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This Historic Region Near Cancun Is Officially The Safest In Mexico

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A new report reveals that the Mexican Caribbean state of Yucatan is officially the safest in the country.

Situated west of Cancun, the historical region is famous for its numerous Mayan ruins and stunning cenotes.

a view of the popular chicen itza ruins in yucatan

As Cancun’s travel numbers soar in 2024, many visitors are keen on exploring beyond the confines of the coastal hotspot. For many, Yucatan is undoubtedly high on the list of destinations to visit; from day trips to longer stays, it’s a vibrant region home to more than just beaches and resorts.

And with more law enforcement deployments, low crime levels, and reliable infrastructure, Yucatan is an excellent alternative for travelers seeking safety.

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With that in mind, here’s a look at what makes Yucatan the safest state in Mexico.

New Report Sheds Light On Yucatan’s Safety Culture 

Although travel to Cancun is booming at an unprecedented rate, several other nearby destinations are also welcoming a huge influx of travelers. One of them is the sunny state of Yucatan.

One of the 32 states that make up Mexico, Yucatan is one of the most historical regions in the entire country. And it’s also the safest in the country, according to a new report published this week by Mexico’s public safety agency.

The report, which looks at the overall crime rate reported across the country, shows that Yucatan’s crime rate of 163 per 100,000 people is the lowest in the country. Furthermore, Yucatan has managed to decrease crime levels year after year, a trend that is expected to strengthen in 2024.

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Last year, Yucatan’s government implemented a number of key measures to further bolster safety. From preventative measures to new law enforcement supplies, the Yucatan Seguro (Safe Yucatan) program has sought to reinforce a culture of safety and security. 

Those efforts are now paying off, with road and beach safety seeing significant improvements. And that’s good news for the millions of travelers that flock to Yucatan each year to enjoy the state’s centuries-long Mayan history and vibrant culture.

The most visited Mayan site in Mexico, Chichén Itzá, is famously located in Yucatan. The massive archeological site, which contains the El Castillo landmark, welcomes thousands of daily visitors. 

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The launching of the Maya Train is expected to make Yucatan even more accessible for travelers. One of the railway system’s busiest stations – the Chichen Itzá stop – is gearing up for hundreds of thousands of yearly visitors. 

The expected influx of travelers means that local officials will continue to strengthen efforts to deter organized crime from affecting the region’s excellent safety.

The Maya Train route connecting Cancun to Chichén Itzá is expected to be fully operational in early 2024. 

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In addition to the famous Chichén Itzá Mayan site, Yucatan is known for its diverse landscapes, especially the hundreds of cenotes – or freshwater sinkholes – that dot its terrain. 

Some of the most popular destinations in the state include the Ek Balam archeological site as well as the Suytun cenote. Travelers based in Cancun and other Mexican Caribbean hotspots can easily book a number of guided tours to check out the region’s main attractions. 

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This top-rated 5-star all-inclusive tour takes travelers on a comprehensive itinerary, including Chichén Itzá as well as the gorgeous Valladolid cenote. Travelers wishing to explore Yucatan on their own can travel to the sunny destination via the Maya Train, with tickets available for purchase on the railway system’s official website.

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