Mexico is a popular destination for travelers, but it’s crucial to be aware of safety and security concerns before you go. Violent crime, such as homicide, kidnapping, carjacking, and robbery, is widespread throughout the country. The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in many areas, and local emergency services may be limited outside major cities.
Understanding Risk Levels in Mexico
The U.S. Department of State issues travel advisories for Mexico, categorizing different areas based on safety and security risks. These advisories range from “Exercise Normal Precautions” to “Do Not Travel.” Before planning your trip, consult the latest travel advisories for specific regions and states within Mexico. Restrictions may apply to U.S. government employees in certain areas, and it’s advised that travelers adhere to these restrictions as well. These restrictions often include limitations on nighttime travel between cities, using street-hailed taxis, and traveling alone in remote areas. U.S. government employees generally rely on dispatched vehicles, including app-based services and regulated taxi stands.
State-Specific Travel Advisories for Mexico
Safety conditions vary significantly across Mexico. Some states experience higher rates of crime and violence than others. Below is a summary of current travel advisories for each Mexican state:
Do Not Travel To:
- Colima: Widespread violent crime and gang activity, including targeted assassinations and kidnappings.
- Guerrero: Widespread crime and violence, with armed groups operating independently of the government. U.S. government employees are prohibited from traveling to Guerrero, including tourist areas like Acapulco.
- Michoacan: Widespread crime and violence, including kidnapping. Limited travel permitted for U.S. government employees on specific highways and to certain cities by air.
- Sinaloa: Widespread violent crime and significant presence of criminal organizations. Limited travel permitted for U.S. government employees to specific cities by air or sea.
- Tamaulipas: High risk of crime and kidnapping, especially along the northern border. Limited travel permitted for U.S. government employees within a small radius of U.S. Consulates in certain cities.
- Zacatecas: Widespread violent crime, extortion, and gang activity. Limited travel permitted for U.S. government employees to Zacatecas City proper, with no overland travel allowed.
Reconsider Travel To:
- Baja California: Crime and kidnapping are concerns, particularly in non-tourist areas of Tijuana. Transnational criminal organizations compete in this border area.
- Chiapas: Risk of crime throughout the state, with specific restrictions for U.S. government employees in certain southeastern regions.
- Chihuahua: Crime and kidnapping are prevalent. Limited travel permitted for U.S. government employees to specific areas with restrictions. Avoid Copper Canyon.
- Guanajuato: High risk of gang violence, particularly in the south and central areas. Limited travel permitted for U.S. government employees to the north of Federal Highway 45D.
- Jalisco: Crime and kidnapping are concerns, especially in Guadalajara. Limited travel permitted for U.S. government employees, with restrictions on certain highways and border areas.
- Morelos: Crime and kidnapping are common.
Exercise Increased Caution When Traveling To:
- Aguascalientes: Increased caution due to crime.
- Baja California Sur: Increased caution due to crime.
- Coahuila: Increased caution due to crime, with restrictions for U.S. government employees in certain municipalities.
- Durango: Increased caution due to crime, with restrictions on travel west and south of Federal Highway 45 for U.S. government employees.
- Hidalgo: Increased caution due to crime.
- Mexico City: Increased caution due to both violent and non-violent crime.
- Mexico State: Increased caution due to crime and kidnapping.
- Nayarit: Increased caution due to crime.
- Nuevo Leon: Increased caution due to crime.
- Oaxaca: Increased caution due to crime, with restrictions for U.S. government employees in the Isthmus region and on certain highways.
- Puebla: Increased caution due to crime and kidnapping.
- Queretaro: Increased caution due to crime.
- Quintana Roo: Increased caution due to crime, particularly in Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum after dark. Exercise increased vigilance in tourist areas.
- San Luis Potosi: Increased caution due to crime and kidnapping.
- Tabasco: Increased caution due to crime.
- Tlaxcala: Increased caution due to crime.
- Veracruz: Increased caution due to increased frequency of violent crime and gang activity.
Exercise Normal Precautions When Traveling To:
- Campeche: No specific safety concerns.
- Yucatan: No specific safety concerns. Popular tourist destinations like Chichen Itza and Merida are located in this state.
Safety Precautions for Traveling in Mexico
Regardless of your destination, taking precautions is crucial for safe travel in Mexico:
- Stay Informed: Consult the latest travel advisories and stay updated on security conditions.
- Share Your Plans: Keep family and friends informed of your itinerary and location.
- Use Toll Roads: Opt for toll roads whenever possible and avoid driving at night.
- Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Avoid displaying signs of wealth and be vigilant in crowded areas, bars, nightclubs, and ATMs.
- Enroll in STEP: Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts and facilitate assistance in emergencies.
By staying informed and taking necessary precautions, you can mitigate risks and enjoy a safe and memorable trip to Mexico. Remember that this information is for guidance only, and conditions can change rapidly. Always consult official sources for the most up-to-date information before and during your travel.
