Mexico Tour Blog by Caravan Tours

Mexico is located in North America and is one of the most popular tourist destinations. It has the second largest economy in Latin America and is rich in culture, diversity, and places you will enjoy. And one of the most popular cities in this country is Cancun, where you will experience paradise instantly. So it’s different from your typical travel hotspot. But is it safe to travel to Cancun right now?

Knowing in advance before making travel arrangements is recommended. If you need more information about Cancun’s safety, here’s what you should know.

Is Cancun, Mexico Safe to Visit in 2023?

In general, Mexico as a country is generally safe for travelers. Mexico’s tourism is one of the most critical components of its economy, which is why tourists in the country feel safe and welcomed by the locals. Furthermore, the government ensures it stays that way so that tourists will return. But you will still want to find out if Cancun is safe to travel to in 2023.

But you may hear or read news about some parts of Mexico being unsafe. So you have second thoughts: is Cancun safe to travel to now? Fortunately, Cancun isn’t one of these “bad” parts. But it’s not the perfect hotspot since petty crimes, such as pickpockets, are reported here. But you must stay vigilant and be wary of your surroundings whenever you’re in this infamous city.

Some safety precautions you can take are as follows:

  • Stay away from the outskirts of Cancun.
  • Always mind your surroundings to avoid any assaults.
  • Research reputable companies that offer legit tours to avoid scams.
  • Don’t display signs of wealth, as you may become a victim of mugging.
  • Avoid walking at night or in secluded areas.
  • Avoid tap water; always choose bottled water drinks.
  • Respect the culture of the country.
  • Purchase travel insurance.
  • Use ATMs in brightly lit areas, such as malls.
  • Don’t resist a robbery attempt.
  • Share vacation plans with family at home and call every day.
  • Use extreme caution when entering bars or other party places.
  • Enroll in the STEP program to receive alerts from the U.S. government and make it easier to locate you if misfortunes happen.

Cancun’s crime rate is reportedly at 62%, so you may still need to figure out if it is safe to travel to Cancun. Even though it is regarded as a cartel-dominated area, many people anticipate it to be higher than 100%. But that’s not the case! 

Like two sides of a coin, Cancun still has excellent destinations to visit compared to unsafe areas. So you must find the perfect locations to experience and enjoy paradise without worrying about your safety.

The Common Scams You Might Encounter in Cancun

Like any other tourist destination, Cancun needs to be safer regarding scams. Once malicious locals discover you’re a tourist, they might take advantage of you. So be aware of the cons listed below:

Picture Scam

A local may hand you their camera to take a photo of them. Once done and you give them back their camera, they intentionally let it go so that it breaks. After that, they accuse you of breaking their items and will demand payment then and there.

So to avoid this kind of scam, make sure only to take pictures of locals if you’re confident that they’re also tourists.

Friendly ATM Helper

Let’s say that you’re someone who needs assistance with operating  ATMs in Cancun. Then a kind and friendly local who’s all smiles are willing to extend their helping hand. But in reality, their goal is to insert your card inside their skimmer to get all your information.

And while you’re entering your pin, they’ll keep a close eye on it and will memorize all of this information. After that, they will drain your account later on.

Bird Poop Scam

The bird poop scam is another scam where a person will put a white paste on your shoulders. Then a friendly local is there willing to help you while cursing at the birds for pooping everywhere. But it’s just a modus.

Once you get preoccupied while cleaning up the “bird poop” mess, they’re also busy looking for your money or wallet inside your bag or pocket. So politely decline any help from these people to ensure your valuables are safe.

Visit Cancun, Mexico & Enjoy This City as a Tourist

Cancun is one of the safest cities in Mexico, which millions of tourists visit every year. It offers lovely beaches, crystal-clear waters, and many attractions you’ll surely enjoy. But like any other destination, it’s important to exercise all safety precautions you know and are listed above to ensure you get the most out of this tropical country.

With a culture so diverse, delicious food, and architecture rich in history – Cancun is a city that you won’t forget. Plus, you can do tons here that will be worth your time and money.

