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you are here Home » Travel Guide » Is Tulum Safe For Travel in 2022?

June 12, 2022

Is Tulum Safe For Travel in 2022?

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Is Tulum safe?  That’s the million-dollar question. Tulum, Mexico, is one of the most sought-after tourist destinations in the country, with its gorgeous beaches and amazing archaeological sites that attract more than 2 million visitors each year.

As such, it’s important to know whether Tulum is safe or not, especially if you plan on vacationing there by yourself.

With the right precautions and smart choices, though, you can feel confident knowing that Tulum is one of the safest places to visit in Mexico and around the world.

Tulum is filled with top-rated boutique hotels, trendy restaurants, and crystal-clear waters – but as winter and spring break approaches visitors are asking is Tulum safe because of the recent murders due to violence between drug cartels.

Because Tulum has grown into a coveted vacation spot for luxury travelers this also means more crime in. the once sleepy unknown town of Tulum.

While the United States has issued Tulum a travel advisory because of the uptick in crime – Tulum is still safe if you take the necessary precautions.

Vacationers have been booking trips to Mexico left and right and Tulum slowly became the number one destination for travelers in 2021.

Is Tulum Safe

IS TULUM SAFE FOR AMERICAN TOURISTS IN 2022?

OMICRON (COVID-19) MEXICO TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS:

MEXICO – LEVEL 3: Reconsider Travel

Location:  Mexico Effective June 12, 2022, The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and The Biden administration will drop the Covid-19 testing requirement for inbound air travelers from abroad on Sunday, June 12, 2022, ending one of the longest-running travel restrictions of the pandemic.

The rule, put in place by the Trump administration in early 2021 and later tightened by the Biden administration, most recently required inbound travelers, including U.S. citizens, to show proof of a negative Covid test a day before boarding U.S.-bound flights.

Monkey Pox – U.S. Embassy Cancun, Mexico (July 27, 2022)

Mexico has confirmed 60 cases of monkeypox, Undersecretary of Prevention and Health Promotion Hugo Lopez-Gatell said on Tuesday.

To date, there have been no fatalities from monkeypox in Mexico, Lopez-Gatell said.

“Only about five or six people have been hospitalized because they had severe immunosuppression, but in general everyone has recovered in approximately 21 days,” he added.

The cases of monkeypox, which is related to the virus that causes smallpox but leads to milder symptoms and is rarely fatal, have been detected in 11 Mexican cities.

Over 16,000 monkeypox cases and five related deaths have been reported in 75 countries and regions, according to the latest figures released by the World Health Organization, which on Saturday declared the monkeypox outbreak a “public health emergency of international concern.

Monkeypox symptoms

People with monkeypox get a rash that may be located on or near the genitals (penis, testicles, labia, and vagina) or anus (butthole) and could be on other areas like the hands, feet, chest, face, or mouth.

  • The rash will go through several stages, including scabs, before healing.
  • The rash can initially look like pimples or blisters and may be painful or itchy.

Other symptoms of monkeypox can include:

  • Fever
  • Chills
  • Swollen lymph nodes
  • Exhaustion
  • Muscle aches and backache
  • Headache
  • Respiratory symptoms (e.g. sore throat, nasal congestion, or cough)

You may experience all or only a few symptoms

  • Sometimes, people have flu-like symptoms before the rash.
  • Some people get a rash first, followed by other symptoms.
  • Others only experience a rash.

How long do monkeypox symptoms last?

Monkeypox symptoms usually start within 3 weeks of exposure to the virus. If someone has flu-like symptoms, they will usually develop a rash 1-4 days later.

Monkeypox can be spread from the time symptoms start until the rash has healed, all scabs have fallen off, and a fresh layer of skin has formed. The illness typically lasts 2-4 weeks.

 

Tulum Safe

CANCUN, MEXICO UPDATE: 1/15/22

Three Canadian visitors have been shot by a lone gunman in their hotel in the Mexican resort town of Playa del Carmen – in an attack security officials are calling targeted and alleging involved individuals with criminal records.

