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Is Cabo San Lucas Safe for American Tourists in 2024?

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Is Cabo Safe? The answer is yes. According to recent federal government data, Cabo San Lucas is the fourth safest city in Mexico. Baja California Sur is the third safest state with the lowest murder rate in Mexico, equivalent to the murder rate in Idaho.

Like so many other places south of the border, this popular resort town (2 million U.S. visitors in 2022, per Travel Analytics) can be an extremely safe destination for anyone looking for a quick getaway from the U.S.

There is a misconception among some—fed by what are often one-sided portrayals in the U.S. media—that México is wracked by drug-related violence and unsafe for travel.

Although certain towns in Mexico are rife with crime and cartel violence, Los Cabos, isolated at the end of a 760-mile peninsula, isn’t one of them, and anyone who has visited the country can attest, including yours, to this.

While it’s undeniable that México, like every country in the world, suffers from crime and has some undesirable areas, most of its cities and communities—like Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo in particular—are incredibly safe.

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is los cabos safe

Facts vs Fiction: Dispelling Myths

In recent years, Cabo San Lucas has worked diligently to shed safety misconceptions that might deter potential visitors.

While media reports sometimes highlight isolated incidents or incidents happening on the other side of the country, Cabo is considered a safe destination for tourists.

The local government and tourism authorities have implemented various measures to ensure the well-being of visitors and residents alike.

Cabo is safe, and crime rates are plummeting. Rest assured, government authorities are working hard to keep it that way.

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Mexicans are warm and gracious. They want to share their culture with you and repeatedly welcome visitors back.

U.S. State Department Travel Advisory for Cabo San Lucas

Let’s start with advice from the U.S. State Department. Click here to see if there is any specific Cabo San Lucas travel advisory for the time you plan to travel.

This department assigns a travel advisory level to destinations based on their social and political climate.

These four levels serve as a guide, indicating to travelers the caution they should exercise when visiting or whether reconsidering their travel plans is appropriate.

There are four levels of travel advisories issued by both the U.S. and Canada (and they’re roughly equivalent) for various places around the world:

Level 2 – Exercise increased caution

Level 3 – Reconsider travel

Level 4 – Do not travel

The State Department notes that “violent crime is common and widespread in Mexico,” though there are no travel restrictions for Cabo San Lucas.

However, the State Department recommends that travelers reconsider travel to Baja California because of crime and kidnapping. On the flip side, Mexican tourism experts are confident that the country is safe for vacationers and travelers. 

It’s important to note that despite what you may have seen in the U.S. media, incidents involving tourists in Mexico are exceedingly rare.

As I stated above, Los Cabos, Cabo San Lucas, San Jose Del Cabo, and the Tourist Corridor, which links the two cities, are considered the safest areas for Americans to visit.

Fortunately, there are no travel restrictions for Baja California Sur. This means that it’s perfectly safe to visit Cabo San Lucas, San Jose Del Cabo, and La Paz.

While organized crime may be a concern in some parts of Mexico, Cabo San Lucas is relatively safe.

Almost all of the American tourists that have been killed in Mexico are due to buying drugs from the cartel because someone thought it was a good idea to buy drugs in a foreign country. 

You have nothing to worry about if you’re not participating in illegal activities.

Is Cabo San Lucas Safe for Families? 

Cabo, a go-to spot for families, welcomes countless folks each year, mine included, and guess what? Smooth sailing! Families, including ours, have been making memories here without a hitch.

Whether it’s the cozy, all-inclusive resorts or the epic family adventures, like catching a glimpse of whales from a pirate ship, Cabo knows how to cater to the family crew.

It’s not just a destination; it’s practically a family tradition!

Is Cabo Safe for Female Solo Travelers

Cabo San Lucas is a safe destination for solo female travelers, provided that certain precautions are taken.

While Cabo has seen security improvements, it’s still important to prioritize your safety. Opt for well-established accommodations in reputable areas and inform a friend or family about your travel plans.

Utilize authorized transportation options, such as taxis or Uber Ridesharing, and avoid walking alone late at night.

For solo female travelers who decide to visit Cabo solo, here are some quick and helpful tips for staying safe:

    1. Learn common, handy phrases in Spanish.
    2. Share your travel itinerary with friends and family, and keep in touch.
    3. Avoid traveling around alone at night.
    4. Enroll in the U.S. State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP).

