Tourists planning a visit to Cancún and Mexico’s Riviera Maya this summer will experience a heightened security presence in response to increasing cartel violence and crimes against travelers. The Mexican government has deployed over 7,000 troops and security personnel to safeguard these popular vacation destinations.
The deployment of troops and local enforcement to patrol beaches and tourist hot spots began in 2021 and has since become a common sight in these areas.
Michael Brown, a former DEA Senior Special Agent and current global director of counter-narcotics technology at Rigaku Analytical Devices, expressed concerns that the presence of heavily armed patrols may evoke fear rather than provide reassurance to travelers. He highlighted the constant movement of organized crime across different parts of Mexico and the vulnerability of high-end tourist areas to criminal activities.
Military presence in tourist zones
Under the initiative named “Operation Summer Vacation 2025,” the Mexican government has launched a comprehensive security campaign across popular tourist destinations in Quintana Roo, including Cancún, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, and Cozumel. The operation involves a coordinated effort with over 7,000 security personnel from various agencies.
The goal of the operation is to ensure the safety of the estimated 2 million tourists expected to visit the region during the summer and early fall months through land, air, and sea patrols.
Governor Mara Lezama Espinosa of Quintana Roo emphasized the importance of ethical conduct and commitment from tourism service providers in maintaining a safe environment for visitors.
Security concerns for American tourists
American tourists traveling to Mexico have valid concerns about safety, leading the U.S. State Department to issue warnings regarding potential risks. A Level 2 travel advisory has been issued for Quintana Roo, advising travelers to exercise increased caution due to the elevated threat of property crimes and occasional violent incidents.
The U.S. Embassy in Mexico urges American citizens to remain vigilant, especially in downtown areas of popular tourist destinations after dark, and to avoid isolated or poorly lit areas. Travel alerts also highlight incidents of cartel-related violence that have impacted innocent bystanders in the past.
Travel safety tips
While military patrols offer some level of security, personal vigilance remains crucial for American tourists, particularly for women traveling alone or in small groups. Michael Brown recommends carrying personal GPS trackers discreetly and setting check-in times with family members back home.
He also suggests using transportation arranged by the hotel, verifying driver credentials, and avoiding leaving resorts alone, especially at night. When enjoying nightlife, it’s important to be cautious about accepting drinks from strangers and to avoid wearing valuable items that could attract unwanted attention.
Having a well-thought-out plan and staying aware of surroundings are essential for a safe and enjoyable travel experience in Mexico.
Fox News Digital has reached out to the U.S. State Department for further comments.
