solo trip to cancun

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A guide to solo traveling Cancun

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Last updated 10 months ago

Summertime is the perfect opportunity to travel, and what better place to go than Cancun ? This Mexican city has something for everyone, whether you’re looking to relax on the beach or explore ancient ruins.

But if you’re traveling solo, it can be hard to know where to start, and you might have some questions:

Is Cancun safe for solo travel? What activities can solo travelers do in Cancun?

Table of Contents

Is Cancun safe for solo travel?

Best areas in cancun for solo travelers, downtown cancun, the hotel zone, downtown cancun or the hotel zone: where to stay, top things to do for solo travelers in cancun, visit the maya ruins at chichen itza, explore the nearby city of tulum, go snorkeling or scuba diving, spend a day at the beach, take a day trip to isla mujeres, go windsurfing or kitesurfing, safety tips for solo travel in cancun, 1. choose your accommodation carefully, 2. be cautious after dark, 3. don’t accept rides from strangers, 4. keep valuables safe, 5. be aware of your surroundings.

That’s why I’ve put together this guide to solo traveling in Cancun – so you can make the most of your trip!

Cancun is an amazing place to visit, and it’s even better when you can enjoy it without having to worry about coordinating plans with others.

Whether you’re a first-time traveler or an experienced adventurer, these tips will help you make the most of your solo trip to Cancun .

Cancun is a popular tourist and solo traveler destination, and there are plenty of travelers who can attest to its safety.

Many people find Cancun to be safer than some of the other major cities in Mexico, such as Mexico City or Guadalajara.

Cancun isn’t any more or less safe for solo travelers than it is for groups or couples – as always, solo travelers should use extra caution when traveling to unfamiliar places.

Like any place, it’s always important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions when necessary: be aware of your surroundings, don’t flash valuables, and don’t walk alone at night.

Be sure to research your destination before you go, and always trust your gut instinct if something doesn’t feel right.

With a little common sense, you’ll be able to enjoy Cancun without any problems.

Also in Mexico

Cancun is broken up into two main areas: the Hotel Zone and Downtown Cancun. The Hotel Zone is a long, narrow strip of land that’s home to most of the city’s resorts and hotels.

It’s located on an island off the coast of Cancun, and it’s connected to the mainland by two bridges.

Downtown Cancun is located on the mainland, and it’s where you’ll find most of the city’s shops, restaurants, and nightlife. It has much more of a local feel, and it’s a great place to explore during the day if you’re a solo traveler.

However, solo travelers should be cautious at night since it can be a bit more dangerous than the Hotel Zone – there are not many tourists in the area at night, and it’s easy to stand out.

If you’re looking for a more relaxed solo vacation, the Hotel Zone might be a better fit for you. This area is full of all-inclusive resorts, and it’s easy to find activities and excursions that are geared toward solo travelers. The Hotel Zone is the safest area in Cancun, and solo travelers will feel comfortable walking around here at any time of day or night.

It’s also convenient since most of the city’s hotels and resorts are located here, so solo travelers won’t have to go far to find a place to stay. Accommodation in the Hotel Zone can get pretty pricey though, so that is something to keep in mind.

Both areas have their pros and cons for solo travelers. The Hotel Zone is more isolated, so it can be a bit boring if you’re not staying at a resort.

However, it’s also much safer than Downtown Cancun, so solo travelers may feel more comfortable there. This is a good option for solo travelers who want to be in close proximity to other tourists.

Downtown Cancun is more lively and has more to do, but it’s also more crowded and can be dangerous at night. Downtown Cancun is a great place to explore and meet other solo travelers, but it’s important to be cautious after dark. If you’re planning on going out at night, stick to well-lit areas and don’t wander too far from your hotel or hostel.

I stayed in the downtown area of Cancun during my solo trip there and didn’t encounter any problems. I actually preferred that the area was less touristy, and was quieter and more laid back than some of the other areas in Cancun, like the Hotel Zone. I didn’t really walk around the area much at night though, which I probably would’ve done more of if I’d stayed in the Hotel Zone.

If you’re solo traveling in Cancun, I recommend staying in the Hotel Zone and spending your days exploring Downtown Cancun.

This way, you’ll get the best of both worlds – a safe place to stay and a more lively area to explore.

Cancun has something for everyone, so solo travelers will never find themselves bored! If you’re looking to relax, you can spend your days lounging on the beach or by the pool.

Or, if you’re looking for some adventure, you can go snorkeling, scuba diving, windsurfing, or kitesurfing. You can also take a day trip to one of the many nearby Maya ruins, like Chichen Itza or Tulum.

Here are some of the top things to do for solo travelers in Cancun :

Chichen Itza is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Mexico, and it’s a great place to visit if you’re solo traveling.

You can take a bus or taxi from Cancun, or you can book a tour through your hotel or hostel.

Tulum is a beautiful city located just a short drive from Cancun. Solo travelers can explore the ancient Maya ruins, or relax on one of the many beaches.

Tulum is also a great place to go snorkeling and scuba diving. Some popular things to do in Tulum include diving in cenotes, visiting the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, and exploring the Mayan ruins.

Cancun is located on the Caribbean Sea, so it’s a great place for snorkeling and scuba diving.

There are many tour companies that offer snorkeling and scuba diving trips, and you can usually find discounts if you book in advance.

Cancun has some of the best beaches in Mexico, so solo travelers should definitely spend at least one day lounging on the sand.

If you’re staying in the Hotel Zone, most of the beaches are located right near your hotel.

Isla Mujeres is a small island off the coast of Cancun, and it’s a great place to spend the day. You can take a ferry from Cancun, and once you’re on the island, you can rent a golf cart to get around.

Be sure to visit the Maya ruins and the turtle farm while you’re there!

Cancun is a great place for both beginner and experienced windsurfers and kitesurfers.

There are many companies that offer lessons, and you can usually find discounts if you book in advance.

These are just a few of the many things solo travelers can do in Cancun. With its beautiful beaches, Maya ruins, and lively nightlife, Cancun is a great destination for solo travelers.

You’re sure to find plenty of activities to fill up your days in this town!

Though Cancun is a relatively safe solo travel destination, it’s still a good idea to exercise caution when traveling solo, just like you should when traveling in any city.

Here are some safety tips for solo travel in Cancun:

There are many different accommodation options in Cancun, from hotels and hostels to Airbnb rentals.

If you’re traveling solo, it’s important to choose a place that makes you feel safe and comfortable. Do some research before you book, and read reviews from other solo travelers.

While Cancun is generally safe, it’s always a good idea to exercise caution when traveling solo.

If you’re planning on going out at night, stick to well-lit areas and don’t wander too far from your hotel or hostel.

If you’re solo traveling in Cancun, it’s important to be cautious of accepting rides from strangers. If you’re planning on taking a taxi, make sure it’s a licensed taxi.

It’s also a good idea to ask your hotel or hostel for recommendations on safe taxi companies. Uber is the best choice for transportation in Cancun, because you’ll have all the driver’s information available in the app and will even be able to share your ride with a friend.

When solo traveling, it’s important to keep your valuables safe. If possible, leave them in your hotel room or hostel safe.

If you’re carrying them with you, make sure to keep them close to your body and out of sight. Never carry all your cash and valuables with you, and only carry the amount of cash you’ll need for the day. Leave your passport and extra credit cards in your room or hostel as well.

When solo traveling, it’s important to always be aware of your surroundings. If you’re walking around, be aware of the people around you and try to stick to well-lit areas.

If you’re at the beach, don’t leave your belongings unguarded while you go for a swim. If you’re going out at night, try to go with a group of friends. When walking around the city, try to avoid having your headphones in so you can be aware of your surroundings.

Cancun is an amazing place to explore and a very solo traveler-friendly destination. I loved getting to explore this vibrant city on my own and would recommend it to any solo traveler.

Just be sure to exercise caution, and you’re sure to have a great time!

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How To Do Cancún Alone: A Guide for Singles

Cancún has beautiful blue seas and sandy white beaches, which makes it a top destination that appeals to a wide variety of people like families, couples, and adventurists. With its wide variety of hotels, restaurants, and experiences, Cancún is an excellent place for anyone, even singles. 

So, how do you do Cancún alone? When traveling to Cancún as a single, you will want to make sure you have researched where you want to go so that you are prepared for what to expect. You will also want to learn about the do’s and don’ts of Cancún as well as ways to keep you safe.

When traveling alone, it is good to give yourself a detailed itinerary. Figure out where you want to stay, forms of transportation, places you’d like to eat, shop at, and activities you’d like to do. Your schedule doesn’t have to be strict because this is a time to relax! However, this article will give you plenty of ideas to keep you engaged and loving your trip to Cancún as a single. 

Is Cancún Safe?

As Cancún is a trendy tourist destination, the crime rate has increased in the past three years. However, most of the crimes happening are usually gang-related and are happening outside of tourist areas. The government is providing the needed security measures to ensure that the tourism industry in Cancún is safe. 

Cancún Safe Areas

The tourist areas of Cancún are generally safe. The government makes sure to keep these areas under control because the tourism industry brings in tons of income for Cancún. These areas are:

• The hotel zone – This is a 14-mile stretch between downtown Cancún and the airport that contains many safe places. Although many tourists are walking around during the day and night, it is advised that women don’t walk around at night alone.
• Beaches – Beaches are a safe area but be cautious of any warning flags. This will be a red flag that says “Peligro” or danger. The warning signs mean that there are bad weather conditions. Black flags mean that it is too dangerous to go into the water. 
• Isla Murales – This is a small island reachable by ferry and is one of the safest areas of Cancún
• Shopping malls – The nicer malls are generally safer for tourists and contain American brand-name stores. 

Areas to Avoid

There are going to be areas that you should either avoid or take caution when going to, especially if you are traveling alone. If you are unsure about an area, it is helpful to ask locals their opinion on areas that a tourist should avoid. 

• Renting vehicles – People have run into the problem of being overcharged when renting a vehicle that has not been well-maintained and prone to breaking down. If you are in an accident, it is possible to be arrested until you have paid all damages to the rented vehicle. It is best to travel by foot or bus. 
• Outskirts of Cancún – It is recommended not to travel outside of known tourist areas, especially at night. 
• Cancún Mercados – These are open-air shopping areas where sellers often overprice items and can be aggressive. Some tourists have claimed that their credit cards were used without authorization after using them at a Mercado. If you do go, avoid using your debit or credit card and checks, and don’t let people scam you.

Where to Stay

The adventures and activities outside of the hotel are what can be the priciest, so choosing an all-inclusive hotel can save you some cash. Cancún has a wide variety of hotels to choose from that feature great views of the beaches and multiple activities to partake in.    

Le Blanc Spa Resort 

Le Blanc Spa Resort is the perfect all-inclusive, adults-only oasis. It is located on a tranquil beach with a beautiful turquoise ocean. With the different experiences offered and luxurious amenities here, you are encouraged to embrace paradise. As a plus, you won’t go thirsty with the five bars located in and around the resort. 

This resort is 22.1 km (13.7 miles) from the Cancún International Airport and within walking distance of the beaches of the Caribbean Sea. Here are room packages you can choose from:  

• Royal Deluxe Lagoon View, $390 – $729 (per night)
• Royale Junior Suite Ocean View, $416 – $997 (per night)
• Royale Governor, $498 – $1,100 (per night)
• One-Bedroom Presidential Suite, $4,649 (average per night)

This resort offers five different dining options! Want to dine in the comfort and privacy of your room? Their 24-hour room service has all your cravings covered. For a more indulgent experience, you can follow their dress code and dine in Lumiere, with French cuisine that will ignite your senses. Other restaurants at the Le Blanc include:  

• Bella – Italian cuisine
• Yama – Astonishing Japanese flavors
• Blanc – Views of the turquoise horizon.

The resort’s spa offers all you need to cater to personal wellness. They offer basic pampering like manicures and pedicures. They also offer more intense treatments with their 80-minute massages, featuring four different packages: Vitality, Firming, D-Stress, and Comfort. 

Activities offered at Le Blanc:

• Tours of Mexico

– Ultimate Dolphin Swim

– Jungle Tour & Aquatwister Package

– Paradise Adventure

– Tulum Express

– Isla Mujeres Tour

• Unlimited golf 
• Fitness Center

Omni Resorts

Omni Resorts is the all-inclusive resort where modern amenities meet five-star luxury accommodations while embracing Mayan Culture. The views here alone will leave you breathless. 

This resort is 16.3 km (10.1 miles) from the Cancún International Airport and located almost directly on the beach. Here are the packages:

• Deluxe Room, $298.80
• Premier Room, $318.60
• Executive Suite, $339.30
• Luxury Villa, $807.30

Omni Resort offers many different dining options to keep your hunger satisfied at any time of the day:

• 24 Hour Room Service
• Pina Colada
• La Pina Grill
• Viva Mexico
• Kuku’s Beach Bar
• Pool Grill and Bar

Take some time to take care of yourself and visit the resort’s spa, pools, or fitness center. You can also have a little fun and book a boating and fishing trip. If you’d like, you can take poolside dance lessons to learn the basic dance steps of salsa, cumbia, and the merengue. 

Iberostar Selection Cancún

Set next to crystal clear waters, the seafront resort Iberostar Selection Cancún is a five-star, all-inclusive paradise. Enjoy the captivating views from the Mayan-inspired luxury rooms. This resort is also part of the Wave of Change – Groundbreaking Responsible Tourism Movement.  

14.3km (9 miles) from the Cancún International Airport, this seafront location means the beach is just outside the resort doors. Room prices vary depending on the view, floor level, and availability:  

• Doubles $271 – $304 (per night)
• Villas $311 – $513 (per night)

– Suite Ocean View $393 (per night)

– Master Suite $510 (per night)

– Presidential Suite $906 (per night)

Along with being an all-inclusive resort, they also have a golf course, soccer field, and tennis court. Their buffets stand out, and not just because the food is of the highest quality and prepared by professionals, but their use of gastronomy makes the experience one you’ll remember. Plus, they offer free drinks, snacks, ice cream, appetizers, and cocktails at any time of day. 

With 14 different places within the resort to dine, your choices are nearly endless.

• Cohiba Atmosphere
• Sports Bar Vertigo
• Lobby Bar Las Palmas
• Snack Bar Carey
• Bar de Playa Las Olas
• Pool Bar La Perla
• Buffet Aniguo Laguito
• Restaraunte Japones Naga Hibachi
• American Bistro
• Restaruante Mexicano El Maguey
• Restaruante Gourmet La Horma
• Asador La Parrilla

Things to Do

Although Cancún is known for its beautiful beaches and booming nightlife, there are many other things to do for fun. Along with going to the beach, shopping, and eating local cuisine, here are some other options you can enjoy:

• Explore the hotel zone – This is a 15-mile strip of hotels, beaches, restaurants, and bars that is fun just to explore. 
• Visit downtown Cancún – Downtown Cancún is an excellent area to experience local culture, taste delicious authentic food, shop small boutiques, and check out Mexican wrestling. 
• Snorkle – The turquoise blue waters are appealing above water but even more stunning underwater. There are many varieties of colorful fish and marine life to experience and several great areas to explore. 
• Zipline in the jungle – Enjoy the sunny beaches one day and zipline over the jungle the next. 

Although Cancún is full of delicious dining and relaxing resorts, the sandy-white beaches are the must-see of your travels. Always look out for the warning flags of weather conditions, but even then, you can still lay out on the beach and enjoy some quiet time to yourself. 

Here are the five best beaches in Cancún to enjoy:

• Dolphin Beach – This beautiful 14 miles of beach has no hotels, restaurants, or anything built on it, making it the perfect relaxing beach. They have palapas for shade, and you can rent out chairs and umbrellas. There are also clean restrooms available.
• Isla Mujeres – This is a small tropical island paradise that faces the coast of Cancún rather than the open ocean. 
• Playacar Beach – This beach is lined with hotels and beach clubs. There are secluded beaches that allow you to enjoy quiet time. 
• Tulum Beach – This is a bohemian beach surrounded but cabanas and open-air restaurants. 
• Playa Forum – This beach is located behind the most popular spot for nightlife and restaurants located in the heart of the hotel zone. 

Transportation

It is not hard to find transportation in Cancún, and depending on where you are staying, you may only need to find transportation from the airport to your hotel. The transportation is relatively affordable as well, which makes traveling in Cancún a bonus.  

From the Airport

Getting from the airport to the hotel and back is the first thing you should figure out before your trip. There are several options to choose from:

• Hotel shared shuttles – Available from Cancún International Airport to any major hotel, these are the most economical forms of transportation available 24 hours a day. The price is per person, which makes it suitable for solo travelers. You will need to reserve a spot in advance. Price to Cancún is $12
• Airport taxis – If you are a solo traveler who prefers to be transported alone, airport taxis are available 24 hours and are available for travelers going anywhere in Cancún. The price depends on the distance to your location. Regular taxis are not available for airport pickup. Price starts at $23
• Public busses – The bus services stop at every airport terminal and will only stop at bus stops within the towns. They will not bring you directly to the hotel or any other spot. Cancún downtown costs $4.78
• Private transfers – This is an excellent service for solo travelers who want to go from the airport to anywhere in the area. The drivers greet the passenger at the gate. Price to Cancún is $29  

From the Hotel Zone

If you want to go somewhere from your hotel that you don’t want to walk to or you have too many things to carry, there are different forms of transportation you can choose from:

• Bus – The busses run around the clock and are a safe public way to get somewhere, especially if you are a solo traveler. They are also a cheaper option. 
• Taxi – Taxis are available to take from your hotel, and rates will be posted in the lobby. Taking a taxi from your hotel will be cheaper than hailing one on the street. Taxis will also display their rates in their window. 

Places to Shop

Cancún has become an area that appeals to a variety of shoppers with its upscale malls and designer boutiques. The best malls in the hotel zone are:

• La Isla Shopping Village – This is one of Cancún’s most popular shopping areas that includes an interactive aquarium, movie theatre, coffee shops, restaurants, boutiques, and souvenir shops. 
• Malecon Americas – Connected to Plaza Las Americas, these indoor, open-air malls feature clothing stores, bookstores, a music store, restaurants, and more options. They also have an indoor upstairs food court, Sky Zone, and arcade. 
• Puerto Cancún Marina Town Center – This is an open-air mall that has an IMAX theatre, food court, nail salon, a gym, shops, and boutiques. 
• Coral Negro Flea Market – This is a terrific market to find souvenirs like shirts, painted pottery, jewelry, and traditional Mexican clothing.
• Luxury Avenue – This is a perfect upscale mall to go to treat yourself. Along with luxury shopping, you can treat yourself to a cocktail or dessert at the bar. Some of the high-end designers include:

Top-Rated Tourist Attractions

Cancún brings in more than four million tourists every year because they have an endless number of things to do. While visiting Cancún, you should check out at least one of these historic tourist attractions. 

The Mayan Ruins of Chichen Itza

The Mayan ruins are one of Chichen Itza’s most popular tourist sites and a must-see. If you are an early bird, it is beneficial to take the early access tour to visit the site. Hotel pickups are scheduled for 5 am but are well worth going before access is open to other tourists. 

• One belonging to the classic Mayan period built between the 7th and 10th centuries A.D. 
• And the Maya-Toltec period from the later part of the 10th century to the 13th century A.D. 
• There is also the Kukulkan pyramid that is 75 feet tall. This pyramid was built for astronomical purposes.

The Maya Museum

Spread across three halls, there are 350 different artifacts, including skeletal remains that date back 14,000 years. Here is where you can find the remains of the 10,000-year-old “woman of the palms.” 

This museum includes Mayan architecture, art, and sculptures. They do a great job of explaining the ancient roots of the Mayan culture. 

The Cancún Underwater Museum of Art

MUSA was started in 2009 and is home to over 500 sculptures spread out through two different galleries 28 feet deep. These statues have had time to sit and become covered in coral formations and surrounded by colorful fish. 

There is a variety of guided snorkeling and diving tours you can choose from. But if diving isn’t your thing, these statues can be viewed from above water through a glass-bottom tour boat. 

The Scenic Tower and Xcaret

Standing at 110 feet tall, this tower is an excellent way to get a bird’s-eye view of the city, beaches, and coastline while getting a good workout in. There is a steep set of stairs to climb up, but if you don’t want to take the climb, there is an elevator you can take. 

Xcaret is home to the tower and filled with a mix of theme parks and 50 attractions making it a great place to spend the day . Here you can explore the underground rivers, a coral reef aquarium, folk museum, music and dance performances, and even more. 

Urbano Kabah Park

This ecological park is a natural oasis that people enjoy taking a stroll through. There is a two-kilometer trail that goes through abundant gardens and palm trees. Here you can run into iguanas, coatis, peccary (a type of wild pig), and the spider monkey. 

This park also includes the Casa Maya Museum, which is a small attraction that is a replica of a traditional Mayan house that demonstrates how the indigenous people have lived. 

Nightlife in Cancún is notorious for its loud, soulful music, high energy, and passion-filled clubs. 

Punta Cancún is the place to be and is known as the Party Zone. 

• H Roof – 4.5 Stars, 3.7 km (2.3 miles) from Iberostar Selection Cancún. At H Roof, you are encouraged to plunge yourself into an exclusive and stimulating atmosphere. Their standards are high, and the DJ’s performing live sets exceed them and are what set them apart from the rest. There is also an incredible view of Nichupte Lagoon.
• Chicabal Sunset Club – 4.7 Stars, 700 m (0.4 miles) from Omni Resorts, and 1.6 km (about 1 mile) to Iberostar Selection Cancún. Chicabal Sunset Club is the ultimate club experience for singles. They offer yacht service, urban gastronomy, and luxury cannabis. Their party concepts are profane and enticing. This is a place so incredible, you may not believe it exists! 
• Mandala Cancún – 4.3 Stars, 1.1 km (0.7 miles) from Le Blanc Spa Resort. Mandala Cancún is among the world’s greatest clubs. Notorious for it’s Asian and opulent style, it is a place for party lovers, where friends, and even strangers, share shots and dance until the night passes. 

Things You Should Know 

When traveling anywhere, especially alone, there are some things you should be aware of beforehand. It is crucial to be prepared when going to a new place so that you know what to expect. 

• Vendors can be aggressive – Cancún has numerous aggressive vendors trying to sell you things. They tend to heckle people who are alone the most. So if you are walking from your hotel to the beach, you most likely run into some. Try to avoid them.   
• Strong undertows – Cancún can experience strong undertows; there will be warning flags posted on the beaches when this is the case. 
• The local culture won’t be found in the hotel zone – The hotel zone aims to make travelers feel comfortable without making them feel out of their comfort zone, so the local culture is lacking. If you want an authentic Cancún experience, you should visit downtown Cancún. 
• Don’t drink the tap water – Cancún’s tap water is filled with parasites and potentially deadly bacteria. Stick to filtered bottled water and confirm with any restaurants whether their ice and water is filtered or not. 
• Be wary of raw foods – Raw foods like salads and fruit are more likely to contain bacteria.
• Hurricane season – This season is between August and November. This is the time where it is the rainiest and at high risk of hurricanes. If you plan to travel during this time because it can be cheaper, it is recommended to purchase travel insurance. 
• US dollars are widely accepted – Most restaurants, stores, and hotels accept U.S dollars but converting dollars to pesos will give you the best exchange rate. 
• Busses are more affordable – Cancún taxis are not metered, and they follow a flat rate, which can be very pricey. The bus is the easiest and cheapest form of transportation, usually costing under $1. Hotels can let you know the best places to pick up and drop off. 
• Be careful of hotel balconies – Hotel balconies tend not to be very strong and are also lower than you may be used to. There have been instances of people falling over the balconies. 
• Tourist card – When arriving in Mexico, you will receive a tourist card and will need it for when you leave. 

Traveler’s Do’s and Don’ts

When traveling, you will want to make sure you understand the do’s and don’ts of the area, especially if you are arriving as a single. Being somewhere alone can sometimes make you feel more out of place, so understanding these do’s and don’ts can allow you to feel more confident during your travels. 

• Be mindful of your drink when alone at a club. Don’t leave it unattended and get a new one if you must. This is to prevent drugs from being slipped in. 
• Avoid tourist information stalls at the airport. People will try to suck you into a timeshare presentation or try to sell you something. 
• Bring sunscreen because the sun is hot and buying sunscreen in Cancún can be expensive. 
• Learn basic Spanish. Most tourist industries have employees that speak English, but it is still beneficial to learn some essential Spanish words. Greeting and thanking a person in their language can help you earn respect.  
• Don’t flash lots of cash or wear expensive jewelry. This can make you a target for pickpockets.
• Don’t put any bags or purses under your bus seat. This can make your belongings easy to steal. 
• Don’t exchange money at the airport. Airports are known for charging a high exchange rate. It is best to exchange money before you leave for your trip or use an airport ATM.  
• Don’t lose your tourist card because you’ll need it to leave the country without paying a fine. 
• Don’t use your electronic card unless you absolutely must. You can be slapped with a high transaction fee. 

Traveling to Cancún as a single can be a fun experience for you to get away and spend some time by yourself. This is a fantastic time to reconnect with yourself while enjoying the warm white beaches and meeting new people. 

Before traveling, make sure you have it planned out where you want to visit so that you are prepared on what to expect from your trip. Remember to have fun and be safe!

https://www.oyster.com/articles/cancun-travel-tips-things-to-know-before-going-to-cancun/

https://www.10best.com/destinations/mexico/cancun/shopping/best-shopping/

https://www.cancunairport.com/transportation.html

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Backpacking in Mexico , Solo Travel

• Cancun Solo Travel Guide

Are you planning to visit Cancun as a solo traveller?  Cancun is one of the best places to travel alone in Mexico this Cancun solo travel guide will give you all the information you need to know about visiting Cancun solo.  You’ll get tips for the best things to do in Cancun for solo travellers as well as some of the best places to stay in Cancun when you’re travelling alone and lots more besides!

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This is a guest post written by Amy from Plain2Plane who spent 3 months travelling in Mexico, with edits and additions by Claire who spent 6 months travelling around Mexico solo

Know Before You Go to Cancun

Before travelling to Cancun, make sure you book accommodation and popular attractions ASAP as hotels and tickets can sell out.

🛌 MY FAVOURITE SOLO ACCOMMODATION IN CANCUN:

$$ Casa HIKURI – cute guesthouse with friendly host & swimming pool

$ Mezcal Hostel – hostel in downtown Cancun with a swimming pool

$ Mayan Monkey Cancun – across the street from the beach in the Zona Hotelera

⭐ TOP 3 CANCUN ACTIVITIES TO BOOK IN ADVANCE:

1. Chichen Itza, Cenote, and Valladolid All-Inclusive Tour

2. Coco Bongo Nightclub Experience

3. Street Food, Local Market and Urban Art Tour

Why Visit Cancun as a Solo Traveller?

Cancun is one of the most popular places to visit in Mexico whether you’re travelling solo, as a couple, family or group of friends. Tourists flock from all over the world to Cancun so you certainly won’t be alone here, and after spending some time in Cancun solo, you will find it is an excellent destination for solo travellers.

While it can get busy during the peak spring season, there is plenty to do in Cancun to keep you entertained all year round, from tourist favourites to more cultural activities, we’ve got everything you need.  After backpacking solo in Mexico for 3 months, I’ve created this guide to give you all my tips for enjoying your adventure and meeting other solo travellers in Mexico.

Where is Cancun?

Located in the Quintana Roo state of Mexico on the Yucatan Peninsula, Cancun is on the Caribbean Coast and visitors flock here to enjoy a beach vacation and a break from reality.

