourists.
Packed with unique cultures and plenty of opportunities for exploration and self-discovery, it’s truly a mecca for those seeking an adventure. One of the main tourist draws is the Cristo de las Noas. A 70-foot-tall statue of Christ.
This is the 3rd tallest Christ statue in Latin America!
If you are looking for a safe and enjoyable place to visit in Mexico, then Torreon is definitely worth considering.
Aguascalientes
The crime rate in Aguascalientes is minimal, and there aren’t many pickpockets or petty crimes either.
Of course, visitors should take the usual precautions when traveling, such as staying in well-lit areas and keeping valuables out of sight, but this city is extremely safe.
Aguascalientes is known for its lively events in the city center, like the Feria San Marcos. The Feria San Marcos offers music, dancing, and local literature and culture.
This town also offers delicious food and beautiful colonial architecture.
Situated in central Mexico, Aguascalientes is easy to reach by plane or bus from most major cities. It is the perfect location for overlander travelers (like us) as well!
Aguascalientes also has a fantastic motorcycle community. We met some new life-long friends in the city that took us in like family. They even put on a motorcycle rally for us!
The “Disorderly Drifters 1600km” Rally in which we pushed the speed capabilities of our small 125cc motorcycles (Honda Monkeys) over 1,000 miles in under 24 hours.
This insane run on our tiny bikes earned us our Iron Butt Certifications, along with a few other awards!
So whether you’re looking for a safe place to relax or a city with plenty to see and do, Aguascalientes should be at the top of your list.
Durango
We spend THREE Disorderly Drifters’ birthdays in the city of Durango! It was a blast experiencing everything the city had to offer.
From the awesome shops and cafes in the downtown area to a fancy steakhouse, a delicious seafood shack (with lots of tequila), and even a day spent golfing.
The city is located in the northern central part of Mexico and is a popular tourist destination. Durango is known for its beautiful scenery, delicious food, and rich history.
The city is also a great place to shop for Mexican souvenirs. Visitors to Durango can find everything from handcrafted pottery to colorful textiles.
Durango is an ideal destination for those looking for a safe and enjoyable place to visit in Mexico.
San Cristóbal De Las Casas
San Cristóbal de las Casas is located in the beautiful state of Chiapas in southern Mexico.
It is known for its Spanish Baroque architecture and as a center of indigenous Maya culture.
Its central location in the Chiapas highlands makes it a gateway to nearby archaeological sites, like the ancient Mayan ruins at Toniná.
The city’s museums and galleries display art and artifacts from the region’s history. San Cristóbal de las Casas is also known for its Spanish colonial architecture, as well as its indigenous markets and traditional textiles.
The city is also great for trying conventional Mexican food, such as tamales, enchiladas, and mole sauce.
So if you’re looking for a safe, culturally-rich place to visit in Mexico, San Cristóbal de las Casas is an excellent option.
Santiago de Querétaro
Next on our list of safest cities to visit in Mexico is Santiago de Querétaro (Or just “Querétaro”).
Querétaro has one of the lowest rates of drug-related fatalities and a low crime rate.
With its iconic pink and turquoise buildings and picturesque scene of rural farmlands, you can immerse yourself in culture in a way unlike anywhere else. And not many know that this state houses some of the oldest churches in the country.
The city is known for its food, historic sites, and its location. Querétaro is located in the Mexican state of Querétaro de Arteaga. It is 130 kilometers north of Mexico City and is a great spot for tourists.
Querétaro is also known for its colonial architecture, museums, and hotels. The city also has several parks and gardens.
Visitors can also enjoy the city’s nightlife, which includes bars, clubs, and restaurants in this town as one of the safest places to visit in Mexico.
Loreto
Loreto is a small coastal town located in Baja California Sur. This town has beautiful tranquil streets. Locals are known for their warm hospitality, and visitors will quickly feel like part of the community.
Due to being small and secluded, Loreto has become a safe paradise for tourists.
Visiting Loreto, Mexico, is like pressing pause on life and taking a much-needed break. Nature lovers will really appreciate the Sea of Cortez’s crystal clear waters reflecting the colorful sky, or maybe the chance to hike in majestic mountains.
This beautiful city is located on the country’s Pacific coast and is known for its stunning beaches, incredible seafood, and colonial history. Any time of the year is a great time to visit Loreto.
Loreto, Mexico is a breathtaking stretch of seaside town that’s an absolute must-see. From exploring Sierra de la Giganta Mountains to catching sight of California grey whales, this picturesque town has something for every traveler.
Its natural beauty draws visitors from around the world with its endless rolling hills covered in various shades of cacti and desert wildflowers.
