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U.S. Issues Travel Warning for Mexico Ahead of Spring Break

The warning is asking travelers to “travel smart” and “be informed."

marako85/Getty Images

The United States is warning travelers heading to Mexico to be aware of their surroundings ahead of the spring break holiday season.

The warning , which was issued this week by the U.S. Embassy and Consulates in Mexico, reminds travelers to “travel smart” and “be informed” as “thousands of U.S. citizens visit Mexico during spring break” each year. The embassy continued that “while the vast majority travel safely,” visitors should be aware of issues with crime, drugs, unregulated alcohol, drownings, and more. 

“Crime, including violent crime, can occur anywhere in Mexico, including in popular tourist destinations. Travelers should maintain a high level of situational awareness, avoid areas where illicit activities occur, and promptly depart from potentially dangerous situations,” the embassy warned. “U.S. citizens should exercise increased caution in the downtown areas of popular spring break locations including Cancun, Playa Del Carmen, and Tulum, especially after dark.”

The warning also reminded American travelers that drug possession and use is illegal in Mexico, including medical marijuana. It also advised that unregulated alcohol may be contaminated, that counterfeit medication is common, and that guns are illegal in Mexico.

When it comes to the country’s popular beaches, the embassy reminded travelers some beaches may have strong rip tides and “may lack lifeguards, warnings, or signs of unsafe conditions.”

The U.S. Embassy and Consulates in Mexico issued a similar spring break warning last year .

The U.S. Department of State classifies different states in Mexico under different warning levels. While travelers can “exercise normal precautions” when traveling to the Campeche and Yucatan states, the State Department warns them to “exercise increased caution” when heading to places like Baja California Sur (where Los Cabos is), Mexico City, and Quintana Roo (where Cancun is) due to crime.

The State Department also asks American travelers to “reconsider” going to the state of Jalisco, which is home to popular destination Puerto Vallarta , due to the danger of crime and kidnapping.

The State Department recommends Americans who do travel to Mexico keep people at home informed of their travel plans and enroll in the department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to both receive alerts and make it easier to locate them if an emergency occurs.

Travelers heading to international destinations can view all current travel advisories on the State Department's website at  travel.state.gov .

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Is It Safe in Mexico?

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In light of the history of drug-related crimes in Mexico 's big border cities, safety is a valid concern when planning a trip. While foreign tourists are not typically targeted on purpose, they occasionally find themselves in the wrong place at the wrong time. Visitors may become accidentally involved in carjackings, robbery, or—in rarer cases—fall victim to more violent crimes like kidnapping. Complicating the issue is the lack of news reports coming from the affected areas. The information that does trickle back indicates that crime is on the rise in border areas like Tijuana, Nogales, and Ciudad Juarez.  

Despite the uptick in crime, though, Mexico remains a major tourist destination. Its proximity to the U.S. inspires about eight million Americans to flock to its beaches and cities every year. And most of them come back unscathed—likely, even, to book another trip. Your Mexican vacation is liable to be incident-free, too, but there are a few things to note before you go.

Travel Advisories

• An updated travel warning issued by the U.S. State Department in September 2020 cautioned of crime and kidnapping in certain parts of the country  . "Violent crime—such as homicide, kidnapping, carjacking, and robbery—is widespread," the advisory says, but it's more dangerous in some places than others. The State Department recommends exercising "increased caution" in Baja California, Baja California Sur, and Mexico City , and asks tourists to "reconsider travel" to places like Chihuahua, Durango, Jalisco, and Coahuila. A "do not travel" order has been issued for Michoacán, Guerrero, Sinaloa, Tamaulipas, and Colima.
• Although Mexico has lifted stay-at-home orders due to COVID-19, the CDC continues to issue a Level 4 Travel Health Notice for Mexico as of January 2021. Check the Department of State's COVID-19 page for more information.

On occasion, foreign tourists and workers have been deliberately targeted in armed robberies and exchanges of gunfire. The State Department has prohibited its own employees from entering casinos and adult entertainment establishments in some Mexican states due to heightened safety concerns. In addition, they must use apps like Lyft or Uber or order taxis at government-regulated taxi stands to obtain on-demand transportation services, and they are forbidden to travel from one city to another by road at night. The State Department strongly encourages U.S. citizens to "be alert to safety and security concerns when visiting the border region."