One of the tourists died of their injuries while being transported to hospital following the incident on Friday, according to the Quintana Roo state public security secretary, Lucio Hernández Gutiérrez, who confirmed the nationality of the victims.

The state prosecutor’s office later tweeted that a second Canadian had died of their injuries.

The first person who died – identified as ATCH – “had a criminal record: drug trafficking, use of a false identity, among other things”, the office said.

ATCH “was considered a very dangerous person in Canada”, state prosecutor Óscar Montes de Oca Rosales.

The second deceased victim, RJD, “also had a criminal history”, according to the prosecutor’s office.

Information shared on social media showed a lone attacker dressed in a grey tracksuit and brandishing a pistol on the grounds of the Xcaret hotel. A video posted on Twitter showed people shrieking as a victim received first aid.

The video later panned to show two more victims lying wounded by the pool – one heavily bleeding.

TULUM, MEXICO UPDATE: 10/28/21

Two tourists, including a California travel blogger, were killed and three more were injured during a shooting at a restaurant in Tulum, Mexico, on Wednesday, the Associated Press reported.

Authorities in the state of Quintana Roo identified the two women killed as Anjali Ryot, a San Jose resident born in India, and German national Jennifer Henzold, AP reported.

 Two German men and a Dutch woman were also injured. 
Initial investigations found the shooting was “an armed clash between criminal groups dedicated to the sale of drugs,” local authorities said in a statement to the press.

The AP reported that the German foreign office issued a travel advisory warning citizens in the area not to leave their secured hotels. 

The incident is the latest in a string of violent attacks in public places in Tulum, a once-sleepy beach town that has become an international party destination.

A Spanish tourist died after being shot in a taco restaurant in March, two men were shot and killed on a beach in June, a man was gunned down in the street in August.

A taxi driver and a security guard were executed at a restaurant in September and a man was murdered in the parking lot of the Tulum archaeological site earlier this month.

Tulum Travel Restrictions

The State Department has issued a new, strict “do not travel” advisory for U.S. citizens regarding five Mexican states because of violent crime and gang activity.

While the State Department has long recommended travelers exercise “increased caution” in Mexico in general because of widespread homicide, kidnapping, carjacking, and robbery, the new warning elevates the five states to level 3, reconsider training. 

The advisory, issued in July 2021, puts the states of Tamaulipas on the U.S. border and Sinaloa, Colima, Michoacan, and Guerrero on the Pacific coast as a level 3 travel warning.

The main of the Bureau of Consular Affairs is to advise and help U.S. citizens make informed decisions when it comes to deciding if Tulum is safe including travel advisories, warnings, and how to stay in Tulum.

So, is it safe to travel to Mexico right now? Below we will take a look at the Mexico travel advisory boards from both the United States and Canada, as well as the Quintana Roo Tourism Board.

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE TRAVEL WARNINGS

The U.S. State Department frequently issues advisories for Mexico and specifically Tulum.  When an alert or warning is issued for Mexico you likely have questions and concerns.

But before you go off the deep end and start imagining things that will likely not occur and cancel your trip to Tulum please find out what is real vs fake about the Mexico travel warnings. , here’s what you need to know.

Click here to read the current Mexico Travel Advisory from the U.S. Department of State website.

While Tulum isn’t located in any of these states – the State Department still wants travelers to be on high alert. While in the area the State Department says it may be best to only use toll roads and avoid driving alone or at night.

It also warns people to “exercise increased caution when visiting local bars, nightclubs, and casinos.”

Furthermore, tourists should steer clear of displaying signs of wealth, “such as wearing expensive watches or jewelry” and exercise extreme caution at banks and ATMs.

In addition, the State Department asks tourists to enroll in its Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.  

Tulum Travel Advisory Fact vs Fiction

If you get up and go to the grocery store every day, go running at your local park, or even go to a concert you should always take precautions no matter the destination.

Are you worried about traveling to Chattanooga, Houston, Chicago, New Orleans, or Memphis? All of these cities have a higher crime rate than Tulum.

The Mexican Tourism authority and the government want you safe because tourism is Mexico’s number 1 revenue generator and they have pointed to the low number of victims of crime compared to the 28 million American tourists who travel to Mexico each year. 

