For health safety, please consult the CDC Mexico Traveler View with current health notices, vaccine recommendations, and other advice for healthy travel.
News reports of drug cartel violence in Mexico’s border zone and large cities have been unfortunate and caused a lot of concern about safety for Acción Ministries. We take our staff and volunteers’ safety VERY SERIOUSLY, and are happy to report that the Yucatan Peninsula where Acción operates is still a very safe place for both Mexican and American citizens. Our area of operation is far removed from the violence in the north and other cities in Mexico.
The Mexico Travel Advisory from the U.S. State Department distinguishes different Mexican states. While the country has more dangerous areas, the Map on this site shows it to be much safer in the Yucatan peninsula, where Acción does ministry. In fact, the 11/17/23 map shows the Yucatan state to be one of the safest places in the world at lowest Level 1 (Exercise Normal Precautions) and Quintana Roo state, with Cancun and VIM, at Level 2 (Exercise increased caution — same as most of western Europe).
Most of the Yucatan is scattered small towns where everyone knows each other and crime rates are very low. Merida is a large city, but well-policed and very safe. Because of the hot climate, people tend to go out at night when it’s cooler, even families and children, so walking around at night is safe.
Most of our safety concerns for volunteers relate to food safety and the hot climate in the Yucatan. Temperatures in the summer are typically over 100°F during the day, with very high humidity. Heat-related illnesses, especially sunburn and dehydration are our biggest safety concern for volunteers. Both are easily preventable beforehand and treatable if they occur. Our Team Leader’s Handbook offers more advice for volunteers traveling to Mexico with Acción Ministries.
Rest assured we want your interaction with us to be a very safe and positive experience!