Some examples of activities you’ll enjoy here are the following:

  • Scuba diving in the Caribbean sea
  • Visit and walk around downtown Cancun
  • Take a day trip to Chichen Itza
  • Visit the numerous islands
  • Explore the adventure parks
  • Experience the nightlife in different bars
  • Laze around under the excellent weather
  • Try the countless watersports

You will want to visit this breathtaking city in Mexico with sunny weather and extraordinary sights to see. You can explore museums, natural wonders, and cultural heritage sites that make Cancun the perfect tourist destination for families and friends. So book your tickets now and enjoy one of the most beautiful cities in Mexico with a reputable tour company!

Rekindle Your Wanderlust as You Book a Trip to Cancun

So the answer to the question, “is it safe to travel to Cancun right now?” The answer is a resounding YES.

Fortunately, Caravan Tours offers numerous Latin American tours that you can choose from. Guatemala, Panama, and Costa Rica are some of the most popular countries you can visit.

The tour packages include lodging, food, safe transportation, and an itinerary of activities to experience. So if you want to save while bringing your whole family, consider Cancun from Caravan Tours. So call us at 1-800-CARAVAN or +1-312-321-9800, and we’ll assist you today.

 

Welcome to Creel Mexico, the gateway of Copper Canyon!

Creel is a magical mountain town in the Sierra Tarahumara region in the Sierra Madre Occidental Mountain range. About 109 miles (175 km) from Chihuahua city, the remote mountain town of Creel is a must-see stop if you want to experience everything this majestic region has to offer.

Take a ride on the El Chepe train, which is run by the Ferrocarril Chihuahua al Pacífico  (Chihuahua-Pacific Railway). Stop in this picturesque mountain town of Creel. Learn about the culture it preserves and the people who inhabit it, plus the many wonders awaiting you in the Sierra Tarahumara.

Creel Mexico is one of the stops on our Caravan Copper Canyon Tour!

A Magical Escape in Sierra Tarahumara

Located in the northern part of the Sierra Madre Occidental Mountain range, the Sierra Tarahumara extends for over 600 miles (1,000km) from the lower Sinola and Durango states up to Sonora and Chihuahua.

This is a magnificent collection of high sierras and deep canyons ranging from the subtropical to more temperate zones reaching as high as nearly 10,000 feet (3,000 meters). As might be expected the range of wildlife, flora, and fauna here is also quite diverse.

Why Is Creel MX Special

The mountain town of Creel Mexico is among the country’s select Magic Towns or Pueblos Mágicos as it is known in Spanish.

The Magic Towns program was initiated by the Mexican government in 2001 to preserve and celebrate cities considered important to Mexican culture.

Creel Mexico is also home to the traditional Tarahumara Indians, or Rarámuri indigenous people.

More than 400 years ago, when Spanish colonialists arrived in the area, they forced the Rarámuri to move further into the mountains.

The Tarahumara people still inhabit this region in the Sierra Madre Occidental, remaining true to their traditions and way of life.

Visiting Creel gives you the rare opportunity to live among the Rarámuri people and experience their culture and crafts. Creel also serves as an excellent starting point for visiting the rest of the Sierra Tarahumara region, with access to its many trails, rock formations, hidden waterfalls, and natural splendor.

What To See in Creel

Enjoy your time in Creel Mexico and get to know the Rarámuri way of life. When you feel like stretching your legs, there are countless day trips you can take including the Copper Canyon Train.

Here are some other thing to see and do near Creel MX.

Artesanías Misión

Support the local economy in Creel and take home a souvenir that’s truly unique. Visit the Artesanías Misión in the town center to shop for traditional handicrafts made by the Rarámuri people.

Arareko Lake

About 6.2 miles (10 km) from Creel Mexico, you’ll find the serene Lake Arareko. This u-shaped lake sits at the same altitude as Mexico City and is the perfect place to explore in a rowing boat or enjoy a picnic.

Valley of the Monks

One of the best-known attractions in the Copper Canyon near Creel is the Valley of the Monks or Valle de Los Monjes. It’s not hard to see how these towering rock formations got their name, and it makes for a great photo!

The Valley of the Frogs and Valley of the Mushrooms

If you don’t feel like venturing quite so far, you can visit the Valley of the Frogs and Valley of the Mushrooms just 3.1 miles (5km) outside of Creel Mexico. There’s no shortage of impressive rock formations in the Copper Canyon.