Know that Tulum is safe and keep these numbers in mind when planning your vacation for Spring 2022.

Tulum is safer than most of  America’s biggest cities and if you are not worried about traveling within the U.S., especially with the current racial tensions you should be asking if Tulum is safe.

You take road trips with the family to cities like St. Louis, New Orleans, and Kansas City without giving it a second thought so do not allow the media to make you believe Mexico is unsafe. 

Is Tulum Safe? 

Safety is a top priority for any traveler and should be for you, too. If you’re going to visit an area of Mexico that’s more touristy, like Cancun or Cabo San Lucas, it’s important to do your research and use common sense to stay safe.

There are a few precautions you can take while in Mexico: Don’t flash money: Many people might mistake your cash for being easy pickings, so don’t walk around with wads of currency hanging out of your pocket.

Always keep wallets and other valuables close by – not in a bag that you sling over your shoulder but in front pockets or small purses where they’re harder to access by thieves.

Generally speaking, Tulum is safe but like any other destination when there is a surge of travelers there will also be a surge in criminal activity so you need to make sure you follow the safety guidelines when traveling to Tulum or any Mexican destination.

Below is the most current Tulum travel advisory and Mexico travel warning taken directly from the U.S. Government website:

Quintana Roo state – Level 4: Do Not Travel

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Level 4 Travel Health Notice for Mexico due to COVID-19, indicating a very high level of COVID-19 in the country.

Your risk of contracting COVID-19 and developing severe symptoms may be lower if you are fully vaccinated with an FDA-authorized vaccine.

Before planning any international travel, please review the CDC’s specific recommendations for vaccinated and unvaccinated travelers.

Visit the Embassy’s COVID-19 page for more information on COVID-19 in Mexico.

While there are some parts of Mexico that are not safe to travel to you do not have to worry about the following areas:

  • Tulum
  • Cozumel
  • Playa del Carmen, Tulum
  • Riviera Maya
  • Los Cabos
  • Puerto Vallarta

As you see Tulum is a Level 4 Travel Advisory due to Covid – If you need more evidence that Tulum is safe take a look at this interactive map and you will see what other popular countries have the same travel advisory level as Mexico. 

As I stated in my previous article Is Mexico safe the countries below have the same Tulum travel advisory and most people don’t think twice about visiting these destinations: 

  • Anguilla
  • Dominican Republic
  • Belize
  • Brazil
  • The United Kingdom
  • Belgium
  • Italy

 

QUINTANA ROO TOURISM 

According to PR Newswire, The State of Quintana Roo maintained its current ranking as “Level 4,” the level was implemented as part of the new travel advisory system in January 2022. 

This level 4 ranking, which comes with the message to “Do Not Travel,” is the travel advisory level given to many countries and tourism destinations in the world, including the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Italy, and China, among others.

Crime Rate in Tulum

The crime rate in Tulum is relatively low, but not insignificant. This can be attributed to a few different factors.

First and foremost, about 80% of Tulum’s population are actually native Mayans who live outside of town proper.

Secondly, as one might expect from any tourist destination on Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula (called The Riviera Maya), most major crime occurs at night when bars close their doors and patrons make their way home.

But like any other foreign travel destination, violent crimes do occur – and if you’re going off-the-beaten-path it only takes one ill-informed traveler to get mugged for everyone else’s vacation to be ruined.

Fortunately, there are some precautions you can take to avoid dangerous situations: Stay in populated areas during daylight hours; avoid secluded areas; watch your surroundings/keep aware of people around you; use common sense.

Particularly when it comes to unfamiliar surroundings or strangers trying to befriend you; keep valuables out of sight (don’t flaunt cameras or cell phones), and stay away from alcohol while traveling alone.

Scams in Tulum 

Be aware of your surroundings and be on the lookout for fake taxis, watered-down drinks, car rental scams, and foreign exchange scams which are just a few of the scams you should be on the lookout for while in Tulum.

Most locals aren’t out to rob you or get over on you but you should always be careful and aware of your surroundings so you can avoid falling prey and becoming a scammer’s next lucrative customer.

