Mexico : Safety by City
- Acapulco
- Aguascalientes
- Cabo San Lucas
- Cancun
- Chichen Itza
- Chihuahua
- Cozumel
- Cuernavaca
- Culiacan
- Durango
- Ensenada
- Guadalajara
- Guanajuato
- Hermosillo
- Huatulco
- Isla Holbox
- Isla Mujeres
- Ixtapa
- Juarez
- Leon
- Los Cabos
- Manzanillo
- Matamoros
- Merida
- Mexicali
- Mexico City
- Monterrey
- Morelia
- Nogales
- Nuevo Laredo
- Oaxaca
- Piedras Negras
- Playa del Carmen
- Puebla
- Puerto Morelos
- Puerto Vallarta
- Queretaro City
- Reynosa
- Saltillo
- San Luis Potosi
- San Miguel de Allende
- Sayulita
- Tijuana
- Tulum
- Valladolid
- Veracruz
- Zacatecas
- Zamora
- Zapopan
- Zihuatanejo
The name Cozumel is derived from the Mayans, who occupied the area until the Spanish arrived in the early 16th century.
The Mayans are believed to have first settled Cozumel, although several older artifacts dating to the Olmecs are known to have been found in Cozumel.
The Mayan people considered the island to be sacred to their goddess of fertility and medicine.
The Mayan culture required all women to visit what is now Cozumel at least one time to worship the goddess Ix Chel.
Once the Europeans conquered the area in 1519, they destroyed many Maya temples.
They caused tens of thousands of Mayans to die from the diseases that the Spanish brought to Cozumel.
The island became largely uninhabited, except for stopovers by a few pirates.
The population of Cozumel grew to more than 10,000 people by the early 1970s.
The natural beauty of the island, the warm temperatures, and all the things to see and do are likely to have brought many more residents to Cozumel.
Today, it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Mexico.
More than 1.5 million people visited Cozumel in the first three months of 2025.
The number of travelers who come to Cozumel continues to grow every day.
Yet some people are likely to wonder if it is safe for them to travel to Cozumel.
Get the facts about safety for travelers, what to see and do, and what to avoid on a trip to Cozumel.
Warnings & Dangers in Cozumel
OVERALL RISK: LOW
Although the U.S. Department of State issued a Level 2 Travel Advisory for Mexico in 2025, Cozumel is one of the safest places for travelers to visit. The crime rate is much lower than in several other popular tourist destinations in Mexico. The large police presence and the military presence likely add to the safety of tourists and residents.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW
Making smart choices about taxis and other transport services is key to safely getting around Cozumel. Make sure that you call for a taxi using reputable, licensed taxi companies. Travelers can have their hotel staff call them a taxi. Do not hail a taxi on the street unless you know that it is a reputable taxi company. Confirm the price upfront. Cozumel does not have apps like Uber for people to get around on the island.
PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM
The risk of pickpockets often depends on where you are when visiting Cozumel. Several sources say that there is a high risk of pickpockets in crowded areas, such as the ferry and the downtown area. Travelers who take precautions can help lower their risk of becoming a victim of pickpockets. Do not display phones, cash, or valuables.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM
Unpredictable weather may be an issue in Cozumel at times. Checking weather forecasts before traveling to Cozumel and while they are there may help tourists better protect themselves if sudden storms or hurricanes occur. This is especially true during the rainy season.
MUGGING RISK: LOW
Cozumel is much safer than some other areas that are popular with tourists. The local law enforcement and the armed military presence help to keep crimes like mugging at a low risk to travelers.
TERRORISM RISK: LOW
Terrorism is a widespread risk in several areas of Mexico. It is not a big risk for residents or travelers in Cozumel. People who visit Cozumel should still stay alert to any changes to this risk. Stay away from any demonstrations or possibly unsafe gatherings.
SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM
Scammers target travelers in Cozumel much like they do in many other places that have large numbers of tourists. One scam to watch out for is the free tours scam. Unlicensed people may claim to be tour guides. Another scam involves people pitching offers of gifts or discounted Cozumel excursions. The truth is that these are usually timeshare sales pitches or scams. Avoid them. Another way to avoid becoming a scam victim is to purchase goods from reputable stores and shops.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: MEDIUM
Although thousands of women visit Cozumel every year, there are still some safety risks for women. Women should not walk alone at night. They should not allow anyone they do not know to offer to drive them or walk them to their hotel or other accommodation. Solo women travelers usually have a great time visiting Cozumel with no safety issues. They still need to take precautions that protect them from becoming crime victims. Women should not leave their drinks unattended. They should not get intoxicated when visiting a restaurant, bar, or nightclub alone. Avoiding deserted areas, especially at night, also helps to reduce safety risks for women.
TAP WATER RISK: HIGH
Do not drink tap water in Cozumel. It is not safe for people to drink. Several sources say that the residents do not drink tap water. Contaminants that can cause gastrointestinal illnesses can affect tap water. The water treatment processes do not thoroughly remove contaminants to keep tap water safe for human consumption. Drink bottled water or purified water. Travelers should also avoid using tap water for things like washing produce.
Safest Places to Visit in Cozumel
The fact that Cozumel is so safe, compared to many other places in Mexico, means that travelers have many options for safe places to visit when they travel to this beautiful place that welcomes millions of tourists every year.
Nature lovers will enjoy the awe-inspiring beauty and peaceful atmosphere of Punta Sur Ecological Beach Park.
The park is in the southern part of Cozumel.
It covers more than 2,500 acres.
See incredible wildlife species, including crocodiles, sea turtles, and the many species of exotic birds that are native to Cozumel or that come to visit the same as travelers.
Enjoy the white sands, visit a museum that details the history and people of Cozumel.
See the second-largest coral reef in the world when you visit Arrecifes de Cozumel National Park.
Enlist the services of a tour guide to take you to view the clear waters of this magnificent destination.
Many travelers have the chance to visit the park because it is the home of all the major dive sites and the major reefs that are in Cozumel.
Because of this, a visit to the national park is often a stop on many boat tours.
Go snorkeling or diving with the barbed rays, sharks, lobsters, and sea turtles.
Take a trip back in time when you visit the ancient Maya ruins at San Gervasio.
The jungle, ancient stone structures, alters, and pathways through the area let travelers get an understanding of the ancient culture and the architecture of the time.
Playa Mia Grand Beach Park is one of several stunning beaches that let travelers enjoy the stunning blue waters and white sands of Cozumel.
Engage in water sports like swimming, kayaking, or paddleboarding.
Relax on the beach with a drink and watch everyone else.
Enjoy great food and drinks at the beach and watch the breathtaking sunset at Playa Mia Grand Beach Park, or at the other beaches that are popular with tourists.
Places to Avoid in Cozumel
The low risk of serious crime, along with the dedication of law enforcement and the military, in Cozumel lets travelers have a great time with little risk to their safety, with a few exceptions.
Stay with your group or friends, especially at night.
Stay in well-lit areas.
Although the U.S. Department of State issued a Level 2 Travel Advisory for Mexico, other areas that are known for gang activity, terrorism, and the committing of serious crimes that target travelers are the primary concern.
Visitors to Cozumel should still stay alert to their surroundings and get to safety if anything happens that threatens their safety.
Safety Tips for Traveling to Cozumel
- Respect the Wildlife. Viewing the wildlife that travelers often encounter in Cozumel should be limited to viewing and not touching or feeding animals or marine life. Doing so can lead to injury or prove dangerous to the animals. Guided tours may take tourists to places where they have up-close and personal encounters.
- Watch your drinks. Do not leave your drink unattended, even for a minute. Spiking a drink only takes a split second.
- Use official taxi services. Local authorities in Cozumel urge travelers to make sure that they only use official taxi services. Protect yourself from crime and scams such as overcharging by following this tip.
- Dress Down. Although the authorities in Cozumel place a great deal of emphasis on the safety of tourists, travelers still need to dress down. Wearing expensive clothes, jewelry, and other accessories can make you an easy target for criminals.
- Stay away from deserted areas. Discovering a peaceful beach area or another place where there are no other people may seem like the perfect place to relax. Do not do it. You can become a victim of crime.
