Cancun
A city in southeast Mexico on the northeast coast of the Yucatán Peninsula.
Police
911
Ambulance
911
Tourist Police
N/A
Risk Map & Attractions
Common Scams
The Double-Dip Tip
Restaurants, especially in the Hotel Zone, may pre-add a 'service charge' or 'gratuity' to the bill, hoping tourists will not notice and leave a second, voluntary tip, effectively double-tipping.
Always scrutinize the bill for any pre-added service charges or tips before paying and calculating an additional tip.
The Taxi Fare Negotiation Trap
Cancun taxis do not use meters. Drivers will quote an inflated price, especially to tourists, and may refuse to negotiate or claim a different price upon arrival. They may also refuse card payments and overcharge on exchange rates for USD.
Always agree on the fare *before* getting into the taxi. Have small denominations of Mexican Pesos (MXN) ready for payment. Use authorized taxi stands or ride-share apps (where available and safe) instead of hailing on the street.
The Change-Switch Scam
Common in small shops, gas stations, and souvenir stands. The attendant will quickly swap a large bill (e.g., 500 MXN) for a smaller one, then insist you paid with the smaller bill and demand the difference, confusing the tourist.
Pay with exact change whenever possible. If paying with a large bill, clearly state the denomination and keep your eye on the bill until the change is returned. Familiarize yourself with Mexican currency.
The High-Pressure Timeshare Pitch
Tourists are lured with promises of free gifts, tours, or cash to attend a 'brief' presentation. These turn into high-pressure, multi-hour sales pitches for timeshare or vacation club memberships that are often overpriced, misleading, or outright fraudulent.
Politely but firmly decline all offers for free gifts or presentations. If you must attend, do not sign anything under pressure and research the company thoroughly beforehand. Remember, if it sounds too good to be true, it is.
ATM Skimming and Cloning
Criminals install 'skimmers' (devices to read card data) and hidden cameras (to record PINs) on public ATMs, especially those not inside a bank. This allows them to clone your card and drain your bank account.
Only use ATMs located inside a bank lobby, a major hotel, or a well-lit, reputable shopping mall. Always cover the keypad when entering your PIN. Check the card slot for loose or suspicious attachments.
The Fake Police Stop
Individuals posing as police officers, sometimes in uniform or a marked car, stop tourists (especially those driving rental cars) for a fabricated traffic violation. They demand an immediate 'fine' (bribe) in cash, threatening to take the tourist to the station or confiscate their license/car.
Do not pull over for unmarked cars. If stopped, politely ask for identification and a written ticket. Never pay a fine directly to an officer; insist on paying at the police station. Be aware that legitimate traffic police do not typically handle tourist-related stops.
The Tainted Alcohol Scam
Bars and all-inclusive resorts may serve liquor that is either illegally produced, counterfeit, or contains methanol, leading to severe illness, blackouts, or even death. This is often done to cut costs or facilitate other crimes.
Stick to reputable, high-end establishments. Order bottled beer or wine, or watch the bartender pour from a sealed, name-brand bottle. If you feel ill after a drink, seek medical attention immediately.
The Unnecessary Car Rental Insurance
Rental agencies, particularly at the airport, quote a very low initial price online, then aggressively pressure tourists to buy expensive, often redundant, local liability insurance upon arrival, claiming the tourist's existing insurance is invalid.
Research Mexican mandatory liability insurance (TPL) beforehand. Book with a reputable company that clearly includes TPL in the quote. Be prepared to show proof of credit card or personal insurance coverage, but know that TPL is legally required and must be purchased if not included.
The Fake Tour Guide/Agent
Individuals approach tourists on the street or at the airport claiming to be official tour guides or agents, offering heavily discounted tickets to popular attractions (e.g., Chichen Itza). The tickets are often fake, or the tour is substandard, leaving the tourist stranded or overcharged.
Only book tours through your hotel, a trusted travel agency, or the official website of the attraction. Never purchase tours from unsolicited street vendors or individuals at the airport.
The 'Helpful' Local Flat Tire
A scammer will surreptitiously puncture a tire on your rental car. A 'helpful' local will then flag you down to point out the flat. While you are distracted changing the tire, an accomplice will steal valuables from the car's interior or trunk.
Be wary of unsolicited 'help' with car trouble. If you get a flat, drive to a well-lit, secure, and busy location (like a gas station or police station) before stopping. Keep all doors locked and valuables out of sight.
Safe Attractions
Chichen Itza
A complex of Mayan ruins on Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula.
Tulum Ruins
The site of a pre-Columbian Mayan walled city serving as a major port for Coba.