Everything you should know before heading to Cancún

From my many trips to Cancún, I’ve learned that even paradise has its challenges.

Among my experiences, I’ve faced a pricey car break-in, outrageous price hikes, and a tough bout of dengue fever that still makes me wince. Yet, whenever I needed assistance, the generous locals of Cancún were there for me, which means a lot.

While some first-time travelers stick to the glitzy hotel zone—understandably, given the beautiful Caribbean beaches—you’ll regret missing out on Centro, the vibrant downtown.

Here, you can connect with locals in cozy cantinas and haggle at traditional markets. A visit to a charming taco spot will make your effort worthwhile.

With that in mind, here are nine key tips to ensure your Cancún getaway goes as smoothly as possible.

1. Stay vigilant, but don’t let sensational headlines frighten you

Despite the alarming reports about drug-related violence in Mexico, Cancún and the broader Yucatán Peninsula are generally regarded as safe.

While it's important to take the crime issue seriously, drug gangs typically do not target tourists, especially if you steer clear of illegal activities.

That said, it’s crucial to keep a close eye on your drink in bars and nightclubs. There have been instances of tourists having their drinks tampered with using date rape drugs. Also, avoid withdrawing cash from ATMs at night and refrain from carrying large sums of money.

2. Keep an eye on hurricane season and seaweed blooms

Cancún's hurricane season spans from June to November, and the city has experienced severe storms causing significant damage over the years. Always check the latest weather updates before your flight.

Additionally, watch out for sargassum seaweed surges (known as sargazo in Spanish), which can turn Cancún's clear waters murky. These blooms can leave unpleasant piles of rotting macroalgae on the pristine beaches, making swimming and sunbathing quite unpleasant.

If it happens while you're in Cancún, consider reducing your time at the beach and instead enjoy the hotel pools and cenotes (natural freshwater sinkholes).

These invasive surges can occur sporadically, typically from March to August, but their timing can be unpredictable. The NGO Red de Monitoreo de Sargazo provides daily updates on beach conditions in Cancún and the nearby Riviera Maya.

3. Be generous with tips and negotiate respectfully

Keep in mind that many service workers in Cancún, particularly in restaurants and hotels, rely on tips to make up for low wages. In restaurants, a 15% tip is customary if service isn’t already included.

Just be sure to scrutinize the bill—some dishonest places may add a 'service fee' in the hopes that customers will unknowingly leave an extra tip.

For airport and hotel porters, a tip of around M$25 per bag is appropriate, while for tour guides, consider adding 10–20% of the outing cost, or even more for full-day trips. Gas station attendants usually receive about M$5 to M$10.

Bartenders, baristas, and taxi drivers typically don’t expect tips but always appreciate them. It’s fine to negotiate prices with market and street vendors, but keep in mind that they are trying to earn a living.

4. Remember to pack your ID, bug spray, and casual attire

To rent a car, you'll need to present your passport, driver's license, and credit card. Mexican regulations mandate that you have liability insurance, referred to in Spanish as daños a terceros.

Tourists from the US, Canada, EU countries, and residents of many other nations do not require visas to enter Mexico.

To shield yourself from mosquitoes and the sun, bring biodegradable insect repellent, long-sleeve shirts, and pants. Bug spray is essential during the humid wet season from May to October.

Even with biodegradable repellent or sunscreen, refrain from using them while swimming or snorkeling in sensitive ecosystems like coral reefs and cenotes. Opt for loose-fitting, quick-drying clothing for water activities and rainy days.

5. Discover the surrounding countryside

While the hotel zone and downtown Cancún offer plenty of activities, try to fit in at least one excursion to experience a different aspect of the Yucatán Peninsula. Spending seven to ten days will allow you to explore Cancún and its surroundings.

Head south to explore ancient ruins, jungle swimming holes, and quaint fishing villages along the Riviera Maya, or take a day trip east to Valladolid, a colonial town rich in Maya heritage.

Alternatively, the nearby islands of Isla Mujeres and Isla Holbox offer serene nature retreats perfect for snorkeling, diving, and kayaking adventures.

6. Bring cash along with a credit and/or debit card

While most establishments in Cancún accept major credit cards, it's wise to have some cash on hand, especially in smaller towns and islands nearby.

Many hotels and some restaurants will take US dollars, but be aware that the exchange rate is often not favorable.

You’ll find ATMs everywhere that accept foreign debit cards, but expect to incur international transaction fees when withdrawing cash.

The same applies to many retail transactions. Some major credit cards waive these fees, providing better value. Cancún's ATMs dispense Mexican pesos.

7. All-inclusive resorts are fantastic, but you’re missing out on Cancún's food culture

The hotel zone hosts the majority of Cancún's all-inclusive resorts, with upscale options also emerging in Punta Sam and along the stunning Isla Blanca peninsula, just north of downtown.

The all-inclusive experience varies from luxurious adults-only resorts offering exceptional service (think personal butlers) to more budget-friendly family-oriented stays.

If you’re seeking a secure, all-inclusive setting with various dining options, endless drinks, convenient beach access, inviting outdoor pools, and activities for kids, consider booking an all-inclusive resort.

For those who enjoy the resort vibe but want to skip the meals and drinks, some places provide room-only rates. This encourages you to explore Cancún's rich culinary and nightlife offerings. Budget-conscious travelers will find plenty of options downtown, where hostels and mid-range accommodations are plentiful.

8. Rideshare services operate in Cancún

The app-based transportation service Uber operates in Cancún, but due to an ongoing conflict with taxi unions, drivers and their passengers have experienced harassment and, at times, violence.

If you choose to use Uber, proceed with caution. Avoid requesting a ride from the airport, bus station, ferry terminals, or other locations where rival taxis might be watching.

For the most economical transportation from the airport, look for the red ADO bus, which runs regularly from the airport terminals to downtown Cancún’s first-class bus terminal. However, if you're staying in the hotel zone, a shuttle or taxi is the better option.

9. Avoid drinking the tap water, and be cautious with street food

Cancún's tap water is typically unsafe to drink unless you're certain it’s filtered (agua filtrada). This also applies to drinks made with ice; when in doubt, skip it. Bottled or purified (purificada) water is your safest choice for staying hydrated, and you'll need plenty to prevent heat exhaustion.

Indulging in street food can be a bit risky in Cancún, but it's a tempting gamble that many travelers are eager to take.