A guide to solo traveling Cancun

Summertime is the perfect opportunity to travel, and what better place to go than Cancun? This Mexican city has something for everyone, whether you’re looking to relax on the beach or explore ancient ruins.

But if you’re traveling solo, it can be hard to know where to start, and you might have some questions:

Is Cancun safe for solo travel? What activities can solo travelers do in Cancun?

That’s why I’ve put together this guide to solo traveling in Cancun – so you can make the most of your trip!

Cancun is an amazing place to visit, and it’s even better when you can enjoy it without having to worry about coordinating plans with others.

Whether you’re a first-time traveler or an experienced adventurer, these tips will help you make the most of your solo trip to Cancun.

Is Cancun safe for solo travel?

Cancun is a popular tourist and solo traveler destination, and there are plenty of travelers who can attest to its safety.

Many people find Cancun to be safer than some of the other major cities in Mexico, such as Mexico City or Guadalajara.

Cancun isn’t any more or less safe for solo travelers than it is for groups or couples – as always, solo travelers should use extra caution when traveling to unfamiliar places.

Like any place, it’s always important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions when necessary: be aware of your surroundings, don’t flash valuables, and don’t walk alone at night.

Be sure to research your destination before you go, and always trust your gut instinct if something doesn’t feel right.

With a little common sense, you’ll be able to enjoy Cancun without any problems.

Best areas in Cancun for solo travelers

Cancun is broken up into two main areas: the Hotel Zone and Downtown Cancun. The Hotel Zone is a long, narrow strip of land that’s home to most of the city’s resorts and hotels.

It’s located on an island off the coast of Cancun, and it’s connected to the mainland by two bridges.

Downtown Cancun

Downtown Cancun is located on the mainland, and it’s where you’ll find most of the city’s shops, restaurants, and nightlife. It has much more of a local feel, and it’s a great place to explore during the day if you’re a solo traveler.

However, solo travelers should be cautious at night since it can be a bit more dangerous than the Hotel Zone – there are not many tourists in the area at night, and it’s easy to stand out.

The Hotel Zone

If you’re looking for a more relaxed solo vacation, the Hotel Zone might be a better fit for you. This area is full of all-inclusive resorts, and it’s easy to find activities and excursions that are geared toward solo travelers. The Hotel Zone is the safest area in Cancun, and solo travelers will feel comfortable walking around here at any time of day or night.

It’s also convenient since most of the city’s hotels and resorts are located here, so solo travelers won’t have to go far to find a place to stay. Accommodation in the Hotel Zone can get pretty pricey though, so that is something to keep in mind.

Downtown Cancun or The Hotel Zone: Where to stay?

Both areas have their pros and cons for solo travelers. The Hotel Zone is more isolated, so it can be a bit boring if you’re not staying at a resort.

However, it’s also much safer than Downtown Cancun, so solo travelers may feel more comfortable there. This is a good option for solo travelers who want to be in close proximity to other tourists.

Downtown Cancun is more lively and has more to do, but it’s also more crowded and can be dangerous at night. Downtown Cancun is a great place to explore and meet other solo travelers, but it’s important to be cautious after dark. If you’re planning on going out at night, stick to well-lit areas and don’t wander too far from your hotel or hostel.

I stayed in the downtown area of Cancun during my solo trip there and didn’t encounter any problems. I actually preferred that the area was less touristy, and was quieter and more laid back than some of the other areas in Cancun, like the Hotel Zone. I didn’t really walk around the area much at night though, which I probably would’ve done more of if I’d stayed in the Hotel Zone.

If you’re solo traveling in Cancun, I recommend staying in the Hotel Zone and spending your days exploring Downtown Cancun.

This way, you’ll get the best of both worlds – a safe place to stay and a more lively area to explore.

Top things to do for solo travelers in Cancun

Cancun has something for everyone, so solo travelers will never find themselves bored! If you’re looking to relax, you can spend your days lounging on the beach or by the pool.