Community of Cusárare

If you’ve made the trip to the waterfall, you might as well make a pit stop in the Rarámuri community of Cusárare. Explore the old community, witness the lived traditions of the Rarámuri, and pay your respects at the old community temple built by the Jesuits in the 18th century.

Experience everything the Sierra Tarahumara region has to offer with a professionally guided tour! Experience the cultural wonders of Creel Mexico and the breathtaking nature of Copper Canyon on your next visit to Chihuahua Mexico.

Cusárare Waterfall

If you’re visiting after the rainy season, make sure you stop by the Cusárare Waterfall, also known as the Cascada de Cusárare. Located 15.5 miles (25km) from Creel, this 98 ft beauty is a dramatic sight to behold.

Come Explore Creel Mexico with Caravan Tours!

Our Mexico tours are quite popular and usually sell out, so we encourage you to book your tour dates as early as possible.

Caravan Mexico tours include:

Caravan Tours is a family-run tour company and for more than 70 years (since 1952) we’ve offered amazing fully guided tours.

Along with our Canadian, USA, and Mexico tours, we also offer tours to the Central American countries of Panama, Costa Rica, and Guatemala.

All Caravan tours are fully guided by knowledgeable local tour operators.

If you would like to know more about Creel Mexico or any of our other stops on this tour like Chihuahua and El Fuerte, please:


Creel Mexico FAQs

Where is Creel Mexico?

Creel is a town in the state of Chihuahua in Northwestern Mexico.

What time is it in Creel MX?

Creel is within the Mountain Time Zone, the same as Boise Idaho, Boulder Colorado, Albuquerque New Mexico and Calgary, Alberta Canada.

How far is Creel from Chihuahua?

Creel Mexico is 160 miles (260km) from Chihuahua.

How far is Creel from Mexico City?

Creel Mexico is 1,066 miles (1,715km) from Mexico City.

What is Creel Mexico known for?

The Copper Canyon train stops in Creel which has helped make tourism its #1 industry.

What is the population of Creel Mexico?

As of 2020, Creel Mexico had a population of approximately 4,640 people.

There are so many incredible things to see and unique things to do in Veracruz Mexico.

From its beautiful beaches and the diversity of its picturesque landscapes to historic sites, delicious cuisine, and traditional festivals, Veracruz, on the Gulf of Mexico, is a great destination for a vacation or a weekend getaway.

What also makes Veracruz truly special is the warmth and friendliness of its people and the richness of its history and culture.

Veracruz is a must-see destination for any traveler that has something for everyone. This colonial city boasts a blend of architectural styles, a lively town plaza, and an expansive boardwalk along one of the busiest ports in Mexico.

Veracruz Mexico Is Included in our Caravan Mexico Ancient Civilizations Tour!

Top Things to See & Do in Veracruz

Come for the culture. Stay for the people. Here are some of the top things to do in Veracruz Mexico:

• The Zocalo (main square)

• Castle San Juan de Ulúa (fortress)

• Museo Histórico Naval (Navy Museum)

• Acuario de Veracruz (aquarium)

• Museo de la Ciudad de Veracruz (history & culture)

• Centro Cultural La Atarazana (art & culture)

The Zocalo

No visit to a Mexican city would be complete without setting foot in the Zocalo, or main square.

Visit the Zocalo at night to see it come alive with souvenir sellers, musical entertainers, and so much more. Prepare to be entertained as you enter the city’s unofficial outdoor stage, where regular events and daily improv are common.

The Zocalo is in the historic center of the city, which is home to many important landmarks including the 17th-century Palacio Municipal and the Castle San Juan de Ulúa, which dates back to the 16th century.

Castle San Juan de Ulúa

This fortress is one of the more unique things to do in Veracruz Mexico. It is a great place to learn about the history of Veracruz and is a must-see for history buffs.

Castle of San Juan de Ulúa, was built in the 16th century to protect the city from pirate attacks.

It was strategically located on an island just off the coast, making it a formidable defense against invaders.

The fortress was used for many years to protect the city’s valuable trade routes and was also used as a prison for political prisoners during the colonial period between 1,500 and the late 1700s.

A city cannot be under siege as often as Veracruz throughout history without building an impressive fortress to safeguard its ranks.