Is Mexico Dangerous?

Certain parts of Mexico are dangerous, yes, but the tourist-centric destinations—mostly the ones along the coast including Cancun , Tulum, and Cabo San Lucas—are generally safe to visit. The primary risk in these highly trafficked areas is petty crime like pickpocketing and tainted alcohol being served to tourists  . Follow the State Department's recommendations on not drinking alone.

According to the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office, "express kidnapping" is also a concern  . This constitutes short-term abductions in which the victims are either forced to withdraw money from an ATM to give to kidnappers or the victims' families are ordered to pay a ransom for their release.

Lastly, although cases of Zika virus in Mexico have been on the decline over the past few years, it still may be a worry for anyone who is pregnant or considering pregnancy as it has been strongly linked to birth defects.

Is Mexico Safe for Solo Travelers?

The idea of solo traveling in Mexico might make some people uncomfortable, but in reality, countless unaccompanied tourists have explored the country without any run-ins to report. That being said, it's important to take special precautions if you plan to go on the journey alone. Firstly, stick to tourist-popular destinations where other tourists and hospitality workers will have your back ( Tulum , Puerto Escondido, Sayulita). Stay in hostels to meet fellow travelers and journey out in numbers whenever possible.

If you do visit some of the more dangerous areas (Mexico City, for instance), keep your possessions close—preferably in a money belt or a crossbody bag, not your back pocket—and stay in populated, well-lit areas.

Is Mexico Safe for Female Travelers?

In general, it's safe for women to travel to Mexico, but one can never be too cautious—travel in groups, if possible, and only during the day. Stick to populous, tourist-frequented areas and keep your possessions close. Travel blogger Adventurous Kate recommends dressing to "blend in" with the locals—"not to pass as Mexican," she points out, but to pass, rather, as a "longtime resident rather, not a tourist."

Safety Tips for LGBTQ+ Travelers

In May 2020, Reuters reported that Mexico had seen its deadliest year for LGBTQ+ people in half a decade  . In 2019, a reported 117 lesbian, gay, bisexual, and trans people were murdered throughout the country, but none of them were identified as tourists. While there is some hostility toward the LGBTQ+ community, travelers remain relatively safe among other travelers. In fact, Puerto Vallarta has become somewhat of a gay mecca. With Mexico being a primarily Catholic country, many of its citizens are conservative when it comes to public displays of affection regardless of sexual orientation. To avoid any potential scrutiny, limit your PDA to LGBTQ+-friendly zones like gay bars, gay beaches, and Mexico City's gay-popular Zona Rosa neighborhood.

Safety Tips for BIPOC Travelers

Racism is an issue in Mexico, but not any more of an issue than it is in the U.S. In 2020, Condé Nast Traveler reported that many Black Americans were actually interested in moving to Tulum based on their experiences with racism in their home country  . Attracting visitors from all over the world, Mexico's major resorts are something of a melting pot of ethnicities and cultures. BIPOC travelers need not worry too much about taking special safety precautions because of their race.

Safety Tips for Travelers

Mexico has much to offer as a vacation destination, including good value, a rich cultural heritage, and stunning scenery. If you're concerned about your safety, then exercise the normal caution required of any other vacation spot: Pay attention to your surroundings, wear a money belt, and avoid dark and deserted areas.

• One of the primary safety concerns in Mexico is actually a health concern: the water. Tap water in Mexico is not safe to drink (or brush your teeth in, or wash your produce in) because it can be contaminated by potentially deadly bacteria.
• Speaking of food and water contamination, the Centers for Disease Control recommends most travelers get a typhoid vaccination  . All travelers should be vaccinated for measles and most travelers may also require the hepatitis A vaccine.
• The State Department says to "use toll roads when possible and avoid driving alone or at night," stating that "in many states, police presence and emergency services are extremely limited outside the state capital or major cities   ."
• Avoid showing signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive clothes and jewelry.
• Consider enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), which can help to locate you in an emergency.

OSAC. "Mexico 2020 Crime & Safety Report: Ciudad Juarez." Retrieved Jan 6, 2021.

U.S. State Department . "Mexico Travel Advisory." August 6, 2020.

