Tulum is one of Mexico’s most hyped travel destinations, drawing in everyone from Instagram influencers to remote workers craving that “work-from-the-beach” lifestyle. But before you pack your bags, let’s get real: Is Tulum actually safe?
For digital nomads, backpackers, and long-term travelers, safety isn’t just about avoiding crime—it’s about choosing the right neighborhoods, finding secure accommodations, and staying connected without worry. The short answer? Tulum can be safe if you know what you’re doing. Let’s break it down.
What’s the Real Safety Situation in Tulum?
The truth is, Tulum’s crime rate has increased. In 2024, it had the highest crime rate in Quintana Roo—5,826 criminal incidents per 100,000 people. Even more alarming, its homicide rate (226.91 per 100,000 residents) is one of the worst in Mexico.
But before you scrap your travel plans, let’s add some context:
- Most violent crime is cartel-related and doesn’t target tourists.
- Petty crime (theft, scams) is the biggest risk for travelers.
- Tourist zones and nomad hubs are relatively safer than non-touristy areas.
The U.S. State Department has a Level 2 travel advisory for Tulum, meaning “exercise increased caution.” But guess what? France, Italy, and Spain also have Level 2 advisories, and people visit them every day.
So, Should Digital Nomads Be Worried?
If you’re working remotely in Tulum, your biggest concerns are:
- Finding a safe and reliable place to live (some Airbnbs lack proper security).
- Avoiding scams and theft (especially in cafes and coworking spaces).
- Navigating nightlife safely (yes, Tulum’s party scene can get sketchy).
You’ll be fine if you stay alert, avoid certain areas at night, and don’t do anything dumb—like buying drugs or flashing cash.
Is Tulum Safe for Solo Digital Nomads?
Yes, Tulum is generally safe for solo travelers and digital nomads, but you need to be street-smart.
Many remote workers choose Tulum for its laid-back beach vibes, coworking spots, and expat-friendly atmosphere. But nomads sticking around for weeks or months should take extra precautions:
- Choose safe neighborhoods. Aldea Zamá and La Veleta are popular, but crime has crept in. Stay in secure buildings or reputable co-living spaces like Outsite or Selina.
- Be mindful of your laptop. If you’re working from a café, never leave your laptop unattended—even for a second. Thieves target nomads who assume “it’s safe.”
- Avoid walking alone at night. Especially between the town center and the beach zone—it’s not as safe as it looks. Take a taxi or rent a bike instead.
Pro Tip: Join local nomad Facebook groups or WhatsApp chats to get real-time safety updates from other travelers.
Is Tulum Safe for Solo Female Travelers?
Tulum is mostly safe for solo female travelers, but it requires extra caution. Women have reported catcalling, harassment, and occasional drink-spiking incidents in bars and nightclubs.
🚨 Safety tips for solo female nomads in Tulum:
✔ Stick to reputable hostels, hotels, or co-living spaces (not random Airbnb rentals with no reviews).
✔ Never leave your drink unattended (and don’t accept drinks from strangers).
✔ Take official taxis at night—walking alone isn’t worth the risk.
Many solo female travelers love Tulum—but being extra cautious is a must.
How Safe Are Tulum’s Taxis and Public Transport?
Taxis in Tulum are safe—but overpriced. With no Uber or Lyft, you’re stuck negotiating fares.
🚖 How to avoid taxi scams in Tulum:
- Agree on the fare before getting in—there are no meters.
- Ask your hotel or coworking space to call a taxi for you.
- Use cash only. Some drivers claim their card machines are “broken” to overcharge.
Alternative: Rent a bike! It’s cheaper, safer, and more fun than haggling with taxi drivers every day.
Is Renting a Car in Tulum Safe?
Yes, but watch out for rental scams. Many travelers report:
- Hidden fees and last-minute insurance charges.
- “No cars available” scams, where they try to upsell you.
- Fake damage claims when you return the car.
Best practices for renting a car in Tulum:
Use a reputable company (Discover Cars or Local Rent).
Take photos/videos of the car before driving off.
Read the contract carefully—don’t fall for hidden fees.
Once you have a car, driving in Tulum is mostly safe—just watch out for potholes and random speed bumps!
Are Drug Cartels a Risk for Tourists in Tulum?
Yes. Cartel activity has increased, and drug-related violence rose by 488% last year.
But here’s the deal: Cartels aren’t targeting tourists—they’re targeting each other.
To stay safe:
Do NOT buy or use drugs. Many cartel-related deaths happen because tourists get involved in the local drug scene.
Avoid sketchy nightclubs and beach parties. These are hotspots for cartel activity.
Stick to reputable hotels, bars, and coworking spaces. If a place feels sketchy, leave.
Can You Drink the Tap Water in Tulum?
Absolutely not. Mexico’s tap water is not safe, and even locals don’t drink it.
Only drink bottled or filtered water.
Avoid ice cubes unless you know they’re purified.
Consider a LifeStraw bottle—great for long-term travelers.
Trust me, a few pesos for bottled water is better than spending your trip stuck in the bathroom.
10 Safety Tips for Digital Nomads in Tulum
- Stay in secure accommodations—avoid cheap Airbnbs with no security.
- Use coworking spaces—they’re safer than cafés for remote work.
- Don’t flash your laptop or phone in public.
- Avoid walking alone at night.
- Negotiate taxi fares before you get in.
- Be careful at beach parties—cartel activity is increasing.
- Learn basic Spanish—it helps in emergencies.
- Use a VPN for online banking—public WiFi can be sketchy.
- Lock your doors and windows at night.
- Join local nomad communities—stay updated on safety tips.
Should Digital Nomads Visit Tulum?
Yes—but with caution. Tulum is a beautiful, vibrant destination for nomads, but rising crime means you need to stay alert.
If you stick to safe areas, use secure accommodations, and stay aware, you’ll likely have an amazing time.
If you want a safer alternative, consider Isla Holbox or Playa del Carmen—both have strong nomad communities and fewer safety concerns.
One Last Tip: Get Travel Insurance!
Even if you do everything right, stuff happens. Whether it’s a stolen laptop, food poisoning, or an emergency flight home, travel insurance is a must.
Recommended providers:
✔ SafetyWing (great for digital nomads)
✔ World Nomads (best for adventure travelers)
Tulum is worth visiting—but travel smart, and stay safe!
