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With spring break approaching, many travelers are going to be headed south to the popular tourist hotspots of Cancun, Playa Del Carmen and Tulum. Whether its your first time traveling to Mexico during the pandemic or your tenth, restrictions are constantly changing and there are things all travelers need to know before booking there trip.
Here are all the latest travel restrictions and entry requirements for Quintana Roo which includes Cancun, Playa Del Carmen and Tulum.
Is Cancun and Playa Del Carmen Open For Tourism?
The entire state of Quintana Roo including Cancun, Playa Del Carmen, Tulum and Isla Mujeres are all open for tourism. There are no limits on the numbers of tourists that arrive to the Cancun international airport. Hotels and restaurants are limited to 50% capacity. Travelers are welcome to arrive by air with just the completed health declaration.
Land Border With the U.S.
Crossing by land border is not encouraged as non-essential travel across the U.S.-Mexico land border is restricted until at least February 21.
Do Travelers need A Test Before They Go?
Travelers are not required to present proof of negative Covid-19 test before they travel to Cancun.
Do Travelers Need To Quarantine Upon Arrival?
Travelers are not required to quarantine upon arrival in Cancun. Tourists may begin their vacation immediately and proceed to their accommodation.
Are There Any Forms For Travelers To Fill Out Before They Arrive?
Are Masks Required?
Masks are required in all public areas including resorts. It is now the law in Cancun and violators can face fines.
Social Distancing
Capacity is limited in all public spaces, restaurants, resorts and tours to allow for social distancing. All travelers are required to follow signs and instruction from local officials.
Do Tourists Need Travel Insurance?
While travel insurance is not mandatory for entry into Mexico it is highly recommended. Ensure you have a travel insurance policy that covers Covid-19.
U.S. Government and CDC Advice For Traveling To Cancun and Playa Del Carmen
The U.S. State Department currently has a level 3 ‘reconsider travel‘ warning to Mexico. This does not prevent travelers from entering Mexico for tourism.
The CDC currently has a level 4 ‘Do Not Travel’ to Mexico due to Covid-19. ‘Travelers should avoid all travel to Mexico‘. Both Canada and the United States are currently under the same level 4 warning.
Returning To The U.S. Requires a Negative Covid-19 Test
The U.S. requires all travelers to provide proof of a negative Covid-19 antigen test when returning home from abroad. Most major resorts are now including the tests free for guests.
There are also dozen of clinics and mobile clinics offering affordable testing for U.S. travelers. As a backup plan the Cancun International Airport has a testing clinic at each departure gate for last minute emergency antigen testing.
Canadian and other international travelers will require a PCR test. Check with your hotel concierge or book through one of these clinics.
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Disclaimer: Current travel rules and restrictions can change without notice. The decision to travel is ultimately your responsibility. Contact your consulate and/or local authorities to confirm your nationality’s entry and/or any changes to travel requirements before traveling. Travel Off Path does not endorse traveling against government advisories
Linsey Martin
Sunday 14th of February 2021
Are the beaches still 30% capacity?
Jonathan S Bhatt
Friday 12th of February 2021
Check with your resort before you go. The resort we are staying at in Playa Del Carmen, Riu Palace Riviera Maya, provides free antigen test for their guests needing to return to the states. If you test positive, you and everyone that was in your room, are allowed to stay for an additional 10 days, meals and lodging, at no additional cost. I'm sure many of the more popular resorts are offering something similar. As far as air fair, I'm pretty sure all airlines are allowing free cancellation, as well as no change fees, if you need to re book your flights. Also a great idea to have travel insurance if your going to be traveling during these crazy times. Just make sure it covers Covid related expenses.
Tony
Friday 12th of February 2021
You're not forced to wear a mask in public and is rather a personal choice. Some stores respect your decision not to wear one
Bwall
Friday 12th of February 2021
Kitty, it'll be a huge hassle if you get a positive result back. False ones happen all the time. This would require a new flight, new hotel arrangements, and a clearance from a doctor (no second testing) to get back home.
Kitty
Friday 12th of February 2021
I'm going to Cancun all inclusive time share at the end of February. I will have to get a covid test three days before returning,that's all that is required for reentry by air. That doesn't seem like a hassle.
Christian
Friday 12th of February 2021
It wouldn't be a hassle unless you test positive.