The Washington Post . "State Dept. report on allegedly tainted alcohol in Mexico highlights red tape tourists face in emergencies." July 3, 2019.

UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office . "Mexico."

Reuters . "Mexico sees deadliest year for LGBT+ people in five years." May 15, 2020.

Condé Nast Traveler . "For Black Americans, Moving Abroad Has a Different Appeal." August 17, 2020.

Centers for Disease Control . "Mexico Traveler View."

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Mexico travel advice

Latest updates: Risk levels – removed avoid non-essential travel advisory to the southwestern coast of Mexico; Natural disasters and climate – updated information on Tropical Storm John

Last updated: September 26, 2024 23:40 ET

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Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, mexico - exercise a high degree of caution.

Exercise a high degree of caution in Mexico due to high levels of criminal activity and kidnapping.

Regional Advisory - Avoid non-essential travel

• Chiapas, excluding the cities of Palenque via highway 186 from Villahermosa, San Cristobal de las Casas and Tuxtla Gutiérrez
• Chihuahua, excluding Chihuahua City
• Colima, excluding the city of Manzanillo if accessed by air
• Guerrero, excluding the cities of Ixtapa/Zihuatanejo if accessed by air
• Jalisco, within 50 km of the border with Michoacán state
• the Lagunas de Zempoala National Park in Morelos
• Michoacán, excluding the cities of Morelia and Patzcuaro
• Nayarit, within 20 km of the border with the states of Sinaloa and Durango
• Nuevo León, excluding the city of Monterrey
• Sinaloa, excluding the cities of Los Mochis and Mazatlán
• Sonora, excluding the cities of Hermosillo, Guaymas/San Carlos and Puerto Peñasco
• Tamaulipas, excluding the city of Tampico
• Zacatecas, excluding Zacatecas City

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Violent clashes in Culiacán and surrounding areas

Since September 9, 2024, there have been violent clashes between rival armed groups in Culiacán and its surrounding areas. There is continuous gunfire, and several roadblocks have been erected. Security forces have been deployed to the area.

If you are in Culiacán and its surrounding areas:

• exercise extreme caution
• limit your movements
• monitor local media for the latest information

More information on organized crime

Levels of crime, particularly violent crime, are high throughout Mexico.

If you’re a victim of a crime, you must report it immediately to local authorities. Criminal investigations require that a formal complaint be made in person. You should hire a local lawyer to represent your interests and follow up on your case after you return to Canada. Failure to do so may result in incomplete investigations or long delays in bringing cases to trial.

Petty crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, is common in Mexico. Remain vigilant in airports, bus stations, buses and the Mexico City metro system.

• Be aware of your surroundings at all times,
• Keep your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, in a secure place
• Don’t show signs of affluence or wear expensive jewellery

Organized crime

Criminal groups, including drug cartels, are very active across the country. ‎Clashes between cartels or gangs over territory, drugs and smuggling routes are common. Armed clashes between security forces and drug cartels can occur without warning.

In some parts of the country, the military, the navy and federal police forces have been deployed to maintain a visible presence and combat organized crime to improve security conditions.

If you plan on travelling to Mexico:

• be vigilant
• don’t show signs of affluence
• stay in tourist areas
• be very cautious on the roads, including major highways
• avoid travelling at night
• research your destination thoroughly

Tourist areas

Mexican authorities have made efforts to protect major tourist destinations, resulting in lower levels of gang-related violence in these areas. However, incidents of violent crime still occur in major cities, popular tourist areas and resorts. Fighting between criminal gangs and cartels has taken place in:

• restaurants

Innocent bystanders have been injured or killed. You may be in the wrong place at the wrong time and become a victim of violent crime.

Border areas

Criminal activity and violence occur regularly in border areas. Confrontations between organized criminal groups and Mexican security forces continue to pose a risk. Shootouts, attacks and illegal roadblocks may occur without warning.

The situation is tense in the border area between:

• Mexico and the United States
• Mexico and Guatemala

You should travel to Mexico by air to avoid criminal incidents at international land border crossings.

If you plan to cross an international land border:

• remain extremely vigilant
• use only official border crossings

Armed robbery

Armed robbery occurs frequently. Criminals sometimes follow a victim after they exchange or withdraw money.

