Mexico Travel Advisory , this article will guide you and provide tips regarding every aspects of your protection during traveling in Mexico. Crime is a big problem in Mexico, with things like murder, kidnapping, car theft, and robbery happening a lot. It’s tough for the U.S. government to help Americans in some places because they can’t send their people there. Emergency services in many states are not very good, especially outside big cities. Stay alert and be cautious if you’re in Mexico.
Safety Guidelines for U.S. Citizens in Mexico
Follow the rules for U.S. government workers while in Mexico. Different states have their own rules, mentioned in the state advisories below. Government workers can’t travel between cities at night, can’t hail taxis on the street, and must use services like Uber or official taxi stands. It’s safer for them to avoid traveling alone, especially in remote areas. Also, they can only drive in certain areas during the day, like in Baja California, between Nogales and Hermosillo on Mexican Federal Highway 15D, and between Nuevo Laredo and Monterrey on Highway 85D.
Caution in Guerrero State, Mexico
Advisory: Don’t go to Guerrero State because it’s not safe. After Hurricane Otis, the security situation is bad, with a risk of armed violence, banditry, and looting on the streets and roads.
This advisory doesn’t include the cities of Ixtapa/Zihuatanejo and Taxco, but you should still be very careful there.
Travel Caution – Some Places to Avoid
Advisory: Don’t travel to certain areas unless it’s really necessary because there’s a lot of violence and organized crime:
- All of Chihuahua
- All of Colima, except for the city of Manzanillo
- All of Coahuila, except the southern part below the Saltillo-Torreón highway corridor
- All of Durango, except Durango City
- Certain parts of Guanajuato
- Highway 45 between León and Irapuato
- The area south of Highway 45D between Irapuato and Celaya
- All of Michoacán, except for the city of Morelia
- Certain parts of Morelos
- Lagunas de Zempoala National Park and nearby areas
- The municipality of Xoxocotla
- Certain parts of Nayarit
- The area within 20 km of the border with Sinaloa and Durango
- The city of Tepic
- All of Nuevo León, except for the city of Monterrey
- All of Sinaloa, except for the city of Mazatlán
- All of Sonora, except for the cities of Hermosillo and Guaymas/San Carlos and Puerto Peñasco
- All of Tamaulipas
- All of Zacatecas
Safety Alert for Guerrero State, Mexico
Advisory: Guerrero State is not safe after Hurricane Otis hit on October 25, 2023. The security situation is getting worse and is hard to predict. The storm damaged roads and communication, making many places cut off and increasing the risk of crime and gang activity.
Some areas are especially dangerous, like:
- Acapulco
- The highway between Acapulco and Zihuantanejo
- The highway between Acapulco and Chilpancingo
Don’t go to Guerrero State. If you are there despite the warning, be very careful:
- Don’t travel alone or after dark
- Stay alert all the time
- Watch the local news for updates
- Do what local authorities say to stay safe.
Crime Situation in Mexico – Stay Safe and Informed
Overview: Crime, especially violent crime, is widespread in Mexico. Arrest and detention rates are low, and they don’t stop criminals from doing illegal activities.
Active Criminal Groups: Dangerous criminal groups, like drug cartels, are very active. They often fight each other for control of areas, drugs, and smuggling routes.
Government Response: In some places, the military, navy, and federal police are working to fight organized crime and make things safer. You might see them patrolling streets, setting up roadblocks, and checking vehicles randomly.
Travel Tips:
- Be careful all the time
- Stay in tourist areas
- Be extra cautious on big highways
- Avoid traveling at night
- Keep an eye on local news
If a Crime Happens:
- Report it to local authorities right away
- You must make a formal complaint in person before leaving Mexico
- Hire a local lawyer to help with your case when you get back to Canada
- Not doing this might mean the investigation is not complete, or it takes a long time to go to court.
Violent Crime Advisory for Mexico
Overview: Violent crime rates are high in Mexico, with incidents like homicides, kidnappings, carjackings, and assaults, even in popular tourist spots like the Mayan Riviera (Cancún, Playa del Carmen, Puerto Morelos, and Tulum), and Acapulco.
Presence of Criminal Groups: Tourist areas have criminal groups and drug cartels. They sometimes fight in places tourists visit, like restaurants, hotels, and nightclubs, putting innocent bystanders at risk.
Risk in Border Areas: Border regions, especially in rural areas, have higher criminal activity and violence. Confrontations between criminal groups and Mexican authorities are a constant danger, leading to shootouts, attacks, and unexpected roadblocks.