Scams in Cabo San Lucas

Every popular destination deals with its fair share of folks trying to pull a fast one on unsuspecting travelers.

If you’ve traveled before, you’ve probably encountered these Cabo-style shenanigans – the smooth talkers at the airport and the sneaky pickpockets in busy spots.

Here are the five most common scams in Cabo San Lucas and tips on how to avoid them:

  1. Taxi Overcharging: Some taxi drivers might overcharge tourists, especially if the fare is not agreed upon before the journey. To avoid this, insist on using licensed taxis, request an estimate before starting the ride, and ensure the meter is used if available.
  2. Timeshare Presentations: Visitors are often lured into attending timeshare presentations with promises of gifts or tours. These presentations can be high-pressure sales tactics. To steer clear, politely decline such invitations and avoid giving personal information to strangers.
  3. Fake Excursion Packages: Scammers might sell counterfeit or overpriced excursion packages. Always book activities through reputable agencies or directly with your hotel. Research online reviews and ask for recommendations from fellow travelers.
  4. Counterfeit Money: Be vigilant when receiving change, especially in busy places. Counterfeit bills occasionally circulate. Verify the authenticity of larger bills and be cautious when dealing with unfamiliar currency.
  5. ATM Skimming: Criminals sometimes install skimming devices on ATMs to steal card information. Use ATMs located in well-lit, busy areas, preferably inside banks. Cover your hand while entering your PIN, and regularly check your bank statements for any unauthorized transactions.

Cabo Safety vs. Major U.S. Cities

Let’s compare the safety of Cabo vs. the good old US of A.

Both the U.S. and Cabo have their share of places with a bit of a rowdy reputation. But here’s the kicker: Cabo doesn’t even appear in the top 50 most violent cities globally.

Can you believe it? Now, want to take a wild guess at who’s hogging the limelight on that list?

St. Louis, Baltimore, Detroit, and New Orleans are the contenders. Clocking in at 60.59 homicides, down to 36.87 per 100,000 people.

Yeah, those are pretty hefty numbers, but here’s the twist—all four cities still manage to pull off the “safe to travel” card and host major shindigs that draw crowds by the hundreds of thousands.

Even Cancun, arguably Mexico’s most visited hotspot, throws its hat into the ring. It’s right there on the list. And get this: in 2022, it made history with a whopping 40 million tourists.

So, despite the digits, it seems like its popularity is on a steady incline.

Statistically speaking, despite media sensationalism, U.S. travelers are safer in Cabo San Lucas than in most U.S. cities.

Cabo’s currently has a crime index of 43.24. When you look at the crime rate in Memphis, Cancun is much lower than the rating of 76.27. See the comparison here.

Drug Cartels in Cabo San Lucas 

Concerns about drugs and drug cartels have been prevalent among travelers contemplating a trip to Mexico, especially in regions like Cabo and Baja California Sur, where incidents related to these issues have occurred in recent years.

However, it’s important to note that most violence doesn’t directly impact tourists. The most effective way to avoid such situations is by refraining from purchasing drugs or engaging in drug-related activities while in Cabo.

While this doesn’t guarantee safety, it significantly reduces the risks. Unfortunately, drug and gang-related violence, as evidenced by incidents in other popular tourist spots in Mexico, can occasionally spill into tourist areas, potentially involving visitors inadvertently.

Ultimately, the safety of visiting Cabo involves assessing these risks. Many tourists find that violent or drug-related crime is not a concern during their stay, so Cabo San Lucas is often perceived as a secure destination.

You are more likely to encounter scams at the airport or have valuables stolen than to become involved in organized crime in Cabo.

Police Extortion in Cabo San Lucas

We’ve all heard the stories about the corrupt cops south of the border. With stories ranging from extortion to kidnapping, the police in Mexico and the rest of Latin America do not have the best reputation.

However, the authorities cracked down hard and dismissed hundreds of officers, including some top officials. They claim the problem is under control.

If you are stopped for a traffic violation in Mexico, you will be asked for your driver’s license, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance. You will also be told what you did wrong.

Of course, in the U.S., we would then be issued a ticket requiring us to pay a fine or appear in court later.

If it is a minor infraction, don’t bribe them. Even so, they may ask you for some money; the amount depends on the seriousness of the infraction. If you pass a red light, it is better if they only give you the traffic ticket.