Today, the fortress is open to visitors and offers a glimpse into the past. Visitors can explore the many exhibits and displays that cover a wide range of topics, from the fortress’s construction and history to the daily life of the soldiers and prisoners who lived there.

The central part of the fortress used to be a notoriously savage prison during the regime of Porfirio Díaz. The building is now empty so you to wander through the abandoned passageways, battlements, and bridges.

Visitors can also explore the fortress’s many fortifications, including the walls, towers, and moat that protected the castle from invaders.

One of the highlights of the fortress is the collection of artifacts from the fortress’s history. Visitors can see old weapons, uniforms, and equipment that were used by the soldiers who defended the fortress.

They can also learn about the daily life of the prisoners who were held there, including the kinds of crimes they were accused of and the conditions they lived in.

Be sure to take in the panoramic view of the Gulf of Mexico and the city of Veracruz from the fortress’s walls. The view is breathtaking and offers a great perspective on the city’s strategic location on the Gulf of Mexico.

Museo Historico Naval

You couldn’t visit a port city without visiting its naval history museum. The Museo Histórico Naval in Veracruz, Mexico is a must-see attraction for history buffs and maritime enthusiasts.

Housed in what was formerly a naval academy, Museo Histórico Naval is one of those absolute must things to do in Veracruz MX.

Discover the heritage story of Veracruz, the pre-Colombian navigation, and Columbus’ discovery of the New World within the attractive layout and interactive exhibits.

The museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the rich naval history of Mexico, with a particular focus on the role that the port of Veracruz has played in the country’s maritime history.

Former Mexican Navy Headquarters – The museum is housed in a beautiful 19th-century building that was once the headquarters of the Mexican Navy. The building has been beautifully restored and now serves as a fascinating glimpse into the past.

You can explore the many exhibits and displays that cover a wide range of topics, from the early history of seafaring in Mexico to the country’s naval battles and achievements.

Model Ship Collection – One of the highlights of the museum is the collection of ship models. The collection features a wide range of ships, from ancient canoes to modern warships. The models are incredibly detailed and provide a great insight into the design and construction of ships throughout history.

Naval Artifacts – Another highlight of the museum is the collection of artifacts from Mexico’s naval history. The museum has a large collection of weapons, uniforms, maps, and other items that tell the story of Mexico’s naval history. You will see cannons, swords, and muskets that were used in battle, as well as the uniforms and other equipment worn by sailors and officers.

Artwork – The museum also has a collection of paintings and other artwork that illustrate the history of the Mexican Navy. Many of the paintings depict famous naval battles and famous naval heroes. Visitors can also see a collection of nautical charts and maps that were used by sailors to navigate the seas.

Acuario de Veracruz

Another one of those must things to do in Veracruz Mexico is the aquarium. It is famed to be one of the best in Latin America.

Get to know the fishier locals with species from around the Gulf of Mexico.

Don’t miss out on the central feature of the aquarium: a large doughnut-shaped tank filled with barracuda, and eagle rays, along with tiger, reef, and nurse sharks that swim all around you.

The Acuario de Veracruz, or Veracruz Aquarium, is a popular attraction and home to a wide variety of marine life, including fish, sharks, rays, and sea turtles, making it a great destination for families and visitors of all ages.

The aquarium is divided into several different sections, each dedicated to a different type of marine life.

Shark Tank – Explore the shark tank, which is home to several different species of sharks, including the sand tiger shark and the bull shark.

Ray Pool – The ray pool is also a popular attraction, where you can see these gentle creatures up close and even touch them if you want.

Tropical Fish – The aquarium also has a wide variety of fish on display, including tropical fish, eels, and even sea horses.

Sea Turtles – Visitors can also see sea turtles, which are kept in a large tank that simulates their natural habitat.

Marine Mammals – The aquarium also has a section dedicated to marine mammals, such as dolphins, which visitors can watch as they swim and perform tricks.

Interactive Touch Tank – One of the highlights of the aquarium is the interactive touch tank, where visitors can touch and learn about different marine creatures like starfish, sea urchins and other invertebrates.

Swimming with Dolphins – The aquarium also offers visitors the opportunity to snorkel and swim with the dolphins, which is a unique and exciting experience.