Travel Recommendations:
- Prefer flying to Mexico, especially to these cities along the U.S. border: Ciudad Juárez, Nuevo Laredo, Reynosa.
- If using land borders, be extremely cautious.
- Only use official border crossings.
- Avoid traveling at night.
Tips: Avoiding Armed Robbery in Mexico
Overview: Armed robbery is a risk, and foreigners have been victims of robberies that may involve violence.
Safety Measures:
Choose Secure Accommodation: Stay in hotels and resorts with strong security measures.
Stay Calm if Threatened: If faced with robbers, stay calm and avoid resisting. Your safety is the top priority.
Be Cautious with Money Transactions: Robbers may target those who have just exchanged or withdrawn money at airports, currency exchange bureaus (casas de cambio), or ATMs.
Avoid Public Money Transactions: Refrain from withdrawing or exchanging money in public areas of the airport.
By following these precautions, you can reduce the risk of becoming a target for armed robbery in Mexico.
Tips to Prevent Assaults in Mexico
Overview: Canadian travelers have faced physical and sexual assaults, sometimes involving hotel staff, taxi drivers, and security personnel at popular tourist spots.
Safety Guidelines:
No Nighttime Walking: Avoid walking after dark, especially if you’re alone. Nighttime can be riskier.
Stay Away from Isolated Areas: Steer clear of isolated or deserted places where the risk of assault may be higher.
Choose Secure Accommodation: Opt for hotels and resorts with good security measures to ensure your safety.
Drink Responsibly: Avoid excessive alcohol consumption, as it can make you more vulnerable to potential dangers.
By following these simple guidelines, you can help reduce the risk of encountering assaults during your travels in Mexico.
Guarding Against Fraud
Overview: Credit card and ATM fraud can happen in Mexico. Here are steps to protect yourself when using debit or credit cards:
Safety Measures:
Be Alert: Pay close attention when others handle your cards, ensuring they are not misused.
Choose Safe ATMs: Use ATMs located in public areas, inside banks, or businesses to minimize the risk of fraud.
Be Wary of Card Readers: Avoid using card readers with irregular or unusual features that may indicate tampering.
Protect Your PIN: Cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN to prevent unauthorized access.
Monitor Transactions: Regularly check your account statements for any unauthorized or suspicious transactions.
By following these precautions, you can help prevent credit card and ATM fraud during your time in Mexico.
Watch Out for Overcharging
Overview: In some places, bars and nightclubs might try to charge very high prices. Talking about it could lead to threats or forceful actions from security guards. Here’s how to protect yourself:
Safety Tips:
Avoid Tabs: Don’t run a tab or leave your credit card with the bar or restaurant staff to prevent unexpected charges.
By following these tips, you can steer clear of overcharging issues and enjoy a safer experience at bars and nightclubs in certain areas.
Protect Yourself: Dealing with Extortion by Police Officers
Overview: Tourists have faced extortion by legitimate police officers for minor offenses like drinking alcohol on the street, urinating in public, or traffic violations. Here’s what to do if you find yourself in such a situation:
Safety Guidelines:
Keep Your Money and Passport: Don’t hand over your money or passport immediately.
Ask for Details: Request the officer’s name, badge, and patrol car number for identification purposes.
Demand Proper Procedure: Ask for a copy of the written fine, which should be payable at a later date. Alternatively, insist on going to the nearest police station to handle the situation appropriately.
By following these steps, you can protect yourself from potential extortion attempts by police officers while ensuring a fair resolution to the situation.
Understanding and Preventing Kidnappings in Mexico
Overview: Mexico has one of the world’s highest kidnapping rates, posing a significant security risk. Kidnappings, including virtual and express kidnappings, happen throughout the country.
Kidnapping Targets: Kidnappers target people from all classes, including Canadian citizens and contractors working for Canadian businesses. Incidents often occur in areas outside the control of police and security forces.
Safety Tips:
- In Case of Kidnapping:
- Comply with kidnappers’ requests.
- Do not attempt to resist.
- Express Kidnappings:
- Common in large urban areas, involving small, immediate ransoms.
- Thieves often pose as taxi drivers, forcing victims to withdraw money from ATMs for their release.
Preventive Measures:
- Use Reputable Transportation:
- Only use a reputable taxi company or trusted ride-sharing app.
- Book taxis through your hotel or an authorized taxi stand (sitio).