If you drive without a license, the car must be impounded, and the fine is higher; in that case, I suggest you offer 200 pesos (if you look Mexican) if you are blond with blue eyes, maybe about 500 pesos.

The key is to remain calm and accept your mistake. When it is inevitable that they take you to jail, then subtly offer the bribe; it is like a negotiation: start with a low amount, and they will increase until they agree on an amount.

10 Tips to Stay Safe in Cabo San Lucas

Although a travel advisory is in effect, it’s important to remember that tourists flock to Mexico every year without incident.

The Mexican government is highly motivated to keep tourists safe to preserve the tourist trade but you must also do your part when traveling to Mexico.

Traveling anywhere requires some safety precautions. So, remember to enlist these general rules during your vacation, and you will not have to ask continually if Cabo is safe.

Here are some precautions that you can take to make sure your trip goes as planned:

  1. Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date about safety news through a few methods. First, talk with your travel agent and/or hotel concierge about safety updates and where to go. They’ll have the most current read on the situation. As an American Citizen, you should also consider signing up for STEP, the Department of State’s Safe Traveler Enrollment Program. This will sign you up for travel alerts, put you on the consulate and Embassy radar, and make it easier to work things out if there’s an incident. 
  2. Keep your valuables locked up when you leave the hotel.
  3. Research your destination: Ensure you are current on travel warnings. 
  4. Don’t walk around yourself late at night: You are asking for trouble.
  5. Be careful taking money out of the ATM: these are good spots to rob people. 
  6. Use a money belt or a crossbody bag: Keep the thieves at bay.
  7. Don’t get scammed: If someone is asking you for your personal information, you are likely scamming.
  8. Don’t wear flashy jewelry – looking like you are balling out of control will get you robbed. Leave your LV and Gucci in the States. 
  9. Don’t try to buy drugs: Don’t ask about buying drugs, and don’t even think about buying drugs.
  10. DON’T travel at night: Most crime occurs at night.

Top Places to Avoid in Cabo San Lucas:

  1. Swimming in the sea in Cabo San Lucas is extremely dangerous, so avoid the Pacific side, which has harsh tides and dangerous currents.
  2. Avoid going downtown at night as it’s unsafe.
  3. Avoid visiting San Jose Del as it’s easy to access for tourists. It’s a residential area with a prominent crime percentage in Cabo San Lucas Crime rate. San Jose del Cabo is 30 minutes away from the Cabo San Lucas resort town.

Is it Safe to Drink The Water in Los Cabos?

Even the locals don’t drink the water in Mexico.   

You can buy bottled water anywhere, but to guarantee its safety, ensure it is factory-sealed. Crystal is one of the most famous brands in Los Cabos.

Use bottled water for drinking and brushing your teeth. Most ice in the area comes from factories and is purified. If you are uncertain about the ice, ask your waiter.

Many travelers take risks with food and water. Being sick for a few days isn’t such a big deal if you are on a long trip.

If this is a week-long vacation with your bestie, do you want to spend half of it sick just because you were too lazy to get bottled water when you brushed your teeth?

Wear Sunscreen in Cabo San Lucas

You didn’t fly to Mexico to stay inside, but please beware that Mexican rays are intense and can lead to severe burns or sun poisoning, especially during the warmer spring and summer months.

The sun in Cabos San Lucas is pretty strong and high in damaging UV rays. Stay hydrated and limit the sun you get based on your skin type.

Is it Safe to Rent a Car in Cabo San Lucas?

For the most part, bus travel is the best way to get around in Mexico, but if you are anything like me, I prefer to rent a car, be on my own time, and not have to wait on other people. 

I like to explore and make up my itinerary as I go, and those tour buses do not give me the freedom, and they may not cover every place I want to see. 

The Yucatan, for example, is especially suited to driving: Many beaches, barely developed ruins, and intriguing villages lie a reasonable distance from the main road.

Highways are well-maintained, constantly improved, and so straight that the slightest curve bristles with warning signs and reflectors.

Driving in Los Cabos is generally safe, but I suggest parking your car at night and not staying out too late.

Travel Insurance is a Must

I’ve traveled without insurance, and trust me, you don’t want to get sick on your vacation. I’ve had flights canceled and got sick in the Czech Republic. Travel insurance will help you keep peace of mind.

Depending on your needs, you can find a policy that fits them.

Make sure to get your insurance before you head off on an adventure!  I highly recommend Travelex Insurance.

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Things to do in Cabo

Where to Stay in Cabo 2024?