Just off the coast of Cancun is a small island called Isla Mujeres which is easy to get to from Cancun . This makes for a great day trip from Cancun and you’re able to enjoy a different area of Mexico without having to go too far.

When to Go to Cancun

The best time to visit Cancun is generally from December to April when the weather is typically warm and dry, with minimal rainfall and plenty of sunshine. This period also coincides with the peak tourist season, so you’ll find the beaches bustling with activity and numerous events and festivals happening around the area.

 However, keep in mind that this is also the busiest time, so expect higher prices and larger crowds. If you prefer fewer tourists and don’t mind a bit of rain, visiting during the shoulder seasons of May to June or September to November can offer a more tranquil experience with still pleasant weather – but look out for Spring Break.

During Spring Break, students from America will fly over to let their hair down and party the week away.  If you’re looking to party it can be lots of fun, but very busy so if you prefer something a bit quieter then avoid Spring Break and other peak holiday periods!

How to Get to Cancun

If you’re travelling internationally, the most common way to reach Cancun is by flying into Cancun International Airport (CUN), which is one of the busiest airports in Mexico. There are daily international flights from several airports in the US as well as the UK and various other countries around the world.

Once you arrive at the airport, you can easily take a taxi, shuttle, or rental car to your accommodation in Cancun or surrounding areas. The new Maya train has also opened up travel options in the Yucatan Peninsula if you plan to visit Cancun from other cities in the Yucatan, or are travelling north from Belize .

If you’re already in Mexico or nearby regions, you can also reach Cancun by bus, with several long-distance bus companies offering routes to the city from other Mexican destinations.  ADO buses are usually the quickest and most reliable, you can buy tickets from the bus station for travel in the coming days.

Additionally, if you’re already in the Yucatan Peninsula, you can drive to Cancun via well-maintained highways. Whether you’re arriving by air, bus, or car, travelling to Cancun offers various convenient options to suit your preferences and budget.

Is Cancun Mexico Safe for Tourists?

When people are travelling to Mexico, one of the biggest concerns that they have is about safety. I spent 3 months exploring different areas of Mexico, you’ve come to the right place when it comes to safety in Mexico.

Cancun is a very touristy area of Mexico so generally speaking it is quite a safe spot for you to visit. However, there are a few things to be careful of whilst you’re exploring Cancun as a solo traveller.

Fake Police

One of the most common scams in Cancun is people pretending to be police officers. They will often ask for a bribe and this is where our advice of not carrying large amounts of cash and separating your money can come in handy.

It can be scary if someone approaches you pretending to be the police so the best thing to do is pay the bribe and leave. If you’ve separated your cash then you will be able to try and lower the price of the bribe by explaining that the money you have in a certain area is all that you have on you.

Speaking from personal experience, this has come in hand in Cancun and saved a good amount of money!

Be Cautious After Dark

If you’re travelling solo, you need to be careful wherever you’re travelling when you’re venturing out late at night. Where possible, try to make some friends whilst you’re travelling and avoid wandering around on your own after dark. Keep your wits about you and where possible, take a taxi or an Uber to where you need to go.

There can be issues with taxi driver’s threatening Uber drivers and their passengers, in particular from the airport.  I’d recommend either taking the bus from Cancun airport to your accommodation or booking an airport transfer to avoid any issues.

Watch out for Pickpockets

No matter where you’re travelling, you should always be mindful of pickpockets everywhere you go. Keep your valuables close by and consider investing in some pickpocket proof clothing.

I love hidden pocket clothing like this travel scarf  for stashing my cash and passport or a belt with a hidden pocket to hide some notes.  Read more about how to hide money while travelling and keep your belongings safe.

Don’t Carry Large Amounts of Cash

It is never wise to carry around large amounts of cash with you when travelling. If something bad is to happen then you will have a lot more to lose. You run the risk of being pickpocketed, mugged or just generally losing your money.

Separate your Money

When you’re out and about in Cancun, keep your money stored in different areas. We recommend keeping some of your money in your purse or wallet, and a small amount in another section of your bag or pocket.

Can You Drink the Water in Cancun?

This is another major concern with all visitors to Cancun.  Generally, the tap water in Cancun is potable, but your stomach may not be used to it so I would advise drinking bottled water or using a water bottle with a filter to make sure you can drink the water in Cancun safely without getting sick.

I have partnered with Water-to-Go to offer all Tales of a Backpacker readers a 15% discount on the purchase of a Water-to-Go bottle to save you even more money!  Simply choose the water bottle you want to buy, and add in the code BYORB for a 15% discount on your purchase.  Read my full Water to Go bottle review here , or click to buy your own on the Water to Go website .

Is Cancun Safe for a Solo Female Traveller?

Even though there are quite a few safety tips you need to be aware of for travelling to Cancun, that doesn’t mean that it is an unsafe destination to visit.

A lot of the tips for keeping yourself safe would apply to any destination, and Cancun is no different. Cancun is safe for solo female travellers especially if you’re staying at hostels and surrounding yourself with other solo travellers.

There are female-only dorms in most of the hostels so you will be able to sleep with this comfort also. When you’re heading out to enjoy some nightlife in Cancun, keep a watchful eye on your drink like you would in any destination.

Other than avoiding walking on your own late at night, there are not many safety tips that you need to keep in mind for specifically being a female solo traveller.

Cancun is a pretty safe destination for solo female travellers so just keep your wits about you when you’re travelling anyway, and most importantly enjoy your Cancun experience.

The Best Things to Do in Cancun Alone

Tour of downtown cancun.

To start off your time in Cancun the right way, you should head on a tour exploring the downtown area of Cancun.  Tours also give you the chance to meet fellow travellers, or you could explore alone.  Some hostels offer a city tour for free and the Mayan Monkey is one of them.  

You will be able to wander around the highlights of downtown Cancun. This is a great tour especially if you’re staying in the Hotel Zone and haven’t had a chance to see the downtown yet.

One of the highlights of this tour was a visit to the International Jewelry Center & Outlet Shopping Mall. In the jewellery store, they made an engraved necklace with my name in Mayan hieroglyphs which was an incredible keepsake. 

If you’re not staying at Mayan Monkey then this bus tour includes a tequila tasting , or you can ask your accommodation for recommendations for other tours of downtown Cancun.

Join a Food Tour

If you prefer something more food-orientated (and who doesn’t love Mexican food??) then a food tour in Cancun can be a great way to get your bearings and give you the chance to try some incredible Mexican food. 

This Street Food, Local Market and Urban Art Tour stops at 4 street food stops for tacos and tamales, and you’ll check out the local market in town, to find handmade crafts and traditional foods, and sample some local delicacies.  You could also join a cooking class to learn how to make some Mexican dishes!

Day trip to Isla Mujeres

Without a doubt, one of the most incredible things to do is take a day trip to Isla Mujeres. This beautiful island is a paradise with golden sandy beaches and a small town with a large soul.

You can choose to take a party boat over to the island or a more relaxed cruise depending on what your vibe is. Most of these tours often include snorkelling within Isla Mujeres too.  If you decide to take a party boat then you will meet plenty of new people and may even end up exploring a bit more with them back in Cancun too!

You could also take the ferry and spend a couple of days in Isla Mujeres to make the most of the island and enjoy a beach party at Nomads Hotel, hostel and beach club in Isla Mujeres. With more time here you could hire a golf cart or a bicycle to visit the Mayan temple dedicated to Ixchel, the goddess of fertility.  

If you’re visiting Isla Mujeres between May and September, don’t miss the opportunity to swim with whale sharks, the largest fish in the ocean. Join a guided tour to snorkel alongside these gentle giants in their natural habitat.

Visit Chichen Itza

Even if you’re travelling solo, taking a trip to Chichen Itza is one of the best day tours from Cancun and an experience that you absolutely cannot miss out on.

Chichen Itza is one of the seven wonders of the world and it truly is a magnificent sight to behold. There are a lot of tours available from Cancun to Chichen Itza and often the tours include a trip to a cenote and visiting Valladolid as well.

This is an adventure that you don’t need other people to go on as you will easily meet new people whilst you’re on the tour. Your local guide will take you around the Chichen Itza site and teach you more about the Mayan people and how this wonder of the world came to be.  Not to be missed!

A Boat Party in Cancun

For any solo travellers that love to party, you can’t visit Cancun without taking a boat party across the Caribbean water.  Dance your way into the night in style by joining a party boat and of course make new friends whilst you’re at it!

There are a lot of tour options that have an open bar so even though they may seem a little more expensive, it is definitely worth it to have all your alcoholic drinks included.  Check out these Cancun boat parties:

Hip Hop Sessions Party Boat Cruise

Rockstar Boat Party Cancun – Booze Cruise Cancun 

Isla Mujeres Full Day Dancer Cruise

Party at Coco Bongo

Back to partying again, Coco Bongo is the ultimate spot for tourists to spend their evening. Located in the hotel zone, you will be able to enjoy a fun night dancing away at Coco Bongo.

As Cancun is a popular spot for spring breakers, you will find a lot of American tourists here to let their hair down. You’ll have an awesome time socialising, dancing and partying until the early hours of the morning. 

It’s best to experience Coco Bongo and the other nightlife in Cancun in a group so have a chat with other people you meet at your accommodation or as part of a tour and arrange to go together.  You can buy tickets for the Coco Bongo beach party or nighttime show online or when you arrive in Cancun.

Lounge on the Beach

Take a rest from all the exploring and partying by sunbathing on the beach – there are plenty of them but the beautiful Playa Delfines is one of the best beaches in Cancun.

It’s a perfect opportunity to take some time to yourself, where you can sunbathe (don’t forget some reef-safe sunscreen ), take a dip in the Caribbean or just read a book and relax.

Scuba Diving

Whilst you’re visiting Cancun, you may want to take a new skill home with you and learn how to dive. Mexico is a great place for scuba diving and you will get to see some incredible marine life in the Caribbean sea.

Whether you decide to go in Cancun or you may want to take an adventure and experience diving in Isla Mujeres instead. Either way, you will get to see a lot of the same sights because they are so close together.

If you already have your PADI certification then there are lots of different diving tours from Cancun and Isla Mujeres to keep you occupied.

You will be able to see turtles, manta rays, stingrays, and eels, and if you’re lucky you may even see a whale shark or two if you’re visiting during the right season.

Enjoy the Underwater Museum (MUSA)

Whether come here to go diving or snorkelling, one of the most unique things to do in Cancun is taking a trip to the underwater museum (MUSA).

There are quite a few different sections to this museum so you can take this trip from either Cancun or Isla Mujeres and you will be able to see different parts of the museum.

You can’t help but be impressed by the beautiful underwater statues and you can also learn more about the great impact that the museum is having on the ecosystem too.

Take a Trip to Tulum

If you haven’t already visited Tulum then this is one of the best day trips from Cancun, exploring more of the Riviera Maya. Tulum is a cool town and the picturesque Mayan Ruins in Tulum are perched on a cliff above a beach, making for some excellent photo opportunities.

There are plenty of tours from Cancun that will take you around Tulum and some of it’s incredible cenotes without any hassle. This will save you finding your own transport and if you only want to do a day trip then this is a much cheaper option.

If you’re spending a bit of time backpacking in Mexico and you’re not sure whether Tulum is going to be for you then taking a day trip there is a great way to sample some of what it has to offer too!  However, I’d also recommend spending several days in Tulum to really make the most of this lovely spot.

Explore More of Mexico

While you are in Mexico I’d highly recommend exploring more of this magical country instead of just Cancun.  There are more beautiful places to visit in Mexico as well as Cancun and Tulum, whether you stay in the Yucatan Peninsula or go further afield.

If time allows then you could visit Merida, a more traditional Mexican city, or see more of the Caribbean Coast and visit Cozumel (another excellent solo travel destination) , or head further south to the Laguna Bacalar, known as the lake of 7 colours.

Mexico City is another incredible destination to learn more about the history and culture of Mexico, as well as sampling some of the best food in the country.  This Mexico City solo travel guide will help you to make the most of your trip there.

Should You Visit Cancun Solo?

Travelling solo in Cancun is an incredible experience and it has a lot to offer solo travellers in Mexico.

Another perk about visiting Cancun alone is that you can pick and choose when you want to socialise and when you want to have some time to yourself. There are lots of different activities that you can do on your own or that give you opportunities to meet some new people.

Cancun is generally quite a safe destination for solo travellers as long as you keep standard travel advice in mind such as watching out for pickpockets and not flashing your cash around.

No matter how long you’re staying in Cancun, you will have an amazing time and you will be able to tick this epic destination off your solo travel bucket list!

Where to Stay in Cancun as a Solo Traveller

When you’re choosing somewhere to stay in Cancun as a solo traveller, it will ultimately depend on what you’re looking to get from your accommodation.  Hostels can be a great way to meet fellow travellers, especially if you are visiting Cancun on a budget , but hotels and apartments can provide more privacy and luxury!

Best Hotels in Cancun for Solo Travellers

$ casa hikuri.

Casa HIKURI is a cute guesthouse which gets excellent reviews for the friendly host Paulina.  It’s located between downtown and the hotel zone and has a terrace and outdoor pool.  >>>READ REVIEWS & CHECK PRICES

$$ The Quetzal

This lovely hotel in Downtown Cancun is a short walk from the bus station so easy to access from the airport or if you plan on travelling around Mexico by bus.  Guests love the quirky decor and friendly owners, there is an outdoor pool and all rooms have air conditioning.  Breakfast is included in the rate as an extra bonus! >>>READ REVIEWS & CHECK PRICES

La Villa du Golf à Cancun Hotel Boutique

Stay in the hotel zone of Cancun but in a unique property instead of a bland high-rise!  This lovely villa-style hotel has a swimming pool and is close to the major attractions in Cancun like the Coco Bongo, and is 200m from the bus stop or you can arrange a shuttle from the airport if you prefer.  >>>READ REVIEWS & CHECK PRICES

Best Hostels in Cancun for Solo Travellers

There are 3 different hostels below that we recommend for solo travellers in Cancun. Whether you’re a digital nomad, looking for a party or even to stay in the downtown area of Cancun, we’ve got you covered!

Mayan Monkey Cancun

If you’re looking for a party and to enjoy Spring Break, then Mayan Monkey Party Hostel is a great choice. One of the best parts about this hostel is that the party area is kept away from the dorms so you won’t need to worry about too much noise.

The hostel offers activities such as beer pong in the evenings which is a great way to make new friends. There is also breakfast included which you will be able to select on a menu so if you’re on a budget then that is one less meal you need to worry about.

With an outdoor pool that looks over the lagoon, you will be able to enjoy your evenings watching the sunset and looking out for crocodiles too!

Mayan Monkey Party Hostel is also really good for digital nomads too believe it or not! There is a room dedicated for remote workers and free from distractions with fast wi-fi.  >>>CHECK PRICES & AVAILABILITY

Nomads Hotel, Hostel & Rooftop Pool

Located in Cancun’s downtown, this hostel comes with a very good reputation. You will be able to hang out on the rooftop of this hostel admiring the stunning views of Cancun.

It can get pretty hot in Cancun so taking advantage of their rooftop pool is one of the best ways to cool down. Due to it’s prime location, the bus stop is only a 3 minute walk away which makes it easy for you to get to other areas in Mexico using the ADO buses.

With great communal areas, a billiards table and a rooftop pool, it’s got everything you could want from a hostel. If sharing a dorm is not for you then you can also book a private room so you can enjoy the social activities and still get a peaceful night’s sleep. >>>CHECK PRICES & AVAILABILITY

Mezcal Hostel

The Mezcal Hostel is also located in downtown Cancun and offers one of the most sociable atmospheres for solo travellers. You won’t have difficulty meeting new people from this hostel at all.

With an on-site restaurant and bar, there are different activities nearly every night from the hostel. There is also a pool available at the hostel so you will be able to work on your tan at the same time!

In the evening, the hostel really lights up and it becomes a cosy little spot making you feel right at home even if you’re surrounded by strangers.  >>>CHECK PRICES & AVAILABILITY

Cancun Airbnbs & Apartments

You can find apartments and Airbnbs in Cancun if you want more space and access to a kitchen while you are visiting Cancun, search for Cancun airbnbs here .  Booking.com also has a range of vacation apartments available too, search for available options here .  

FIND AN APARTMENT IN CANCUN

Want More Mexico Travel Ideas for your Trip?

• Tulum on a Budget
• Cheap Places to Stay in Tulum
• Cancun on a Budget
• Chichen Itza Tips
• Chichen Itza vs Tulum
• How to Get from Tulum to Chichen Itza
• Cenote Diving in Tulum
• Night Diving with Crocodiles in Tulum
• Tulum Solo Travel Guide
• Cozumel Solo Travel Guide
• Visiting the Pink Lakes in Mexico
• Backpacking Mexico Travel Guide

Hi! I'm Claire Sturzaker, a 30-something foodie traveller who loves to enjoy the best of a destination without breaking the bank. I'm here to help you and all women backpackers to plan their best budget travel adventure. I am an avid supporter of female solo travel, and took my first solo trip 20 years ago! I love to write about travel, hostels, backpacking and van life.

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See This Cancun Solo Travel Guide For Tourists Going to Mexico Alone!

Thinking about going to mexico alone explore the best cancun solo travel solutions and safety tips for your next solo trip..

Are you thinking about a solo trip to Mexico? Does going to Cancun alone make the traveling experience different in any way? Where are the safest places to travel on your own in Cancun? Will it seem weird to be by yourself?

Whether you are traveling solo to find yourself, you want to enjoy some me time, or you wish to escape to a world where you only have to worry about your indulgence, traveling alone has a lot of pros. 

On the other hand, if it is something that you have not done before then naturally it may fill you with a little bit of anxiety. However, be that the case, by the end of this blog, you will know everything you need to know about Cancun solo travel so that you can head there with all the information and confidence that you need.

6 benefits of traveling solo

Why do people go to Mexico on their own? Why don't they go with their partner, their family, or a group of friends? Many people may question your solo travel choice, especially if it is something that they have not tried for themselves, but there are in fact quite a few benefits to traveling solo. Come and take a look at a few…

1) Life meditation

Surrounded by friends and family there is rarely a moment to really reflect on your life, your choices, your routine, your work, your priorities, and more. If you need some space to make a big decision, there is nothing like a solo trip. It's just you and your thoughts.

Take some time away from it all and let your mind wander to wherever you want it to. Meditate on the deep things of life, or turn up the white noise. The choice is up to you.

2) Get to know yourself

How well do you really know yourself? You might think that you know yourself because you are you. But that is not always the case. Just like you would take some time away with a specific person to truly get to know them, the same applies to knowing ourselves. 

Dedicating some time to be on your own allows you to really see what decisions you make when no one else is around, what preferences you have when you aren't concerned about others, and how you truly feel in your own company. 

3) Boosting your self-confidence 

No one to doubt you, no one to question your vacation style, and no one to make decisions for you or encourage or persuade you of anything. This vacation is yours and you are the decision maker, you are the captain of your own comfort, and you have the freedom to do things however you wish.

Empower yourself with a solo trip, boost up your self-confidence without relying on anyone else, and know that you can do it all. 

4) Do what you want to do 

You might think that even around other people, you still get to do what you want but there will always be a limit of how far that goes. If you want to sleep in all day and just stay in your suite, you can. If you want to go hat painting or some other class, you can.

You do not need to consider other people's preferences, you don't have to fulfill any social norms to be polite, and you don't have to live up to any expectations. You can travel, your way, guilt-free. So let yourself indulge in whatever it is you want to enjoy with the knowledge that this is your vacation and that it is ok to be a little selfish once in a while. 

5) A cost-effective vacation option

The costs of travel can build up quickly. Between the flights to get there, the home preparations, the All Inclusive resort package, and any other tours or activities you want to experience, the total can be significant once you multiply that cost.

With a partner it is double the cost, with a family or group of friends, it can multiply exponentially to a point where going on vacation might not be within your budget. Solo travel on the other hand is a singular cost all around and can often be managed even if you do not have extensive savings. 

6) Meet new people easier

Solo travel sounds like the most antisocial vacation option possible. That can be the case if you want it to but it doesn't have to be. It can actually be a great way to widen your social circle. 

Traveling with your friends affords you a constant fallback for people to associate and talk with. Vacationing alone, however, makes you much more open to conversations with other people staying in the resort. Rather than keeping to your niche group, or always talking to your partner, a solo traveler can much easier make new friends and acquaintances during their stay.

Is it safe to travel to Cancun alone?

Here is the big question that a lot of solo travelers are asking. Whether you are traveling to Mexico alone as a woman, traveling solo as a man, you are a senior traveling alone, or you fit into some other demographic, you will be delighted to know that you can safely travel to Cancun without issue.

Whilst every destination including the place where you live can have potential dangers, Cancun is an oasis specifically designed for tourists to enjoy safe travel whether they are with someone else or not. 

Cancun solo travel solutions

When venturing into the unknown, it is easy for the mind to wander through a host of potential issues and alarmist ideas. To set your mind at ease for your solo trip, we have dug up all the main concerns and provided you with a list of tips so that you can enjoy a safe vacation on your own in Cancun.

Finding your way around Cancun

One of the scariest parts of travel and especially taking a vacation by yourself is the thought of venturing out into the unknown. You do not know the location, you may not know how to get around, or even necessarily speak the language . So what can you do?

Fear not, for this is not an issue in the least. You can organize a private SUV with Seasons Transfers to pick you up from the moment you arrive at the airport and take you directly to your resort which they are already familiar with. Better yet, if you want to explore and discover the destination, you can always ask your resort concierge to organize transport for you so that you can have someone who knows where they are going to take you around Cancun. Also, they speak English!

Safety concerns during your stay

An important part of your vacation is your comfort. This includes the feeling of safety and not having to worry about being secure or not. We have just the thing for you. Whilst Cancun has been set up to be quite a safe destination for tourists, you can boost that feeling of serenity and safety tenfold by staying in a resort in a protected area.

In resorts like Excellence Coral Playa Mujeres , Excellence Playa Mujeres , and Excellence Riviera Cancun , you will find yourself in gated communities where the resort has its own private hub of comfort that is exclusively for the resort guests. Here you can unwind with peace of mind in an oasis of total tranquility. 

Who to call if you need help

If your mind has already gone racing to all sorts of worst-case scenarios you may be thinking about what to do in each of those imagined disasters. The important thing to know is who to call. Whilst it is good to have the emergency numbers of the destination no matter where you go, you can rest easy knowing that you can always call your resort concierge for assistance.

Whether you want advice, need tips on the area, have a emergency situation, or something else, the resort staff are there to ensure you have a smooth vacation experience and will do whatever they can to assist you and make sure that you are taken care of. 

5 things to do by yourself

What about solo activities during your trip to Cancun? Don't you need more than one person to do most things? Isn't solo travel a bit boring? Actually, no. There are in fact a lot of things that you can enjoy by yourself on vacation. Here are just some of the ideas you might consider…

1. Enjoy the ocean on your own

Are you a beach or ocean lover? Most oceanfront activities are actually good things to do by yourself. For example:

• Snorkel along the world's second-largest barrier reef
• Explore the underwater museum of MUSA
• Enjoy a leisurely swim and then rest on the beach
• Try paddleboarding on the ocean
• Discover the area via Kayak
• Book a scuba diving experience

Of course, there are more things to think about, but it goes to show that a lot of beach and ocean fun, is still fun by yourself. 

2. Go on a guided tour

There are plenty of tours for seniors traveling alone, just as there are tours for those with more youthful energy. With a guided tour, whether you are traveling solo or with someone, you are still put into a tour group. The experience doesn't change that much besides the amount of people you are paying for. 

Cancun and the surrounding areas have so many interesting and unique things to do so why not go and check them out? You could head to Chichen Itza, swim in a natural cenote , visit a tropical island, or try out some other authentic Mexican experience. Do the tour that you desire!

3. Join a class or workshop

Can you think back to a time when you tried and failed to convince someone to take a class with you? As a solo traveler, you do not need to persuade anyone else to accompany you. In the resort classes and workshops, you are part of a group where you can learn things you have always wanted without the need for a partner or chaperone.

Discover your Latin dance moves, get creative with something artistic, practice your Spanish, learn how to cook something new, or take a Yoga class by the beach. All these informative activities and more are yours to enjoy. 

4. Make it all about the food

What about when it comes to eating in the restaurants? Nobody wants to feel weird or a spectacle and some wonder if they will feel uncomfortable dining alone. Personally, its one of my favorite things. 

In a restaurant in Cancun, everyone is there for the food and you are no different. You have a paradise for your palette that you can enjoy and no one to set limits to your enjoyment. If you are a foodie, you can make the flavors a primary part of your trip and use the mixology and gastronomy of the location as one of your prime attractions.

If you are still not sure about dining alone, then try bringing a book with you to the restaurant. You will find that it makes you much less concerned about what others think, and more focused on what is about to happen on the next page. 

5. Spoil yourself at the spa

Oh, wow. Do you hear that? Yes, that. The complete and utter serenity that awaits you in Miilé Spa ! There is nothing more relaxing, more peaceful, and that focuses more on your pampered comfort than a day in the resort spa. 

While some of these activities can be enjoyed with someone else, the honest truth is that most Spa treatments and therapies are personal and individual experiences that are sometimes just better by yourself.

The spa is about spoiling you. The spa is there to indulge your senses. The spa is a heavenly haven that is tailored to your desires. 

Have a great solo trip in Cancun!

If you are organizing your Cancun solo travel it is important to know that this destination is not the scene for backpackers and hostels. Rather, traveling alone in Cancun is more about the individual luxury experience and the level of personalized pampering that you use to treat yourself.

Whichever resort you choose to stay in, may you have the ultimate solo trip, and may it be the first of many solo vacations to come. You deserve an unforgettable escape!

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Taking A Solo Trip To Cancun Mexico? What I Found And Some Tips

If you are one of those travelers who gets a thrill from exploring the world alone, then you definitely have to add Cancun, Mexico, to your vacation list! This Mexican resort town has so much excitement at every turn; you are going to question why you haven’t visited sooner or more often.

In addition to the lively nightlife and social scene, there are tons of things to do that can keep you mingling with other tourists or take you off the beaten path. Traveling to Cancun by yourself has all the makings of an unforgettable trip.

Traveling alone to Cancun doesn’t mean you have to feel lonely throughout your experience, quite the opposite actually. There is plenty to do here that allows you to cross paths with locals and visitors alike.

Table Of Contents:

• Planning Your Solo Cancun Vacation

Choose The Best Cancun Accommodations

• Pack Light For Cancun
• Dealing With Money Matters Prior
• Consider Using Public Transportation
• Eating and Drinking in Cancun

Before you leave for this resort town, however, there are a few things you should do before boarding the plane to make your visit the best it can be. Preparation is essential and is the path to a memorable visit! This all applies to males and females alike who are traveling alone to this most Quintana Roo. Take these tips and pieces of advice with you when you go.

Plan Your Vacation Right

As with any vacation you go on, you should always plan ahead. You will definitely want to become familiar with the areas you want to stay in and what attractions you want to see while in Cancun. Also, keeping a budget in your mind that you want to stick to, is important, but you should also make sure to always keep a buffer for any unforeseen circumstances that may come up.

Keeping singles on you when you’re out and about is helpful, too, so you can tip your servers a buck or two and get on their good side. You will want to prioritize what you want to see from the most interesting (the must-dos) to the least interesting. This way, you can cross each attraction off your list as you go and ensure you are experiencing the most that Cancun has to offer. You can also get help from the concierge or locals to plan hitting up multiple attractions all at once.