Plus, its world-famous fishing waters are crystal blue and bursting with life, while hidden valleys make you feel like you’ve gone back in time.
Saltillo
Saltillo is a city located in the northeastern state of Coahuila. It is just a few hours’ drive from the U.S. border.
Visitors can explore the city’s many parks and museums, try the local cuisine, and enjoy live music and dancing.
Take time to marvel at the historic architecture of the Cathedral de Santiago and the surrounding squares in the city’s downtown core.
Dance your way around town with a stop for some Mexican cuisine and some traditional tequila.
For nature lovers, there are multiple fascinating sites, such as Cascadas El Novillo waterfalls and Park Nochistlán featuring breathtaking mountain views.
While there is no need to take special precautions when visiting Saltillo, just use your common sense and be aware of your surroundings.
Oaxaca City
Oaxaca City is an amazing place to experience and definitely a safe part of Mexico.
If you’re looking for a unique Mexican experience that is equal parts adventure and equal parts relaxation, then Oaxaca City, Mexico, should be your next destination!
This enchanting city offers a combination of vibrant culture, stunning architecture, and culinary delights that you will love.
In Oaxaca City, visitors can explore the markets and try traditional dishes like mole oaxaqueño or chapulines (fried grasshoppers)!
You will never run out of things to do in Oaxaca. Dance your way through the night with local music. Or take a leisurely stroll through nearby parks where you can admire artwork from talented locals.
Drink some deliciously smoky mezcal at the local market. And visit sites like the Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzmán.
If you can’t decide what to do, I strongly recommend spending a good amount of time eating in Oaxaca!
Find yourself a local guide, or check out this 5-star local food tour to try 20 different foods at local markets and street food vendors.
With its rich culture and history, Oaxaca City is a fantastic location on the list of safest places to visit in Mexico for travelers.
Holbox
The risk of petty crime, pickpocketing, mugging, and drug offenses is exceptionally minimal in Isla Holbox.
This beautiful island started out as a small fishing village, and today, much of its economy is generated from tourist activities.
I love the relaxing atmosphere and laid-back vibe of Isla Holbox. It is a perfect place for travelers and nomads. This was my favorite island in Mexico by far, and there is no shortage of things to do.
Holbox is also known for its beautiful, white-sandy beaches and clear, turquoise water.
It is located off the coast of Quintana Roo, near Playa del Carmen and Cancun, the iconic resort towns in Mexico.
Tulum
Tulum is a small city located on the coast of the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico and has some of the best cenotes.
Most restaurants and businesses are located in the downtown area of Tulum, so it’s usually the safest place to be.
However, as a tourist destination that is quickly gaining popularity, the city of Tulum is absolutely among the safest cities in Mexico.
Visitors can explore the ancient Mayan ruins like the iconic El Castillo, which is positioned to overlook the Caribbean coastline.
I strongly recommend seeing these insanely well-preserved ruins near the white-sandy beaches and beautiful blue waters.
Check out this tour to see the ancient Mayan ruins in Tulum AND swim in a cenote at a fantastic price.
Tulum has some seriously fantastic beaches to relax on while you enjoy a meal of fresh fish tacos.
And the best part is the beaches, activities, food, and drinks don’t quite hit the price tag of the more popular tourist destinations like Cancun yet.
Tulum is ideal for a relaxing vacation with its stunning scenery and friendly atmosphere. Start planning a trip soon!
Isla Mujeres
The area around Isla Mujeres is very secure. Compared to other regions of Mexico, the number of crimes is not as significant here.
Isla Mujeres is known for its beauty, powdery sand beaches, and turquoise waters. There are also many excellent restaurants serving fresh seafood and historical sites such as the Mayan ruins of El Meco.
Isla Mujeres is located off the coast of Cancun and can be reached by ferry from Cancun or Playa del Carmen. When we visited, we took a catamaran ride from Playa del Carmen for a day trip to the island.
We tasted fantastic tequila at the shops for free and had such a relaxing day at the beach. There is also a sea turtle sanctuary and must-try 5-star snorkeling tours!
I strongly recommend visiting Isla Mujeres at least once for a safe and unforgettable experience.
Guadalajara
Guadalajara is known for its food, culture, and historic sites. The city is home to several delicious traditional Mexican dishes (I know, I talk about food a lot, but it’s the best part of travel!).
Its cultural scene includes everything from mariachi music to folk art.
The city offers up a mix of vibrant culture and rich history, from a deep dive into Mexican art, music, and religion to discovering fascinating architecture dating back centuries.