Drug Cartel in Tulum

The main area tourist is worried about is Mexico’s Quintana Roo state, which includes Cancun, Cozumel, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, and Riviera Maya.

The State Department recognizes that most of the crime in this region seems to be tied to criminal organizations “turf battles” between criminal groups which have resulted in an uptake of violent crime in areas frequented by U.S. citizens.”

Not only are some areas of Mexico indeed seeing the worst homicide figures in decades, but the country recorded its most violent year on record last year, ultimately pointing to an alarming rise in cartel activity.

This prompted the U.S. State Department to up the ante on its travel advisories to the country late last year, placing five Mexican states on its highest Level 4 “Do Not Travel” advisory under its newly revamped system which is another reason why many are wondering is Tulum safe.

How to Deal with Police Extortion in Cancun

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.

Police extortion of tourists detained for minor offenses is often a problem and there have been some grotesque incidents. The authorities cracked down hard, however, 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 possibly 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 that requires us to pay a fine or appear in court at a later date.

If it is a minor infraction don’t bribe them, even so, it is possible that they ask for some money, the amount depends on the seriousness of the infraction, if you passed 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

If you are stopped drinking alcohol in the street, the fine is $ 1500 pesos or 24 hours of jail, you will probably have to pay your full fine

Those are the most common crimes for which a police officer can pull you over, obviously, if you steal or kill, the amount will be considerably higher

The key is to remain calm and accept your mistake and 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 go up to agree on an amount.

The strategy you Should NOT use to Deal with Corrupt Mexican Police

 Don’t be a tough guy or gal

This is the worst thing that you can do.  If you act tough and get angry and make threats, the officer will simply arrest you for being disorderly or assaulting him or her, etc.

This is a very big no-no. Towing your car is technically something that the officer can’t do, even though they will threaten it, but if you give them enough of a desire to cause you to harm they will absolutely find a way to make it happen.

While most officers will not do anything illegal beyond soliciting bribes for traffic violations, they most certainly can act above the law when they really want to.

Don’t give them a reason to want to, because you will not win. Having your car towed (and potentially never seeing it again) is a lot more expensive than paying him one hundred bucks.

Women & Solo Travel to Tulum

I solo traveled to Cancun and Tulum earlier this year for 7 days.  Solo travel can be extremely liberating but you must do your research and make sure you understand the laws of the destination.  

Does Mexico have a bad reputation? yes, but so does Memphis and it doesn’t stop me from going home and it shouldn’t stop you from traveling solo to Tulum or any part of Mexico. 

Here are a few tips to help you stay safe in Tulum as a solo traveler and take the Mexico Travel Warning seriously:

  • Assaults do happen. Remember DO NOT accept drinks from strangers because that is the main reason why assaults happen. 
  • Know your surroundings. Don’t get lost and end up traveling down a back road own any sketchy roads.
  • Be Nice.  Mexican people are extremely friendly and there is no need to be nasty or rude.  

Be aware of the travel warnings but don’t let the media scare you into thinking Mexico is this scary place and you will be killed if you travel alone. 

Mexico has a wealth of culture, food, and adventure so do not miss out on traveling to this beautiful country because you are worried if Mexico is safe.

Safety Tips For Traveling to Tulum

No matter the destination it is a good idea to always follow these basic travel safety tips.  Follow these tips while traveling to Tulum:

  • Steer clear of spots with a bad reputation, known gang activity, or places that give you bad vibes. Stick to well-traveled places.
  • Check in with friends and family back home as often as you can. Make sure someone knows where you’re at and when you expect to check in next.
  • Be aware of your surroundings. This is a good rule of thumb in general, but it’s especially important when traveling alone.
  • Don’t drink too much. Make sure you know your limits. Don’t put yourself in a vulnerable position.
  • Only use ATM machines that are found at reputable local banks or those at your resort.  
  • Do not wear expensive jewelry or watches that might attract unwanted attention.
  • Avoid taking excessive amounts of cash out and about with you.
  • Beware of the taxi drivers. The majority of taxi drivers will scam you with t outrageous rates.  So please make sure you negotiate the rate before getting in the taxi. 