Are you planning on staying at an all-inclusive resort or hotel, Airbnb, or hostel? Generally, an all-inclusive resort or hotel is going to be your most expensive option, but it also puts you right in the middle of the hustle and bustle of Cancun, and will also include all the necessary luxuries you will want and need for the duration of your trip.

There are literally hundreds of hotels and resorts in Cancun to choose from, and most of them are either on the beach or have beach access nearby.

An Airbnb is a solid choice if you want to live among the locals. You can rent out a house, room, or a mix of the two before you leave for vacation. The rates vary according to what your preferences are, but this is an excellent way to visit Cancun while staying on budget.

Last, a hostel can also be an interesting choice when staying in Mexico. Make sure you do your due diligence and research before you book. You will definitely want find a facility with clean amenities and easy access in and out of the city.

A hostel also offers a great opportunity to meet fellow solo and group travelers who want to experience Cancun in the same way as you do. Hostels are going to be your cheapest option among the three, but you aren’t going to have the privacy that the others have.

Do remember, anytime you’re traveling solo whether you’re a man or woman and wherever you decide to stay, always keep your wits about you and always err on the side of caution.

When you travel alone, you only have yourself to depend on. Visiting Cancun with one suitcase or a duffel bag is all you need to vacation successfully. One of the wonderful perks of Cancun is that it is pretty much warm year-round, so there is no need for bulky jackets.

It’s best to pack light and breathable t-shirts and shorts for your trip. You can also include a light sweater or pullover for the occasional rainy day.

Walking shoes are a must to get you around comfortably, and if you want to pack sandals for the beach, include them in your luggage. We do recommend that you do bring one dressy outfit, in case you want to visit a fancy restaurant or nightclub with a dress code.

You will only want to bring the necessities with you when it comes to clothing. Plan out your stay, and take appropriate accessories that you know you are going to use. There is nothing worse than packing items that are never going to see the light of day in Cancun. Also, any spare room you may have in your duffel bag or suitcase can be used to bring back souvenirs.

Also, remember, you are probably going to be spending most of your day in the sun, so be sure to pack a tube or two of sunscreen. Sunglasses and a hat are also great to have for those long days on the beach or walking around the town. You should always pack for the weather. Confirm the temperature in Cancun at least a day or two before you leave to avoid any surprises.

Speaking of packing, we here at StayPromo are keeping a running list and the most comprehensive reference of all the items you absolutely must pack in your luggage before taking off for your flight to Cancun. Check out the complete Cancun packing checklist here and keep checking back because it gets regularly updated whenever we encounter another group of must-pack essentials.

It’s constantly growing and there are also downloadable versions in Word and PDF formats for you to easily save and print out before you head out to the airport.

Money Matters

Although most places in Cancun do accept the American dollar, it is best to stick with the local money, pesos. To get the best exchange rate, you should go to your bank to get the cash you need before leaving. If you do need more while in Mexico, you should get your money through an ATM. If you exchange money at the airport or hotel, you are typically not going to get a fair exchange rate.

Also, if you are planning to use a credit card while there, you will want to call your credit card company before you go and make them aware that you’re going to be in another country that way you won’t run into them freezing your account if they suspect an odd-looking foreign transaction. You should always still carry cash in case of an emergency.

Public Transportation

When you arrive in Cancun, you are going to be met with a lot of transportation options. Know beforehand what you want to take as it can get overwhelming if you’re not prepared. Taxis in Cancun aren’t like the United States. They don’t have a meter, but a set price determines the fee. Keep in mind that taxis are going to be your most expensive option.

Most visitors to Cancun choose to ride the local buses that are available day and night. The buses in Cancun run on a reliable schedule and are inexpensive. If you are staying in a hotel, contact them before you arrive to see if they offer shuttle transportation to and from the airport or what bus line they suggest you take. Uber is still relatively new there, so your options may not be much when it comes to ride sharing.

Eating and Drinking

Plan out what you want your food budget to be. Cancun has a lot of restaurants and eating establishments for every monetary level. You can eat like the locals do and visit smaller places that have meals like tacos, enchiladas, and local seafood on the menu. Some places even make your meal right in front of you for a full authentic feel and taste.

Cancun also has plenty of chain restaurants if you want to go the traditional route. Formal and informal establishments dot almost every street in the area, especially in the hotel zone of Cancun. There is no way you can go hungry here, no matter how much you are willing to spend! There are restaurants for seafood lovers, meat-eaters, vegetarians, and everything else in between. Cancun has got every type of eater covered.

If you want to visit the local bars and nightclubs in the area, take a look at what kind of food and drinks are served and the music offered. Cancun is known for its active nightlife that takes you into the wee hours of the morning. If you have the stamina for that, why not bar hop to get a sense of all that Cancun has to offer? This is another way to meet other travelers who have the same interests as you. Strike up a conversation at the bar, and you will be amazed at how many interesting stories you can hear.

If you want to take your Cancun vacation to the next level, stay All-Inclusive so you can literally eat and drink as much or as little as you want, all without having to leave the comfort of the resort. You can always sleep it off on the beach the next day! You only live once, right?

Having fun while you’re in Cancun is a must! If you are staying at a hotel or with the locals, ask those who live or work there what some of the best attractions to go to are. The Mayan ruins are going to be on top of the list, as is Isla Mujeres and some open area markets.

Have some flexibility in your schedule, and don’t force yourself to see too many destinations if you are not up for it. Your Cancun vacation should leave you feeling relaxed and refreshed not frazzled and rushed.

If you are looking to travel more on the unbeaten path, ask the locals about some places to go. Not all attractions are going to be heavily advertised, so if you can find something by word of mouth, that may be your ticket to finding a real hidden gem in Cancun.

The region is full of history and tradition, why not go explore it? Some of the smaller tour groups may also be willing to show you other parts of Cancun for an additional price.

Remember to soak in the experience every day. Traveling to Cancun is a once in a lifetime experience for many people, so make sure to truly immerse yourself in everything that you do. Your surroundings are going to be like no other.

As with any trip, let your family and friends know when you are leaving and when you plan on returning home. Keep a journal or carry a camera with you to document your time in the beautiful Yucatan Peninsula.

Cancun and the surrounding region is a spectacular place to visit for a solo traveler like yourself. By following the tips outlined above, you are going to be well on your way to an experience of a lifetime. Have a great time, relax, and enjoy a fantastic trip!

Xiomara Gonzalez

From her time growing up in the Dominican Republic, Xiomara considers two things she learned were the most important and necessary for a full rich life: Travel and Mangu. Since leaving her comfortable life, beachfront house, and Masters-equivalent Engineering degree in the DR to start over in the U.S. to pursue a better future for her son and daughter, she has regarded writing about Travel her main outlet and inspiration. She has taught a few here at Stay Promo to dance Merengue and regularly brings in her homemade Dominican delicacies for those at the office to enjoy. "Yum-Yum-Que Rico!", as she always says. When not blogging about travel, Xiomara can be found in front of her house enjoying a Tres Golpes early in the morning with a fresh, hot cafecito in hand of course.

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13 Tips for Staying Safe in Cancun as a Solo Female Traveler (2024)

As a solo female traveler, it can be liberating to go out and explore the world on your own, and there’s really no destination like Cancun, Mexico. From the pristine beaches to lively Mexican culture and, of course, countless excursions available, your trip to Cancun will surely be life-changing. However, when you’re traveling solo, especially as a woman, it’s important to consider your safety. That’s why I’ve put together the tips that I wish I would have known before planning my trip to Cancun.

Knowing Where to Go

Before you even leave for your trip to Cancun, you can already make sure you’re on the right path to a safe vacation by picking the right accommodation. I’ve got you covered with the best tips to ensure you pick the absolute best accommodation for safety in Cancun.

1. Stay in a safe neighborhood

We’ve done the research and experienced it firsthand – there are two areas in Cancun that are considered the safest for tourists to stay in. These are the “Hotel Zone” and “Downtown Cancun.”

The “Hotel Zone” – it’s the main hub for tourists and has everything you need from hotels, resorts, restaurants, bars, and nightclubs. The Hotel Zone is located right on the beach on a narrow strip of land that separates the gorgeous Caribbean Sea from the Nichupte Lagoon. You’ll love the crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches – it’s truly paradise!

The second area that is considered safe for tourists is “Downtown Cancun.” This area is perfect if you’re looking for a more cultural experience. It has local markets, shopping centers, cultural attractions, and restaurants. You’ll get to experience the local culture of Cancun and maybe even practice your Spanish!

Now, on the flip side, there are some areas that you should avoid as they are considered the most dangerous. These areas include Bonfil, Tres Reyes, Santa Cecilia, and Valle Verde. So, make sure to steer clear of those neighborhoods.

2. Pick your accommodation wisely: read the reviews

When deciding where to stay, it’s not only about the neighborhood but also the actual accommodation that you’ll be in. While there are plenty of Airbnb’s available in Cancun, it’s not a bad idea to prioritize safety and opt for a resort that offers additional security measures, like gated entrances and 24/hr on-site security.

When selecting a hotel, be sure to check the reviews. But instead of just focusing on the good reviews, make sure to filter and read through the lowest-rated reviews first to ensure that people aren’t complaining about safety and security issues.

For an all-inclusive experience, you might want to consider resorts like Sandos Cancun Lifestyle Resort , Paradisus Cancun , Le Blanc Spa Resort , or the Hard Rock Cancun . These types of hotels offer everything you need, from in-house restaurants to fun activities like snorkeling, kayaking, and fitness centers. You won’t have to worry about a thing!

Nightlife Safety

Excited to explore the city’s nightlife? While it’s a highlight of Cancun, and you should definitely go out and have fun, it’s important to prioritize your safety, especially if you’re traveling alone.

3. Watch your drinks

Like anywhere, keeping an eye on your drinks while you’re out in Cancun is extremely important. Unfortunately, drink spiking can happen, so as a solo female traveler, it’s vital to make sure you’re staying alert when it comes to your drinks. As a rule of thumb, it’s best to avoid accepting drinks from strangers, no matter how friendly they seem. If you’re at a bar or nightclub, keep an eye on your drink and never ever leave it unattended. If you can, stick to bottled drinks rather than mixed drinks or cocktails since they’re less likely to be tampered with. Overall, you should be mindful of how much alcohol you’re consuming and know your limits.

4. Be cautious of new friends

When you’re traveling alone, it’s normal to want to go out and make friends. While it’s great to meet new people and make new friends, it’s important to exercise caution and stay aware of your surroundings.

When you’re out at a bar or club in Cancun, it’s easy to get caught up in the moment and let your guard down. Unfortunately, there are people out there who may have ulterior motives and take advantage of solo travelers. So, while it’s not necessary to be paranoid, it’s important to trust your instincts and be mindful of who you’re talking to.

Don’t reveal too much personal information, and be careful following strangers to unknown locations, even if it’s a second bar— in Cancun, it’s a fairly common scam for bars to pay locals to go make friends with tourists to bring them to their bar, only to charge them 3x the price for a drink.

5. Don’t resist

If on the off-chance someone does try to rob you, don’t resist. Hand over your phone, wallet, or anything else they want because most victims get seriously injured while trying to fight back. It’s not worth it. As soon as you give the thief what they want, they will take off, and you will be left unharmed.

Touring/Getting Around

I wouldn’t blame you if don’t want to leave the beaches in Cancun, but one of the best parts of traveling is getting out and exploring the city. If you do find yourself exploring the city, there are some things to consider for your safety:

6. Be aware of corrupt cops

Mexico is well-known for its corruption – and being a tourist won’t make you immune to it. Police officers are known to stop tourists (usually when you’re driving a car) and give you a fine for speeding or any other traffic violation they can come up with. See, what he’ll tell you is that you’ll need to go to court and sort it out, but he’ll let you off the hook if you just pay him a small fee. That’s when you call their bluff, tell them you’ll follow them to the police station, and 9 times out of 10, they will let you go on your way for refusing to play their game.

7. Take an Uber

While taxis can be a convenient way to get around, Uber is a safer option for solo travelers in Cancun. Unfortunately, some taxi drivers in Cancun have been known to overcharge or take advantage of tourists, especially female solo travelers. With Uber, you’ll know the price upfront, so there won’t be any unexpected charges, and since Uber drivers have their identity shared and their livelihood on the line with bad reviews or getting reported, there’s less chance for foul play in general.

Just remember the safety precautions you would take anywhere, like whenever possible, share your location with a friend, and always keep an eye on the map, even in an Uber. Better safe than sorry.

8. Don’t walk around distracted

While we all love to put our headphones on and jam out while walking, when you’re in Cancun you should leave the headphones behind. It’s important to be aware of your surroundings while you’re walking around the city. When you’re listening to music or a podcast, you may not be able to hear what’s happening around you. This can make you more vulnerable to potential risks such as theft or harassment. By keeping your ears open, you’ll be more aware of any potential dangers and better able to react to them.

Plus, fancier headphones (i.e. AirPods) are a quick signal to thieves that you might be worth robbing since all they see is $200 worth of valuables in your ears, (that’s a pretty big chunk of change in pesos!)— so to avoid unwanted attention it’s better to leave them at the hotel and save your podcasts or music for when you’re lounging poolside.

9. Stick to public places

If you’re in Cancun’s touristic zones we mentioned above it is generally safe to wander around alone. If you’re like me, you’ll want to discover the off-the-beaten-path parts of Cancun while you’re there, but it’s important to be very aware of your surroundings because if you do leave the tourist areas, chances are you’ll be easily spotted as a tourist. Wherever you go, it’s important to exercise caution when you’re out and about, especially as a solo female traveler.

One way to stay safe while exploring is to stay in public places while exploring the city. Public spaces such as parks, plazas, and busy streets are generally safer than quiet or secluded areas. At night be sure to stay in well-lit and busy areas – that way, you’ll be less vulnerable to potential risks. Never follow anyone to an unknown destination or into a private residence, regardless of how nice they seem to be. You never know someone’s true motives, and as a solo female traveler, you need to protect yourself.

General Safety Tips

Traveling always comes with a certain level of risk. There are some things that you can do to protect yourself regardless of your destination.

10. Leave your flashy jewelry at home

Cancun is a beautiful destination, and you’ll want to look your best when you’re going out, but it’s also important to keep in mind that, like anywhere, there may be pickpockets around. A simple way to reduce your risk of being targeted is to leave your flashy jewelry at home. Wearing expensive or eye-catching jewelry can draw unwanted attention and make you more vulnerable to potential risks, and it’s risky even just leaving it in your hotel room. A family friend of mine had her $10,000 engagement ring stolen out of her hotel room while they were in Cancun for their wedding!

Instead, opt to wear jewelry that’s simple and understated. Think about swapping your wedding ring for a simple gold band for the duration of your trip— even consider leaving flashy costume jewelry behind since thieves might not be able to tell the difference. This way, you won’t attract unwanted attention.

11. Get a local sim card

This might seem like a no-brainer, but staying connected is essential for your safety while traveling to Cancun. The last thing you want is to find yourself lost, alone, and with no data to navigate your way back to your hotel. Plus, if you do find yourself in a sticky situation while you’re in Cancun, you’ll be able to call for help.

Even if your phone carrier offers international roaming, I’d still suggest getting a local TelCel SIM card because sometimes international plans can be unreliable, plus it’s typically more affordable than using an international roaming plan. You can go into any OXXO convenience store and buy one for $15.

12. Don’t carry your passport

While you will need to bring your passport with you when you’re traveling to Mexico, it’s not always necessary to carry it with you everywhere you go once you’re in the country. When you’re out and about in Cancun, it’s a good idea to leave your passport in a secure location, like in your hotel room’s safe.

Instead, carry a photocopy of your passport or another form of identification, such as a driver’s license. This way, if you happen to lose your purse, get pickpocketed, or any other number of unexpected situations happen, you can rest assured that, at the very least, your passport is safe and sound back in your room.

13. Trust your gut

You know that feeling you get when something just seems a little off? When you’re traveling, especially as a female solo traveler, it’s important to trust those instincts and listen to your gut. If a situation feels uncomfortable or unsafe, don’t hesitate to remove yourself from it. Whether it’s declining an invitation from a stranger or avoiding a poorly lit alleyway, it’s always better to err on the side of caution. Even if it means that you have to take an extra couple of minutes to get to your destination or leave a fun party. Your safety should always be the number one priority— so if your gut is telling you something not right, listen to it.

Remember that staying safe while traveling boils down to being mindful, aware, and prepared. With these tips in mind, you’re going to have an absolute blast while also being safe in Cancun, soaking up the sun and enjoying the lively Mexican culture.

Lyric Fergusson

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5 Reasons Why Cancun Is Perfect For Solo Travelers

By: Author Tony Timmons

Posted on Published: July 17, 2023

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Last Updated 1 year ago

Cancun is shaping up to be one of the most popular destinations of 2023 for travelers from the United States and Canada.

It also is a hotspot for one of the top travel trends in the world – solo travel.

Here are five reasons why Cancun is fashionable for this type of travel:

Plenty of Single Activities

One nice thing about visiting Cancun is there are a number of great activities to do without the need for a partner.

Several of these activities revolve around the main reason people visit Cancun, the ocean.

Outdoor fun like paragliding, surfing, and stand-up paddleboarding don’t require two people to participate, and they are all a lot of fun!

Travelers can even join boat tours and group diving excursions as solo travelers.

After a fun day at the beach and in the sea, solo travelers can enjoy relaxing spa services and even special foodie adventures on the shore.

Active Nightlife

Solo travelers love the active nightlife available in Cancun.

There are plenty of bars, nightclubs, concerts, and pool events to keep visitors busy without the need for a fellow traveler.

One good thing about Cancun is that the party continues well after dark.

However, solo travelers should take special safety precautions when meeting new people in nightlife situations.

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Meeting New People

One of the great things about the popularity of Cancun is that solo travelers have plenty of new people to meet while visiting the beach resort destination.

Fellow solo travelers from all over the world travel to Cancun for vacation. Because of this, solo travelers can meet other solo travelers and create new global friendships.

There are plenty of options for solo travelers to meet new friends. Everything from group experiences to walking tours and even Spanish language and cooking classes are available as conversation starters to meet new people.

Great Hostel Options

Cancun may be known as a beach resort destination, but it also has some low-priced hostel options for solo travelers.

Group hostels provide opportunities for solo travelers to meet and connect with new people. They also often provide special group meals and tour opportunities to build more connections.

Solo travelers don’t have to feel all alone when staying in a hostel with several other solo travelers.

Great For Solitude

Sometimes solo travelers really want to get away to get some solitude.

Solo travelers don’t have to connect with others if they really want some time to themselves. Cancun is a perfect place even for this type of travel.

An all-inclusive Cancun resort is the perfect place to relax and get away from all.

Travelers can order from an included room service menu at many resorts; eating alone in peace and quiet.

All-inclusive resorts are also a great place to lounge at the pool as a solo traveler and even enjoy spa treatments.

What Travelers Need To Know

While Cancun is definitely a relatively safe place to visit in Mexico, solo travelers do have to keep some safety tips in mind when visiting the beach resort destination.

First, be sure to be aware of your surroundings. When solo traveling, visitors have to be very conscious of the people around them to protect themselves.

Second, establish an emergency contact person back home who can be contacted in the event of an emergency, and visitors should list that person in their passport and in a purse or wallet.

Last, be sure to purchase traveler’s insurance that can assist with medical needs and travel issues that can arise during a vacation in Cancun. It’s a great idea to have someone available to rely on from a travel planning perspective in a time of need.

Plan Your Next Cancun Vacation:

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3, 4 & 7 Day Cancun Itinerary (The Best Things To Do In Cancun!)

This post contains affiliate links to trusted partners. If you purchase through these links, I earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you!

By Jessie Festa. My trip to Cancun was sponsored by BeachBound and also contains affiliate links to trusted partners. I only recommend experiences I truly think you’ll love!

Looking for an unforgettable 7 day Cancun itinerary ?

Then you’re in the right place!

Located on Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, Cancun is a tropical paradise known for its luxurious all-inclusive resorts, energetic nightlife, and stunning Caribbean coastline.

While it’s a top option for those wanting an unforgettable beach vacation, it can be challenging to plan the perfect Cancun trip with so many options available.

Luckily, I’ve done the work for you and created an itinerary for 7 days in Cancun — with additional options for shorter trips — based on my own experience in the destination. Personally, if you can’t swing a week, I recommend opting for 4 days in Cancun to really have time to enjoy all of its offerings, though you can get away with 3 if needed.

Keep reading to learn about what to do in Cancun for 7 days, from the top things to do in Cancun along with important travel tips to recommendations for where to stay, excursions, and the perfect schedule.

🌞  Don’t forget to pack sun protection!  Along with sunscreen and a hat, a few other recommendations include  polarized floating sunglasses  and  rashguard clothing . 🏖️ Other beach essentials include a   waterproof fanny pack , a  quick-dry towel with hidden pocket , and a  waterproof phone case . 😍 And if you’re looking for stylish beach cover-ups, I’m obsessed with  these Kenny Flowers kimonos and sarongs !

Table of Contents

Booking A Cancun Vacation With BeachBound

If you’re planning a trip to Cancun — or really any beach getaway — check out the vacation packages and deals available on BeachBound.

BeachBound is an online travel company focused on selling luxury beach vacations around the world, with over 70 unique beaches in their catalogue. Their brand focuses on six experiences: Rejuvenation, Passion, Togetherness, Discovery, Adventure, and Immersion.

This means you can easily find a beach trip tailored to your interests. Plus, if you’re looking to travel on a budget, you can search their dedicated Deals page .

There are also a number of perks to booking with BeachBound:

• They price match beat. If you find a desired vacation package for a lower price on another US-based travel site, they’ll match the rate — and then beat it by $25.
• BeachBound accepts a wide array of payments — and they offer payment plans that allow you to pay off your trip over two years.
• Travel Protection Plus is included with your booking — which features a number of benefits, like being able to cancel your trip for any reason for a 75% refund or a 100% travel credit.
• They work directly with  Amstar DMC  on the ground — so there is no need to stress about transportation to and from the airport or excursions

Click here to search trip inspiration and vacation packages on BeachBound .

Also, if you’re looking for a Cancun trip planner on top of this post, check out their free trip planning tool .

Where Is Cancun? + Map

Cancun is located in Mexico . More specifically, it sits on the northeast coast of the Yucatán Peninsula in the state of Quintana Roo, right on the Caribbean Sea.

To help give you a lay of the land, here is a Cancun map:

You can also click here for a link to the interative Google Map of Cancun.

Getting To Cancun

Getting to cancun by air.

Many people travel to Cancun by plane, arriving into Cancun International Airport — which is conveniently only 14 miles from the Hotel Zone.

To get to and from your hotel, it’s wise to pre-book your transportation. As noted above,  BeachBound  works directly with  Amstar DMC  for this.

In my experience, after clearing customs, it was easy to find my Amstar driver in his bright flower pattern shirt holding a sign with my name. The ride itself was comfortable, with a clean air conditioned car and a cooler filled with refreshments.

Bonus: The driver also gave me loads of interesting local tips — like that Taquería Los Chachalacos within the Hotel Zone is his favorite place to get tacos al pastor.

Getting To Cancun By Land

Additionally, travelers visiting Cancun as part of a larger Mexico itinerary may visit the destination by land. It’s easy to get from Cancun to Playa del Carmen , Tulum , and other nearby popular tourist destinations.

To complete the journey, you can rent a car (I recommend DiscoverCars for this) or take public transportation (ADO is the regional bus service).

Getting Around Cancun

There are a number of ways to get around Cancun, including:

Renting a car. Renting a car is generally considered safe in Cancun.

Booking tours. Amstar DMC   offers a number of excursions to add to your itinerary for Cancun, Mexico.

Walking. The Cancun Hotel Zone is very safe to walk around and has sidewalks.

Public bus. Cancun’s local bus system connects the main traveler points of interest like the Hotel Zone, Boulevard Kukulcán (downtown), and Avenida Tulum. Tip: Just make sure you have exact change in Mexican Pesos for the ride, as drivers often can’t break larger bills.

When To Visit Cancun

While Cancun is a year-round destination, certain times of year can be more enjoyable than others.

December through April is typically considered the best time to visit Cancun, with clear and warm weather that isn’t oppressively hot like it can be in the summer.

If you’re looking to book the cheapest time to vacation in Cancun, May through November tends to be more budget-friendly with better hotel and flight deals.

July is largely considered the warmest month of the year, though as someone who has personally visited Cancun in July, I’ll say you can still have a fun and memorable trip. Yes, it’s hot, but you’ll likely spend a lot of your time in the water anyway.

Want to avoid the spring break crowds? Book your Cancun trip outside of March or April — especially the last two weeks of March.

How Many Days Are Enough For Cancun?

If you’re wondering how many days in Cancun are enough, I’d say it really depends on your trip goals.

In my opinion, 3 days in Cancun is the minimum I would do. Less than that and you’ll basically be packing to leave before you’ve fully unpacked.

Cancun is a stunning destination full of opportunities to relax, so to really give yourself a chance to unwind, 4 days or more is best.

Now, if you’re planning a trip to Cancun, Mexico that includes a mix of relaxation, adventure, and exploration, a week is the perfect amount of time to really immerse yourself in what the destination has to offer. That is why I’m outlining a 7 day Cancun itinerary in this article.

How Much Is A Trip To Cancun?

Wondering “how much does a trip to Cancun cost?” Well, if you’re staying at an all-inclusive and stick to the food and experiences available onsite, it simply costs the amount you paid for your accommodation, plus flight, airport transfers, and optional (but appreciated) tips.

That being said, exploring Cancun beyond the resort is recommended if you’re looking to dive deeper into the destination. In Cancun and around the Yucatán Peninsula, you’ll find cenotes, Maya ruins, jungle adventures, and more. Most Cancun tours range from about $100-$300 per person.

You can also find flight deals by using these tips for finding cheap airfare , like signing up for alerts with Secret Flying and Airfarewatchdog.

In short, Cancun vacation costs vary, but it’s possible to enjoy the destination on a reasonable budget.

Where To Stay In Cancun

Most travelers to Cancun stay in the Hotel Zone (Zona Hotelera), a 14-mile strip showcasing over 70 hotels. Because there are so many options, it can be tricky to choose which Cancun resort to book.

I recommend choosing a place that is:

• On the Caribbean side of the strip (vs the lagoon side)
• Within Punta Cancun , the commerical heart of the Hotel Zone with loads of beach activities, restaurants, and nightlife

Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach

One property that fits both of those requirements — and more — is the Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach, a stunning 5-star all-inclusive resort full of incredible experiences.

Here is a quick gallery snapshot of the resort:

Featuring nine restaurants, a sports bar with game room, a sumptuous 40,000-square-foot spa, an oceanfront fitness center, multiple pools and swim up bars, nightly entertainment, direct beach access, and an array of onsite activities from water polo to kayaking to tequila tasting, you’ll truly never be bored.

I’ve been to many all-inclusives over the years, and can say the service and attention to detail at the Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach is outstanding.

Additionally, the dining and entertainment is next level. Not only do they host outstanding nightly entertainment like fire and aquatic shows, but almost every meal had an interactive element — from ballet dancers at Le Basilic to a mariachi band at La Joya to immersive 360-degree digital art at The Table.

The resort is also conveniently located adjecent to the ferry dock for trips to Isla Mujeres as well as next to Cancun’s famous nightlife-filled Party Zone. And if you’re traveling as a family, there is an onsite Coral KidZ Club to entertain the little ones.

In terms of accommodation, the property features 602 spacious and clean suites — all with ocean views and private terraces.

