Cabo Calling: Is It Safe to Travel Right Now?

Safety Guide: What You Need to Know in 2025

SJD Taxi

Is Cabo safe to travel to right now? Yes, traveling to Los Cabos is generally safe for tourists, even safer than many US cities, but you should exercise caution. Here’s what you need to know:

Los Cabos is considered one of the safest regions in Mexico. As of April 2025, the U.S. State Department has a Level 2 advisory in place for Baja California Sur (where Cabo is located). This is the same level assigned to many popular tourist destinations worldwide, including Italy and the UK.

Most travelers to Cabo have safe, incident-free vacations when they follow basic safety precautions. The tourist zones of Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo benefit from increased security measures, with local authorities prioritizing visitor safety.

The key to staying safe in Cabo is simple: stick to tourist areas, use authorized transportation services, and exercise the same caution you would in any unfamiliar destination.

Cabo San Lucas is the livelier, more tourist-oriented city with vibrant nightlife, while San Jose del Cabo offers a more relaxed, traditional Mexican atmosphere. Both areas maintain strong security presences, especially in areas frequented by visitors.

For over a decade, SJD Taxi has been a thriving factor in helping tourists get from the Los Cabos Airport to their resort. In recent years, since COVID, it has transitioned to new communities, rentals, and Airbnbs in less popular areas. We’ve carefully monitored safety conditions when answering questions like “Is Cabo safe to travel to right now?” for countless travelers seeking reliable information before their Los Cabos trips. Many times, this is for solo travelers or young adults going for Spring Break.

Is Cabo Safe to Travel to Right Now?

If you’re wondering, “Is Cabo safe to travel to right now?” – I’ve got good news: it’s as safe as the UK or Italy. Los Cabos sits in a sweet spot compared to many other popular Mexican destinations. The region has a Level 2 advisory from the U.S. State Department and has remained there for over 3 years.

As Edgar Arroyo, General Manager for Los Cabos-based tour operator Pure Cabo, puts it so perfectly: “Stuff can happen in tourist destinations in Mexico, but when it does, tourists generally aren’t involved.” This sentiment captures the reality for most visitors to Cabo.

Current Safety Levels

When you look at the bigger picture, Baja California Sur (home to Los Cabos) stands out as a relatively peaceful compared to Cancun or . While six Mexican states currently carry Level 4 (“Do Not Travel”) advisories, and several others have Level 3 (“Reconsider Travel”) warnings, Cabo’s Level 2 status is significantly more reassuring.

Here’s something that speaks volumes about the area’s safety: U.S. government employees have no travel restrictions in Baja California Sur. That’s a strong vote of confidence from officials who closely monitor security situations.

The numbers back this up too. Baja California Sur consistently ranks among Mexico’s three safest states, with a murder rate comparable to Idaho in the United States. Cabo San Lucas specifically holds the honor of being the fourth safest city in Mexico.

Comparing Cabo’s Safety to Other Mexican Destinations

Wondering how Los Cabos stacks up against other Mexican hotspots when it comes to safety? Let’s put things in perspective so you can make an informed decision about your vacation plans.

Cabo vs. Other Tourist Spots

When travelers ask me “is Cabo safe to travel to right now?“, I often point out that Los Cabos enjoys a significantly better safety profile than many other destinations in Mexico. The region’s geographic isolation on the Baja peninsula has been a blessing in disguise, keeping it largely insulated from the cartel-related issues that have affected some mainland areas.

Los Cabos maintains a Level 2 advisory from the U.S. State Department, which recommends exercising increased caution due to crime – but this is the same level assigned to popular European destinations like Italy and France. When you compare this to other Mexican locations, the difference becomes clear:

Precautions Travelers Should Take When Visiting Cabo

When friends ask me “is Cabo safe to travel to right now?” I always tell them yes, but with the same common-sense approach you’d use in any vacation destination. Los Cabos welcomes millions of happy visitors each year who have wonderful, trouble-free experiences by following some straightforward advice.

Staying in tourist areas is perhaps your best strategy. The popular zones in Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo have excellent security, with tourist police who speak English and are there specifically to help visitors. I’ve always felt remarkably comfortable walking around the Marina area in Cabo San Lucas or the Art District in San Jose del Cabo.

When it comes to your belongings, less is definitely more. Leave expensive jewelry at home and avoid flashing large amounts of cash in public. I learned this lesson years ago when my flashy watch caught a bit too much attention at a local market! Using your hotel safe for passports and extra credit cards is just smart traveling, giving you peace of mind while you’re out enjoying those gorgeous Cabo beaches.