By following these guidelines, you can enhance your safety and reduce the risk of falling victim to kidnappings or express kidnappings in Mexico.
Protecting Yourself: Tips to Prevent Theft in Mexico
Overview: Petty theft, including pickpocketing and purse snatching, is common in Mexico. Additionally, tourists staying in rental homes may face break-ins and burglaries. Here’s how to stay safe:
Preventing Petty Theft:
- Stay Aware:
- Be alert in areas where pickpocketing is common.
- Stay vigilant even in places considered safe.
- Secure Your Belongings:
- Keep your passport and travel documents secure.
- Avoid displaying expensive items like jewelry, cell phones, headphones, and designer bags.
- Carry Small Amounts:
- Only carry small amounts of money.
- Be cautious when using ATMs.
Preventing Home Break-ins:
- Lock Up:
- Ensure windows and doors are securely locked in your rental home.
- Practice the same precautions in both private and commercial accommodations.
By following these simple tips, you can reduce the risk of petty theft and home break-ins, ensuring a safer experience during your time in Mexico.
Ensuring Women’s Safety: Tips for Solo Travelers
Overview: Women traveling alone may face harassment and verbal abuse in certain situations. Incidents of assault, rape, and sexual assault against Canadian women have occurred, even at beach resorts and on public buses. Here are safety guidelines:
Safety Tips:
Be Cautious with Strangers:
- Exercise caution when dealing with people you don’t know well.
- Stay alert and trust your instincts.
Wary of Invitations:
- Be cautious about accepting rides or invitations from strangers or recent acquaintances.
- Prioritize your safety over social invitations.
Drink Responsibly:
- Avoid excessive alcohol consumption, as it can impair judgment and make you more vulnerable.
By following these safety tips, women traveling alone can enhance their safety and reduce the risk of harassment and potential dangers during their journeys.
Guarding Against Harm: Tips for Food and Drink Safety
Overview: Protect yourself from potential dangers related to spiked food and drinks as well as unregulated alcohol while traveling. Here’s how:
Safety Measures:
- Never Leave Your Food or Drinks Unattended:
- Always keep an eye on your food and drinks, and don’t leave them in the care of strangers.
- Be cautious about accepting snacks, beverages, gum, or cigarettes from new acquaintances, as they may contain drugs.
- Beware of Counterfeit Alcohol:
- Some places may serve fake alcohol, leading to sickness or blackout for some travelers.
- Exercise caution when choosing to drink alcohol.
- Drink Responsibly:
- If you choose to drink alcohol, do so cautiously.
- Seek immediate medical assistance if you start feeling sick.
Guidelines for Dealing with Demonstrations in Mexico
Overview: Demonstrations happen regularly throughout Mexico, and protests and roadblocks are common in specific areas, including Mexico City, Chiapas, Guerrero, Michoacán, and Oaxaca. These incidents may cause shortages of essential items like food, medicine, and gasoline. Here’s what you should do:
Safety Tips:
- Avoid Crowded Areas:
- Stay away from places where demonstrations or large gatherings are happening.
- These gatherings can lead to disruptions in traffic and public transportation.
- Stay Informed:
- Monitor local media for updates on ongoing demonstrations.
- Keep yourself informed about the current situation.
- Follow Authorities’ Instructions:
- Follow the instructions given by local authorities to ensure your safety.
- Be prepared to adapt your plans if needed.
By following these guidelines, you can navigate demonstrations safely and minimize potential risks during your time in Mexico.
Guidelines for Water Activities
Overview: When engaging in water activities, especially swimming, be aware of potential dangers in coastal waters. Here’s what you need to know:
Safety Guidelines:
- Understand Coastal Risks:
- Coastal waters can be dangerous, with common riptides leading to several drownings each year.
- Many beaches may lack warnings of hazardous conditions and might not have lifeguards on duty.
- Be Informed:
- Consult local residents and tour operators for information on potential hazards and safe swimming areas.
- Learn about the local conditions before heading to the water.
- Obey Warning Flags:
- Always pay attention to warning flags displayed at beaches.
- Different flags indicate various water conditions; follow their instructions.
- Follow Local Authorities’ Instructions:
- Abide by the instructions and warnings given by local authorities.
- If there are safety guidelines, make sure to follow them for your well-being.
Safe Water Sports: Important Guidelines for Tourists
Overview: Engaging in water sports can be enjoyable, but it’s crucial to prioritize safety, as not all tour operators follow international standards. Here’s what you need to know:
Safety Guidelines:
- Choose Reputable Operators:
- Select well-established and reputable companies for water sports, ensuring they have proper insurance coverage.