Looking to uplevel your Cancun trip? Opt for the resort’s Infinite Club, which features upgraded accommodation, access to exclusive areas of the resort, and special perks like hydrotherapy spa treatments, premium beverage selection, and special personlized resort experiences.

Click here for full information and to book your stay .

7 Day Cancun Itinerary

Now it’s time to dive into our Cancun 7 day itinerary .

This Cancun trip guide is based on my own experience in the destination, and is completely customizable. Feel free to move days around or swap out excursions to fit your interests.

There are some options for alternative Cancun experiences below, too. As stated above, your tours can be booked right through  BeachBound .

Additionally, I’ve included Cancun trip itinerary ideas for shorter trips toward the bottom of this guide. You’ll find options for 3 days in Cancun as well as 4 days in Cancun.

Remember, too, that the Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach hosts a wide array of daily activities, like pool games, bingo, kayaking, beach volleyball, tequila tasting, circus-style shows, and more.

Here is a sample schedule. Keep in mind, this isn’t even the full roster of events:

Day #1: Explore The Resort

Whether you’re staying for a week or only have one day in Cancun, you’ll definitely want to enjoy the resort.

The beauty of staying at an all-inclusive in Cancun is everything is taken care of, from the activities to the food to the drinks to the stunning scenery.

Since today is a travel day, it’s smart not to schedule too much for yourself. Spend time exploring the resort, swimming the Caribbean Sea, sipping cocktails at the swim up bar, and taking part in one of the many resort activities.

For dinner, immerse yourself in Mexican history and culture at The Table , an interactive 9-course dining and pairing experience. Each dish tells the story of Mexican history and Maya culture, from prehistoric times through colonization to modern day.

For instance, a king crab chilpachole cooked with lava rock in a dish made to resemble a volcano is served to represent how after the land was first created from cooling lava, crustacean-like creatures were the first life to emerge.

On top of that, digital art, live music, actors, and narration help to bring it all to life.

This will cerainly be a memorable meal, as The Table is one of the most unique restaurants in Cancun. Just note that seatings are limited and are only at 6:30pm on Fridays and Sundays.

Day #2: Enjoy Cancun’s Beaches

When researching what to do in Cancun , the beach will likely be at the top of your list. You could spend every day of your 7 day Cancun itinerary exploring the sand and be totally happy.

And for good reason: the Mexican Caribbean coastline is dreamy, with soft white sand and inviting turquoise waters.

Spend the morning swapping between swimming in the sea and lounging in the comfortable lounge chairs provided by the resort.

Then, after a lunch of fresh catch and conch ceviche at the al fresco Isla Contoy , get active with some kayaking, snorkeling, or stand up paddle boarding. You can also go jet skiing right from the resort!

Before heading back to your room to shower for dinner, enjoy a cocktail in the sand as you watch a beautiful Cancun sunset.

For dinner, opt for a AAA Five Diamond meal at Le Basilic , a fine dining French restaurant with a multi-course food pairing menu that features local ingredients and Mexican wines. Not only is the food delicious, but the eatery is decorated with abstract paintings created by local artist León Alva.

Live piano music and ballet dancing provide entertainment while you dine.

Afterward, check the resort’s nightly entertainment schedule, which ranges from circus shows in the Grand Coral Theater to live music in the Lobby Lounge to dancing in the Havannah Club and beyond.

Day #3: Day Trip From Cancun To Isla Mujeres

One great thing about planning a Cancun itinerary for 7 days is you have the chance to schedule in day trips — like to Isla Mujeres , a 4.3-mile-long island known for its beautiful beaches and abundant shopping.

The ferry departs from right next to the Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach , and it takes about 30 minutes to reach Isla Mujeres.

Once you exit the ferry terminal, you’ll be bombarded with street vendors trying to sell you their wares and taxi drivers offering tours of the island.

My suggestion: walk away from the main drag to the quieter side streets to enjoy the shops in a more peaceful setting. A few items you’ll see a lot of include macrame clothing, Cuban cigars, and Talavera Pottery .

You can also walk to the stunning Playa Norte (North Beach), which has soft white sand and translucent blue water.

On the beach are also restaurants and bars, some of which are really cute and offer beautiful ocean views.

To reach Playa Norte, you can walk El Malecon , a scenic seaside walking path between Calle Mateos and Calle Allende where you can enjoy a photo opp with the Isla Mujeres sign and potentially spot dolphins in the water

If you’d like to explore more of Isla Mujeres, you can rent a golf cart, which is about $50 for a half-day. A few experiences of interest on the island include:

• Seeing the waterfront sculptures at Punta Sur
• Visiting pretty churches like Capilla de Guadalupe and Iglesia de Concepcion Immaculada
• Purchasing handmade jewelry at the Women’s Beading Cooperative

Once back in Cancun, freshen up for a delicious dinner at La Joya , the Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach’s upscale Mexican restaurant. As you enjoy dishes like fresh fish in creamy tequila corn sauce and beef barbacoa cooked in maguey and avocado leaves, you’ll be entertained by an 8-piece mariachi band.

Pro tip: this eatery is known for its margaritas, which are delicious. I tried both a spicy margarita on the rocks and a frozen tamarind margarita. Yum!

Afterward, check out the nightly entertainment or play a round of air hockey or foosball in the Sports Lounge .

Day #4: Have A Cancun Jungle Adventure

Ready for an adventure? Today on your Cancun travel itinerary we’ve got another day trip, this time in the form of a jungle adventure.

There are a number of jungle tours that involve ziplining, ATVing, and swimming in Mexico’s famous cenotes — which are natural deep-water sinkholes.

The Yucatán Peninsula is home to at least 6,000 cenotes, so you certainly have plenty of options.

The closest cenotes to Cancun are along the Ruta de Los Cenotes Puerto Morelos , which is about an hour drive — either via tour or your own car — from the hotel. Many of the cenotes also have ziplines and high jumps that offer an adventurous way to enter the water.

Another option is Valladolid , which is about two hours away by car. While I personally haven’t visited this city, I’ve read that because Valladolid has a higher elevation than the coast, the cenotes feature more dramatic drops and scenery.

If you love adventure travel , this will likely be your best day in Cancun.

Afterward, come back to the resort to enjoy a delicious dinner at the Tuscany Trattoria & Terrace . Transport yourself from Mexico to Italy through plates of homemade pasta, creamy risotto, and bistecca alla fiorentina before enjoying some evening entertainment. Check the daily schedule to see the array of options.

Day #5: Visit Maya Ruins From Cancun

No Cancun travel blog would be complete without mentioning Maya ruins. If you plan to stay a week in Cancun, you definitely need to add this activity to your list.

The Maya are an Indigenous people of Mexico and Central America, who built remarkable cities featuring temples, palaces, and pyramids from the Mayan Preclassical Period (2000 B.C. to A.D. 250).

Today, these ancient cities sit in ruins, though are still incredibly impressive.

In fact, when researching what to do around Cancun, you’ll see numerous options for ruins to visit. A few of these include:

Chichen Itza. No travel guide to Cancun would be complete without mentioning this popular UNESCO World Heritage Site, which was one of the largest Maya cities. Known for its large central pyramid, It was founded by the Itza in the 5th century AD and is believed to have had over 50,000 inhabitants.

As it’s one of the New 7 Wonders Of The World, you’ll certainly want to add this to your 7 day Cancun itinerary.

Tulum Ruins. If you’re planning a Cancun Tulum itinerary, the Tulum Ruins are a must. These ruins are known for many things — like the site’s stunning location right on the Caribbean Sea. In fact, the Tulum Ruins are one of the few enclosed cities built by the Mayas, featuring walls on three sides and an open fourth side facing the water.

Coba. Coba is another popular Cancun Mexico itinerary addition. Located about 29 miles northwest of Tulum, Coba is known for having the highest pyramid in the northern Yucatan, called Nohoch Mul.

Ek Balam. While the previously mentioned Maya sites are mentioned in almost every Cancun information guide, Ek Balam is less touristy — though still very important, especially as the site was the region’s main political center for many centuries. A few highlights of a visit are seeing the uniquely shaped pyramid and getting to climb to the highest point of the ruins at 95 feet.

If you’d like to book a tour, Amstar DMC  offers a number of options.

For dinner, opt for a spot along the Hotel Zone or have an Italian meal at Viña Del Mar at the Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach. While gazing out over the Caribbean Sea, you’ll be entertained by a soprano and tenor show.

Since you don’t have to be up early tomorrow, consider leaving the resort to enjoy the nightlife in Cancun’s Party Zone .

Yes, it’s touristy, but you’ll find some epic dance parties at places like Coco Bongo and The City Discotheque , both of which also include acrobatic performances.

These clubs are surrounded by loads of other nightlife options, as well, and the streets in this area have a loud and festive feel.

If you’d prefer to enjoy Cancun’s nightlife away from the craziness of the Party Zone, another option of many is Distrito Gourmet , which is a kind of open-air food hall-meets-nightclub concept. The icing on top is that you also get beautiful water views.

Day #6: Explore Cancun Beaches & Hotel Zone & Spa Day

Whether you’re backpacking Cancun, traveling solo , creating a Cancun family itinerary, or planning a trip for two to Cancun, the beach will likely be a main point of interest.

In all honesty, you could visit the beach every day of your 7 day Cancun itinerary and still have an incredible trip.

Spend the morning swimming, snorkeling and paddling. Also, if you haven’t done so yet, take a short 15-minute walk along the beach to Punta Cancun Lighthouse . You can’t climb it, but it’s a scenic walk along — and sometimes in — the water that offers beautiful views looking back toward the resort.

After lunch at the poolside Bikini Bar or inside at the bistro-style Coral Cafe , take a walk along the Hotel Zone. There are a number of points of interest, like:

• Party Zone , a club area that is wild at night but still interesting to see during the day
• La Isla Shopping Village , a mall with a wide variety of shops, eateries, and attractions like Ripley’s Mirror Maze and the Tequila Museum
• Mercado Coral Negro , a flea market with souvenirs — though note it’s quite pricey
• Playa Delfines , a public beach where you can also take a photo with the Cancun sign
• El Sol de Cancun , a ferris wheel offering beautiful views of Cancun
• El Rey , Maya ruins named after “the King” statue on site that also has a botanical garden
• Museo Maya de Cancún y Zona Arqueológica de San Miguelito , a Maya museum and archeological site
• Mayan Market , which sells Maya-inspired jewelry and handicrafts as well as artisanal tequila
• Restaurante Lorenzillos , a great spot for fresh seafood meals right on the water
• Taquería Los Chachalacos , a taquería known for its delicious tacos al pastor

After exploring Cancun, head back to the Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach for a treatment at their Gem Spa .

Their signature treatment is the 80-minute Seventh Wonder Luxury Massage, which involves an essential oil massage where seven quartz stones are placed on the seven corresponding chakras of the body for a transformative experience.

When visiting, I personally did the Hydrotherapy Treatment, a 10-step circuit that involves a mix of hot and cold rituals.

Starting with a soothing eucalyptus steam, you’ll then cool down in a multi-jet shower before getting a clay body mask followed by closing the pores with cool ice crystals. From there, you’ll relax in a dry sauna followed by a rain shower. Up next is a series of pools: a hot whirlpool, a cool plunge pool, a colder plunge pool, and then a reflexology-focused underwater pebble walkway. The experience culminates with a swim in the “pool of sensations” with massaging neck jets, bubbles, floor geysers, and other therapeutic elements.

Afterward, you’ll be nice and relaxed for dinner on the beach at Nah K´aax , which means “Jungle House” in the Mayan language. Listen to the waves lapping up onto the coast as you dig into Mexican-Asian eats in a boho chic space.

You’ll also have live entertainment, either from a DJ spinning right on the beach or their twice-weekly fire show.

Day #7: Enjoy A Cancun Sunrise

Last on my one week in Cancun itinerary is catching the sunrise!

While I personally woke up for sunrise every day of my Cancun trip, I realize getting out of bed before 5:30am isn’t for everyone.

If you haven’t seen a Cancun sunrise yet by the last day of your trip, make sure you take this final opportunity to do so.

If possible, skip going back to bed and instead and enjoy the resort amenities one last time before you have to leave for your flight. Savor an al fresco breakfast, swim in the pool, and dip your toes in the Caribbean Sea one last time before heading back home to reality.

Alternative: 4 Day Cancun Itinerary

Can’t swing a 7 day Cancun itinerary? You can still have an epic trip! Here is my 4 days in Cancun itinerary:

• Day 1: Explore the resort, relax by the pool, and partake in some included activities
• Day 2: Relax on the beach, do some water sports, and book a spa treatment
• Day 3: Do a Cancun day trip like exploring Maya ruins or having a jungle adventure
• Day 4: Wake up to see a Cancun sunrise and enjoy the pool or beach before your flight home

Alternative: 3 Day Cancun Itinerary

Only have time for a weekend in Cancun ? Here is how I would spend 3 days in Cancun:

• If you want to get away from the resort, do a quick nearby day trip like visiting the El Rey Ruins right in the Hotel Zone for an hour or two
• Day 3: Wake up to see a Cancun sunrise and enjoy the pool or beach before your flight home

Tips For First Time Travelers To Cancun

Wondering how to plan a trip to Cancun, Mexico ? To help make your beach vacation as amazing as possible, here are a few tips for visiting Cancun:

Check the latest entry and exit rules for travel in Cancun. This goes for general passport, visa, and vaccination requirements, as well as necessary steps due to the pandemic.

Don’t schedule too much on your first day. Traveling is exhausting — especially when you factor in early wake up times and time zone changes — so don’t schedule too much for yourself on your arrival day. The good thing is all-inclusive resorts like the Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach have daily activity schedules, so if you’re feeling energetic there will be plenty to do.

Bring cash for tips and extras.  While tipping at an all-inclusive resort in Cancun is not mandatory, it is a nice gesture. The local currency is the Mexican Peso, though you can also tip in US dollars (just make sure to leave only bills and not coins).

Note that paying in Mexican Pesos off the resort can get you better rates. For instance, we paid US dollars for our ferry tickets to Isla Mujeres — and paid about $6 more per ticket than we would have if we used pesos.

Note that many all inclusive resorts bake tips and taxes into the room rate, though leaving a little extra for your servers and bartenders is a kind way to show your appreciation. You should also tip bag handlers, spa workers, and housekeeping.

As an initial guideline, consider tipping about $5 for breakfast and lunch and $10 for dinner.

Allow yourself to relax. If you’re lucky enough to have planned a 7 day Cancun itinerary, you’ll have plenty of time to just enjoy the all-inclusive resort and partake in all of the included food, drink, activities, and entertainment — not to mention the gorgeous scenery and beach. Dedicate a good chunk of your itinerary to enjoying these amenities.

Take at least one day trip. While your Cancun all-inclusive resort will certainly be a trip highlight, there is more to the destination. Spend some time getting to know the local history, culture, and landscape. Even if you only have a weekend trip to Cancun planned, you can still see Maya ruins right within the Hotel Zone. And if you have a week to spare, a 7 day Cancun itinerary gives you plenty of time to enjoy the resort and beyond.

Wear (reef-safe) sunscreen & sunglasses.  Cancun is a sunny Caribbean destination, so you’ll definitely want to pack sunscreen and sunglasses. To help protect the environment, consider a high SPF reef-safe sunscreen.

Wake up for at least one sunrise. The sunrise in Cancun is gorgeous and absolutely worth waking up early for. There is also something truly special about wandering the resort on your own.

Is Cancun Safe?

Yes, Cancun is a safe travel destination — as long as you know where to go and where to avoid.

The Cancun Hotel Zone, for instance, is very safe, and you’ll see many local police helping to keep it that way. My Amstar driver explained that because tourism is so vital to Cancun’s economy, the destination really works hard to keep it safe for visitors.

If you plan to leave the Hotel Zone, check with your hotel to see where is and isn’t safe to explore in Cancun.

Mexico Travel Insurance

When visiting Mexico—or anywhere else in the world—it’s wise to get travel insurance.

For this, I have two recommendations:

SafetyWing . If you’re looking for something straightforward and budget-friendly, you can’t beat SafetyWing. They offer one global policy that you can cancel at any time or continue paying for long-term coverage (making it the perfect option for digital nomads!).

Their plan includes medical coverage, trip interruptions, personal liability, unplanned overnight stays, lost luggage, and more.

World Nomads . For something more comprehensive, World Nomads is a great option. While you’ll pay a bit more, you’ll typically get higher coverage maximums as well as additional inclusions—like trip cancellation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Traveling To Cancun

Q) how many days do you need in cancun.

You need a minimum of three days in Cancun to explore what it has to offer!

Q) Is 7 days in Cancun too much?

No, there are plenty of memorable activities to do in Cancun in a week. You can also visit other places along the Yucatán Peninsula. For instance, there are many fun things to do in Holbox , Tulum, and Playa del Carmen.

Q) Is Cancun an expensive holiday?

It depends on your travel style; however, you will find many free and cheap things to do in Cancun as well as a range of pricing for accommodation.

What would you add to this 7 day Cancun itinerary? Save this Cancun blog for later!

Bonus  mexico travel guides :.

Whether you follow my Cancun 4 day itinerary or spend a week, here are more travel guides that will help you plan your trip!

6 Best Beaches In Holbox, Mexico (Stunning!)

15 Best Beach Clubs In Holbox Island, Mexico

23 Best Things To Do In Holbox Island, Mexico (+ Sample Itinerary!)

14 Travel Tips For Puerto Vallarta For A Fun & Safe Trip (In-Depth Guide!)

Solo Travel In Puerto Vallarta: The Ultimate Guide

5 Active Ways To Explore Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula

21 Best Vegan Resorts In Mexico

Solo Travel In Mexico City: The Ultimate Guide

Related posts:

About Jessie Festa

Jessie Festa is a New York-based travel content creator who is passionate about empowering her audience to experience new places and live a life of adventure. She is the founder of the solo female travel blog, Jessie on a Journey, and is editor-in-chief of Epicure & Culture , an online conscious tourism magazine. Along with writing, Jessie is a professional photographer and is the owner of NYC Photo Journeys , which offers New York photo tours, photo shoots, and wedding photography. Her work has appeared in publications like USA Today, CNN, Business Insider, Thrillist, and WestJet Magazine.

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Wow, thank you so much for all of the great info and pictures as well. I’m definitely staying at the Grand Fiesta Americana next time and hopefully planning some of these recommendations as well. I’m completely sold and can’t wait 🙂

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10 THINGS TO DO ON A SOLO TRIP TO CANCUN

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE VISITING YUCATAN PENINSULA

Are you planning a 2 weeks trip to Mexico Yucatan? You are in the right place. I will let you discover my Ultimate Travel Itinerary, the best parts of it, and errors I’ve made and I wish I knew before.

On my two-week trip in Mexico in the Yucatan peninsula, I’ve mostly seen men traveling on their own and only two girls that were each of them traveling solo. The guys traveling alone were mostly Europeans, whilst the women were from Latin America, used to that kind of insecurity.

It’s better to make your research thoroughly before going to Yucatan Peninsula if you want to have a nice vacation.

How many days do I need to explore Yucatan Peninsula?

You will need a minimum of 2 weeks in Yucatan Peninsula, but 3 weeks are recommended to enjoy the pristine white beaches, delve into the Maya history and ruins, dive into the abyss of the blue cenotes and enjoy the exquisite local Mexican food. 

What is the best time to visit Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico?

The best time to visit the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico is during the dry season. The dry season in Mexico runs from December to April. The weather is at its best, you’ll enjoy clear skies and warm temperatures.

From March, temperatures turn quite hot, therefore sunscreen and water are more than a necessity.

However, it is also the busiest time of year, when accommodation and transportation prices go up. Make sure to book in advance.

From May to June and October to November are the periods less crowded due to rain, especially in the afternoon. You could still enjoy nice weather with fewer tourists around and rates considerably lower.

Pick the right time for you because you will enjoy it either way. 

How safe it is to go to Mexico?

The Yucatan peninsula is located on the Mexican Gulf coast and includes 3 Mexican states:

• Yucatan (capital Merida)
• Quintana Roo (capital Chetumal)
• Campeche (capital Campeche)

Most of the resorts and popular beaches, are actually in Quintana Roo. The general public knows the region as Yucatan Peninsula, not the states. The driving distances between the states are also quite important. 

Good to Know! From November to March, the state of Quintana Roo is 1 hour ahead of the Yucatan and Campeche states.  I went from Cancun to Chichen Itza and I was so confused why I had 2 different hours on my two cells when I came back. One I put on airplane mode when I was in Chichen Itza to save battery and the other was connected to the Internet the entire time. At the Hotel I realized that the hours do not match until I put my phone from airplane mode to Wi-Fi. 

In terms of safety , there is a big difference between the states also. Yucatan and Campeche provinces are safer, with police, known as Guardia Nacional, driving at a fast pace in their cars with bulletproof vests and high-caliber firearms. At first glance, you could feel alarmed and question what is going on, but bear in mind they are there to protect the tourists. Once I understood that, I felt much more secure and relaxed. Of course, I also took precautions not to go alone during the night, not walking on isolated streets or less safe barios.

In Quintana Roo you will find more corruption and gangs. Be aware of your surroundings and stay in populated areas, securing your belongings at all times. You can still be safe here as well, you don’t have to worry about that. As a Solo traveler, I recommend opting for organized trips where they are in charge of your safety.

Is it safe to drive in Yucatan Peninsula?

You can definitely drive safely and in good conditions in Mexico, especially in Yucatan Peninsula. Just stay out of the roads during the night as much as possible, especially if you go off the beaten path. The roads are in good shape, just be aware of TOPES – speed-reducing road bumps that are quite high and can destroy your car. They are installed to limit the speed and secure the roads, which is a good thing. 

If you decide to rent a car to get around, know that Yucatán has restrictions on drinking and driving of 0.08% BAC limit. during the night there is a significant number of state police and even medical personnel, taking breath samples in their quest to keep drunk drivers off the road.

BE AWARE OF SCAMS! There is a lot of corruption, especially in Quintana Roo, so you will deal with policemen that stop you for no reason, just to get a bribe. They will invent some charges on you, but just stay calm, try to negotiate, or if it doesn’t work try to call someone, a local. They will back off. At the Gas stations you might be a victim of scams as well, so better watch at all times that the counter is at zero when you start filling your car.  Propina (Tips) – as soon as they see you are a foreigner they will take everything from you. They will impose 20% Propina but know it is not legal to do that. 

HOW TO GET TO CANCUN

If you arrive by plane, you will mostly land at Cancun Airport (CUN), the 10th busiest airport in the world for international passengers. 

Be prepared to stay a long time to pass the border, and have all documents ready, return flight ticket, all the hotel reservations, and your passport. Visa, in case your nationality requires VISA.

If you don’t have internet access, make sure to save screenshots of everything. You don’t need to print them, they do not require it. I showed everything on my phone and everything was just fine.

After passing the border, be aware that they will make a thorough inspection of your luggage inside. Make sure to pack everything very compact, otherwise, you’ll have a hard time putting everything back together. Do not try to take photos or videos of this stage, it is strictly prohibited. 

There were a few passengers that brought with them 2 packs of cigarettes, although only one is permitted. They made a scandal in there, but nothing has changed. At the duty-free in Paris they’ve been told they can bring 2 packs per person, but always check the country of destination if they accept as well. 

From the airport, the best way is to take the ADO busses from the airport directly to Cancun Downtown. Check the photos above to see the cash desk of ADO buses in Cancun airport, right before exiting the airport.

The prices are quite OK, the standard of the bus is very good, you have A/C and toilet for your number 1 only. Check the destinations you have from Cancun airport and the rates in the photo above. Because of the A/C, it is very cold inside the bus, make sure to have something warm. 

When you arrive in Cancun, if you stay in Zona Hotelera, you can take the R1 & R2 buses that can connect the Hotel Zone, Boulevard Kukulcán (downtown), and Avenida Tulum. The buses run every five minutes and will take you back and forth between downtown and the Hotel Zone. A one-way fare costs 12 Pesos which is roughly 50 cents in USD/€. The buses do not accept foreign coins and make sure to carry Pesos on you, not bills, as it is difficult for them to break big bills. There are plenty of stations between Zona Hotelera and Downtown, but it will stop all along the way if you make a sign. The drivers are very accommodating and friendly.

Remember you are in Mexico, don’t expect luxury buses. They are OK, usually destined for locals going to work in the Zona Hotelera, but I saw a lot of tourists as well. During rush hours buses can be full, like in the below pictures, but for instance, I was going to Coco Bongo one evening with another Solo Traveler and we were the only two girls in the entire bus. It was like we had our private ride to Coco Bongo. 

THINGS TO DO IN CANCUN

1. relax at playa delfines, 2. party at coco bongo, 3. tan at playas tortugas beach, 4. day trip to chichen itza and valladolid – click here to book with getyourguide, 5. dive into the beep blue of cenotes – click here to book with getyourguide, 6. maya museum, 7. dive at the cancun underwater museum, 8. shop at mercado 28, 9. visit el rey archaeological site, 10. day trip to isla mujeres.

BONUS: WHERE TO EAT IN CANCUN

My favorite restaurants in cancun.

• Restaurante MEXTREME in Zona Hotelera, Boulevard Kukulcan Km 9.5 Very tasty fruits, a great breakfast, and an amazing atmosphere during the dinner service

WHERE TO STAY IN CANCUN

1. renaissance cancun resort & marina.

Fabulous hotel, with spacious rooms and a great view of the marina from the Pool and the rooms. Solo travelers particularly like the location

2. Moon Palace Cancun

Set in Cancún, 3 km from Beto Avila Stadium, Moon Palace Cancun – All Inclusive offers accommodation with a fitness center, free private parking, a garden, and a terrace. This 5-star hotel offers room service and a 24-hour front desk. Guests can dine in the in-house restaurant or relax in the bar.

3. Private rental – Bonito y cómodo

If you want to be outside of the rush of the city and have a car rented, this is the ideal escape place. Located in Cancún, Bonito y cómodo apartamento a tu alcance provides a private pool and free WiFi.  This air-conditioned apartment has 2 bedrooms, a cable flat-screen TV, a dining area, a kitchen with a fridge, and a living room.

4. Haven Riviera Cancun – All Inclusive – Adults Only

Haven Riviera Cancun – All Inclusive – Adults Only offers accommodation with an outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, a fitness center, and a garden. With free WiFi, this 5-star resort has a shared lounge and a terrace. The accommodation provides a hot tub, nightclub, and room service.

CHECK OUT THE BEST Mexico tours

Did you find this article useful.

Tell me in the comments section if you’ve been to Mexico and what was your experience. If you are planning to go on solo travel ask me for some useful tips that are not in this article.

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Solo Trip to Cancun

Cancun, 2017’s top-rated hottest singles destination according to Conde Nast Traveler, is surely a paradise on earth with beer, blue beaches, and beauties everywhere. Located in southeastern Mexico, it is not only the safest but also usually the cheapest and quickest getaway from the United States. Popularly known as a Spring break destination, it is one vacation college students will think of in a heartbeat. But then it is also famous for family vacations due to a large number of highly renowned resorts with exceptional facilities for great family time without any hassle. Well for me, I am really glad I chose Cancun to be my first solo vacation; lovely Mexican people, breathtaking views of beaches, and nightlife, all blend in to leave a wonderful memory. So single out there, you found your destination. Families, one getaway added to your bucket list. In relation? check this out if not already. Here are highlights from my solo three-day trip to Cancun (5 days including travel) which I hope will help with your planning.

