If you’re planning on traveling to the Cancun region over the next few weeks, know that some tourist areas will be monitored to see if Covid health and safety protocols are being followed.
As the Quintana Roo state received ‘Orange’ status last week in the country’s epidemiological traffic light system, officials are working to keep the spread of Covid at bay throughout the region, according to reports in the Cancun Sun.
“We Are Facing A Very Important Moment,” Says Quintana Roo Governor
The governor of Quintana Roo, Carlos Joaquin, expressed concerns of the rise in cases and that actions should be taken immediately. “We are facing a very important moment,” the governor said following the announcement.
“What we do will be reflected in what will happen in the coming weeks,” he continued. The hope is to avoid a red alert in the coming weeks.
Mexico’s epidemiological traffic light system is divided by alert level (green, yellow, orange and red) and it is based on the region’s reported rate of Covid infections and hospital occupancy.
Orange Alert Comes Following Weeks In Yellow Status
Following months of bouncing between green and yellow status on the traffic light system, last week’s announcement of the orange designation felt somewhat urgent.
Region Norte of Quintana Roo (which includes Tulum, Cozumel, Cancun and Playa del Carmen) was previously given orange status last June for a few weeks. While the area was able to avoid lockdowns, restrictions were put in place such as limiting capacity at restaurants and many indoor activities.
According to the state’s guidance, restaurants, hotels, historic sights, theme parks and other tourist establishments should operate at 50% capacity when under orange alert.
How Will Travelers To Cancun Be Affected?
Quintana Roo’s orange status is scheduled to remain until at least February 6. Officials are yet to announce any curfews in the region. As for local businesses, they are currently operating at around 80% capacity.
Mask-wearing and hand sanitizing is being enforced in many large essential businesses like shopping malls, convenience stores, grocery stores and public transportation.
All servers and hosts wear masks at restaurants, clubs and bars in the region. As a patron, you are encouraged to wear a mask while walking to your table and to the bathroom, but not while seated. It is also advised that you wear a mask and respect social distancing when checking into a hotel, inside the airport and on a group tour.
This week’s news also follows the alert issued by the U.S. consulate to reconsider travel to the region of Quintana Roo, citing recent news of violence and criminal activity in some popular tourist destinations frequented by U.S. travelers.
What Are The Covid Case Counts In Mexico?
According to Reuters Covid-19 Tracker, Mexico is at 90% of its peak. January 23 was the highest reported daily average so far, and around 38,000 new infections countrywide are currently reported daily on average.
The current 7-day average for Quintana Roo is approximately 800 new cases per day.
Cancun, Quintana Roo A Popular Holiday Destination
Quintana Roo is home to the most popular destinations in the Mexican Caribbean, including the resort city of Cancun. A record-breaking number of travelers have been arriving at Cancun International Airport over the past two years, as Mexico has boomed to become one of the biggest tourist destinations in the world.
Other popular destinations in the region are nearby Playa del Carmen, Tulum and Bacalar, located along the Riviera Maya.
Current Entry Restrictions For Mexico
Mexico has ended all Covid-19 entry requirements. Masks are required on all forms of public transportation (including taxis, ADO buses and colectivos).
Masks are also required in indoor spaces like shopping malls, grocery stores, museums and boutiques. Some establishments may also scan your temperature prior to entry, and hand sanitizer is available at the front entrance of most shops.