Conservation – The aquarium also has a section dedicated to the conservation and protection of marine life. Here, you will learn about the many threats that marine life faces, including pollution and overfishing. Find out what can be done to help protect these creatures. The aquarium also participates in breeding programs for threatened and endangered species, helping to ensure their survival for future generations.

Educational Programs – In addition, the aquarium offers various educational programs for children and adults on marine life and conservation. These programs are designed to educate visitors about the importance of marine ecosystems and the role they play in our planet’s health.

Museo de la Ciudad de Veracruz

The museum of Veracruz’s history can be found in a lovely building built during the colonial era. This is one of those things to do in Veracruz that history buffs will love as this museum is all about the city’s heritage dating back to the pre-Hispanic era.

Indigenous exhibits include some very unique pieces by the Totonaca and Huastec that help round out the retelling of Veracruz through all stages of its history. The museum’s courtyard is also utilized for many cultural and dance events.

The Museo de la Ciudad de Veracruz, or Veracruz City Museum, is also a must-see attraction for anyone interested in the history and culture of the Mexican port city of Veracruz. They are dedicated to preserving and showcasing the rich history of the city, from its early days as a major port and trading center to its role in the country’s political and cultural development.

This museum is housed in a beautiful 19th-century building that was once the residence of a wealthy merchant. The building has been beautifully restored and now serves as a fascinating glimpse into the past. Explore the many exhibits and displays that cover a wide range of topics, from the early history of Veracruz to the city’s role in the Mexican Revolution.

One of the highlights of the museum is the collection of artifacts from the city’s history. The museum has a large collection of items that tell the story of Veracruz, from pottery and ceramics to weapons and tools. There’s also a collection of photographs and paintings that illustrate the city’s history and culture.

The museum also has a large collection of manuscripts and documents that provide a glimpse into the city’s past. Visitors can see old maps, letters, and other documents that tell the story of Veracruz, from its early days as a port to its role in the Mexican Revolution.

The museum also has a section dedicated to the city’s cultural heritage. You can learn about the city’s traditional music, dance, and art, and see examples of traditional crafts and clothing. Learn about the city’s festivals and celebrations, which are an important part of Veracruz’s cultural heritage.

Centro Cultural La Atarazana

Experience the art and culture of Veracruz in this converted colonial warehouse exhibition space.

You’ll find a striking mural by Melchor Peredo, the Mexican muralist, along with rotating exhibitions of ceramics, modern installations, and contemporary art.

The Centro Cultural La Atarazana is a historic and cultural center housed in a beautifully restored 19th-century building that was once used as a shipyard, known as the Atarazana.

The building has been converted into a cultural center, offering visitors a glimpse into the city’s rich history and culture.

The Centro Cultural La Atarazana is home to a wide variety of exhibits and displays that cover a wide range of topics, from the city’s early history to its role in the country’s political and cultural development. You can see a collection of photographs and paintings plus old maps, letters, and other documents that tell the story of Veracruz, from its early days as a port to its role in the Mexican Revolution.

More About Veracruz

There is a myriad of other things to do in Veracruz Mexico as well. This city is a colonial port city surrounded by lush jungles and mangroves. This unique combination of coastal and jungle environments makes for a diverse and beautiful landscape that is perfect for exploring.

Location – Its strategic position, however, made it the primary link between colonial Mexico and Spain. This mix of influences is responsible for the Spanish and Caribbean creole blend that can be seen in everything from the architecture to the culture and cuisine.

Where Veracruz is located did have one major downside.

The city’s easy connection to Puebla and Mexico City made it a target throughout history, and Veracruz has been attacked and taken over multiple times. The streets are littered with the resulting hybrid architecture and patchwork of working docks.

While not as uniform as other colonial cities, Veracruz still has a lot to offer!

Cuisine – Veracruz is also known for its delicious cuisine. The city is famous for its seafood, and there are many great restaurants to choose from. Some of the most popular seafood dishes in Veracruz include huachinango a la talla, which is a grilled red snapper, and camarones al coco, which is shrimp cooked in coconut milk.

For those looking for a more traditional Mexican experience, there are also many great street food vendors in the city.

Festivals & Celebrations – Veracruz is also famous for its traditional festivals and celebrations.

One of the most popular festivals is the Day of the Dead, which is celebrated every November 1st and 2nd. During this festival, the city comes alive with colorful parades, traditional music, and delicious food.