I celebrated my 30th birthday in Guadalajara, and let me tell you, no matter where you are in the city, it’s often bustling with life.
It is also home to several important historic sites, such as the Cathedral of Guadalajara and the Teatro Degollado.
If you are visiting Guadalajara, Mexico, you are in the perfect location to take a tequila tour. Taking a tequila tour is one of the top activities in Guadalajara and an experience that I highly recommend.
Guadalajara is located in western Mexico, about halfway between Mexico City and the U.S. border. It is the capital of the state of Jalisco and one of Mexico’s largest cities.
Puebla
Travelers and tourists can feel at ease and feel comfortable in the safe city of Puebla.
Puebla is known for its food, historic sites, and its location. The city is located in the state of the same name (Puebla), which is in the central region of Mexico. Puebla is about 160 kilometers southeast of Mexico City.
The city was founded in 1531 by Spanish settlers, and it is the second-largest city in the state of Puebla.
Puebla is home to many historical landmarks, such as the Church of Santo Domingo, the Great Pyramid of Cholula, and the Zapotec ruins of Monte Alban.
The city is also known for its cuisine, including mole poblano and chiles en nogada.
In recent years, Puebla has become a popular tourist destination, and its safety measures have made it one of Mexico’s safest places.
Huatulco
Huatulco is located on Mexico’s Pacific coast and is known for its rushing waterfalls, scenic mountain views, and sandy beaches.
Very little (if any) harmful conduct occurs here because this area of Mexico is somewhat remote and less frequently visited. So you will feel very safe here!
Huatulco is also known as one of the most fantastic areas to see baby sea turtles; you can even book a tour to help release baby turtles back into the sea! An unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach or explore the city’s sights, Huatulco is an enjoyable and safe destination for all.
Cancun
Cancun is one of the most popular cities in Mexico for tourists, located on the Yucatan Peninsula in the Riviera Maya in Mexico.
This place is a spring-breakers dream and has a fantastically fun nightlife. And, of course, don’t forget about the famously beautiful Cancun beaches.
It is also the gateway to plenty of famous Mayan ruins, such as Chichen Itza, and many exciting adventure opportunities and tours.
This tour (with a bilingual guide!) takes you to see Chichen Itza, Valladolid, the pyramid of Kukulcan, swimming in a seriously cool cenote, and has over 8 thousand 5-star reviews!
You also get to eat at a free buffet, free pickups from your hotel or a meeting point, and even get extra time for souvenir shopping.
With its beautiful beaches and fascinating history, Cancun is a safe and enjoyable place to visit for travelers of all ages.
San Pancho
This hidden gem is where some of the most stunning white sand beaches meet incredible food stands and local art that showcases Mexico’s lively culture.
San Pancho is not your typical tourist destination. In fact, it remains a hidden gem relatively undiscovered by the majority of tourists!
Those who visit San Pancho fall in love with its laid-back atmosphere, amazing surf breaks, and a unique chance to party right on the beach.
Here you can witness amazing locals weaving baskets, sipping margaritas, and hand-dying fabrics while they spend their day alongside the pacific front views.
The best part of San Pancho is the laid-back, warm community vibe. And the amazing beach sunsets.
If you want a chance for an authentic Mexican cultural experience, San Pancho should be at the top of your list.
Travel Tips to Stay Safe
Here are some essential safety tips for traveling in Mexico.
Use Registered Taxis
When taking a taxi in Mexico, make sure it’s a registered taxi. These taxis usually have a special license plate. Unregistered taxis are not regulated, and unregistered taxi drivers may overcharge you tons of money.
Also, they can be unsafe. If possible, try to take taxis recommended by your hotel or restaurant. Or opt to take an Uber instead.
Avoid Salespeople at Tourist Locations
Salespeople at airports and other tourist locations can be aggressive. They may try to sell you way overpriced souvenirs or tours. Just politely say “no” and keep walking.
While visiting Chichen Itza, Travis stopped to look at some cigars at a souvenir stand. The eager salesman told us he would “only” charge $40 (U.S. dollars!) per cigar.
Since a salesperson a few stands behind us had offered the same cigars for much cheaper, we just laughed and continued walking.
However, the salesman was not deterred. He ran after us, following us past countless other stands all the way to the parking lot.
The entire way, he was offering lower and lower prices until he finally shouted out, “$10 for the whole pack!” once we reached our motorcycles.
We could not believe he had followed us so far! But we simply ignored him and continued on our way.
If the salespeople persist like this, I recommend ignoring them, and they will eventually move on to someone else.
Beware of Pickpockets and Thieves
Mexico City, like many large cities, is primarily known for pickpockets, so keep your valuables out of plain sight.