Best time:  

Early June  is the best time for a better price on hotels and flights. Late June can be hit with showers. And of course, if you don’t mind spending a couple hundred bucks more, late March to April is the best time with the intense crowd, and best weather and yes it is heavily populated.

Where to Stay: 

Highly recommended to stay in Hotel Zone aka Zona Hotelera because it is easy to travel to other places from here plus the safest and cheapest. More precisely near Coco Bongo Club where major nightlife happens and you are not alone at any time of the day/night. Looking for suggestions? Riu Cancun is one of the best luxury hotels around. Suites Costa Blanca will be perfect for an average stay. Still cheap? There are several ho s tels too like Hostel Mayapan.

Transportation: 

Car rental isn’t really necessary but then Uber is illegal here(I faced huge trouble hiring Uber at the airport). Blue Shuttles are best to reach Zona Hotelera from the airport and back to the airport, hire a cab from the hotel team. To travel around, check the price in Uber and bargain for that or around to hire a local cab, it will save a lot of pesos. Lastly, buses aren’t bad for shorter distances. Worth a try. Great savings but they might be pretty crowded and you better know your stop.

Currency Exchange:  

Cancun is Americanized, so you can pay with dollars at most of the places except for the restaurants and local markets. So recommend avoiding exchanging in the US because there are chances you get a better exchange rate in Cancun at local stores. So US dollars in cash is all you need.  Provecho,  you will save money paying in dollars than paying in pesos.

Good to have: 

If you are taking your phone with an internet connection which is recommended, these apps will make your trip smoother. Google Maps, Google Translate (Can even translate pictures), AT&T with an international passport(which charges 10$/day for calls,text, and data), Discover Card(Free foreign transactions), and Spotify for Despacito 😀

Well, I guess enough prerequisites. Time to hit places:-

  Isla Mujeres        

Spanish for “Women Island” (Don’t ask me why), this is the heart of Cancun and is everything one needs or is the reason to visit. Colorful, lively, eye-feast, food haven, beach paradise, bed of water sports. Are there any other adjectives I can add to describe this splendid island?

Time to spend: 

One to two days.

How to reach: 

If you are just around Coco Bongo, an Ultramar Playa Caracol ferry ride is an option. Walkable but ferry aren’t on time and they are hourly. If you can take a bus or cab a few extra miles, Playa Tortugas is the best option. Every half hour and most regular.

Getting around: 

The best form of transportation is a bike. Remember to bargain. Know the prices around. Pelicano’s Bikes is one shop I recommend. You might need a valid ID to rent mopeds. Golf carts are famous choices to rent though.

If you prefer to stay around a lot of people, Playa Norte is the perfect beach with a lot of choices to grab drinks. This is less than a mile away from the ferry terminal, north of it facing the mainland. While you are there, make time for a seaside massage. Looking for some impressive views, head to Punta Sur, the southern tip of the island.

And everyone needs some me time, so head to the back of the island, away from the mainland where there are no designated beaches but you can always find a path leading from the road to the ocean. These are the places where we can spend hours enjoying views, street food, and some local beer, Mexican style. You will also encounter local people who would love to share their stories if you understand the language. Be careful though.

Carry own towel, bottled water, sunscreen and valid ID while heading to the Island.

Restaurants:

There are hundreds of restaurants serving a variety of food across the Island and almost everything is similar. Trust your instinct to choose one and you will do fine. So does Bally-Hoo to me. Close to the ferry terminal. Loved the place. Just on the shore with some good views of the beach and sailing boats. The host recommended some Mexican-style fish, it was pretty good. The other restaurant, Casa Chetto which I tried for some quick drinks just across the terminal is good too. La Lomita, on the other side of the island close to shore, is a must-try for some authentic Mexican food.

Activities: 

This is the fun part. So let’s breakdown.

1. Biking: 

One should roam around the island at least once to enjoy the views, spot colorful houses or wild Iguanas, and catch up with some spectacular local food and local shopping, and the best way to do it is by bike. You can stop anywhere you want, travel off-roads, and do much more. The island is about 7 km long , so it is a half-day trip.

2. Water Sports: 

Duh! Yeah, I understand. Of course, there are plenty of choices. Scuba Diving, Whale-Shark Tours, and Snorkeling are popular ones. While there is no hard-fast rule to have fun, there is one basic thing to take care of. Pick the right shop!!

I learned this the hard way or maybe I am too amateur for Scuba diving. If you don’t wanna hear a fail story that might give second thoughts to diving, I prefer you to skip this 🙂 Long story short, I completed the first two levels – theory and at the shore. While I am still getting better at the shore and trying to understand the dive signs and process, my trainer felt I was good and took me to the battlefield which I opted to do at  Museo Subacuático de Arte/Underwater Museum of Art from various options. I was so excited to visit this underwater museum as the pictures are mind-blowing.

We were on our way to the museum on a boat and I could hear my heartbeat while enjoying the beauty of the ocean and views. And suddenly those waves were looking at me sharply, the ocean turned black and so as sky 😀 (Really! There is a rain forecast and you know when the ocean won’t be blue anymore when it is deep, so it is black now) We stopped at a black spot, the trainer asked if I am ready, geared me up, took three-four minutes of sighs and my boat driver helped me to do back dive, five minutes or less I was crying for help to put me back on boat 😀 Those were the few minutes I can never forget in my life.

The view of the ocean bed even for a few seconds is so pretty stunning.

Mistake , the more I tried to blow the water out, the more I took in. Panic, lack of confidence, lack of trust in the trainer and the sea is so deep and clear as crystal, I had doubts as I am a 101 swimmer. Also, one wave hit me hard on my cheek asking me to go back to my place 😀 Advice , learn swimming, know about gear, join a group, and most importantly, pick the right shop with great reviews that has great trainers and gear to become one among 52% of visitors who made it to the underwater museum on their first visit to Cancun. I picked a great shop but I think it’s just me and the trainer combo and recent events got me a little confused.

End of the day, you know what made me feel better? This sign 😀

Epilogue, The next day back in the States, I was swimming for 2 hours straight 😀

3. Ocean life

Love to watch ocean life without actually being inside? Turtle Farm aka Tortugranja and Dolphin Discovery  to swim with those lovely creatures are the ones you should check out.

 4. Sailing

This is one activity if you are willing to go the extra mile to catch some splendid views. Local fishermen head out to the sea in their boats during sunset. This is a great opportunity to get some great views of the island while you fish. Unique experience and mostly it is safe . Plan to go out with registered shops.

Chichen Itza Day Tour

A trip to Cancun is not complete without checking off Chichen Itza, one of the UNESCO World Heritage sites and New Seven Wonders of the World . It is one of the famous Mayan ruins sites in Mexico with so much history. El Castillo, the north platform of this pyramid is significant with its theory that the shadows at a time of the year represent the feathered-serpent god Kukulkan. There are several ruins and so much history to learn at this site.

There are plenty of tours from Hotel Zone and book one with great reviews instead of the hotel tour. Any tour generally includes a Valladolid city tour(actually a stop), a Chichen Itza guided tour, and Il-Kil, a cenote (sinkhole).

Tips: 

• Avoid large bus tours if possible. It will save a lot of time and too many selling tricks for tour company’s products.
•   Audio tours  will be really helpful to learn history than tour guides.
• Do not fall for the tour-free buffet. If not with a lovely family on my tour, I would have fallen sick.
• Never rely on weather sources in Mexico. They are not so accurate. When we were just on the site of Chichen Itza, there was a heavy downpour which almost lasted for all the time we were there. Bright side, I wouldn’t have met a lovely girl who could have shared an umbrella with a pleasant smile turning it into a sweet memory.

This sinkhole is a fabulous place, situated close to Chichen Itza, so it is a popular destination to visit. You will witness people performing all stunts in water and ropes are tied to aid swimming. The locker place is well-maintained and towels are available for rent.

Valladolid City will be a quick stop before heading to the Yucatan Peninsula leaving us to explore a Church, a local park, and souvenir stores.

And then there is Zona Hotelera itself with plenty to do. Water sports like Jet Skiing, Museums, Clubs, and Restaurants, it is complete themselves.

Things to do: 

The top hits will be Tequila Herradura Sensory Museum to experience Mexican best tequila and the top of everything is Coco-Bongo . It is one unique club with various acts and acrobats doing professional stunts amid electrifying music. It just has to be experienced and all other clubs just cannot be compared.

Buy general tickets online for Coco-Bongo and then upgrade if you want to – inside the club to a personal table and waitress for a lower cost. Remember tips can do magic.

Where to Eat:

There are the best Mexican restaurants around like Casa Tequila and everything will amuse in its style. Street food has its taste and one shouldn’t miss it. There are several of them in the small strip in front of Coco Bongo and are open till late. I recommend Calypso’s in front of the Ferry Terminal in the Hotel Zone and for drinks, El Poblano ZH besides Suites Costa Blanca, both places have great hosts. Nachos with a variety of delicious Mexican sauces come along with drinks at every restaurant.

We can spend days here and still, there will be something missed. With longer vacations, one can visit Playa Del Carmen, another pleasant beach; Cancun Downtown(be careful at night), and Xcaret, a theme park for a full-on experience of Mexican food, music, and culture with an aquarium, adventure park, zoo, and trajineras , decorated boats.

What do you think about my solo trip to Cancun? Don’t you think it is one place we should visit solo? Hope you have a pleasant experience in Cancun!

This hotel zone view on my return journey already made me miss it.

Craving for more? All about Cancun in a short Video :

Te veo pronto!

Here are some of the other posts you may like:

Other wonders of the world :

Wonders of the world

Or change of scene to Paris :

Top 10 things to do in Paris

Some places we explored in the USA . Click here .

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About Author

“Be a Roman when in Rome” is the first travel quote I heard. Soon I realize every place is unique. Wondering how it is? Well that's why the stories here are for. Enjoy reading them!

With so many lovely places on this earth, different cultures and variety of food, exploring one at a time while leading a crazy IT professional life. In short, call me Explorer, be it places, food or IT. See you around!

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a solo traveler’s guide

With your free guide "The Guide of a Single Traveler" you will learn about the best hotels, meeting points, tours, activities and much more: all selected by our collaborators to ensure the best vacations you have ever had.

Do you want to know how to meet people traveling alone in Mexico? It’s easier than you think. All you have to do is have an open mind and dare to approach others without being intimidated. Cancun and the Riviera Maya offer a wide range of activities for all budgets and tastes. They are the best places in Mexico to travel alone. It has offers for couples, families, groups, students, congresses, conventions... But it also has travel options for women traveling alone in Mexico, because they travel more and more without the need for anyone to accompany them.

Actually, when you travel alone... you rarely find yourself “alone”. Unless you voluntarily step out of the world ignoring the people around you, you’ll see that it’s very easy to start a conversation with others. It is very easy to meet people on excursions, so you can discover new places while making new friends and having a good time.

Cancun and the Riviera Maya are not just sun and beach destinations, there are numerous activities to do alone.

They are also safe places to travel alone in Mexico, just keep your guard high enough to ensure your safety. The same common sense you use at home is relevant anywhere in the world. As long as you are intelligent, a wonderful adventure awaits you

travel recoMMendations for solo feMale traveler Mexico

TRavel solo To cancun:

Cancun is one of the most popular destinations on the Yucatan Peninsula. It is synonymous with luxury, parties, Spring Break, great resorts and beautiful beaches. However, if you leave the main area of Cancun, you will find a very local city with few tourists and friendly people. There are also some Mayan ruins near the city. Cancun has much, much more than parties, but you have to go look for it.

solo feMale travel :things to do in cancun alone

snoRkeling TouR:

TouR To discoveR The Mexican food:

Enjoy the delicious Mexican food while you spend a pleasant moment with the other participants. You will then be able to return by yourself to the places you visited.

guided TouR To Mayan Ruins: TuluM, chichen iTza, coba...

You can’t visit Mexico and not learn about the Mayan civilization. Discover one or more of these wonderful archaeological sites. Get to know one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World, Tulum: the only Mayan settlement built on the coast, the highest pyramid in the Yucatan Peninsula: Cobá or the walled city of Ek Balam. You will be amazed at these incredible Mayan ruins

Enjoy the best view of Cancun flying Parasail at 80 meters high, you don’t need anyone to enjoy the scenery. Face your fears and parasail in Cancun!

jungLe boat tour:

Drive your own speedboat over the blue waters of the sea, mangrove channels and Nichupté lagoon. Be the captain of your own boat during a 15 mile trip to Punta Nizuc, where you will observe the entire Cancun hotel zone from the water, once here, enjoy snorkeling on the reef surrounded by thousands of fish and multicolored corals.

visit cenotes:

In Xenotes Tour you will discover 4 different types of cenotes (open, closed, semi-open), enjoy nature in all its splendor. Do a different activity in each Xenote (Kayak, Rapel with assisted descent, Snorkel and Tyrolean.) You won’t have time to get bored.

I hope you are convinced that it is not dangerous to travel alone to Cancun.

accoMModation

You can travel alone to Cancun and find suitable accommodation. Choose to stay in the hotel zone or in the city center.

how to get there:

From the airport to the city centre:

Many think it is dangerous to travel to Cancun alone but they are wrong.

getting around cancun

Most travelers in Cancun agree that the bus is the best way to get around. R1 or R2 buses are the most popular routes, they will take you back and forth between downtown and the hotel zone. The fare is $12 pesos.

With this option, you will have access to the beach you want, the discotheque area and any part of the hotel zone. Even the R2 will leave you very close to Mercado 28 (downtown) if you want to buy souvenirs at a good price. If you’re not sure where to get off the bus, tell your driver. They will let you know when the bus has reached your stop.

Cancun taxis have the reputation of being the most expensive means of transportation in the city. Rates in the hotel area are different than in the urban area. If you are going to take a taxi, it is better to pay in pesos because they take the dollar at a lower price than in a bureau de change. It is also very important that you ask what the fare is before you get in. Avoid calling taxis on the street. Instead, ask your hostal/hotel to get you a taxi or call a taxi company

Isla Mujeres is one of the best places in Mexico to travel alone. This small island is a short distance from the coast of Cancun. Known for its beautiful beaches and crystal clear turquoise waters, it is the perfect excursion from Cancun

how To geT TheRe:

From the Cancun hotel zone: To get to Isla Mujeres you can take a ferry out of Playa Tortuga or the pier if you are located in the hotel zone, but if you are located in a downtown hotel we recommend using the Gran Puerto terminal located in Puerto Juarez

Round trip from any port at a time that best suits you - $361 It is advisable to arrive 30 minutes before your departure time

Best things to do in isla Mujeres for woMen traveling alone

snoRkel oR dive in The subMaRine MuseuM (Musa):

Designed by Jason deCaires Taylor, Isla Mujeres is home to the world’s largest underwater museum. The clear waters of Isla Mujeres are ideal for diving or snorkeling while watching the thousands of underwater sculptures that change over time in terms of coral growth and marine interaction. The aim of the project is extraordinary and the combination of art and marine conservation is fantastic. These are group excursions, you won’t be the only lonely traveler who wants to discover these wonders

MUSA is a fascinating attraction and a great way to spend a day at sea! It is also the perfect place for diving. If you don’t dive, you can also snorkel on some of MUSA’s facilities as part of a day of diving (the art facilities are scattered along the coast and you will need a boat and a guide to visit them).

You can tour the whole island in one day with stops to enjoy the view and visit the beautiful beaches. It is a circular route of 14 km in its totality. Relax and enjoy the scenery with the sea on one side and the lush vegetation of the Isla Mujeres jungle on the other side.

TuRTle faRM

Because large sea turtles have made Isla Mujeres their breeding ground for generations, the Turtle Farm collects the eggs it finds along the beaches and incubates them at the Turtle Farm, greatly increasing its chances of survival. If you are lucky enough to be on the island in October, you can participate in the release of the turtles found all over the island, where thousands of turtles are released.

PLaya norte

The most visited and recommended beaches are located in the northern part of the island, next to the town. The waters are crystal clear, shallow and calm, with beautiful coral reefs just a short distance from the beaches. You will find the best beaches in Mexico to travel alone.

A short distance from the maritime station is Playa Norte, which can be reached by walking on the beach or the boardwalk. In the area you will enjoy white sand, palm trees, crystalline and shallow waters that invite you to refresh yourself in them. You’ll find hotels, restaurants and craft shops, and you can also rent a table with chairs and umbrella if you want to spend the whole day on the beach. Make sure you see one or two sunsets at Playa Sol, located at the northwest end of the island, right next to Playa Norte.

Punta Sur is a popular tourist site, located at the southern end of the island, 19.8 meters above sea level and with incredible views of Cancun in the distance. The landscape is beautiful, and you’ll also find a lighthouse, a sculpture garden and the remains of a Mayan temple in Ixchel, as well as a statue of Ixchel herself. Ixchel is the Mayan goddess of the Moon and fertility, and wife of the Sun. Ixchel is the reason Isla Mujeres is called the Island of Women: Mayan women used to visit the island on pilgrimage to visit and honor Ixchel. Their temple was built on this site because it is the highest elevation in the Yucatan Peninsula, but since then it has been a place of pilgrimage.

woMen’s bead cooPeRaTive

The Women’s Bead Cooperative offers the opportunity to watch the bead work as they do it. They make all kinds of jewelry and supply purses, key rings and other items. They do not offer guided tours, and the women will continue to work while you are in the store. But bead making is fascinating to watch. Collect some unique handmade items for yourself as a souvenir

From Cancun, it’s super easy to get to Isla Mujeres. I recommend spending one or two nights on the island (if not more) instead of opting for a day trip from Cancun.

accoMModation:

Poc Na Hostel:

The hostel is on the beach, with lots of hammocks to relax comfortably. Access to the beach is through the door of the hostel, and the location is away from the main street, so it is nice and quiet and there is not much pedestrian traffic. There is abreakfast included, yoga in the morning, helpful staff to help book excursions, and cheap, private dormitories and campsites

You’ll find beautiful beaches, world-class restaurants, excellent shopping and plenty of nightlife. There is something for every type of traveler! Playa del Carmen is without a doubt one of the best places in Mexico to travel alone.

how To geT TheRe

By colectivo An alternative is to use the buses that operate the route from Cancun to Playa del Carmen constantly. If you are traveling short distances, buses can be found in most towns and charge around 30 or 40 pesos. This is the cheapest option for this trip. However, buses make different stops along the route, which can lengthen the travel time

By bus: Most international flights arrive at Terminal 3 or the new Terminal 4. After passing through immigration and customs, you will exit on the left and walk down a corridor. There will be car rental companies and tourist cabins. There is an ADO cabin and you can buy your ticket. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes in a comfortable air-conditioned bus. It will take you to the ADO bus station on Fifth Avenue.

Return to the airport for departure? You can buy a ticket at both ADO stations in Playa del Carmen. Buses depart from 5th Avenue and Juarez Station first and then stop at the 20th Street bus station. Buses stop at all airport terminals..

things to do alone in Playa del carMen

quinTa avenida sTReeT

Playa del Carmen’s main avenue is La Quinta, a vibrant pedestrian street that runs more than a kilometer parallel to the beach. La Quinta is made up of hundreds of shops and vendors that offer everything. Of course, it’s very touristy, but a visit to La Quinta should be on every list of things to do in Playa del Carmen.

Parque fundadores

One of the most interesting places in Playa del Carmen that you can find is in the Parque Fundadores.

This is a block-size park right at the foot of Avenida Juarez and the beach, also next to the Cozumel Ferry Pier. This park continues to add attractions for guests visiting Playa del Carmen and can be a place of fun. To one side of the park is the beach with the large statue of the “Portal Maya”. Underneath this statue in the evenings and nights you can find Mayan dancers who offer a free show. In the center of this park you will see a high pole. This is where the Papantla dancers perform. They do this all day long and it’s free, but a tip is nice to give.

rio secreto

Have you ever been swimming inside a cave? Well, if not, you definitely need to see this unique thing you can do in Playa del Carmen. Located a few minutes from the city, Rio Secreto is a complex of five impressive caves that are filled with underground rivers and springs. You’ll put on a wetsuit and join a small guided tour through a cave that includes the incredible experience of swimming inside a deep black cave. This is definitely one of the incredible things to do in Playa del Carmen.

fRida kahlo MuseuM

One of the most popular activities in Playa del Carmen is to visit the elegant Frida Kahlo Museum. Conveniently located in La Quinta, the museum is open daily from 9 am to 11 pm and the entrance fee for the general public is around $15 USD. Inside you will find a series of exhibits dedicated to the life and history of the famous Mexican portraitist.

MaMiTas beach:

This beach is the most popular place in Playa del Carmen. Here you can listen to electronic music and have a few drinks. The very popular Mamitas Beach Club is always playing music and even if you are not sitting on the beach chairs or beach beds, you can hear it. If you are young or young at heart and want to be on the scene, you should take a look at this beach. It’s also easy to find food and drink on 28th Street and go to the beach.

Tulum is a small town in the state of Quintana Roo on the Yucatan Peninsula. Approximately 2 hours south of Cancun airport. It can be a destination for luxury travelers, but also for budget backpackers. It has a lot to offer for unusual adventures and also for health enthusiasts.

Tulum is best known for its beaches and yoga centers. It’s where idyllic white sand beaches meet elegant hotels and high-end resorts, as well as beautiful restaurants.There are also many things to do in the area

Tulum is the perfect place to relax, learn and immerse yourself in the fascinating Mayan culture, admire and explore the beautiful natural landscapes and surroundings, enjoy the relaxed and tranquil atmosphere and slow pace of life, and eat some amazing and authentic Mexican food! It is truly an incredible and magical place and a jewel on the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico

how To geT To TuluM?:

There are no direct flights to Tulum as there is no airport there. You can fly to Cancun (2 hours by car). And you have many options. I don’t recommend renting a car at the airport, as it is much more expensive than if you rent it once you get to Tulum. The best way to get to Tulum is by ADO bus. These buses are safe, clean and nice!

Once you leave the customs area at the airport, there will be an ADO bus company cabin to buy the tickets. There are buses every 40 minutes to Playa del Carmen where you will have to change buses

You can pay in Pesos or Dollars ($177 pesos or $9 USD to Playa and $67 pesos or $4 USD to Tulum). Once you arrive, there will be many taxis available that can take you to your hotel. Another option is a private shuttle service from Cancun airport that will take you directly to Tulum in about 90 minutes, without having to change places in Playa del Carmen. You can book your trip from Cancun airport to Tulum here.

things to do around tuluM:

Mayan Ruins of TuluM

This is a must! The Mayan ruins of Tulum are located 3 km from the village and can be reached by car or bicycle. The fascinating fact is that the ruins of Tulum are the only Mayan ruins located directly on the coast. So the view is quite majestic. Then you Can swim on the beach. Don’t forget to equip yourself with sun block, sunglasses,water, a towel and your bathing suit

The Mayan Ruins at Coba are lesser-visited than those at Tulum and Chichen Itza and are located in a more natural environment. The ruins site is vast and the partially excavated structures are situated throughout the jungle, which you can get to either by walking or cycling along the well-maintained ancient pathways known as “sacbes”. You can rent bicycles at the entrance of the ruins, which I would recommend doing as its the faster and easier way to get around within the site. Most of the ancient stone structures are allowed to be explored and climbed, except for a select few. The main attraction at Coba is climbing to the top of the very tall, steep and partially excavated Nohoch Mul pyramid, where you will then be rewarded with incredible panoramic views of the surrounding jungle treetops!

gran cenote

Cenotes are one of the wonders of the Yucatan Peninsula. These are natural sinks that expose groundwater. Imagine crystalline water in submerged pools that are partially beneath the surface. The Gran Cenote is wonderful. It is very close to the town of Tulum and offers a large natural pool on both sides. Some say it is expensive compared to other cenotes (the entrance fee is 180 pesos per person), but I think it is worth it. They have excellent sanitary facilities, showers to prepare before entering the cenote (only biodegradable sunscreen is accepted or none at all), and have lockers and snorkel equipment for rent. Swimming in the Gran Cenote is a wonderful experience. The water is so clean and fresh. You swim with little fish and turtles. Count 1.5 hours or maximum. 2 hours to stay and enjoy.

casa cenote

Casa Cenote is a beautiful open water cenote just 20 minutes north of Tulum. Casa Cenote is unique to many others in the Yucatan as it is not located underground and instead the beautiful vibrant turquoise water is exposed to the sky. The cenote resembles a small lake and is surrounded on all sides by thick mangroves and lush vegetation. A narrow channel leads from the largest body of water to the ocean

ir de coMPras

Tulum’s main avenue (Avenida Tulum) is lined on both sides with a variety of local and independent outdoor stores that sell a wide selection of authentic, handmade crafts, including jewelry, handbags, colored blankets, clothing, shoes, ceramics and much more. If you like to shop or are looking for some souvenirs to take home from Tulum, take a stroll down the main avenue and explore the shops. Unlike the stores along Fifth Avenue in Playa del Carmen, the store owners in Tulum are not very aggressive in selling their products, which makes the shopping experience much more enjoyable.

visiT sian ka’an biosPheRe ReseRve

A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987, the biosphere is the largest protected reserve in the Caribbean. If you continue along the Tulum road to the south, you will reach the entrance to the protected area and leave the paved road behind. There is a small fee to enter and the dirt road becomes a long, thin stretch of road with the ocean on one side and the lagoon on the other

Relax on The beach

You probably came to Tulum for the beach. Enjoy it! The white sandy beaches are beautiful and perfect for relaxing. You can also enjoy a traditional Mayan seaside resort called Temazcal, which is often close to the beach..

RenT a bicycle and exPloRe The seafRonT sTReeT of TuluM

Boca Paila is a beautiful narrow paved road that runs along the beautiful white sandy beaches of Tulum, from the village to Punta Allen. The street is surrounded by thick, lush jungle vegetation and lovely restaurants serving a variety of cuisines, from healthy, fresh juices to vegetarian food, classic Mexican dishes, international cuisine and much more; unique shops; and charming beach accommodations, including cabins.

Moving fRoM side To side

The city of Tulum is small and compact, so it is easy to reach most places in the city by foot. To visit the surrounding cenotes, ruins and beaches, there are the following options for getting around.

There are taxis circulating throughout the city and also parked along the main avenue, which makes it very easy to find a taxi when you need it..

There are numerous local shops in the city where you can rent bikes, most of them along Tulum Avenue, the main avenue through the city. If you stay at Mama’s Home Hostel, you can get a 20 peso discount on bike rentals at Kelly’s Bike Rentals (located along Tulum Avenue, just after Satellite Avenue in the direction of the ruins) by mentioning the name of the hostel to the store employees. A bicycle is ideal for getting from the city to the beach, the ruins and the nearby cenotes, all of which are about 20-30 minutes away by bicycle.

Local buses can take you from town to the beach or to the ruins of Tulum. They run all day starting early in the morning and leave when full. You can find buses parked and driving along any part of the town’s main avenue. To take one, walk to a parked van, tell the driver your destination and wait until the van has enough people to get out or stand on the side of the street and shake hands with a van coming in the opposite direction, which will then stop and let you in. Again, tell the driver your destination and he will take you there.

Tulum is a wonderful place for solo travelers and has a strong backpacker culture with many hostels, which makes it very easy to meet other travelers. Tulum is a peaceful and tranquil Mexican city that is popular with tourists and is very safe, in particular for women traveling alone. The overall crime rate in Tulum is very low.

