Spring Break 2025: US issues travel alert for Cancun, Tulum and Playa del Carmen

The United States government has issued a travel alert to its citizens who plan to visit Cancun, Tulum and Playa del Carmen during the 2025 Spring Break tourist season.

The alert is due to the insecurity that prevails in these tourist destinations in Quintana Roo and to encourage people to avoid actions that may be risky for them or that may constitute a crime in Mexico.

Although Spring Break dates vary by school, they typically fall between the first and last week of March.

According to internet data, the most common weeks for these holidays in 2025 will be from March 10 to 16 or from March 17 to 23 .

On Tuesday, according to the agency “El Universal” , the embassy and consulates of the United States indicated that Mexico is a popular tourist destination, but the security risks vary greatly depending on the region.

“We have assigned travel alert levels for each Mexican state . Some parts of the country are at Level 1 (take normal precautions), while other parts are at Level 4 (do not travel due to crime and/or kidnappings).”

They urged caution, especially after dark , and warned against consuming adulterated alcohol and other risky substances, as U.S. citizens have suffered serious illnesses or death after consuming synthetic drugs or counterfeit medications.

U.S. authorities also said that possession and use of medical marijuana is illegal in Mexico.

They said U.S. citizens have been victims of rape and sexual assault , and perpetrators may target people who have consumed alcohol, are isolated or used substances.

They asked people to be cautious about activities organized on the beaches , where high tides and strong currents can occur.

They said these places may not have lifeguards or warning signs , and even private hospital prices may be higher than in the United States.

They also called on people not to carry weapons, not to disturb public order , not to urinate in public spaces or to have open containers of alcohol in vehicles.

“If you break Mexican law, you can be arrested,” they warned.

U.S. authorities are asking citizens visiting Mexico to be aware of travel alerts and call 911 in case of emergency.

They are also asked to have a health plan with coverage in the country and not to swim on the beaches after having consumed alcohol.

They should also stay in touch with friends to prioritize safety in places like bars, clubs and taxis, and obey Mexican laws, which are different from those in the United States.

They ask that debit and credit cards be monitored to identify unauthorized transactions, as well as to be careful when using ATMs.

Keep your belongings safe on public transport; use authorised means of transport and use apps; and keep documents such as your passport in a safe place.

"If you need help, please contact the nearest embassy or consulate ," they concluded.