Are you looking for the best places to stay in Cabo San Lucas but unsure which suits your budget and interests? Let us help you choose the best hotels in the marina or downtown, keeping your budget in mind.

  1. One & Only Palmilla is a high-end resort that opened 60 years ago, making it a benchmark for all visitors to stay in Cabo if budget is not an issue. The incredible suites, rooms, and villas have gorgeous patios featuring cushy daybeds. The stunning fine-dining restaurants and luxurious spas with private beaches are the real attraction.
  2. Montage Los Cabos is an ultra-modern resort on the beach where you can snorkel, swim, paddle board, and scuba dive. Other amenities at the Montage include a massive spa with a serene pool and fine dining.
  3. The Nobu Hotel is located on the Pacific Ocean, with the western end meeting the Baja California peninsula. Its Japanese design reflects Cabo’s sensibility, featuring a minimalistic, ultramodern look. The stunning suites, with proper construction, make you fall in love with them. The restaurants here are highly satisfying.
  4. The Cabo Platinum villa is luxurious and spectacular, with fantastic views and a swimming pool. You can easily customize the villa for a seamless trip experience. It offers riding adventures, scuba-diving trips, shopping tours, and more!
  5. The Pueblo Bonito Sunset Beach Golf & Spa Resort is an all-inclusive resort on the Pacific side. It is a delightful vacation experience, with several outdoor activities for visitors. The resort features more than 700 suites with around six different swimming pools. The incredible scenic views of this resort with adventurous excursions are worth visiting!
  6. ME Medano Beach is another exotic resort within Medano. It is an intimate location, with rooms featuring stunning views. This resort has a hot tub, a huge pool, a swimming bar, and lounge beds. The perfect location combined with an easy walk to downtown makes it a preferred choice among visitors.

ASSISTANCE FOR U.S. CITIZENS

  • U.S. Embassy Mexico City
  • Paseo de la Reforma 305
    Colonia Cuauhtemoc
    Mexico, D.F., Mexico C.P.
    06500
  •  Telephone
  • 011-52-55-5080-2000
  •  Emergency
  • American Citizen Services: 01 800 681 9374 (toll-free in Mexico) / 81 4160 5512 (from within Mexico) / 844 528 6611 (toll-free in the U.S.)
  •  Fax
  • 011-52-55-5080-2201
  •  Email
  • ACSMexicoCity@state.gov
  •  Website
  • U.S. Embassy Mexico City

Additional safety tips from the State Department

Basic tips when traveling to Mexico include:

Is los cabos safe


Conclusion: Is Cabo San Lucas Safe

Is Cabo safe? If you stay abreast of all Mexico travel warnings, exercise common sense, and pay attention to news about safety in the city you visit, I don’t think you will have any issues.

Remember that bad things can happen anywhere, not just in Mexico, but I am sure crimes occur right in your neighborhood. 

No matter where you go in Mexico, follow the common-sense rules listed above, like drinking only in moderation, getting a cab instead of wandering around after dark, and leaving your expensive watches and rings home. 

Mexico is safe to visit so long as you stay out of trouble, take precautions, don’t buy drugs, and ladies do not allow men to buy you a cocktail, and I don’t care how cute he is.  BUY YOUR OWN COCKTAILS!

You can stop asking why Cabo San Lucas is so dangerous.

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Travel Guide

ADDITIONAL ARTICLES

Mexico vs. Costa Rica Which is Safer

Is It Safe To Travel To Mexico

Best Luxury Resorts in Los Cabos

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22 Comments

  1. Thank you for this fantastic article. I have not been able to find current detailed information that you have provided here. I was specifically looking for opinions for renting a car while in Cabo but found additional very helpful information as well.
    As far as car rental goes, we are planning to stay in San Jose del Cabo the night before and the night after our 5 night all inclusive stay in Cabo San Lucas. I have found we can rent a car for less than the cost of hired transportation, especially staying at multiple locations. I am still on the fence about renting the car due to safety concerns, but sounds like as long we stay on the main roads during the day we should not have any issues???

    1. Cabo is extremely safe. I normally rent a car but this last time I decided to hire a private driver due to COVID and my life is forever changed. I am never renting a car again. It was just so much easier

  2. So many helpful suggestions and advice. Thank you for compiling all of this information. We leave for Los Cabos Thursday, and I’m feeling more at ease for sure.

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