Is Tulum Safe? An Honest Take After Two Years in Mexico

When people hear I live in Tulum, one of the first questions I get is, “But is Tulum safe?”

After living here for two years with my husband and kids, I can honestly say: yes, Tulum is generally safe — especially if you use common sense. In fact, compared to where we came from (Edmonton, Canada), we actually feel safer here.

Tulum has this laid-back, welcoming energy that drew us in right away. It’s the kind of place where you can eat tacos under the stars, explore cenotes on a random Tuesday, and watch kids play barefoot in the sand – all while feeling a sense of peace that’s hard to find elsewhere. But like anywhere in the world, there are a few things to be aware of.

What the Travel Advisory Says About Tulum

According to the U.S. Department of State, the state of Quintana Roo (which includes Tulum) is currently classified as Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution.

What does that mean? It doesn’t mean “Don’t go”. It simply encourages travelers to be aware of their surroundings, especially after dark, and to stay in well-lit, populated tourist areas. In other words: risk remains low for most visitors who use common sense, but it’s always wise to stay informed.

Before planning a trip, check recent news and government advisories. Tulum is safe today, but situations can change – staying up-to-date helps you plan smart, stress-free travel.

Is Tulum, Mexico Safe Compared to Other Places?

Before we moved, all the blogs warned: “Don’t go out after dark.”
That made me nervous – but also skeptical. Because in Tulum, it gets dark around 6 p.m., and that’s exactly when the streets come alive. Locals are out grabbing tacos, music is playing, and families are walking around together. If you skipped that part of the day, you’d miss half the magic of Mexico.

From my experience, as long as you stick to the main roads and popular areas (like Aldea Zama, the Hotel Zone, and downtown Tulum), it’s perfectly safe to go out at night. There are some areas – like the stretch between Aldea Zama and downtown known as the invasion – that I wouldn’t recommend walking after dark, but driving is fine.

When I Did Feel Unsafe (Rare, But Real Moments)

There have only been a couple of times I’ve truly felt unsafe here. One night I was out walking my dog in Aldea Zama when I suddenly heard a woman scream – the kind of scream that makes your blood run cold. She came running past me, panicked, and I immediately headed home.

Later I found out through our building’s security guard that a couple had been mugged nearby. After that, my husband took over the late-night dog walks for a while. It shook me, but it was also a reminder that bad things can happen anywhere – and they’re the exception, not the rule.

Sometimes I’ll get a gut feeling about a certain street and just change direction. I’ve learned to always trust that instinct – it’s the simplest way to stay safe.

The Truth About Cartels and Crime in Tulum

Let’s be honest – when people Google “Is Tulum safe from cartels?”, they’re looking for reassurance. The truth? Yes, cartels exist in Quintana Roo, just like they exist across Mexico. But they’re not out to get tourists.

You may have seen recent headlines about “narco-banners” threatening U.S. citizens in a Mexican resort destination. That kind of high-drama communication is part of cartel strategy: intimidation, showing power, and warning rivals. It doesn’t necessarily mean there’s a sudden spike in tourist kidnappings or mass violence in your typical hotel zone.

From living here for two years, I’d say: if you’re not dealing in illicit drugs or shady business, staying in the main tourist areas, your risk remains very low. The real cartel conflicts tend to involve large-scale operations, territory battles, or extortion of local business owners – not vacationing families.

I don’t do drugs, and that’s a huge part of why I feel safe. Getting mixed up with drugs is the fastest way to get mixed up with the wrong people. I also don’t own a local business – another layer that sometimes attracts cartel attention. I stay friendly, aware, and keep my head down when needed.

You’ll also notice a big military and police presence in Tulum. At first, seeing rifles everywhere was a massive culture shock. Once, when my daughter was three, she made a pretend finger gun at a soldier – we nearly died of embarrassment – but he just laughed. Now, I actually find their presence reassuring.

Headlines like the narco-banner story can make good clickbait, but they don’t always translate into actual threats for a standard tourist experience. Things can change, though, so before booking your trip, check recent news and official travel advisories. For now, Tulum remains a safe place for tourists who use common sense.

Is It Safe to Travel to Tulum, Mexico as a Tourist?

In my opinion, yes – as long as you use common sense. Don’t do drugs. Don’t get wasted in public. Don’t pick fights or act disrespectful toward locals. Don’t flash wealth. The same safety rules you’d follow in any major city apply here.

Some beach clubs in Tulum have reputations for cartel ties, and yes, you might be offered drugs. Politely decline and move on – most people will leave you alone. Restaurants, cenotes, and nightlife spots have never given us any problems. We’ve always had an amazing time.

As for taxis — I use them occasionally, but not often since we have a car. I’ve heard of isolated incidents, but in general, taxis in Tulum are safe. The bigger issue tends to be overpricing, not safety.

Locals, Expats, and the Sense of Community

Tulum has grown fast in the last decade, and with that kind of rapid expansion, an increase in crime isn’t shocking. Still, daily life here feels calm. Locals are resilient and go about their lives with warmth and good humor.

Most people you meet are kind and ready to help you when you are in need. One night, when my car ran out of gas, a group of men helped push me out of traffic. I handed one guy 200 pesos to buy gas – he biked off, and sure enough, came back. They wouldn’t even let me pay them after, just told me to visit their taco stand. (Which I did- they run a great breakfast taco stand outside of Waldo’s)

That kind of experience happens way more often than anything scary.

My Top Safety Tips for Tulum

If you’re wondering how safe is Tulum Mexico, here’s what I recommend after two years of living here:

• Don’t do drugs. It’s the #1 way tourists get in trouble.
• Don’t get drunk in public. Know your limit and stay aware.
• Avoid showing off wealth. Keep jewelry and cash simple.
• Stay on main roads at night. Especially between downtown and Aldea Zama.
• Be polite and respectful. Kindness goes a long way here.
• Trust your gut. If something feels off – change direction or leave.

So, Is Tulum Safe? My Honest Answer

If you’re looking for trouble, trouble might find you. But if you’re looking for tacos, turquoise water, and good vibes – you’ll find that too, and safely.

We genuinely feel safer here than we did in our old neighborhood in Canada. Tulum isn’t perfect, but it’s real, and full of good-hearted people who love this place as much as the visitors do.

Stay informed, read the latest news, check travel advisories, and use common sense – and you’ll have the kind of vacation (or life) here that makes Tulum so special.

Disclaimer: This blog reflects my personal experience and opinions as a resident of Tulum. Safety conditions can change, and readers should use their own judgment and consult official travel advisories before visiting.