Cozumel is a Mexican island in the Caribbean Sea that combines beautiful white sand beaches with a dense jungle interior. It has all the luxury resorts and lively nightlife one would expect from a Caribbean island, along with the excellent food and endless Margaritas that come with travel in Mexico. Cozumel is especially known for its diving and snorkeling, with easy access to some of the most spectacular underwater terrain and marine life. It is rare to find such stunning natural beauty, crystal clear seas and vast marine life combined with first class amenities and accommodations for visitors

Irregularly shaped, Cozumel is at most 48 km long and 15 km wide. Plaza Central, or simply “El Centro”, is the heart of San Miguel, right in front of the ferry docks serving Playa del Carmen. Residents congregate here at night, especially on weekends, when free concerts begin at 8 pm. Heading inland (east), it takes us away from the tourist area and takes us to the residential areas of the city. Most of the island’s restaurants, hotels, shops and dive shops are concentrated in the center and along the two hotel zones that extend along the leeward coast north and south of San Miguel. Cozumel’s windward side, which seeks solitude, has a few beach bar restaurants, a hotel and miles of deserted beaches.

how To geT To cozuMel:

Take a bus from the ADO bus station to Playa del Carmen. The second part of your trip will be on the ferry. The ferry terminal is located in the center of Playa del Carmen. If you know or can find the main square or Plaza Playacar, you will be very close. It is also located very close to the Playa del Carmen bus station on 5th Avenue. In short, the Playa ferry dock is very easy to find. Ferries to Cozumel depart every hour from 7 am to 9 pm. But keep in mind that if you are visiting in the low season - which is usually from March to September and may be a good option if you are trying to avoid large crowds and are mainly in it for diving - ferries sometimes skip one or two runs if there are very few passengers. The ferry trip takes between half an hour and three quarters of an hour.

favouraBle activities for woMen traveling alone

discoveR The MesoaMeRican Reef

The second largest coral reef in the world, the Mesoamerican Reef, is located right off the coastline of the state of Quintana Roo, and Cozumel is the perfect location from which to explore it. Its warm waters, excellent visibility, and towering coral formations make Cozumel a favorite spot for divers. You can snorkel from the shore, or take an excursion farther out to explore in the open sea. Reefs on the south side of the island are within the Arrecifes de Cozumel National Park, which begins just south of the International Pier and continues around the southern tip of the island (Punta Sur) and up a small portion of the east side of the island. The park consists of around 12,000 hectares (29,600 acres) of sea and coastline. Whether swimming, snorkeling, or diving, remember to respect the reef.Use biodegradable sunscreen, try not to touch or stand on the reef, and don’t remove any of the sea life from its natural environment.

visiT el cielo

El Cielo is a sandbank with approximately 800 meters of coastline in Cozumel

One of the ways to get to El Cielo is by boat or catamaran. This beach gets its name from the fact that you can snorkel, swim in the depths of the water and see different types of starfish. Besides this, in this place you can be fascinated with the perfection of turquoise blue water; therefore in El Cielo you will not only see echinoderms, but also colored fish, sea turtles, manta rays and birds that approach the beach periodically

PunTa suR eco beach PaRk

The island’s largest ecological reserve, Punta Sur Eco Beach Park is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including crocodiles, beautiful flowers and exotic birds. The park has a beautiful beach with showers, hammocks, loungers and a lifeguard to ensure the safety of all in the water. Visitors can also climb to the top of the historic Celarain Lighthouse, which offers wonderful panoramic views of the ocean and the island. There is ample free parking, and there are several restaurants and bars to ensure that visitors do not go hungry

kaokao chocolaTe facToRy

The Kaokao Chocolate Factory has been creating handcrafted Mexican chocolate products since 2007, and the Kaokao Chocolate Factory Tour allows visitors to witness this incredible process up close. Visitors will learn about the history of chocolate in Mexico, as well as have the opportunity to make their own blend to drink chocolate. Visitors can also taste cocoa during all stages of the chocolate making process. Tours last approximately one hour and are offered every hour between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. every day except Sundays. Online reservations are required, and discounts are available for groups of six or more.

cozuMel baR hoP

If you’re looking for a unique way to explore the island, Cozumel Bar Hop is a great way to make new friends and to visit the beautiful undeveloped east side of the island. The tour will bring you to four unique beach bars, each of which will give you a free welcome shot and a taste of a freshly-prepared local Caribbean dish. The bus is comfortable and air-conditioned, the guides are fluent in both English and Spanish, and all of the bus drivers are fully licensed and have plenty of experience navigating the roads of Cozumel.

gcozuMel PeaRl faRM

Taking part of the northern part of the island, the Cozumel Pearl Farm is a family pearl farm located on a pristine white sand beach. The pearls are cultivated and harvested using knowledge of the South Pacific, and experts will be on site to explain the process and answer your questions. After touring the lab, you will have the opportunity to snorkel to see the pearl farm. The tours last approximately six hours and take place Monday through Saturday at 9 a.m., 10 a.m. and 11 a.m., but by Friday you will be able to see the pearl farm

The viewPoinT

A natural viewpoint where the sea has carved a natural arch into the steep rock, El Mirador is one of the most visually stunning places on the island. Visitors can climb the rock to take photos and get excellent views of the island and the water to Cuba, which is only 60 miles away. On the adjacent beach, you’ll find many vendors selling snacks, coconut refreshments, alcoholic beverages and local souvenirs. El Mirador is located approximately half an hour from downtown Cozumel, and there is no entrance fee

san geRvasio Mayan aRchaeological siTe

The ancient Mayan culture has a special fascination, and the Mayan archaeological site of San Gervasio is especially interesting as it was a requirement for Mayan women to visit this site at least once during their lifetime. The only official archeological site on the island is known as the sanctuary of the ancient goddess Ixchel, to whom the Mayas prayed for fertility and love. The site is open every day of the week between 8 a.m. and 3:45 p.m., and there is a small admission fee. Facilities include restrooms, a snack bar, free parking, and crafts and other souvenirs for sale.

Located north of the Yucatan Peninsula, between the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico, Holbox Island is part of the Yum Balam Natural Reserve. If you want to hang out with friendly people and relax on the beach with flamingos, this is the place for you. Away from the crowds of Cancun, the small island is dotted with dirt roads, relaxed beach bars and incredible natural beauty. It is the perfect place to relax and disconnect from the world.

how To geT To holbox?

Driving: From Cancun, it’s only two hours by car to Chiquila. Holbox Island is a car-free area.Once in the city, you will have to find a place to leave your car

By bus: There are ADO buses that leave from Cancun to Chiquilá the trip is a little longer (3 hr, 30 min). The price of the single trip is $266

Take the ferry Isla Holbox from Chiquilá: There are two ferry companies that operate between Chiquilá and Holbox and curiously offer exactly the same service, and cost the same price. The only difference is that one runs on the hour and the other on the half-hour, which means you’ll never have to wait long for the next boat. The journey takes about 15 minutes.

Once you arrive at Holbox you will be greeted by a row of golf buggies, ready to take you to your accommodation. You will pay between 20-30 MXN to be taken across the island to the centre. If you don’t have much luggage, then the walk to the main square takes less than ten minutes

how To geT aRound holbox island:

Taxis: The beauty of Holbox Island is that there are no cars. The island has a taxi type golf cart system. They line up when the ferry arrives so you can go wherever you’re staying.

Bike: Because Holbox Island is so small, bicycles are an ideal means of transportation.You can rent one for about twenty pesos an hour in one of the city’s stores

Golf Cart: This is the preferred means of transportation in this small destination. Expect to see many golf carts rolling through the streets. You can rent a golf cart during your stay for an easy and affordable way to get around.

Walk: There is very little traffic or things in the streets, so it is safe to walk

things to do in holBox:

don’T do anyThing... seRiously!

This is a place to really relax. While you could fill your days with boat trips, snorkeling, yoga and more, the best day you’ll enjoy could be the one you didn’t do anything! Just go to a beach bar, feast on tacos, drink a few mojitos and rest

RenT a bicycle oR a golf buggy

Start your own adventure and explore the island on two or four wheels. There are many places to rent and no previous experience is required

enjoy The sunseTs of holbox

The sunsets at Holbox are absolutely magical! Head to the dock, open a beer and relax as the sun’s liquid gold reaches the water

check foR bioluMinescenT PhyToPlankTon

On nights when the moon is not very bright, you can see plankton shining - totally magical

Relax in one of holbox’s beach baRs

There are some super nice places along the promenade with hammocks, loungers, beds and chairs, all serving food and drinks.

wildlife obseRvaTion

There are lagoons, mangroves and small islands near Holbox. Go on a crocodile hunt, see flamingos in their natural habitat, pelicans searching for fish on the main beach, or just dip your head underwater and see what fish you can see. There’s even Isla Pájaros, home to more than 30 different species of birds. It really is a paradise for wildlife lovers. .

waRning: Money and aTMs

There are only a few ATMs in Holbox, and they are unpredictable! Get ready for all of them to be out of service, either for technical reasons or because they have literally run out of cash.

For this reason it is important to have money (ideally Mexican pesos) before arriving at Isla Holbox. You can pay with credit and debit cards in many places in Holbox, but there is no guarantee that it will work either.

You want an authentic place, a place where you can recharge your batteries in Mexico, you want to wake up the next day hoping it wasn’t a dream! Bacalar, a small town in the state of Quintana Roo is the place for you! It is increasingly known for its famous 7-color lagoon. Indeed, depending on the depth of the water and the type of bottom, sandy, rocky or otherwise, different shades of blue and green will reach your eyes amazed.

Bacalar is quite small, the town became one of Mexico’s magical towns in 2006. Bacalar is one of the quietest places to visit in the Yucatan peninsula and part of the charm is in its size. It’s far enough away from the Walmarts and McDonalds of the most touristy cities, but you’ll still find everything you need in the city for a comfortable stay.

how To geT fRoM cancun To bacalaR:

BY BUS: Mexico’s bus system is an incredibly convenient way to travel around the country. Bacalar can be reached by ADO bus from destinations such as Chetumal, Playa del Carmen, Tulum and Cancun. These routes are well served with several departures to Bacalar every day. The trip Cancun - Bacalar is approximately 5:30 hours

BY CAR: From Cancun, the trip is approximately 4 hours and quite direct following highway 307 south. Halfway between Cancun and Bacalar is Tulum. Be sure to fill your gas tank before continuing. As with any road trip, avoid driving at night, follow the rules of the road, hide your valuables, make sure you have a spare tire and watch out for bumpers (speed bumps in Mexico are often larger than necessary).

THE BEST TO DO IN BACALAR

geT inTo The waTeR:

One of the many reasons to love the Laguna de los 7 Colores is because of its shallow, clear waters. Since this is a freshwater lagoon, it may be more pleasant to swim here than in the salty ocean waves..

join a kayak TouR:

Rent a kayak in the city and take your own tour of the lagoon or join a guided tour.

visiT The PiRaTes’ channel:

Almost every tour in Bacalar includes a stop at the Pirates’ Channel, and rightly so. There is also an abandoned structure near the canal from where many were jumping

Make The MosT of bacalaR’s fRee Public docks:

he village has recently renovated three free access points to the lagoon with docks where you can relax and tan if your accommodation is not along the water.

iMMeRse youRself in xul-ha:

Just 15 minutes south of the town of Bacalar is where the even smaller town of Xul-Ha is located. At the Blue Lake Spa, there is a wharf for swimming and a diving platform for the brave

floaT down The bacalaR RaPids:

There is a narrow channel halfway between Bacalar and Xul-Ha known as ‘The Rapids’. Kayaks are available for rent or you can just let the current take you down while you swim. The entrance fee is $50 pesos

enjoy PanoRaMic views fRoM foRT san feliPe:

18th century Fort San Felipe is a small but important site in Bacalar with great views of the lagoon and its surroundings. The entrance fee has risen to 100 pesos recently, so it may only be worth it if you are particularly interested in Bacalar’s history. Closed on Mondays

PRacTice ziPline in kan k’in bacalaR:

This adventure park is located just 15 minutes north of Bacalar and offers zipline tours in the jungle. There are 5 short zip lines in total and the last one even dominates the impressive turquoise waters. It is not a cheap excursion, but it is definitely one of the most unique things you can do in Bacalar.

getting around in Bacalar:

The village itself is small and easy to navigate. Depending on where you stay, you can probably walk everywhere and there are taxis available for long distance travel. The main taxi rank is in the village square, near the letters “Bacalar”. Bicycles are also a great way to explore the surrounding area and rentals are available throughout the city. Some accommodations include the use of bicycles or kayaks in the room rate

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Cancun Travel Guide

Your ultimate guide to cancun mexico, cancun travel guide contents.

Location | Getting There | Where to Stay  |  Things to Do  |  Cancun Tours  |  Cancun Safety  | Blogs |  FAQ

cancun travel guide

Cancun mexico: at a glance.

Cancun is one of the three most visited Mexico travel destinations, along with Mexico City and Cabo San Lucas .

Located in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, you’re in the heart of the Mayan Empire, surrounded by ancient ruins and swimmable cenotes (jungle pools). There’s also the world famous Cancun beaches, which sit right on the turquoise Caribbean Sea!

Cancun Mexico: Know before you go

• ✈️ Airport: Cancun International Airport (code: CUN)

⏰ Time Zone: Eastern Standard Time (GMT-5)

• 💰 Currency: Mexican Peso
• 🗣 Language: Spanish, though English is common, and you may even hear some indigenous languages
• 🎫 Mexico Visa: The vast majority of travelers do not need a visa for Cancun — this includes Americans, Canadians, Japanese and most Europeans. Head here to see if you need a Mexico travel visa.
• 🔌 Electricity Socket : You’ll mostly find Type A (two-prong) and Type B (three-prong) — the same as used in the United States. For visitors from other countries, you’ll need this  universal travel adaptor .
• 📲 Mexico SIM Card : Wondering, Do I need a SIM card for Mexico? The answer is yes, every traveler will want a one for the reasons explained in this article all about the best Mexico SIM cards .
• 🚙 Car Rentals : The Mexico rental car process can be a bit daunting, and many people are apprehensive to drive in a foreign country. I get it! Check out this guide to Renting a Car in Mexico for info on the process.

What’s the best time to visit Cancun Mexico?

For the best weather: November to March are the ideal months to travel to Cancun. This is, of course, the high season or busy season in Cancun, so expect higher price tags and larger crowds.

Cancun Shoulder Season: March to May is the shoulder season in Cancun — a magical time when the weather is still nice, and the prices are still low.

For the best value: May to September will get you the most bang for your buck! However, know these months can be rainy, hot, humid and buggy. Surrounded by the Mayan jungle, mosquitoes an issue in Cancun, especially in the summers, so don’t forget your eco-friendly bug spray 🦟

⛈ Note: June 1 to November 30 is the Atlantic Hurricane Season. Located on the Caribbean Sea, Cancun is susceptible, though direct-hit hurricanes in Cancun are rare.

Where is Cancun Mexico located?

Cancun is in southeastern Mexico, in the Yucatan Peninsula. It is about one hour north of Playa del Carmen and Riviera Maya, and about two hours north of Tulum.

What state is Cancun Mexico in?

Cancun is in Quintana Roo state. This is one of the three states that makes up the Yucatan Peninsula — along with Yucatan state and Campeche state.

Besides visiting Cancun, you’ll find other great things to do in Quintana Roo state in these cities: Tulum ,  Playa del Carmen ,  Holbox Island ,  Bacalar Lagoon , Puerto Morelos  and Akumal .

What’s the closest airport to Cancun Mexico?

Cancun International Airport (code: CUN) is one the largest airports in Mexico, and you can find direct flights to Cancun from many places all over the world.

It is located about 30 minutes from both the Cancun Zona Hotelera (Hotel Zone on Cancun Beach) and Downtown Cancun.

What’s the best way to get to your Cancun hotel?

The safest, most-stress free, easiest and best way to get from Cancun Airport to your hotel in Cancun is via private shuttle. ↳ Reserve your shuttle now!

The private shuttle is the fastest way to get from Cancun Airport to your hotel, with door-to-door service. I recommend booking with Cancun Airport Transportation , especially if this is your first trip to Cancun.

Renting a car in Cancun at the airport is another option. However, if you just want to lay on the best beaches in Cancun, drink in hand 🍹, soaking up the sun — skip the rental car and book the Cancun airport shuttle instead.

Where to stay in Cancun Mexico

There are only two neighborhoods in Cancun — Cancun Beach , where you’ll find the Zona Hotelera , or Cancun Hotel Zone, and Downtown Cancun .

As one of the top Mexico resort cities, most visitors opt to stay at a Cancun all-inclusive resort on the beach, but you can save some money by staying in downtown.

Zona Hotelera (Hotel Zone)

The Cancun hotel zone, located along the beach, is where most visitors want to stay in Cancun.

It has all the best hotels in Cancun and all the large Cancun all inclusive resorts the town is known for. Check them out by clicking below ⤵

Mexico Overwater Bungalows near Cancun

Did you know Mexico has the closest overwater bungalows to the U.S.?

That’s right, the calm crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean Sea are ideal for over the water bungalows in Mexico, like the Palafitos El Dorado Maroma Beach , and these others ⤵

Downtown Cancun

Cancun Centro, or Downtown Cancun, has a more locals’ feel. This is a great area to stay to save some money while traveling to Cancun.

Two of the best hotels in Cancun Downtown are Hotel Blue Star Cancun and Sheraton Cancun Centro .

Best Cancun Hostels

Traveling to Cancun on a budget? The Selina chain has two of the best hostels in Cancun — the Selina Downtown Cancun and Selina Cancun Beach .

For the ultimate of budget travel, opt for the Cancun capsule hotel, the Yellow Capsule Experience .

Best things to do in Cancun Mexico

There is a seemingly endless amount of things to do in Cancun, one of the best places to vacation in Mexico .

The majority of them involve being in, on, or near the Caribbean Sea — though there’s a lot to see in the Yucatan jungle surrounding Cancun as well. Click on any image below to learn more ⤵

Cancun Cenotes

Tulum Day Trip

Underwater Museum (MUSA)

Chichen Itza

Xel-Ha Park

Isla Contoy National Park

Xcaret Park

Isla Mujeres

Akumal Beach Turtle Swim

Best cancun tours.

Tours in Cancun are a great way to see the town and its surrounding areas — and unless you’re planning to rent a car in Cancun, this is the best way to get around because taxi fees add up quickly! 💡 Note: If you do want to have a car in Cancun, make sure to check out this guide to Renting a Car in Cancun .

Below, you’ll find the most popular and best tours in Cancun and the surrounding areas — including Chichen Itza Mayan Ruins, Isla Mujeres island, Tulum and the Tulum Ruins, and more.

Is Cancun safe?

According to experts, you are statistically quite safe while visiting Mexico. In fact, the Yucatan Peninsula — where Cancun is located — is one of the safest parts in Mexico. That’s not to say bad things don’t happen in Cancun; they do.

Millions of Americans go to Mexico on vacation every year, so if we play the numbers game, the number of incidents is very small… When I’m asked if Mexico is a safe place to go travel on vacation, my response is  yes . —Carlos Barron, FBI Veteran (source:  Forbes )

As with traveling anywhere, follow general travel safety like not walking home alone at night, watching your alcohol consumption and staying aware of yourself and surroundings.

For an added safety measure, pack these  travel safety items , dress in a way so your Mexico outfits blend in with the locals, and buy a Mexico SIM card .

Some less-obvious things you’ll want to watch out for in Cancun are dehydration, sunburns, mosquitoes and hangovers! Located in a tropical beachy jungle, Cancun is hot year-round, and the mosquitoes are quite bad in the summers.

Speaking of summer, this is the Atlantic Hurricane Season, and located right on the Caribbean Sea, Cancun is susceptible.

What’s the best travel insurance for Mexico?

This is a question I get a lot as a Mexico travel writer and Mexico expat. To determine which Mexico travel insurance is best for you , consider factors like the policy’s total cost, your deductible, the coverage you need, your medical benefits, etc.

🏆 In general, I only ever recommend three companies to purchase Mexico travel insurance from:

• World Nomads — For general travelers and adventure travelers.
• SafetyWing — For general travelers and digital nomads in Mexico.
• Travel Insurance Master — Mexico travel insurance search tool, for those who want to compare policies.
• 👉 Click on any of the links above to get a FREE quote on your policy!

Cancun Travel Blogs: Learn more about Cancun Mexico 🇲🇽

Cancun Outfits Inspo: What to Wear in Cancun Mexico in 2024

Ultimate Cancun Packing List for 2024 (What to Wear & Bring)

How to AVOID Cancun Seaweed & Sargassum in 2024

Cancun travel: frequently asked questions, can you drink the water in cancun mexico.

No — Unfiltered Mexico tap water is not safe for human consumption. However, you will need to keep drinking water and to stay extra hydrated, as Mexico is quite close to the Equator. In fact, dehydration is one of the most common ways people get sick in Mexico.

So what can you do?

• If you’re renting a home with a kitchen, you can boil the water before drinking it.
• You can keep buying bottled water — Though this gets expensive, and is horrible for the planet!
• Use the Water-To-Go Filterable Bottle . This refillable bottle not only keeps you hydrated, but also filters your water so you don’t get sick in Mexico, and is good for the planet ♻️ Get 15% OFF with code SOLO15!

The Water-To-Go Bottle has a built-in, three-stage filtration system that removes 99.9999% of all water-borne contaminants. These include bacteria, microplastics, viruses, heavy metals, chemicals and more. I personally own one, as you can drink Mexico water from any source (even the tap), and be completely safe.

What’s the Cancun weather like?

Cancun has a tropical climate — meaning you can expect warm and hot temperatures year-round, and heavy rains throughout the summer. In the summers, temperatures hover around 95°F (35°C), though can feel hotter because of the humidity. For the best weather in Cancun, visit between November to March.

Is Cancun expensive?

When comparing Cancun to other beach towns in Mexico,  yes , Cancun is on the expensive side. However, budget Cancun travel is possible by saving money here and there — like staying in Downtown Cancun, eating street tacos, and taking public transportation instead of taxis.

Is Cancun worth visiting?

Yes — Cancun is a unique Mexico destination that so many types of travelers will want to check out. If you understand what you’re signing up for, high price tags by Mexico standards and lots of other tourists, and you don’t mind those things, you’ll enjoy your Cancun trip.

For travelers looking to lay on a beautiful Caribbean beach, visit the Mayan Ruins near Cancun , take a lot of Instagram worthy photos, and swim in the cenotes , then Cancun is for you. Now, if you aren’t a fan of crowds, skip Cancun and opt for nearby Puerto Morelos instead.

How many days do I need in Cancun Mexico?

If you just want to explore Cancun itself, you’ll want three full days . However, if you want to explore the surrounding areas in Yucatan on some Cancun day trips, you’ll want at least five full days; but of course: The longer the better!

🗣 Mexico Language

Mexico Fun Fact : There’s actually no official language of Mexico!

Spanish is the most widely-spoken, so some mistakenly say Spanish is the official language of Mexico. However, the government actually recognizes 68 national languages, including the Nahuatl Aztec language, and the Maya language.

💰 Mexico Currency

Mexican Peso — Exchange rates vary, but have hovered around $18-21 pesos to $1 USD for about the last decade. You will find some places that take U.S. dollars, but usually at an unfavorable rate, so stick to using pesos in Mexico .

☀️ Mexico Weather

Mexico is a big country — the 7th largest on Earth, in fact! It’s hard to generalize the weather in Mexico, because it will vary greatly by where you’re traveling.

In general, temperatures are mostly mild everywhere all year long, though summers on the coast are hot and humid, and winters in Central and Northern Mexico are on the colder side. Throughout the whole country, the rainy season runs from (about) April through September.

✈️ Mexico Busy Season & Slow Season

• Mexico Busy Season: The busy season in Mexico runs October to March, as this is the dry season and you’ll get the best weather. December is the busiest month for tourism in Mexico.

• Mexico Slow Season : If you don’t mind some rain, you’ll often find the best travel deal during the Mexico slow season of April to September. Do keep in mind that June 1-November 1 is Hurricane Season, and Mexico beaches are all susceptible.

• Mexico Shoulder Season : The shoulder season is that magical time when prices are still low and the weather is good. The Mexico shoulder season is from about mid-October to November and January to early-April.

🧳 Download your FREE Mexico Packing Checklist here!

Check out this Ultimate Packing List for Mexico — so you know what to pack and what NOT to pack for Mexico! This article offers advice on packing for Mexico cities, and packing for a Mexico beach vacation.

Beyond what Mexico outfits and clothing you’ll want to bring, here are a few extra things to consider:

• Filterable Water Bottle: Mexico is close to the Equator, so you’ll need to stay extra hydrated. In fact, dehydration is one of the most common ways people get sick in Mexico.

A filterable, refillable water bottle not only keeps you hydrated, but also filters your water so you don’t get sick in Mexico.

The Water-To-Go Bottle has a built-in, three-stage filtration system that removes 99.9999% of all water-borne contaminants. These include bacteria, microplastics, viruses, heavy metals and chemicals.

• Mexico SIM Card: Want to be able to use your phone in Mexico?! Of course you do! Pick up a TELCEL Mexico SIM card before your trip, and swap it out on the plane while you’re waiting to exit, so you have phone and data service the second you arrive in Mexico.

•  Anti-Hangover Meds: Planning to party hardy?! Make sure you’re not wasting any of your precious travel time with a hangover. Liquid I.V. has about 70,000 reviews on Amazon, and is considered the best defense against a hangover.

•  Sun Hat: No matter if you’re headed to the beach or a city, you’ll want to wear a hat to shield yourself from the strong Mexican sun. This cute sun hat is the perfect stylish and practical accessory for your Mexico vacation.

•   Sunscreen: As you’ll want to reapply a few times throughout the day, a light, Mineral-Based Sunscreen is ideal.

Headed to the beach? Do your part to practice responsible tourism in Mexico by only using an eco-friendly reef safe sunscreen while swimming. You can even ditch the sunscreen altogether and opt for a long sleeve swimsuit (AKA rash guard) instead.

•   Bug Repellent: Mosquitoes are common throughout Mexico — especially on the beaches! REPEL Insect Repellent is an eco-friendly brand that’s DEET-free and plant based, with a pleasant lemon and eucalyptus scent. Don’t want to use a spray? Pick up some Mosquito Repellent Bracelets .

The vast majority of travelers do not need a visa for Mexico — this includes Americans, Canadians, and most Europeans. Head here to see if you need a Mexico travel visa.

🤔 What is the mexico FMM ?

When you go through Customs & Immigration to enter the country, you’ll receive your Forma Migratoria Multiple , or FMM Tourist Card (sometimes listed as FMT). If you’re coming by plane or cruise ship, there is no charge; for those driving across the border, the FMM costs about $30USD.

In most circumstances, all visitors get a 180-day (six month) visa — so you can legally stay up to six months!

🚨 Have your FMM on you at all times

Keep in mind that though it’s called an FMM card , it’s actually just a small piece of paper. Keep your FMM on you at all times in your wallet, as this proves your legal status in Mexico. It’s rare, but if an officer stops you, they can ask to see your FMM.

🎫 Don’t lose your FMM!

You need to have your FMM on you at all times, as proof of your legal status in the country.

Be sure to keep track of your FMM, as you’ll have to give it back to an Immigration officer at the airport, cruise port, or land crossing when you’re leaving the country.

If you lose your FMM, there is a $600 peso ($30 USD) cost to replace it, and some paperwork you’ll need to fill out before you can leave the country.

If you’re flying home, plan to arrive at the airport about one hour earlier than you normally would to do the paperwork and pay the fine.

As this question doesn’t have a yes/no answer ( I wish it did! ), I do my best to answer it in depth in this article, Is Mexico Safe for Travelers Right Now ? However, for the most part, Mexico is actually statistically quite safe for all travelers — including solo travelers.