Stick together with your travel companions rather than splitting up, especially when out late at night. If you plan to drive, make it a point to travel during daylight hours.

Choosing to take a taxi at night is always a great idea, just to be on the safe side and know which areas to avoid in Tulum.


Getting Around Tulum

While I stated above to be aware of Taxi drivers in Tulum – it is also the best way to get around.  You can walk or bike to the beaches, to the ruins, and to Tulum Pueblo, but might not have enough energy to do anything else after you have walked to your destination.

You can rent a car in Cancún or Playa del Carmen, but I don’t think it is a good idea because of the uptick in car thefts in the area.

The only buses in Tulum are the shuttle buses that take travelers to and from the airport in Cancún to their hotel or Airbnb.

There is not an airport in Tulum, so you’ll need to fly into Cancun (CUN) which is about 75 miles north of Tulum.

Safest Areas for Tourists in Tulum

If you do not go to crime-ridden areas in your own city do not go into crime-ridden areas when you travel.  While the crime rate is increasing in Mexico so is the crime in the United States.

The Mexican government wants to keep tourists safe by providing extra security in touristy areas to ensure travelers are safe and you will not have to ask is if the Tulum Travel Advisory is necessary.

Below are the safe areas of Tulum:

  • Playa/Tulum Beach. 
  • Pueblo. The Pueblo neighborhood is located at the heart of Tulum. 
  • Aldea Zama. Aldea Zama is a small neighborhood located to the south of Tulum city center.

20 Tips to Stay Safe In Tulum, Mexico

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

Traveling anywhere requires a little bit of a safety precaution. So, remember to enlist these general rules during your vacation and you will not have to continually ask is Tulum safe.

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

  1. Keep Your Nose Clean: As mentioned above, much of the criminal activity in Mexico revolves around the drug trade and sex trade. Although many Americans go south of the border to have a little fun remember the last thing you want is to end up in a Mexican Jail. 
  2. When Driving, Stick to Main Roads, and Daytime Travel: One of the most popular methods to extort money and protect cartel turf is through carjacks or roadblock ambushes. Avoid back roads and nighttime driving and hire taxis and driving services through the hotel where you’re staying.
  3. Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date about safety news through a few methods. First of all, 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. 
  4. Leave a copy of your passport and itinerary with someone at home.
  5. Keep your valuables locked up when you leave the hotel.
  6. Learn the language as much as possible (This is not just for safety, but also for courtesy, which can actually keep you safer too!)  Remember the old saying you can catch more flies with honey than vinegar? 
  7. Trust people who are invested long-term in making your stay a good one, like booking agents and hotel staff, and be on your guard with one-off opportunities.
  8. Research your destination: Make sure you are up to date on the current travel warnings. 
  9. Keep windows shut and doors locked in a car: especially at traffic lights
  10. Use first-class bus companies– these bus companies take toll roads that have security checks on passengers as they board.
  11. Don’t walk around by yourself late at night: You are asking for trouble.
  12. Be careful taking money out of the ATM: these are good spots to rob people. 
  13. Use a money belt: Keep the thieves at bay.
  14. Don’t get scammed: If someone is asking you for your personal information will are likely scamming.
  15. 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. 
  16. Ask for a hotel concierge: The hotel staff will be able to provide full tips about where to eat and what attractions you must see.
  17. Avoid getting DRUNK: you need to know where you are at all times.
  18. Don’t try to buy drugs: Don’t ask about buying drugs and don’t even think about buying drugs.
  19. DON’T travel at night: Most crime occurs at night.
  20. Only use well-known tour operators: Most of the cheaper tour operators will not have up-to-date equipment and experienced guides.

Beach Safety In Tulum

One of the main reasons Americans travel to Tulum is to enjoy the warm weather and the relaxing beach. 

The beaches in Tulum do not have lifeguards, though most resorts have access to medical personnel. Travelers should be careful when they swim and not take any risks like jumping off rocks or swimming near coral.