Or, if you’re looking for some adventure, you can go snorkeling, scuba diving, windsurfing, or kitesurfing. You can also take a day trip to one of the many nearby Maya ruins, like Chichen Itza or Tulum.

Here are some of the top things to do for solo travelers in Cancun:

Visit the Maya ruins at Chichen Itza

Chichen Itza is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Mexico, and it’s a great place to visit if you’re solo traveling.

You can take a bus or taxi from Cancun, or you can book a tour through your hotel or hostel.

Explore the nearby city of Tulum

Tulum is a beautiful city located just a short drive from Cancun. Solo travelers can explore the ancient Maya ruins, or relax on one of the many beaches.

Tulum is also a great place to go snorkeling and scuba diving. Some popular things to do in Tulum include diving in cenotes, visiting the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, and exploring the Mayan ruins.

Go snorkeling or scuba diving

Cancun is located on the Caribbean Sea, so it’s a great place for snorkeling and scuba diving.

There are many tour companies that offer snorkeling and scuba diving trips, and you can usually find discounts if you book in advance.

Spend a day at the beach

Cancun has some of the best beaches in Mexico, so solo travelers should definitely spend at least one day lounging on the sand.

If you’re staying in the Hotel Zone, most of the beaches are located right near your hotel.

Take a day trip to Isla Mujeres

Isla Mujeres is a small island off the coast of Cancun, and it’s a great place to spend the day. You can take a ferry from Cancun, and once you’re on the island, you can rent a golf cart to get around.

Be sure to visit the Maya ruins and the turtle farm while you’re there!

Go windsurfing or kitesurfing

Cancun is a great place for both beginner and experienced windsurfers and kitesurfers.

There are many companies that offer lessons, and you can usually find discounts if you book in advance.

These are just a few of the many things solo travelers can do in Cancun. With its beautiful beaches, Maya ruins, and lively nightlife, Cancun is a great destination for solo travelers.

You’re sure to find plenty of activities to fill up your days in this town!

Safety tips for solo travel in Cancun

Though Cancun is a relatively safe solo travel destination, it’s still a good idea to exercise caution when traveling solo, just like you should when traveling in any city.

Here are some safety tips for solo travel in Cancun:

1. Choose your accommodation carefully

There are many different accommodation options in Cancun, from hotels and hostels to Airbnb rentals.

If you’re traveling solo, it’s important to choose a place that makes you feel safe and comfortable. Do some research before you book, and read reviews from other solo travelers.

2. Be cautious after dark

While Cancun is generally safe, it’s always a good idea to exercise caution when traveling solo.

If you’re planning on going out at night, stick to well-lit areas and don’t wander too far from your hotel or hostel.

3. Don’t accept rides from strangers

If you’re solo traveling in Cancun, it’s important to be cautious of accepting rides from strangers. If you’re planning on taking a taxi, make sure it’s a licensed taxi.

It’s also a good idea to ask your hotel or hostel for recommendations on safe taxi companies. Uber is the best choice for transportation in Cancun, because you’ll have all the driver’s information available in the app and will even be able to share your ride with a friend.

4. Keep valuables safe

When solo traveling, it’s important to keep your valuables safe. If possible, leave them in your hotel room or hostel safe.

If you’re carrying them with you, make sure to keep them close to your body and out of sight. Never carry all your cash and valuables with you, and only carry the amount of cash you’ll need for the day. Leave your passport and extra credit cards in your room or hostel as well.

5. Be aware of your surroundings

When solo traveling, it’s important to always be aware of your surroundings. If you’re walking around, be aware of the people around you and try to stick to well-lit areas.

If you’re at the beach, don’t leave your belongings unguarded while you go for a swim. If you’re going out at night, try to go with a group of friends. When walking around the city, try to avoid having your headphones in so you can be aware of your surroundings.

Cancun is an amazing place to explore and a very solo traveler-friendly destination. I loved getting to explore this vibrant city on my own and would recommend it to any solo traveler.

Just be sure to exercise caution, and you’re sure to have a great time!