Another popular festival is the Feria de Veracruz, which is held every year in February. The festival features traditional music, dance, and food and is a great way to experience the local culture.

Visit Veracruz Mexico with Caravan Tours!

Make sure you visit this unique colonial city next time you want to visit Mexico.

With all the museums, the fortress, the cuisine, the aquarium, and the many festivals, there is no shortage of things to do in Veracruz Mexico. You can experience Veracruz as part of our Caravan Mexico Ancient Civilizations tour, which also includes visits to:

Still family-owned and celebrating our 70th year in 2022, Caravan Tours offers fully guided tours throughout Central America including Mexico, Guatemala, Panama, and Costa Rica, our most popular tour.

We also offer a Copper Canyon Mexico tour plus many tours in the United States and Canada.

All our fully guided tours are affordably priced, and most do sell out once you know your preferred date, do book early.

Book now and experience Mexico with Caravan.

• Call toll-free 1-800-Caravan (227-2826)
Book a Mexico Ancient Tour Now


Veracruz Mexico FAQs

What time is it in Veracruz Mexico?

Veracruz Mexico is in Central Standard Time.

Where is the city of Veracruz Mexico?

Veracruz is a centrally located port city on the Gulf of Mexico.

How far is the city of Veracruz from Mexico City?

The city of Veracruz is 263 miles (423km) from Mexico City.

How far is the city of Veracruz from Puebla Mexico?

Veracruz City is 175 miles (281km) from Puebla Mexico.

What is the population of Veracruz Mexico?

The state of Veracruz Mexico has over 8 million people and the port city of Herioca Veracruz has just under 608,000.

If your bucket list includes stunning nature tours and outdoor adventures, then it may be time for you to discover all the things to do in Copper Canyon Mexico.

Copper Canyon, also known as the Barrancas del Cobre, is in the province of Chihuahua and part of the Sierra Madre Occidental Mountain range. It is an amazing series of canyons that are deeper and longer than the Grand Canyon in the United States! Read more

If you are looking for a vibrant and culturally rich Central American city, there’s plenty to see and a wide variety of things to do in Puebla Mexico.

Mexico is rife with stunning ruins, delicious cuisine, and magical cities. If you love colonial architecture, you can’t miss a trip to the city of Puebla, which is located just over two hours southeast of Mexico City. Read more

Visit One of Mexico’s Grandest Archaeological Sites

Teotihuacan Mexico is part of our Caravan Mexico Ancient Civilizations Tour and ideal for anyone who longs to channel their inner Indiana Jones.

The magnificent ruins of Mexico’s most impressive archeological site are a bucket list must if you are planning a trip to Mexico City.

This pre-Aztec ancient city is located just 30 miles (50 km) northeast of the country’s capital. Read more

Top Urban and Natural Attractions in Chihuahua

In this post, Caravan explores 8 unique things to do in Chihuahua Mexico.

A visit to northern Mexico wouldn’t be complete without a trip through the iconic Copper Canyon by train. But there’s more than just natural beauty to explore in Chihuahua, Mexico.

Chihuahua City is a modern metropolis with colonial roots and the capital of the Chihuahua State in northern Mexico.

Read more

Experience Mexico City with These Top 7 Experiences

All-inclusive resorts are great, but if you’re looking for things to do in Mexico City and want to explore the heart of Mexican culture then you can’t go wrong here in the nation’s capital.

Mexico City is the largest and most populated metropolitan area in the Western Hemisphere.

There are over 20 million people in this metropolis (as of 2022) and growing every year! It is also the economic and cultural heart of Mexico with no shortage of sights to see for the voracious traveler. Read more

A Unique Cultural Experience Only Found in Copper Canyon MX

Meet the Tarahumara Indians of Mexico. Travel with Caravan Tours on our fully guided Copper Canyon train tour. Read more

Magic Town of History and Legend

The Magic Town of El Fuerte Mexico can be found in the northwestern state of Sinaloa.

El Fuerte Sinaloa is a colonial town rich in history, traditions, and wonderfully preserved architecture offering a perfect blend of culture and top-notch vacation photos.

A trip to Mexico usually evokes the image of sandy beaches, azure waters, and an all-inclusive stay with every amenity at your fingertips. Nothing wrong with that! Read more