- Check Your Travel Insurance:
- Confirm that your travel insurance covers the specific recreational activities you plan to undertake.
- Wear Appropriate Safety Gear:
- Use the right safety equipment, such as helmets and life jackets, for your chosen water sport.
- Inspect Equipment:
- Make sure the equipment is available and in good condition before starting any water activity.
- Avoid Alcohol:
- Refrain from consuming alcohol before participating in water sports, as it can impair judgment.
- Trust Your Instincts:
- If you have doubts about the safety of facilities or equipment, choose not to use them.
By following these guidelines, you can enhance your safety while enjoying water sports and reduce the risk of accidents or unforeseen issues during your recreational activities.
Important Tips for Driving in Mexico
Overview: Road conditions and safety in Mexico can vary, and certain risks are associated with driving. Here’s what you need to know:
Road Conditions and Risks:
- Hazards on Roads:
- Watch out for sharp curves, poorly marked signs, construction sites, roaming livestock, and slow-moving or abandoned vehicles.
- Toll Highways:
- Toll highways are generally safer and better maintained than secondary roads.
Driving Culture and Enforcement:
- Different Driving Styles:
- Mexican driving styles can differ significantly from those in Canada, with drivers often not following traffic laws.
- Limited Law Enforcement:
- Traffic laws may not be strictly enforced, and police don’t regularly patrol highways.
Roadblocks and Checkpoints:
- Security Concerns:
- Illegal roadblocks and demonstrations are common, and criminal groups may target certain vehicles.
- Military Checkpoints:
- The military conducts searches for drugs and firearms at checkpoints throughout the country.
Safe Practices for Road Travel:
- Avoid Night Travel:
- Avoid driving at night between cities throughout the country.
- Choose Safe Stops:
- Stop only in major centers, reputable hotels, or secure campsites.
- Secure Your Vehicle:
- Keep car doors locked and windows closed, especially at traffic lights.
- Do not leave valuables in the vehicle.
- Rental Car Tips:
- Rent cars without stickers or advertisements, as they may be targeted for robbery.
- Ensure operators provide insurance and helmets when renting scooters.
- Toll Roads:
- Travel on toll roads to lower the risk of targeted roadblocks and robberies.
- Avoid Roadblocks:
- Never attempt to cross roadblocks, even if they seem unattended.
By following these guidelines, you can enhance your safety while driving in Mexico and reduce the risk of encountering road-related challenges.
Safe Public Transportation: Tips for Travelers in Mexico
Overview: When using public transportation in Mexico, it’s crucial to remain vigilant and be aware of potential risks. Here are guidelines for different modes of public transport:
Safety Tips:
- Metro in Mexico City:
- The metro is often crowded and prone to pickpocketing.
- Dedicated metro cars for women and children are available during rush hours, located at the front of the trains.
- Buses in Mexico City:
- The Metrobus is relatively safe, with dedicated sections for women and children at the front.
- Be cautious when using “colectivos” and “pesero” mini-buses, as they are frequent targets for robbery.
- Inter-City Bus Travel:
- Use bus companies offering VIP or executive class transportation, traveling on toll roads to reduce the risk of roadblocks and robberies.
- Taxis and Ridesharing:
- In Mexico City, authorized taxis have license plates starting with “A” or “B” and are pink and white.
- Avoid hailing taxis on the street and refrain from sharing with strangers.
- At airports, pre-pay the taxi fare and validate official taxis using the CDMX app.
- When using ridesharing apps, confirm the driver’s identity and license plate before getting in the car.
By following these safety tips, you can enhance your security while using public transportation in Mexico and reduce the risk of encountering potential issues during your travels.
Cruise Ship Travel
Overview: Planning a cruise departing from or stopping in Mexico requires careful consideration. Here are specific pieces of advice for cruise travelers:
Safety Tips:
- Piracy Concerns:
- Pirate attacks and armed robbery can occur in the coastal waters of the Bay of Campeche.
- Mariners should take appropriate precautions to ensure their safety.
- Stay Informed:
- Stay updated on piracy incidents by referring to the Live Piracy Report from the International Maritime Bureau.
Air Travel
- No Assessments on Domestic Airlines:
- Note that assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards are not provided.
By being aware of piracy concerns and staying informed about safety standards, cruise travelers can better prepare for their journey and prioritize their safety during stops in Mexico.
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