Check my Solo Female Mexico Travel page for more info.

💃 Mexico solo travel guides

Mexico is a big country, and it has plenty of amazing solo female travel destinations — like the ones featured in this article, Mexico Solo Travel: 20 Safe Destinations for Female Travelers .

In it, you’ll get recommendations of places to visit in Mexico, from solo travelers who have actually been to them.

🎧 solo travel podcasts

• Ep. 34 |  Planning your first Mexico solo trip • Ep. 40 | Tips for safe solo travel in Mexico • Ep. 53 | 30 Solo female travel tips, Pt. 1

To answer the question, Is it safe to drive in Mexico? — YES , it’s considered safe to rent a car and drive in Mexico.

As the country is quite large, road trips are a great way to see a lot in a little time, and especially popular in the Yucatan Peninsula and Baja California Peninsula.

The one caveat to Mexico driving safety is that you’ll be in a foreign country, unfamiliar with their laws and customs. Head here for a complete guide to Renting A Car in Mexico: Everything You Need to Know , where you’ll also get 10 useful Mexico driving tips!

🚙💨 Looking for the best Mexico car rental company? Discover Cars works with both local Mexican companies and international companies to get you the best rates. Not only do I recommend them — I also use them!

As a general rule, you’ll want to know at least a few words of Spanish when visiting anywhere in Mexico. This is both a sign of respect, and will also help you have a better, smoother trip.

If you stick to the more touristic places in Mexico, you should be fine with basic Spanish. For those planning to venture off the beaten path, be advised most people in pueblos  (small towns) speak little to no English.

🗣 Here are some options:

• Brush up on your Spanish: Use a language-learning program like Rocket Spanish , so you’re confident, and conversational, before your trip.
• Download the Google Translate App: For this to work at all times, you’ll need a Mexico SIM card with data — as the app won’t work when you’re off-WiFi.
• Travel with a Mexico phrasebook: This Lonely Planet Spanish Phrasebook is an Amazon best seller, and a great non-digital language assistant!
• Save this infographic an image on your phone. This way, you have access to these common words, phrases and questions, even when you’re off-WiFi.

14 Best Destinations for Women Who Are Traveling Solo

Whether you're planning your first trip or looking for your next international adventure, these places are both fun and safe.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

We consulted experts in travel from Fora, a modern travel agency , who have helped several clients meet and fulfill their solo travel aspirations. We also considered recommendations from our Good Housekeeping team, which has been evaluating destinations worldwide for the Family Travel Awards . Together, we've compiled this list of tried-and-true solo travel destinations for women.

If you’re still a little concerned about safety while navigating these cities on your own, not to worry because we also checked the Institute for Economics and Peace's 2023 Global Peace Index , which vets each country to measure their "peacefulness" as well as the U.S. Department of State's travel advisories .

As always, when traveling alone you should carry out your own research on each destination and take proper precautions to keep yourself safe. Otherwise, happy travels!

Iceland tops the Global Peace Index for the most peaceful country in the world. Even the U.S. government notes that Iceland has a " low crime rate ." It also lends itself to adventure lovers with its many natural attractions. Top nature destinations include Black Sand Beach, Ring Road, Blue Lagoon, ice caps, and steaming geysers. Just make sure to enjoy some time in the beautiful city of Reykjavik , as well.

TIP: Get more of a feel for the local culture by looking to residents as resources. "Iceland is an extremely safe country with very friendly locals who love sharing information about their beautiful country with visitors," Fora Advisor Kara Kassuba told Good Housekeeping. "During your time there, you’ll likely meet many people and find yourself engaged in interesting conversations with non-stop learning opportunities."

Denmark is well known for its stunning castles, vibrant towns and villages, as well as famous natural-occurring attractions. The country is also vetted as safe and secure, ranking second on the 2023 Global Peace Index .

GH Staffer Emma Seymour recently traveled to Copenhagen on her own and expressed that the destination was ideal for biking and had a ton of great restaurants and shops. " I biked everywhere and it was really easy to rent bikes (there are a bunch of bikes just lying around that you can use with an app!)," she said. "I highly recommend biking through Christiania and eating at the vegan restaurants there. It can feel awkward to embrace going to bars or restaurants alone, but it's the best way to see a city."

TIP: Consider staying in a hostel for added security and the opportunity to connect with other travelers. "I stayed at Steel House hostel , which was so fun," Seymour said. "I had a private room that was small, but perfectly organized. The hostel had a ton of social events too and was very family friendly. It felt super safe."

EXPLORE NOW

The key to solo travel in Mexico is to pick cities that are easy to navigate and welcoming to tourists. Fora Advisor Caryn Ruocco suggests Mexico City, Mexico. "The city is safe, especially in neighborhoods like Roma, Condesa and Polanco," she told Good Housekeeping, noting that "these areas are particularly well-patrolled." The city is also very walkable and offers an impressive art scene for those looking to immerse themselves in Mexican culture. Another Mexican city solo travelers should add to their list for its warm and fun energy? Sayulita.

TIP: Treat your resort as a home base for your activities and travel. "You should treat yourself to a little R&R at a resort after a solo adventure and end your time with a stop at Susurros de Corazón or Four Seasons Punta Mita to treat yourself to a night in luxury and a visit to the spa,” Ruehl said.

It's hard to beat the beauty of Ireland. The U.S. government notes that the country has a "low rate of violent crime" so traveling on your own should feel secure and comfortable. GH staffer Kaitlyn Phoenix took one of her first solo vacations to the country, noting that it is a must-visit. “The people in Ireland were super welcoming. I was young and trying to save money at the time so mostly stayed at bed and breakfasts, but I splurged for a night in Ballyseede Castle and loved it so much,” Phoenix said.

GH staffer Stephanie Dolgoff also loved how easy it was to get around Dublin on her own."I stayed at a tiny, cheap little place called Parkway Guesthouse . Very spare but cute and nice and the proprietor was a lovely, helpful guy," Dolgoff said. "Dublin is a walkable place and I could get most anywhere on foot from there, although it wasn’t directly in one of the trendy neighborhoods."

Phoenix also noted that Ireland has no shortage of outdoor attractions. " The Cliffs of Moher are a must-see if you’re in Ireland," she said. "If you’re into nature walks and gardens, the Blarney Castle grounds are nice to explore so it’s not just about kissing the Blarney Stone."

TIP: If you opt to rent a car in Ireland "keep in mind that in addition to driving on the left side of the road, you’ll have to navigate a lot of one-lane roads (like the Conor Pass) where you have to pull over if another car comes by from the opposite direction," Phoenix said.

As if the beaches, architecture and food were not already a major draw, Spain ranks in the top 35 on the 2023 Global Peace Index , making it one of the countries in the world that has maintained peace over the last year. Solo travelers will enjoy the country's diverse terrain, offering walkable cities, vast deserts and calming countrysides.

TIP: Enjoy tapas for one sitting barside or enjoy street food in a nearby park as an easy way to meet others.

RELATED : Best Beach Vacations for Families

Though Hawaii may often get overlooked for solo travel due to its reputation as a romantic or family destination, the island of Hawaiʻi (you might know it as The Big Island) is definitely worth a visit. Whether you spend time on the Kona side filled with resorts or the tropical and lush Hilo side, you'll get to experience the beauty of the diverse landscape. Musts on the to-do list include the volcano park, horseback riding, and swimming at night with the manta rays, says Fora Advisor Melissa Friedman-Levine .

TIP: If you want to travel with a four-legged friend, book your stay at Surfjack Hotel & Swim Club , which allows all sizes of dogs without any pet fee. Solo travelers can treat their pups to dog-friendly programming, including   SUP paddle and surf lessons for dogs  and  pet portraits with a local dog photographer . EXPLORE NOW RELATED : Best Travel Instagram Captions

Seattle, Washington

You might actually be sleepless in Seattle — just because there's so much to do. Solo travelers will feel right at home in Pike Place Market , where they can grab breakfast and lunch from one of the many stands, and pick up gifts and unique souvenirs. Pike Place Market is also home to Golden Age Collectables, the oldest comic book store.

In a nearby area of the city is a different collection of attractions to see. "I was surprised that The Museum of Glass , Museum of Pop Culture , and the Space Needle neighbor each other. So, plan to spend the day visiting all three," said Karen Cicero , Contributing Travel Editor.

Another tip? "Take an excursion for the day or overnight to Olympic National Park, which has a lake, rainforest and rugged coastline," Cicero added.

Another GH staffer, Amanda Constantine , said "one of the best things about Seattle is the coffee culture, which is also perfect for solo travel!" She noted that the shops can easily be found on most corners and she tried more than a few. "Some of my favorites were the original Starbucks, Victrola Coffee Roasters and Analog."

TIP: July and August are the least rainy months to visit while November and December are the wettest. "I visited last July and there wasn't a drop of rain and the temperatures were in the 70s — it was perfection," said Cicero.

Boasting over 1,200 islands, Croatia is the perfect destination for anyone who loves sailing or outdoor water activities. Its coastal cities also feature gorgeous cobblestone streets, adorable cafés and artisan boutiques. If that isn't enough, the country's low crime rate also makes it an amazing option for solo travel.

TIP: Game of Thrones fans will want to check out Dubrovnik, where several of the scenes from the series were shot. There are also tons of options for Game of Thrones tours where travelers can visit film sites and learn more about what went on behind the scenes.

New Orleans, Louisiana

Believe it or not, the Big Easy has tons to offer solo travelers. Take your pick from jamming to live entertainment on The French Quarter, visiting plenty of historical sites, and indulging in excellent cajun and creole cuisine. Exploring the quarter, filled with live music, is the way to do it. You'll also want to get tickets to Preservation Hall , which is home to classic New Orleans jazz music. Other notable stops for wandering include the Garden District for home tours, Magazine Street for restaurants and shops, and the Arts + Warehouse District , which features the Ogden Museum for Southern Art and a variety of interesting local galleries on Julia Street.

TIP: Book a dinner at Mosquito Supper Club or Dakar Nola , which both have shared tables. "As a solo diner I’ve always had an interesting evening with my paired dining partners,” Kassuba said.

You may come for the hot springs, festivals and breathtaking landscape, but you'll want to stay for the variety of places to shop and dine. Taiwan's diverse offerings make it the ideal location for solo exploration.

TIP : Stop by the night markets for affordable and delicious cuisine. Linjiang Street (Tonghua) Night Market has been said by reviewers to have plenty of options, but be sure to have cash on hand as not all vendors will take card.

If you're looking for a destination that is as culturally and spiritually rich as it is beautiful, Cambodia is a great place to go. Your money will also go a long way as one US dollar is equal to about 4,100 Cambodian riel. Some highlights of Cambodia include gorgeous temples, eclectic and diverse cities, relaxing beaches, and luxury hotels.

TIP: Make sure to visit the spectacular temples of Angkor Wat , which Fora Advisor Alexandra Hepworth described as "a sight to behold."

Washington, DC

If you're traveling solo for the first time, DC is your ticket to fun. It's easy to access by train or plane, depending on where you're coming from and it has an easy-to-navigate public transportation system. Many museums and historical sites are free to enter, so there's no pressure to stay for hours. That means you can hop from the gemstone exhibit at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History to the remarkable collections at the National Portrait Gallery all in one day — and still have time to grab lunch from one of the food trucks near the National Mall. "Be sure to make it over to the Georgetown neighborhood during your trip," suggested Cicero. "You'll find wonderful restaurants with many types of cuisine plus cute one-of-a-kind shops and coffee bars. There's even a cat cafe!"

TIP: Even though the attractions are free, you need to make reservations in advance to enter; it's easy to do through the websites.

For a beachside vacation, Costa Rica is just the place to go. Not only does it have clear blue waters, but you can also visit a national park or conservation areas. Costa Rica is also a less expensive alternative to some European cities, but is just as easy to get around.

TIP: Join in on group activities. The town of Santa Teresa "attracts a lot of solo travelers and digital nomads, so it's easy to meet people," according to Fora Advisor Ronit Margolis . "It has a vibrant food scene, with plenty of cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy a meal alone or with new friends. You will feel a strong sense of community as everyone is so friendly."

RELATED: The Blue Zone 'Diet' Isn't Actually a Diet, It's a Lifestyle

Rwanda is one of a few countries that are in the blue zone on the U.S. government's website , meaning you can exercise "normal" precautions when traveling. You'll have a once-in-a-lifetime experience in the African country as you can plan to see incredible wildlife in their many National Parks.

TIP: Beyond experiencing the great outdoors, learn a bit about the history and culture by exploring the Kigali Genocide Memorial and multiple art galleries .

Cameron (she/her) is a staff writer for Good Housekeeping , where she covers everything from holidays to food. She is a graduate of Syracuse University, where she received a B.A. in magazine journalism. In her spare-time she can be found scrolling TikTok for the latest cleaning hacks and restaurant openings, binge-watching seasons of Project Runway or online shopping.

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25 Best Solo Trips for Women In the U.S. and Around the World

While women’s travel has historically been centered around honeymoons, girls trips , bachelorettes , and family reunions—we’ve witnessed a boom in solo trips for women recently. Here’s why: Solo travel pushes you out of your comfort zone, enables you to do what you want to do, and helps you gain a renewed sense of self and the world around you. To help you find your next destination, we did the research for you and found 25 places in the U.S. and around the world to book. So, whether you’re seeking an American weekend getaway that’s cheap and cheerful, a city in Europe with luxurious hotels and dependable public transportation, or a Caribbean all-inclusive catering to every whim, these are the spots to keep on your radar.

Costa Rica is small in size, but big on appeal for solo female travelers. It’s incredibly safe; the locals are beyond warm—the mantra “pura vida” embodies their laid-back outlook on life—and thanks to its incredible biodiversity, the landscape is spectacular. Locals here enjoy long, productive lives—so much so that the Pacific-facing Nicoya Peninsula is a designated blue zone. To unlock the secrets to Costa Rican health and happiness, book yourself at Four Seasons Peninsula Papagayo, Costa Rica. The beloved resort unveiled a chic lifestyle makeover last year, including the new Mirador Beach Club and wellness shala, and offers a once-in-a-lifetime excursion called A Journey To The Costa Rican Blue Zone . The daylong road trip guides you through villages to meet farmers and artisans like mask makers. You’ll even be welcomed into a family’s home for a traditional, made-from-scratch lunch.

Charlotte, North Carolina

As North Carolina’s biggest city, Charlotte has recently morphed from a stodgy financial hub to a buzzy destination for beauty and wellness. Whether you’re going for a totally new look or a subtle update, trust your tresses to hair stylist Dhiran Mistry , whose chill demeanor and intuitive approach to cutting makes visiting his impossibly chic salon The Carriage House a dream. Reveal your best skin ever with a super-lifting facial from Toska Husted , an in-demand celebrity aesthetician trusted by Jennifer Lopez and the Kardashians. For a workout that’s equal parts fun and challenging, book a lesson at Rally Pickleball founded by partners in work and life Barrett Worthington and Meg Charity, then decompress with a deep tissue massage at Poseidon Spa and restorative night’s sleep in your glamorous room at Grand Bohemian Hotel Charlotte, Autograph Collection .

Seoul, South Korea

Whether you’re into cutting-edge beauty treatments or craving food and drink you can’t find anywhere else, the captivating city of Seoul has everything you need for an unforgettable solo vacation. To nourish your hair and boost growth, try Lee Won Moon Korean Medicine Clinic ’s viral (and sleep-inducing) 15-step scalp treatment. Shop for a new perfume (and gifts your gal pals) at Seoul’s coolest new fragrance boutique Written on Water . Sample Korean knife noodles and mung bean pancakes at one of South Korea’s oldest markets Gwangjang . Rent a hanbok and stroll around Bukchon Hanok Village and Gyeongbok Palace . Following a jam-packed day, check into the flawless Four Seasons Hotel Seoul in historic Gwanghwamun, where sophisticated accommodations with pillow menus, The Market Kitchen’s bountiful breakfast buffet, a modern Korean sauna, and Korean-influenced cocktails (try the Kimchi Highball) by Head Bartender Ike Ryu at OUL await.

Atlantic City, New Jersey

Atlantic City has staged a remarkable comeback in recent years, making it a desirable travel destination for everyone. Located within Caesars Atlantic City , the years-in-the-making Nobu Hotel opened its doors earlier this year. In addition to 85 stylish rooms and suites with Japanese design flourishes, the boutique property is home to a buzzy outpost of the famed Nobu restaurants. Qua Baths & Spa also recently introduced a 110-minute Nobu Nagomi Ritual combining a foot bath, body exfoliation, and massage with essential oils. For a rollicking good time, snag tickets to The Hook , a 75-minute adults-only live show by Spiegelworld. Another terrific stay in town is Ocean Casino Resort , where airy Contemporary Blu rooms and breathtaking coastal views are just the beginning of a fun-filled escape.

With a bewilderingly beautiful landscape and gender-equal mindset, Iceland is a quintessential first-time solo female travel destination. One of the best ways to get up close to the country’s culture, wildlife, and natural scenery—while unpacking your suitcase just once—is aboard Viking’s eight-day Iceland’s Natural Beauty cruise . The award-winning cruise line founded by Torstein Hagen is renowned for its elevated adults-only experience blending curated culinary offerings, exceptional excursions, and highly personalized service. Once you’ve sailed to your final port of call Reykjavik, check into Iceland Parliament Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton . Located in the heart of Iceland’s capital city near the waterfront, the 163-key hotel sports a crisp design, serene spa, and hip restaurant Hjá Jóni. Consider it the perfect jumping-off point to see Hallgrimskirkja Church and go on a whale- and puffin-watching boat tour .

Indianapolis, Indiana

Are you a woman who travels with eating well in mind? Search for Indianapolis on Google Flights stat. Though Indiana’s capital city has long been associated with the Indianapolis 500 and other major sporting events, recently it’s blossomed into a bonafide culinary destination with hip options for every craving. In the mood for raw oysters, rum drinks, and fresh ramen? Snag a bar seat at Strangebird . Fancy a posh lunch in a sprawling mansion kitted out with luxury furnishings you can purchase? Request a table for one at RH Indianapolis . Three generations of Thai women run the front and back of the house at Bodhi —where spicy drunk noodles arrive piping hot and garnished with fresh flowers—while Cafe Babette turns out whimsical baked treats, like its best-selling pistachio-raspberry-white chocolate croissant. When you can’t manage another bite, collapse into your sleek bed at Bottleworks Hotel .

Riviera Maya, Mexico

While hostels and all-inclusives abound in Riviera Maya, a destination adored for its powdery sands, stunning cenotes, and vibrant cuisine, why not treat yourself with a luxurious stay at Rosewood Mayakoba ? The iconic resort stretched across 620 scenic acres of winding lagoons and twisting mangroves features just suites—which are chicly done up in natural materials and locally-sourced furnishings—to ensure total privacy, and on-site activities galore, from El Camaleón, an 18-hole championship course designed by Greg Norman, to the spa’s purifying Temazcal ritual. Though the resort’s entire lineup of food and beverage outlets celebrate the region’s colorful culinary and Mayan heritage, it’s impossible not to fall hard for Zapote Bar. Led by Joshua Monaghan, this award-winning cocktail destination is famed for its imaginative recipes, entertaining presentations, and come-as-you-are vibes. (No wonder every night turns into an impromptu dance party.)

Washington D.C.

First, drop off your bags at the venerable Four Seasons Hotel Washington, DC , where gorgeous new suites and spa await. Then, tour the Folger Shakespeare Library . Fresh off a comprehensive renovation, the world's largest Shakespeare collection now also includes fascinating exhibitions and interactive experiences to inspire people from all walks of life. Home to moving works by female creatives such as Judy Chicago and Cindy Sherman, the National Museum of Women in the Arts is worth scoping out as well. For dinner, standouts include Laotian Thip Khao , Afghan bistro Lapis , Italian Cucina Morini , and hot spot Pasqual , where culinary star Isabel Coss sends out creative Mexican small plates and wood-fired entrees.

Osaka, Japan

Typically overshadowed by touristy Tokyo and Kyoto, Osaka is ready to step into the limelight as a worthy destination in its own right. And the just-opened Four Seasons Hotel Osaka  is helping that shift happen. Conveniently located in the Dojima neighborhood, the 175-key property boasts six food and beverage concepts, a bevy of wellness rituals including private ofuro (Japanese soaking tubs), and Gensui, an entire floor dedicated to a modern ryokan experience. From the hotel, it’s a breeze to get to the best of Japan’s third-biggest city. Take in bird’s-eye views from Umeda Sky Building ’s observation deck. Visit The Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan , one of the world’s biggest aquariums, to see whale sharks, sea lions, and many more marine life species. Savor street food staples such as takoyaki and okonomiyaki, which originated here.

Miami, Florida

Few U.S. vacation destinations can rival Miami. It’s sunny nearly every day of the year, and there’s something in this energetic metropolis for every kind of traveler: food, culture, and of course, sizzling entertainment. Plus, most major cities have direct flights to Florida’s second-largest city. But what if you’re a solo female traveler who wants easy access to the best of Miami, and prefers a more tranquil setting as your home base? Enter The Setai Miami Beach . The iconic property gracing South Beach has long served as a discreet hideaway for the world’s most high-profile figures (Madonna, Drake, Kim Kardashian), and takes on a refreshingly hushed feel with Asian-inspired design, enticing restaurants like the upcoming Japanese eatery Japón , Valmont for The Spa , and attentive service.

Florence, Italy

As the capital city of Italy’s Tuscany region, Florence resembles a dreamy, open-air museum. It’s impossible to stroll its cobbled walkways without spotting striking architecture that beckons you to pause. Iconic art, too, is a big draw, with Palazzo Vecchio and Accademia Gallery topping our list. Despite the crowds, taking in a sunset at Ponte Vecchio Bridge is essential, as is sampling classic Tuscan cuisine (pappa al pomodoro, bistecca alla fiorentina) at the swanky Cantinetta Antinori . After a day of exploration, unwind at NH Collection Firenze Porta Rossa . Situated in the heart of Florence and believed to be Italy’s oldest hotel, the boutique property has 70 spacious rooms—request room 121, which is embellished with original 18th-century frescos—marrying historic touches with modern-day comforts including Porta Rossa Bistrot, the signature Tuscan restaurant helmed by female chef Viviana Costa.

Columbus, Ohio

Here’s a fun fact: Columbus, Ohio’s capital city, is now the fastest-growing metropolis in the USA. Everything that makes it such a wonderful place to live also makes it an equally wonderful destination for your first solo trip. The historic neighborhood of German Village is where you’ll stumble upon some of the city’s coolest restaurants like Cobra and Agni and one of the country’s oldest bookstores The Book Loft of German Village , while Franklinton Arts District serves as a lively hub for independent creatives. Need a reboot of body and mind? Retreat to Paloma , a positively pretty wellness oasis for CBD massages and purifying Hydrafacials. While in town, consider The Junto your home away from home. Want something more quirky and retro? Check into South Wind Motel .

New Zealand

Approximately 2,500 miles east of Australia is the island country of New Zealand, one of the world’s most popular bucket-list travel destinations Let’s cut to the chase: you make the long-haul journey to New Zealand to immerse yourself in the staggeringly gorgeous and diverse landscape of snow-tipped mountains, stirring fjords, powdery beaches, and tumbling waterfalls as much as possible. Though there’s ample ground, including 13 National Parks, to explore between the two islands, we recommend making pitstops in Queenstown , Wanaka, Nelson Tasman, and Central North Island. Other things to bear in mind for your solo trips for women checklist: the crime rates are incredibly low; the locals are super friendly; and the climate is generally temperate year-round. Since you won’t find a lot of big-brand corporate or chain hotels here, book yourself at one of New Zealand’s many reputable and affordable hostels .

If you’re planning a West Coast vacation, but want to avoid touristy spots like California’s wine country, Los Angeles, and San Diego, consider Portland. Not only is Oregon’s biggest city easy to get around—it’s especially ideal for biking—there’s so much to do. Get in a fix of zen at the Portland Japanese Garden . Hike around the stunning Multnomah Falls . Dig into affordable food cart eats from Kim Jong Grillin and Desi PDX . Sip craft beers at Breakside Brewery . Perk up with a cup of joe from Stumptown Coffee Roasters . Browse the country’s largest independent bookstore, Powell’s City of Books , for your next must-read. When you’re ready to turn in for the night, the 67–room boutique hotel Jupiter Next has you covered—and don’t forget to swing by the hotel’s award-winning bar Hey Love for a nightcap.

Puebla, Mexico

When it comes to food-focused travel in Mexico, most minds default to Oaxaca and Mexico City. However, we highly recommend visit Puebla , the impossibly charming city just over 60 miles southeast of Mexico City that’s home to eye-catching Baroque architecture and a rich culinary landscape. In fact, Puebla is the birthplace of mole poblano: the earthy and ingredient-heavy sauce whose recipes vary from household to household. Taste one of the best versions at Augurio  by beloved local chef Ángel Vázquez, and don’t forget to buy a few packets for souvenirs. Want to learn the secrets to making it from scratch? Then sign up for a Mole Sauce Class —it’s a great opportunity to meet other hungry travelers—at Puebla’s most elegant accommodations, Banyan Tree Puebla , which is where you’ll want to sleep as well.

Chattanooga, Tennessee

Nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains along the Tennessee River, Chattanooga brims with appeal for outdoorsy types, from biking down Chattanooga’s Riverwalk to hiking Edwards Point Trail on Signal Mountain. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, explore the city’s flourishing food and drink scene. For easy-drinking cocktails and easygoing conversation, nab a stool at The Rosecomb , a charming watering hole taking up residence in a 1920’s cottage. Attack of the Tatsu doles out slurp-able bowls of ramen, while Little Coyote by beloved area chef Erik Niel pairs smoked tri-tip and handmade tortillas with a special mezcal service to showcase the agave spirit’s rich legacy. Before retiring for the night in your restored Pullman train carriage at The Hotel Chalet at The Choo Choo , throw back a proper nightcap at the hotel’s lively restaurant and bar Elsie's Daughter .

Helsinki, Finland

Despite winter being their longest season, Finns embrace nature, instead of bemoaning it. On top of that, the Nordic nation champions gender equality, progressive values, and environmental causes. No wonder Finland has been named the happiest in the country in the world for the seventh year in a row. We recommend starting your adventure in the capital city of Helsinki , an urban hub melding striking architecture, communal sauna culture, and diverse restaurants (dinner at Savoy is a must). In terms of where to stay, it’s tough to top the new Hotel NH Collection Helsinki Grand Hansa with a plum downtown address that’s walkable to the city’s top attractions, posh accommodations, Usva by Terhen Spa—try the signature two-hour, self-guided ritual—and Kupoli, a chic rooftop bar where mixologist Mika Koivula whips up magic in a glass.

Naples, Florida

Naples is the solution if you’re craving the Sunshine State’s good weather, but want to steer clear of Orlando and Miami. With nearly nine miles of pristine sugar-white beaches and tropical year-round temps, the coastal city gracing the Gulf of Mexico is well-suited for single women seeking a more relaxed, yet elevated vibe. Speaking of which, you’ll want to reserve a room at the newly-renovated Ritz-Carlton, Naples . Though it’s been open for almost four decades, the property feels more alluring than ever. The new Vanderbilt tower boasts Marriott’s biggest club lounge in North America—proper Champagne flows freely at the glitzy U-shaped bar—while the accommodations now feature sleek furnishings and soft tones of sand and grey-blue. Tennis fans will flip for the brand new Mouratoglou Tennis Center at its sister property The Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburón .

Bangkok, Thailand

It should come as no surprise that Thailand is ranked one of Asia’s top travel destinations year after year: it’s fun, scenic, inclusive, and affordable. Kick off your trip in the capital of Bangkok, where you have easy access to everything you’d want in a solo adventure, from spirited nightlife to historic group tours to tantalizing street food . It’s also more than easy to meet fellow travelers here via mobile apps, in case you want company for a stretch. Since you’ll probably be saving some of your hard-earned dollars while visiting, why not splurge on a luxurious hotel? With ten distinct food and beverage outlets including the sky-high rooftop lounge Vertigo, the 61-floor Banyan Tree Bangkok is our pick.

Oahu, Hawaii

Of Hawaii’s eight major islands, Oahu stands out as it’s the only one that couples exciting urban energy—which you’ll find in the capital city of Honolulu—with exhilarating natural beauty. In short? It’s the ideal travel destination for the solo female traveler who wants to experience it all. Since Oahu has over 100 beaches, you’ll have no problem pinpointing one to suit your mood. However, we’re partial to Makapu'u Beach, where you can snorkel and bodysurf all day long in relative solitude. Food wise, you have culture-blending options galore like Koko Head Cafe and MW Restaurant (save room for one of Michelle Karr-Ueoka’s whimsical desserts). When it’s time to chill out, you’ll relish the residential-like and whisper-quiet accommodations at the new Ka La'i Waikiki Beach, LXR Hotels & Resorts .

Montreal, Canada

Where old-world European charm meets cosmopolitan energy, Quebec’s largest city is a sensible choice for vacation. Stunning hotels abound, but we’re especially partial to Vogue Hotel Montreal Downtown, Curio Collection by Hilton with its sophisticated design, convenient address, and Pan-Asian eatery Yama by chef Antonio Park. No visit to Montreal, however, would be complete without digging into iconic bites such as Chez Claudette ’s poutine, St-Viateu r’s chewy-sweet sesame bagels, and Schwartz's Deli ’s smoked meat sandwiches. Need a culture fix in between all that eating? Check out the exhibits at Montreal Museum of Fine Arts and McCord Stewart Museum . Don't forget to set aside time to shop the glamorous new mega-mall at Royalmount , a mixed-used development that’s among North America’s largest and is completely carbon neutral.

Phoenix, Arizona

Cradled by mountains and blessed with sunny days three seasons out of the year, Phoenix is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, especially hikers . Reward yourself after a long day on your feet at the serene Sanctuary Camelback Mountain , where one of the region’s most beloved spas—the CBD Rejuvenating Massage relieves fatigued muscles—and plush, light-filled rooms await. Seeking more urban vibes? The Global Ambassador is a smart choice; plus, famed local chef Sam Fox developed all the dining concepts, including Arizona’s biggest rooftop restaurant. Other dependable dinner options include Uchi , a contemporary Japanese eatery by James Beard Award‑winning Chef Tyson Cole and Fat Ox 's mouthwatering house made pastas.

It might be tough to push past public image of France’s capital as a romantic destination for couples, but trust us: it’s an unforgettable place for solo women as well. Public transportation (Métro) is economical and easy to use, and there is seriously something for every interest. Surround yourself with a mind-boggling collection of art at the tiny but mighty (and free) Petit Palais. Scoop up designer duds (hello, tax-free shopping) from Hermès and Dior in the Golden Triangle. Nab a coveted bar seat at the always-busy but well-loved La Coupole for a proper French supper of Champagne and fresh seafood. When it’s time to rest, slip into your awe-inspiring room overlooking the Seine at LVMH’s 72-key Cheval Blanc Paris .

U.S. Virgin Islands

Comprised of the Caribbean islands of St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix, the U.S. Virgin Islands transports you to a tropical paradise of turquoise waters, sugary sands, and warm sunshine without a passport. If you just want to focus on relaxing—and not deal with the hassle of planning meals and excursions—then check into an all-inclusive resort. St. Croix’s Divi Carina Bay Resort & Casino was recently renovated, and is an adults-only affair with unlimited food and beverages in a refreshingly tranquil setting. In St. Thomas, Bolongo Bay Beach Resort specializes in a more intimate, family-run operation specializing in enticing, a la carte menus at every meal with no buffets.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

One of the most beautiful cities in Croatia, Dubrovnik’s claim to fame is its captivating history and architecture. Walking the thick walls dating back to medieval times that enclose the city is the first thing you’ll want to do after unpacking and settling into Hotel Excelsior , complete with stunning views of the Adriatic sea and a tranquil spa. Other activities you shouldn’t miss include taking the cable car to Mount Srđ for sweeping views, exploring Old Town , a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and sea kayaking . When your appetite kicks in, Beach Bar Dodo , D'Vino Wine Bar , and Barba are solid picks.

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Is Playa del Carmen Safe in 2024? A Local's Perspective

Are you interested in visiting Playa del Carmen and wondering if it’s safe? You’ve come to the right guide!

As a travel blogger that  lives in Playa del Carmen , it’s probably one of the most common questions I get asked about living in Mexico.

While Mexico receives a lot of media attention on international media channels, the truth is that it’s not much more dangerous than many other major cities in the world–as long as you know what to avoid.

In this post, I’m sharing  everything you need to know about   safety in Playa del Carmen , including my personal safety experience, honest advice, common scams to watch out for, and my best Playa del Carmen safety tips.

I’ve learned a lot from my many years in Playa del Carmen, so whether you’re a tourist, expat, digital nomad, or solo female traveler traveling to Playa del Carmen, I’ve got you covered in this comprehensive Playa del Carmen safety guide.

Ready to find out how to stay safe in Playa del Carmen? Let’s get started!

Is Playa del Carmen Safe?

Playa del Carmen is generally a safe place to visit as long as you avoid illegal activity and follow proper safety precautions.

The town is one of the most popular beach destinations in Mexico and relies heavily on tourism, so the Mexican government takes security measures to ensure that visitors have a safe experience.

That said, crime does exist and you should always be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against illegal activity.

However, as long as you use common sense, most tourists will not have any problems when  visiting Playa del Carmen .

🚨  Do you need travel insurance for Mexico?  Yes! Most insurance plans in your home country will not cover incidents abroad. I recommend using Travel Insurance Master, which is a handy travel insurance marketplace where you can compare policies. Get a FREE quote by  clicking here !

How Safe is Playa del Carmen?

Let me just start by saying that I absolutely love living in Playa del Carmen.

It’s one of the most beautiful resort towns in Mexico with so amazing things to offer–beautiful beaches, incredible  Playa del Carmen cenotes , and a welcoming community.

I wouldn’t have lived here for so long as a solo female expat if I didn’t feel comfortable or if it was super dangerous.

But crime does exist in Playa del Carmen and bad things do happen sometimes so I want to be as open and honest as I can about my experience. 

I truly believe if you are more aware and follow some of these safety travel tips, you more than likely will have no issues visiting Playa del Carmen. 

But once you know the facts, then you can make an informed decision if you feel comfortable traveling to Playa del Carmen.

Playa del Carmen Crime Index

Numbeo  is an online global database of perceived crime and safety rates in major cities and countries throughout the world.

One statistic that Numbeo uses to measure crime rates is “Crime Index”, which is an estimation of overall level of crime in a given city or a country based on the following scale from 1-100:

• Very Low: <20
• Moderate: 40-60
• High: 60-80
• Very High: >80

The reported Crime Index for Playa del Carmen is currently  47.19 , which is considered a  moderate level of crime .

For comparison, Mexico City has a Crime Index of 67.86 and Chicago has a Crime Index of 66.06.

Compared to other large cities around the world, the Playa del Carmen crime rate is lower and is generally a safe destination for travelers.

Playa del Carmen Safety Index

In addition, another metric Numbeo uses is “Safety Index” which is basically the opposite of Crime Index. If a city has a high Safety Index, it is considered very safe.

Currently, Playa del Carmen is reported to have a Safety Index of  52.81 , which is considered a  moderate level of safety .

For comparison, Mexico City has a Safety Index of 32.14 and Chicago has a Safety Index of 33.94.

Playa del Carmen Travel Advisory

Officially, the U.S. State Department has issued the  travel advisory  for the Mexican state of Quintana Roo (where Playa del Carmen, Cancun, Cozumel, Isla Mujeres, Tulum, and Riviera Maya are located) as a  Level 2 -“Exercise Increased Caution”  due to crime and kidnapping. 

There are currently no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Quintana Roo state but it is recommended to exercise increased caution after dark and to remain in well-lit pedestrian streets and tourist zones.

Playa del Carmen currently has the same travel advisory level as destinations in the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Italy, and Spain–demonstrating that traveling to Mexico is just as safe as a trip to Europe.

Smart Traveler Enrollment Program

If you are a U.S. citizen, it is recommended to register for the Department of State’s  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) , which allows you to submit your travel plans to the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate in Mexico. 

You’ll then receive news and safety alerts by email for the areas you’re traveling to. I’m enrolled and have found it to be very helpful and informative. 

Mexico Safety in the Media

It’s no secret that there’s lot of media hype about violent crime in Mexico, especially on American news channels and social media. 

I’m not saying these stories are false but I do think that the media does a good job at blowing many of these incidents out of proportion.  

For example, the incident that happened last year in the border town of Matamoros was over 1,300 miles away from Playa del Carmen in a state with a long-held “Do Not Travel” advisory.

To advise travelers not to travel to Playa del Carmen because of an incident that happened in a completely different part of the country would be like saying you shouldn’t travel to California because of something that happened in New York.

So, it’s important not to let sensationalized news stories cloud your judgement and to do your own research into the safety situation in Playa del Carmen before making a decision.

Crime in Playa del Carmen

Crime does exist in Playa del Carmen, as it does is most major cities around the world. These are the most commons types of crime in Playa del Carmen:

Petty Crime

Petty theft is one of the most common crimes in Playa del Carmen since it is primarily a vacation town where tourists are more prone to relax and indulge in alcoholic beverages–making them an easy target. 

One important thing to remember is that Mexico is considered a third-world country. There are many people here that are struggling to make a living so the chances of theft and exploitation are high.  

However, as long as you take proper precautions and keep a close eye on your belongings at all times, you can avoid getting taken advantage of.

Always be aware of your surroundings, watch your alcohol consumption, and never let your guard down.

I always wear a belt bag or crossbody purse whenever I’m walking around town or out and about.

And even when dining at restaurants, keep your purse in your lap and never unattended. I’ve seen security footage posted on Facebook where thieves will create a distraction and steal purses or bags from the back of chairs.

Additionally, be sure to use your hotel safe and securely lock your hotel room or  apartment rental  at all times.

Drug-Related Crime

I’m not naïve to the fact that there are drug cartels in the Playa del Carmen, Cancun, and Tulum areas, which make them less safe than nearby island destinations like  Cozumel  or  Isla Mujeres . 

Drug violence exists in the Mexican Caribbean region because it’s a popular vacation destination and there’s a market for drug trafficking.

However, from my experience the drug-related incidents have been very targeted and are usually not directed at tourists. 

That’s not to say that there isn’t a risk of injury for innocent bystanders but as long as you are not involved in drugs and illegal activity, you more than likely won’t be exposed to these dangers.

Corruption and Bribery

Another unfortunate type of crime in Playa del Carmen is corruption and bribery by authority figures such as police officers and military personnel.

Now I’m not saying that every authority figure in Mexico is corrupt–there are plenty of honest and hardworking police officials but there are also some bad ones out there that ruin their reputation.

Some police officers have been known to abuse their power for money–they will usually target intoxicated male tourists and threaten to arrest them if they don’t hand over their cash. 

These incidents are more rare and most tourists will not have much interaction with these types of figures or situations but it’s an important thing to be aware of. 

Is Playa del Carmen Safe for Tourists?

If you’re visiting Playa del Carmen on vacation, you have very little to worry about in regards to safety. 

The entire  Riviera Maya region  depends primarily on tourism so it’s generally safe for visitors. 

But at the same time you also have to be a responsible traveler, take proper precautions, and avoid being a target. 

There are millions of tourists that travel to Mexico every year and very few have any issues with  safety in Riviera Maya .

Playa del Carmen Resort Safety

If you’re visiting Playa del Carmen or the Riviera Maya and don’t plan to leave the resort, you honestly won’t face many risks. 

However, if you are staying at a  Playa del Carmen all-inclusive resort , you’ll want to be careful of your alcohol consumption and try not to stay out late alone–even if it’s just at the hotel bar. 

There have been incidents at resorts in recent years where alcohol has been tainted but this is definitely not the norm.

And I’ve seen recently where more  hotels in Playa del Carmen  are taking more safety measures against tainted alcohol like destroying the empty bottles after use so they can’t be refilled.

You’ll also want to utilize the hotel safe to lock up your valuables, credit cards, passport, and travel documents. 

Don’t just assume your valuables will be safe in your hotel room. You never know who has access to your guest room including housekeeping, maintenance, security, and other resort staff. 

Playa del Carmen 5th Avenue Safety

Fifth Avenue (Quinta Avenida) is Playa del Carmen’s most popular pedestrian-only street and main tourist area.

It’s a great place for  shopping in Playa del Carmen , but it is a crowded and lively place which makes it an attractive location for pickpocketers. 

Always be vigilant of your surroundings and hold on securely to your purse and cell phone. 

For ladies, I would definitely recommend a crossbody purse or belt bag. Men should always keep their wallets in their front pockets.

Also, it’s important to know that you will more than likely be offered drugs while walking down 5th Avenue. Just ignore it and keep walking.

As I mentioned, if you avoid the drug scene in Playa del Carmen you will avoid trouble. 

Playa del Carmen Beach Safety

Many of the  beaches in Playa del Carmen  will be very crowded and have no shortage of vendors trying to sell you their goods and handicrafts. 

Never bring valuables to the beach and keep an eye on your belongings at all times. It’s an easy environment for bag snatchers to make a quick getaway. 

Whenever I go in the water, I always secure my beach bag and keep a close and watchful eye on it.

If you want to be extra cautious, you can use a Pacsafe, which is a portable safe you can strap to a beach chair or permanent fixture. 

Playa del Carmen Nightlife Safety

If you are going out to the  nightclubs  or  bars in Playa del Carmen , always keep an eye on your drink or keep a hand over it. Drink spiking can happen, especially for ladies.

This is not something I’ve heard of a lot but it does happen, sadly as it does in many bars around the world. 

Watch your alcohol consumption and never accept drinks from strangers.

Playa del Carmen Water Safety

It’s important to know that the  water in Playa del Carmen is not safe to drink  for both tourists and locals. It’s best to stick to bottled or purified water while visiting.

I would also recommending bringing along a collapsible water bottle to stay hydrated during your trip.

It can be very easy to opt for soft drinks and alcoholic beverages so having a water bottle on hand can be a huge help.

Or if you really want to save money, you can buy a  water purifier bottle  to remove contaminants from tap water.

💧 Check out my full  Playa del Carmen water safety guide  for all of the answers to the most frequently asked questions about drinking the water in Mexico.

Playa del Carmen Taxi Safety

Another safety concern in Playa del Carmen is around taking taxis. I have taken a lot of taxis in Playa del Carmen and have personally never had any bad experiences but unfortunately it does happen. 

Many of the taxi drivers are friendly and are just trying to make a living but there are also not-so-friendly taxi drivers that give them a bad name.

I’ve also heard a few stories of bad things happening–like kidnapping and thefts at knife point. 

This is more likely to happen at night so I would avoid taking a taxi alone at night if possible.

If you do take a taxi, be sure to follow these safety tips:

• Confirm the price upfront:  Always confirm the price of the taxi  before  getting in. Taxis drivers will definitely overcharge for tourists.  
• Try to speak Spanish:  If you can speak Spanish with the driver, you are more likely to get a fair rate.
• Never sit in the front seat:  This sets you up for someone to hop into the backseat and attack you from behind. Also don’t get in a taxi if there is someone in the passengers seat. Chances are they are working together.
• Record the taxi number:  It’s a good idea to save the taxi number in your phone or send it in a quick text message to a friend in case of emergency or if you leave anything behind.
• Double check for personal belongings:  Always be sure to check the backseat of the taxi before exiting for any items that may have been left behind. If you do leave something, chances are you will not get it back.
• Don’t take taxis from 5th Avenue:   The 5th Avenue Playa del Carmen taxi zone will be charged the tourist rate which will be double or triple the normal price. In most cases, you can walk one block up to 10th Avenue and hail a taxi at the normal rate.

🚗 It’s also important to know that  Uber in Playa del Carmen  is currently  not available or safe to use . While it was approved to operate in January 2023, opposition from the local taxi union has still made it unsafe for Uber drivers and passengers.

Rental Car Safety in Playa del Carmen

If you want to explore some more off-the-beaten-path locations around the Yucatan peninsula during your trip, you can consider booking a rental car for the freedom to drive places on your own.

Rental Car Scams

Unfortunately rental car scams are very common in Mexico and Playa del Carmen is no exception.

There are a lot of car rental horror stories including long wait times, not getting the car you booked, and extreme upcharges for insurance.

You may be tempted by advertisements online for Mexico car rentals as low as $1 per day but then you’ll get nailed for all the added fees and insurance premiums.

When  renting a car in Playa del Carmen , you’ll want to be very cautious and do your research online in advance.

I recommend using  Discover Cars  because you can compare multiple car rental companies and see detailed ratings for overall value, ease of pick-up, efficiency of agents, car condition, and overall time spent.

Just be sure to read the fine print and check reviews carefully as rental car scams are unfortunately common in Mexico.

↳ Search for car rentals on Discover Cars here

Traffic Checkpoints

When driving around Playa del Carmen and the Riviera Maya region, you’ll also want to drive very carefully, avoid going over the speed limit, and abide by all traffic laws.

It’s not uncommon for there to be traffic checkpoints along the major highways where police officers or military personnel will stop and search vehicles.

As long as you are not doing anything against the law, you more than likely will just be able to slow down and drive past these checkpoints.

⚠️ You’ll also want to be careful for  speed bumps  (“topes”) in Mexico–they are extremely common and can sneak up on you!

Is Playa del Carmen Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

When it comes to safety for solo female travelers, Playa del Carmen is a relatively safe place to visit if you take proper precautions.

As a solo female expat who’s lived in Playa del Carmen for many years, I have learned to be super cautious and now know what to avoid in Playa del Carmen.

Since the town is such a busy tourist destination, solo travelers can feel safe during the day being out and about, shopping, or going to the beach.

It’s best to stick to the main streets and tourist areas closer to 5th Avenue, as there are usually a lot of other people around.  

However, solo female travelers should be careful about staying out late alone. It is also important to watch your alcohol consumption, as this can make you more vulnerable to crime.

I’m not saying female travelers can’t have any fun but it’s best to be careful not to become a target.

For the most part, I have never had any major safety issues in Playa del Carmen as a female but I have learned from others’ experiences and have always erred on the side of caution.

Common Scams in Playa del Carmen

These are a few common scams in Playa del Carmen to watch out for:

Airport Transfer Scam

The arrivals area of Cancun Airport can be a very hectic place and is unfortunately an area where a lot of people get taken advantage of.

The airport transfer scam happens when exiting the airport and looking for your prearranged airport transportation.

Someone will approach you and tell you that your  Cancun airport transfer  has been canceled and that no other vehicles are available. 

They’ll even call the alleged “transfer company” and have you speak to an accomplice on the phone that acts as a reservation agent. They’ll then offer to drive you to your destination at an exorbitant rate.

It’s best to ignore anyone that approaches you at the airport unless you are  100% sure  they are your transportation company.

👉 I recommend booking your Cancun Airport transfer with  Cancun Airport Transportation  for the safest and most reliable ride.

The ADO is the airport bus and one of the largest bus companies in Mexico.

I’ve taken the  ADO bus in Playa del Carmen  many times and have never had any issues but it’s not uncommon for belongings to be stolen from the overhead bins. 

The thief will walk down the aisle with their hands up for stability and move the overhead items along with them. 

If you can, don’t use the overhead bins and keep your personal belongings on the floor in front of you or on your lap.

Overcharging or Added Service Charges

If you are dining at one of the  restaurants in Playa del Carmen , it’s not uncommon for them to add an automatic gratuity or service charge.

In fact, it’s actually illegal in Playa del Carmen for them to add an automatic gratuity to the bill.

Always take the time to review your restaurant bill carefully and speak up if it’s incorrect. And if paying in cash, be sure to count your change to make sure it’s correct.

Ketchup Scam

The ketchup scam may sound far-fetched but it is a real thing!

This scam happens while you are waiting in line at grocery stores such as  Walmart , Mega, Chedraui, Sam’s, or Costco. 

Basically, someone comes up behind you and “accidentally” spills a ketchup packet on your shirt or clothing. 

They then offer to help you clean it by escorting you to the bathroom, where another accomplice is waiting to steal your money. 

So if you see ketchup or any other kind of stain, it’s a red flag alert–literally!

Bill Swap Scam

Another common scam in Playa del Carmen is the bill swap or quick switch scam.

In recent years, Mexico released a $500 MXN bill that is blue in color. Since $20 MXN bills are also blue, it’s not uncommon for gas station attendants to try and return your $500 bill with a $20 bill in the hopes that you don’t notice.

Or, if you hand them $500 MXN, they’ll do a quick switch and say that you only handed them $20 MXN. Always keep an eye on the bills!

It’s also not uncommon for card skimmers to be placed on ATMs, especially on Fifth Avenue Playa del Carmen.

If you need to withdraw cash, the safest places are inside a local bank such as Scotiabank, CiBanco, Santander, or Bancomer.

When using ATMs, you’ll want to go during the day and avoid withdrawing huge amounts of cash.

Playa del Carmen Mexico Safety Tips

Here’s a recap of some of the safety tips I mentioned in this post and a few other recommendations of things I have learned on staying safe in Playa del Carmen:

• Keep valuables in your hotel safe:  Be sure to keep any valuables locked in your hotel safe. For added security on the go, I would also recommend purchasing a Pacsafe, which is a portable safe that can be secured to fixtures in your hotel room or beach chair.
• Keep your personal belongings close at all times:  When walking on 5th Avenue or in crowded touristy areas, I would recommend wearing a crossbody purse or belt bag with zipper closures. If you want to be extra cautious you can buy a travel pouch to wear under your clothes.
• Never leave your purse out of sight:  Always keep your purse in your lap or in close sight when dining at restaurants. It’s common for thieves to snatch bags left on the floor or hanging behind chairs.
• Keep your passport in the hotel safe:  It’s better to keep your passport locked in the hotel safe. Instead, you can carry a photocopy of your passport or have one saved as a picture on your phone.
• Don’t carry large amounts of cash:  Only carry the amount of money you’ll need for the day’s activities as flashing large amounts of cash around can make you a target.
• Keep at least one credit card at the hotel:  Don’t carry of all your credit cards with you so you still have access to funds if your wallet were to get stolen. This happened to me in  Mexico City  and I definitely learned my lesson!
• Don’t buy drugs:  As I mentioned, avoid the drug scene in Playa del Carmen and you will avoid trouble. If you are offered drugs while walking down 5th Avenue, simply ignore it and keep walking.
• Don’t walk home alone:  Use the buddy system if you can and avoid walking home alone late at night. If you have to walk home alone, be sure to text a friend that you arrived safely.
• Don’t accept drinks from strangers:  Drink spiking can happen so it’s best not to accept drinks from strangers or at least ones that you haven’t seen prepared.
• Stay in safe neighborhoods:  If you’re not staying at a  Riviera Maya resort , then you’ll want to stay in downtown Playa del Carmen (Centro), which is the main tourist area and the safest place for walking around and being out and about during the day and night. If you’re traveling solo and staying at an AirBnB or apartment rental, consider picking up a portable door lock, which is an inexpensive safety tool that can be used to prevent unauthorized entry.
• Abide by the traffic laws:  Always drive safely, at or below the speed limit, and abide by the traffic laws to avoid being pulled over and targeted for a bribe.
• Watch your alcohol consumption:  By all means let loose in Playa del Carmen–it is your vacation after all! But you’ll want to be careful of your alcohol consumption and make sure you are with people you trust and drinking in a safe environment. Intoxicated tourists can make easy targets.
• Don’t be a target : Avoid wearing expensive clothing, flashy jewelry, and accessories which can make you stand out as a target for theft, exploitation, and getting overcharged.
• Stay hydrated:  Since you can’t drink the water in Playa del Carmen, it can be harder to stay hydrated when you have to rely on bottled water. Make a conscious effort to stay hydrated during the hot days and pack a collapsible water bottle to take with you while you’re at the pool or beach.
• Learn some basic Spanish:  It’s a good idea to learn some  basic Mexican Spanish phrases  before your trip to Playa del Carmen. There are a lot of English speakers in Playa del Carmen but knowing some Spanish can definitely help you to avoid getting taken advantage of.

Do You Need Travel Insurance for Playa del Carmen?

Travel insurance is absolutely essential for any trip to Mexico, as there is always a safety risk whether it be from the food, water, or another type of unfortunate accident. 

Most insurance companies in your home country  do not  cover incidents abroad, which is why travel insurance with international coverage is so important to have.  

I recommend using  Travel Insurance Master , which is a handy travel insurance marketplace where you can compare policies and find the best coverage for you. 

👉 Get a  FREE QUOTE  from Travel Insurance Master by  clicking here !

Playa del Carmen Safety: FAQs

Here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about safety in Playa del Carmen Mexico:

How safe is Playa del Carmen at night?

Playa del Carmen is safe to walk around at night as long as you stick to the main tourist areas around 5th Avenue.

Avoid illegal activity, never leave your drink attended, and avoid walking home alone to reduce your safety risk.

Is Playa del Carmen safe for solo travelers?

Yes, Playa del Carmen is generally safe for solo travelers as long as you follow basic safety precautions and avoid illegal activity.

Solo travelers can feel very safe during the day but should use caution when walking alone at night.

What should you avoid in Playa del Carmen?

When visiting Playa del Carmen, avoid illegal activity, purchasing drugs, and walking alone away from the main tourist areas.

Is Playa del Carmen safer than Cancun?

Yes, Playa del Carmen is considered to be slightly safer than  Cancun  with a lower crime index and higher safety rating. However, you should take the same precautions when visiting both towns.

Is Playa del Carmen safer than Tulum?

Yes, Playa del Carmen is generally considered to be safer than  Tulum  as there has been an increase in drug violence in Tulum in recent years. However, you should take the same precautions when visiting both towns.

Is 5th Avenue Playa del Carmen safe?

Yes, Playa del Carmen 5th Avenue is safe as it’s a very populated area both day and night. Just be sure to avoid the drug scene and partaking in any illegal activity.

Are colectivos safe in Playa del Carmen?

Yes, it is safe to take colectivos in to  get around Playa del Carmen  but it is best to take them during the day.

Conclusion: Playa del Carmen Safety Guide

So, is it safe to travel to Playa del Carmen? It’s no secret that crime does exist in Playa del Carmen, as it does in many popular tourist destinations around the world. 

But as long as you are cautious and follow some of these safety tips, I do believe it is safe to travel to Playa del Carmen.  

As I said, I love living in Playa del Carmen and don’t want to discourage you from visiting because the destination has so many amazing things to offer. 

But I also want to be transparent. Do your own research and travel only if you feel comfortable.

Safety is never guaranteed but you’ll more than likely have a very enjoyable vacation in Playa del Carmen.

• Is Playa del Carmen Worth Visiting?
• Can You Drink the Water in Playa del Carmen?
• Where to Stay in Playa del Carmen