Finally, while I understand you are in Mexico and “dranking” is at the top of your to-do list remember the heat and too much alcohol do not mix well and can lead to massive dehydration.

Avoid swimming at the beach when a black warning flag is posted. 

Wear Sunscreen in Tulum

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

The sun in Tulum is pretty strong and high in damaging UV rays. Stay hydrated and limit the amount of sun you get based on your skin type.

• Staying in the shade as much as possible.
• Protecting skin with clothing.
• Applying sunscreen to protect skin from harmful rays.
• Wearing a hat preferably with at least 2-3 inches brim all around.
• Wear sunglasses to protect yourself from UV rays.


Excessive Drinking 

The Mexican authorities do not tolerate excessive drinking and rowdy behavior. In Tulum, it is illegal to disturb the peaceful environment, litter, drink on the streets, or in public transport.

• Don’t Get Drunk 
• Drink as much water and non-alcoholic beverages.
• Get plenty of rest.
• Take along a friend whenever going to a party or club to guarantee the safety of both.
• Never drink and drive.

Tulum Travel Restrictions

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
 

Please Follow the Rules Below for Traveling to Mexico:

  • Use toll roads when possible and avoid driving alone or at night. In many states, police presence and emergency services are extremely limited outside the state capital or major cities.
  • Exercise increased caution when visiting local bars, nightclubs, and casinos.
  • Do not display signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive watches or jewelry.
  • Be extra vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs.
  • Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
  • Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter.
  • Review the Crime and Safety Reports for Mexico.

U.S. citizens who travel abroad should always have a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.

Black in Tulum

If you are looking for things to do in Tulum I suggest checking out the community Black in Tulum.

Black In Tulum is the first and ONLY community for minority travelers to come together and vibe where the jungle meets the sea.

As a collective of creatives, they come together to provide resources, recommendations, exclusive events, and memorable experiences for melanated travelers in Tulum!

With a community of over 20k members, B.I.T has made a huge positive impact on the locals and local businesses by bringing in high numbers of travelers to the area amidst the pandemic, when local businesses were closed and had no patrons.

The group provides recommendations for everything from restaurants, hotels, Airbnb, excursions, etc.

All of the resources available in the group empower non-travelers to feel more comfortable and make a better-informed decision to book their flights and accommodations to explore Tulum and the Quintana Roo area. 

Check them out on Instagram or join the Facebook community for upcoming brunches, yacht parties, day parties, and much more!

Best Boutique Hotels in Tulum

Tulum may get a bad rap for inflated prices and expat-heavy crowds, but I still love it. The gorgeous beaches and blue waters speak for themselves.

In the last few years, the area has seen significant turnover; newer, more luxe resorts have opened, all with an eye toward design. You’re bound to find your perfect match among these five  Tulum hotels.

1. Hotel Esencia

Esencia isn’t exactly a secret. But once you tuck into your jungle-, beach-, or ocean-facing room, the place will feel like a hidden gem you want to keep all to yourself.

The property, set on secluded Xhu-Pa Beach just north of Tulum, recently expanded to 40 rooms and suites and added a Japanese-Peruvian restaurant led by international top chef Dimitris Katrivesis.

Beyond visits to the spa for hydrotherapy and the bar for fresh-pressed morning juices, you won’t be inspired to do much else—but then again, isn’t sitting and relaxing exactly what vacations are for?

Click here if Hotel Esencia is right for you.

 

 
 
 
 
 
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2. Mukan Resort

You have to take a 45-minute boat ride through mangrove forests before arriving at a tiny islet in the middle of the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve to reach this nine-room resort

Mukan Resort is the first luxury eco-resort within the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Naturally, you’ll feel sublimely isolated when you check into your standalone beachfront bungalow or private-terrace-outfitted suite within the main villa.

Just because it’s secluded doesn’t mean you’ll be bored: snorkeling, paddle-boarding, kayaking, cenote-diving, fly-fishing, and tours of the reserve are just a taste of the activities on offer.

Click here if Mukan Resort is right for you.