- Book your trip, tours, and other activities with reputable companies. Do not use companies that offer great deals just to save money. You could discover that your booking, excursion, or local tour was a scam. Use reputable, licensed companies.
- Stay aware of your surroundings and belongings near the ferry, downtown areas. The heavy pedestrian traffic in these areas makes them a perfect place for pickpockets to target travelers.
- Do not bring chemical sunscreen. Chemical sunscreens are prohibited in Cozumel. Look for products with a reef-safe label. Use mineral sunscreens that contain zinc oxide or other permissible ingredients.
- Pay attention to weather forecasts. The weather can change quickly, especially during the rainy season. Stay alert to the daily weather forecast.
- Skip the moped and scooter rental. It is safer to use other transportation and skip scooter and moped rentals. The rough roads and the unpredictable traffic can cause accidents.
So... How Safe Is Cozumel Really?
Cozumel is one of the safest places to visit in Mexico.
It has a strong military presence and authorities who spend a great deal of time, effort, and resources on protecting the safety of the residents and tourists.
There is no known cartel or terrorist activity in Cozumel.
Travelers need to stay alert to any changes in these situations.
Most crimes committed against tourists are petty crimes, not serious, life-threatening crimes.
Staying vigilant about watching their belongings, avoiding scams, avoiding deserted areas, and dressing down are important for tourists to protect their safety.
Paying attention to weather reports is also important for safety reasons because of the potential for natural disasters like heavy storms or hurricanes.
How Does Cozumel Compare?
| City | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Cozumel |
82 |
| Playa del Carmen |
68 |
| Ensenada |
78 |
| Chihuahua |
40 |
| Juarez |
28 |
| Puerto Morelos |
80 |
| Cabo San Lucas |
72 |
 Glendive | 82 |
 Casablanca | 50 |
| Dothan | 59 |
| Morehead City | 78 |
| McCook | 78 |
 Rotterdam | 63 |
Useful Information
Visas
Travelers who plan to visit Cozumel, or anywhere in Mexico, do not need a visa if they stay for less than 180 days.
Currency
The Mexican peso is the official currency in Cozumel. Many shops, restaurants, and bars also accept the U.S. dollar.
Weather
The weather in Cozumel is one thing that draws millions of visitors to the island. The tropical climate has both dry and rainy seasons. Although the weather is generally warm year-round, there is a risk of hurricanes. Recent hurricanes have caused devastating destruction.
Airports
Cozumel International Airport is the main airport that serves Cozumel. Both domestic and international flights use this airport for arrivals and departures.
Travel Insurance
Purchasing travel insurance is important for the safety and peace of mind of travelers. The U.S. Department of State and other sources strongly recommend that travelers purchase travel insurance.
Cozumel Weather Averages (Temperatures)
Average High/Low Temperature
| Temperature / Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High °C |
29 | 29 | 31 | 32 | 33 | 32 | 32 | 33 | 32 | 31 | 30 | 29 |
| Low °C |
20 | 20 | 21 | 22 | 23 | 24 | 24 | 24 | 24 | 23 | 22 | 21 |
| High °F |
84 | 84 | 88 | 90 | 91 | 90 | 90 | 91 | 90 | 88 | 86 | 84 |
| Low °F |
68 | 68 | 70 | 72 | 73 | 75 | 75 | 75 | 75 | 73 | 72 | 70 |
Safe and enjoyable.
Cozumel is safe.
We have had great luck with Quatrosamigos rental car.
We dive with Scuba Life Cozumel. JP and crew do a great job getting us to the reef of the day as well as providing nice guidance with safety in mind for all.
Worst place to go
Had a terrible time in Cozumel. Sparkle sea jewelry store sold us fake jewelry. They got us for 3500.00 dollars. No one should go there. He has gotten other people too! The worst vacation ever!!
Why would u spend $3500.00 not knowing exactly what your getting anyways?!
I wouldn’t have spent $3500 on the whole vacation. A little forethought goes a long way.