Wear a money belt or keep your wallet in your front pocket.
When possible, leave unnecessary valuables, such as jewelry, at home. If you’re carrying a purse or bag, keep it close to your body.
And be especially careful on crowded buses and subways.
I have found that the handiest way to protect my cash, passport, and credit cards when traveling is a hidden bra wallet.
These things easily clip on any bra size or your belt loop and securely protect your stuff without anyone even knowing you have it on.
Do Some Research About the Place You Intend to Go
It’s essential to research before traveling to any country, but it is even more important in our post-pandemic world.
It is also important to understand where the high-risk and dangerous areas are when traveling to a new country.
Consult travel advisories from the United States and Mexican governments and authoritative sources like the CDC before you book your trip.
This is so that you’re aware of any areas that are off-limits or particularly dangerous once you’ve decided on a destination and researched safety information specific to that area.
Watch What You Consume and Drink
The water is not safe to drink in Mexico.
It’s easy to get caught up in the festive atmosphere of Mexico and let your guard down. However, it’s important to remember that you should be careful about what you consume and drink while you’re there.
This is important for health-safety reasons.
Stick to bottled water, even for brushing your teeth, and avoid ice cubes in drinks.
Even better, get a good quality reusable water bottle that filters your water like this one to limit your plastic waste.
Avoid street food unless you’re sure it’s been cooked properly. If you eat fruit or vegetables, ensure they’ve been washed with safely filtered or bottled water.
And beware of scammers who might try to slip drugs into your drinks—never accept a drink from a stranger.
Talk to the Locals
During the time we have spent in Mexico, there is one thing we can all agree on.
The local people are amazing.
Our group was welcomed with open arms and friendly, kind hospitality in every place we visited.
A new friend named Javier saw we were going to be riding near his hometown. He reached out to us on Facebook and offered us his place by the lake to motorcycle camp for free.
Javier even told us we could stay as long as we wanted. And took us out on his boat for a lake day!
Our amazing new friends in Aguascalientes gave us some great safety tips. Such as not riding our motorcycles at night through the states of Veracruz and Tabasco.
We were also warned to be cautious while visiting Zacatecas due to the cartel violence issues there.
Our group never ran into any issues with danger in Mexico. Even while covering a majority of the country on motorcycles, staying in hostels, living with locals, and camping in tents.
Marco, our good friend, even gave us his phone number and told us to give him a call if we got into trouble or needed help anywhere throughout the entire country.
The locals in Mexico rock. 🤘
Know Emergency Numbers
It’s always a good idea to know the local emergency numbers before traveling to a new place.
For example, in Mexico, you can dial 066 for medical emergencies and 060 for the police.
Stay Aware of Your Surroundings
This tip applies no matter where you are or what country you’re traveling in. Pay attention to what’s happening around you and trust your gut if something feels off.
Along with being aware of your surroundings, staying alert is also essential. This means not walking around with headphones in or looking at your phone while walking down the street.
Get Travel Insurance
When it comes to planning for your next vacation, even to the safest places to visit in Mexico, don’t leave out the critical step of getting travel insurance.
From canceled flights and delayed luggage to medical emergencies and political unrest, you never know what kind of uncertainties await when you’re exploring new places. Or hopping between borders.
I strongly recommend getting Nomad Insurance from SafetyWing, which provides travel medical insurance for travelers all over the world.
SafetyWing is a fantastic travel insurance company because their customer service is on point! They are so helpful with claims and with any and all questions you may have.
The best part is you can get Nomad Insurance from SafetyWing even if you have already started traveling.
Having an insurance policy in place for your travels provides peace of mind, and protection, for when life throws unexpected curveballs.
It can also make a big difference between being reimbursed or utterly broke should something go wrong.
Bottom line: do yourself a favor and get a good travel insurance package before setting off on your next adventure!
Final Thoughts
Mexico has gotten a bad rap in the media over the years, but don’t let that deter you from visiting and experiencing it for yourself.
Mexico is home to incredible natural wonders, vibrant culture, rich history, and awe-inspiring opportunities to experience something new. The locations listed in this article are among the best and safest places to visit in Mexico.
The people are warm and friendly, so travelers don’t need to worry about feeling unwelcome or unsafe while they’re visiting.
If you’re looking for a vacation destination that is both safe and exotic, Mexico should be at the top of your list.
And these 30 destinations are some of the most fantastic, safest places to visit in Mexico. So you can pack your bags and enjoy your trip with no worries.
…Except for maybe what type of tequila you’d like in your margarita. And how many tacos you can realistically eat in one sitting.
Happy travels, my friends.