 

 

 
 
 
 
 
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3. Nomade Tulum

This 38-room retreat was designed Nomade style, with 20 exclusive suites, 5 treehouses, and 36 luxury Nomade style tents that were built beneath large canopies.

You may have to eat while sitting on a pillow I suggest embracing the holistic vibes and allowing your inner flower child to emerge.

Whether you choose a luxury tent or the super-luxe pool villa, each room is filled with crafts made by local artisans and has everything you expect and need from a luxury resort.

Click here if Nomade Tulum is right for you.

 

 
 
 
 
 
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4. Sanará Tulum

You don’t have to be a yogi to stay at this minimalist, 17-room hotel, but the glass-enclosed studio is the property’s centerpiece, so you’ll likely end up taking a vinyasa class or two.

Here, it’s all about embracing Tulum’s eco-conscious way of life—and even if you do walk past a class on your way to the beach, you’ll still get your wellness fill at Real Coconut, the on-site restaurant that serves tons of tasty vegan dishes from chocolate chia pudding for breakfast to shiitake coconut cheese quesadillas for dinner.

Click here if Sanara Tulum is right for you.

 

 
 
 
 
 
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5. Nest Tulum

Tucked away at the south end of Tulum Beach, Nest is one of the area’s most exclusive retreats.

The 9 minimalist rooms (and four-bedroom private villa) have whitewashed walls and an eclectic mix of furniture that will have you flipping over chairs to find out who made them.

Breakfast starts with a shot of probiotics (this is Tulum, after all), paired with whatever you fancy from the kitchen (huevos rancheros, pancakes, eggs, yogurt, or granola).

After a solid day on the beach, head back up to the bar for complimentary happy hour from 5 to 6 p.m.

Click here if Nest Tulum is right for you.

 

 
 
 
 
 
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Best Time to Travel to Mexico

Best Months to Visit

The best time to visit Tulum is between November and December. You’ll get the benefit of post-hurricane-season breezes, plus the hotel prices are reasonable.

Not to say that it’s hard to find reasonable room rates at other times of the year – this small pocket of the Yucatán has one of the widest ranges of price points on Mexico’s Caribbean coast.

If you’re concerned about crowds, though, avoid the region from January to March. For the best weather, avoid June, September, and October – which experience the highest amounts of rainfall.

Mexico Travel Insurance

I can’t say this enough but please get insurance when traveling to Mexico! Even if you are only going on a short trip, you should always travel with insurance.

Have fun while visiting Mexico, but take it from someone who has racked up thousands of bucks on an insurance claim before, you need it.

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

What if You are Robbed or Mugged?

If you are mugged, pickpocketed, express kidnapped please do not panic.  Keep calm which I know is easier said than done. 

 Whatever you do, do not fight back just give them your cash or phone then call the police.  Once you have contacted the police then you can cancel your credit cards and call your insurance company. 

If they took your passport, contact the embassy and they should be able to assist you with getting back home. 

Conclusion: Is Tulum Safe and Tulum Travel Advisory 

Yes, Tulum is safe!

There is no doubt that there has been horrible violence in Mexico due to drug wars between warring factions but that violence has, for the most part, been in isolated areas. 

Of course, there are certain areas to avoid in Tulum but it is no different than you being in your own hometown where crime is restricted to certain areas. 

DO NOT allow the U.S. media to shape your thoughts and views of Tulum because they are not only misleading but wrong!  

Also, Mexico began charging foreign visitors a new $10 tax this past April of 2021. 

The tax is meant to help offset a decline in overall tourism spending in the state, the Riviera Maya Times reported.


Ready to plan your trip, grab my FREE  Vacation Planner to help you plan your trip in the time it takes to watch your favorite TV show!

 
Travel Guide

 

ADDITIONAL ARTICLES

Is Cancun Safe for Tourists

Is Mexico City Safe for Tourists

Unique Things to do in Cancun

Are you traveling to Tulum, Mexico for the summer of 2022? Are you worried about the uptick in crime Tulum is now seeing because of the influx of travelers?

I would love to hear your thoughts so leave me a comment on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram

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  1. READ NOW: Is Mexico City Safe For Tourists? [ Updated November 2021] says:
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