I love Cozumel and have never felt unsafe. However, the last time I went was in December of 2020, and some of the C-Vid restrictions were ridiculous, which made the trip a bit less than ideal.
Our bags were stolen at the port. Cops didnt do anything and we got ripped off at a beach bar on the east side. Bartender gave us margarita and then said we owed him $40 for it , we had to pay it before he got us the “only taxi available” on the remote side of the island which also ripped us off. Lots of scamming and oportunists taking advantage.
Best place to visit for a Caribbean experience!
Cozumel is amazing. I have been coming here for at least 3 times a year for the last 5 years and even spent a month there at one time. The scuba, fishing, dinning, car rental, taxi, and food are all good, easy, and reliable. Its very walkable. Unlike paris, rome, italy, etc; most people speak less english so google translate and a peso converter app is helpful. I have stayed in hotels, AirBnB, apartments, and houses. Rented cars and mopeds. TripAdvisor is a good app for the best places. Unlike America but similar to other cultures; haggling is part of the process for some street vendors along the seawall but prices are very reasonable. Its incredibly safe to walk anywhere at anytime. If you are looking for deals on watches or jewelry then do some research; ask them to test the diamonds etc. They have tons of pharmacies with generic medications so you probably won’t see the same quality and the prices are not that good. Your doctor is probably your best resource. The backside of the island is off the grid so make sure you have pesos. Most places in the main areas take credit cards, thats a great payment method or pesos. Gas is in liters not gallons. Banks are the best for ATMs. Mega is the most expensive so try to avoid it. They do have dominoes pizza and burger king plus well stocked 7-11 and OXXO stores. All inclusive places are really good if you want to come with no issues. Its my favorite place in the Caribbean! Have fun and enjoy island life while your here!
Tropical unspoilt beauty
I’ve been going to Cozumel since the 90’s and highly recommend it. It’s paradise old style, tropical, beautiful and relatively undeveloped in most parts with stunning beaches and scenery. Hiring a small jeep to explore the Island is cheap enough and safe if you are not driving like a lunatic and careful. We never encountered any problems anywhere and drove everywhere all over, everyone was friendly. Food amazing along the road stop shacks and the town was brilliant for partying, shopping with filled with nice restaurants. You can get the fast ferry over to Playa Del Carmen easy. You can also go into any of the hotels and use the pools which is great. Don’t accept water in a glass, always buy branded bottled water, even to brush your teeth and don’t ask for ice in your drinks or cocktails and you’ll be fine. Yes there is scams everywhere but good bartering in a nice way is always accepted. Be wary buying gems and jewellery that seem like a bargain as it’s probably glass stones set in gold plate. Always ask to see authenticity certificates.
The underwater sculptures at the museum were so surreal, it felt like stepping into a different world.
Reading about Cozumel really took me back to my trip there; the beauty is stunning, but the history adds a whole other layer to the experience that stays with you long after you leave.
So let me get this straight: after all the chaos with the Spanish and their pesky diseases, now it’s a hot spot for tourists? Sounds like the Mayans just wanted to keep this paradise to themselves.
Seems like a lot of people are flocking to Cozumel, but I can’t help but wonder if those pirates are shaking their heads at the crowds now.
It’s fascinating to think about how much history is woven into Cozumel, especially with its importance to the Mayans and their goddess. Walking around, you can really feel the blend of its rich past with the vibrant life it has today.
Cozumel has such a wild history, it’s almost like walking through a movie set! I can totally see why people flock there, the scenery is stunning and there’s always something new to discover.
Is it really as beautiful as everyone says, or is the influx of tourists starting to change the vibe there?
How did 1.5 million visitors in the first three months of 2025 not make you picture the ferry packed and me clutching my beach towel in disbelief?
With the ferry crowds and the noon sun making the main street bake, are you really saying Cozumel is safe for solo travelers?
With more than 1.5 million visitors in the first three months of 2025, I’m a bit worried, do you think the sacred Mayan sites like those tied to Ix Chel are getting enough protection from so many tourists?
So am I supposed to buy the whole “safe paradise” thing when my last trip left me sunburned and elbow-to-elbow on the main beach while you mention 1.5 million visitors in just three months?