The Baja sun is gloriously intense, but it can be deceptive. Staying hydrated and using sun protection isn’t just health advice – it’s safety advice too. I’ve seen otherwise sensible travelers make poor decisions simply because they were dehydrated and overheated. Those margaritas by the pool hit differently when you’re already dehydrated!

For added security, consider downloading safety apps that can alert first responders if needed, and U.S. citizens should enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), which helps the embassy contact you in emergencies.

Transportation Tips

Pre-booking your airport transfers with a reputable company like SJD Taxi Airport Shuttle before arrival is something I recommend to everyone. This simple step eliminates one of the most common tourist vulnerabilities – being approached by unauthorized operators at the airport when you’re tired, disoriented, and most vulnerable.

Many visitors don’t realize that some app-based ride services operate without proper licensing in Los Cabos. Sticking with official transportation gives you the security of knowing your driver and vehicle meet local safety standards. When you need a taxi during your stay, arrange it through your hotel or restaurant rather than hailing one on the street.

For families or groups, private transfers offer additional security benefits – you’re traveling only with your party, and the door-to-door service eliminates waiting in potentially vulnerable locations. At SJD Taxi Airport Shuttle, our private transfers include welcome drinks and the option for grocery stops, turning a basic safety measure into a pleasant part of your vacation experience.

Areas in Cabo to Avoid

When you’re wondering “is Cabo safe to travel to right now?“, it’s important to know which areas deserve a bit more caution. While Los Cabos as a whole enjoys a reputation as one of Mexico’s safest destinations, like any vacation spot, there are neighborhoods where tourists should tread more carefully.

In Cabo San Lucas, the neighborhoods of Los Cangrejos and Las Palmas typically see higher crime rates than the tourist zones. These areas are primarily residential, with few attractions for visitors, so you’re unlikely to find yourself there accidentally. Similarly, in San Jose del Cabo, the Santa Rosa neighborhood experiences more petty crime incidents than other parts of the city.

Isolated beaches away from the main tourist areas can present both security and safety concerns. While the secluded nature might seem appealing, beaches without regular patrols or lifeguards not only increase your vulnerability to opportunistic crime but also expose you to natural hazards like dangerous rip currents that claim lives each year. Stick to popular beaches where other tourists and security personnel are present.

While the downtown areas of Cabo San Lucas are generally safe and well-patrolled during the day and early evening, walking alone in less populated sections after midnight isn’t advisable. If you’re enjoying Cabo’s famous nightlife, it’s worth taking a taxi back to your accommodation rather than walking through quiet streets late at night.

The highway between Santa Rosa and San Jose del Cabo deserves extra caution, particularly after dark. Limited lighting and occasional reports of criminal activity make this stretch better traversed during daylight hours or via reputable transportation services.

Local Perspectives on Safety in Cabo

The residents and business owners in Los Cabos share a unified message: visitor safety is their top priority. This isn’t just goodwill—it’s good business. The region’s economy revolves around tourism, creating what many locals describe as a “community-wide commitment” to ensuring visitors feel secure.

“We live and breathe tourism here,” explains Maria, who has owned a restaurant in the Marina area for over 15 years. “When visitors feel safe, they return and tell their friends. It’s as simple as that.”

This economic reality drives both official security measures and a kind of informal neighborhood watch throughout tourist areas. Hotel managers often mention their substantial investments in private security teams that work in close coordination with local police. These teams don’t just patrol property grounds—they’re trained to assist guests with everything from safe transportation recommendations to emergency response.

Measures by Local Authorities to Ensure Tourist Safety

When you’re wondering “is Cabo safe to travel to right now?“, it helps to know what local authorities are doing behind the scenes. Los Cabos officials have made tourist safety a top priority, recognizing that their beautiful paradise depends on visitors feeling secure during their stay.

Walking around tourist areas in Cabo, you’ll immediately notice the reassuring presence of police officers and security personnel. This isn’t by accident – it’s part of a comprehensive approach to keeping visitors safe while they enjoy all that Los Cabos has to offer.

Recent Safety Initiatives

Increased police presence has become a hallmark of tourist areas like Medano Beach, the Marina, and the Hotel Zone. Both National Guard members and local police maintain highly visible patrols that not only deter potential problems but also provide peace of mind as you explore. These aren’t intimidating presences – officers are typically friendly and approachable.

If you’re planning beach days (and who isn’t?), you’ll appreciate the comprehensive beach safety programs in place. Popular beaches feature attentive lifeguards and an easy-to-understand flag system indicating whether conditions are safe for swimming. Green means go ahead and enjoy, yellow suggests caution, and red warns you to stay out of the water – simple but effective protection from Los Cabos’ occasionally strong currents.

Behind the scenes, there’s impressive coordination between hotel security teams and local law enforcement. This collaboration creates a seamless safety network that ensures quick responses to any issues and maintains consistent security standards across the region. Many visitors never even notice this invisible safety net working around them.

Los Cabos has also tightened transportation regulations in recent years, which is why we at SJD Taxi Airport Shuttle maintain all proper licensing and insurance. These regulations protect you from unauthorized operators who might not meet safety standards. When you book with authorized providers like us, you’re supporting this important safety initiative.

Recommendations for Transportation and Accommodation

When visitors ask “is Cabo safe to travel to right now?,” a major part of the answer involves how you get around and where you stay. Think of transportation and accommodation as the foundation of your safety strategy in Los Cabos.

Pre-booking your airport transfers eliminates this stress entirely. At SJD Taxi Airport Shuttle, we track your flight for any delays or cancellations, ensuring we’re there when you arrive—no wandering around looking lost with your luggage (which can make you an easy target).

Licensed transportation providers offer peace of mind that street taxis simply can’t match. Our vehicles undergo regular maintenance checks and our drivers are professionally trained, background-checked, and familiar with the safest routes throughout Los Cabos.

While shared shuttles are economical, private transfers provide an extra layer of security that many travelers appreciate, especially when arriving at night or traveling with family. There’s something reassuring about stepping off your flight and being greeted by a driver holding a sign with your name, ready to take you directly to your destination without additional stops.

Many guests also appreciate our grocery stop option with private transfers. This convenient service lets you stock up on essentials en route to your accommodation, eliminating the need for a separate outing later. It’s particularly valuable for those staying in vacation rentals or who prefer having their own snacks and drinks on hand.

And remember, while it’s important to stay vigilant and make smart choices, the vast majority of visitors to Los Cabos experience nothing but warm hospitality and breathtaking scenery during their stay. The region’s reputation for safety continues to grow precisely because local businesses like ours prioritize visitor security alongside exceptional service.

Frequently Asked Questions about Cabo’s Safety

Is it safe to travel to Cabo right now?

When friends ask me “is Cabo safe to travel to right now?,” I’m always happy to reassure them. Yes, Cabo is generally safe for tourists who take basic precautions. The U.S. State Department currently rates Los Cabos at Level 2 (“Exercise Increased Caution”) – the same advisory level given to beloved destinations like France, Italy, and the UK.

The tourist bubbles of Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo enjoy extra security attention, with local authorities rolling out the red carpet for visitors’ safety. After all, tourism is the lifeblood of the local economy.

It’s worth noting that nearly 4 million people visit Los Cabos annually, and the overwhelming majority head home with nothing but sunny memories and photos. By sticking to tourist zones, arranging reliable transportation, and using the same street smarts you’d employ in any unfamiliar place, you’ll likely join those ranks of happy travelers.

What precautions should I take when visiting Cabo?

Leave the bling at home, as flashy jewelry can make you a target for petty theft. Instead, use your hotel safe for valuables, including your passport and extra cash. When you’re out exploring, stay alert after dark and stick to well-lit, busy streets where other tourists gather.

Beach days require their own safety awareness – always check those colored warning flags before diving in! Red means danger, yellow signals caution, and green gives you the all-clear for swimming. And don’t underestimate the Baja sun – staying hydrated and slathered in sunscreen isn’t just comfort advice; it’s safety guidance that keeps you thinking clearly.

How can I ensure my transportation is safe in Cabo?

The golden rule? Pre-book your airport transfers with a reputable company like SJD Taxi Airport Shuttle before you even board your flight to Mexico. This simple step helps you avoid the chaotic airport arrival area where unauthorized operators often approach tired travelers.

Always choose licensed transportation providers that meet local regulations. Many visitors don’t realize that some ride-sharing services operate in legal gray areas in Los Cabos and may lack proper insurance or safety protocols.

For the safest experience, consider booking private transfers, especially for night travel. These provide door-to-door service without the unpredictability of shared rides. If you do need a taxi during your stay, arrange it through your hotel or restaurant rather than flagging one down on the street.

At SJD Taxi Airport Shuttle, we consider ourselves an essential part of your safety plan in Los Cabos. Our professional drivers don’t just know the roads – they know the region, the culture, and how to ensure you have a worry-free experience from the moment you land. Whether you’re looking for a shared shuttle or prefer the added security and comfort of a private transfer with those welcome drinks that make your arrival special, we’ve got you covered.

Book your safe Cabo transportation with SJD Taxi Airport Shuttle