Criminals on motorcycles often rob other motorists and pedestrians on the roads.

• Don’t show signs of affluence
• Stay in hotels and resorts with good security
• Don't resist an attack
• Rent cars without stickers or other advertisements for the rental company
• Ensure that you only stop in major centres, at reputable hotels or at secure campsites
• Avoid withdrawing or exchanging money in public areas of the airport
• Don’t leave valuables in the vehicle

Canadian travellers have been physically and sexually assaulted. In some cases, hotel employees, taxi drivers and security personnel at popular tourist destinations were involved. Sometimes, hotel staff are not helpful and try to dissuade victims from reporting the incident to the police.

There are reports of individuals posing as police officers and driving cars resembling police vehicles committing:

• physical assault
• sexual assault

If you are in Mexico:

• avoid walking after dark
• avoid deserted streets at night and isolated areas

Are you a victim of sexual violence?  – Government of Canada and British Embassy in Mexico City

Carjackings

Carjacking is common on roads along the Pacific coast and northern borders. Criminals mainly target:

• camper vans
• sport utility vehicles 
• pickup trucks

If you believe that you’re being followed, go directly to a police station.

Kidnappings

Kidnappings, including express kidnappings, occur frequently throughout Mexico. Kidnappers have targeted foreigners, including Canadians.

If you're kidnapped:

• comply with the kidnappers’ requests
• don’t resist

Express kidnappings may occur in large urban areas. Criminals kidnap the victim from the street or a taxi and force the person to withdraw funds from an ATM. Victims may be held overnight to make a second withdrawal after midnight. Thieves often work in cooperation with or pose as taxi drivers. 

• Only use reputable cab companies or ride-sharing apps
• Avoid hailing taxis on the street
• If you're threatened by armed criminals, stay calm and don’t resist

Home break-ins

Tourists staying in private and rental homes have been the victims of break-ins and burglaries. Make sure you lock windows and doors securely.

Disputes over timeshare arrangements occur. Timeshare sales representatives may be very persistent and often use pressure tactics to make a sale.

Members of criminal groups often pose as real estate representatives offering to buy your property for large amounts for use as a timeshare. They may never pay for the property or charge high administrative fees.

You're legally entitled to cancel a timeshare contract without penalty within 5 working days. It's illegal for timeshare companies to ask you to sign a waiver that prevents you from cancelling a contract. To cancel your contract, you must write directly to the timeshare company.

Before purchasing a timeshare:

• carefully review the contract
• consult a Mexican attorney
• only provide your credit card number if you are sure you want to make the purchase
• keep copies of all correspondence

If you suspect fraud in the real estate procedures, contact the Federal Attorney’s Office of Consumer immediately.

• Federal Attorney’s Office of Consumer (PROFECO)  – Mexican Government (in Spanish)
• Should I buy a timeshare in Mexico?  – Embassy of Mexico in Canada
• Should I sell my timeshare in Mexico?  – Embassy of Mexico in Canada

Online scams

Travellers fall victim to online scams, including phishing emails and romance scams. Certain scams target senior citizens.

 Scam victims are subject to:

• coercion into acting as a drug or money courier for criminal groups
• forced money transfers and withdrawals of funds

Before travelling to Mexico to visit someone you met online:

• be wary of individuals who ask you to carry a package from Mexico on their behalf
• beware of people who show a keen interest in you online

Useful links

• Alcohol, drug and travel
• Warning to Canadian Seniors Targeted by International Drug Smuggling Scams
• Overseas fraud

Credit card and ATM fraud

Credit and debit card as well as ATM fraud occurs frequently.

When using your debit or credit card:

• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• don't withdraw large sums of cash
• pay careful attention when others are handling your cards
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• use ATMs located in public areas or inside a bank or business
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Overcharging

Certain establishments, such as bars or nightclubs, may try to overcharge you.

Discussions about overcharging have turned violent. Tourists have been threatened and forced to pay the bill.

• Always confirm the price of an item before ordering 
• Do not leave an open tab 
• Avoid giving your credit card to bar or restaurant staff 
• Check your bill for accuracy before paying 

Extortion schemes are common in Mexico. Incidences of virtual kidnappings are increasing and are more common than traditional forms of kidnapping.

Virtual kidnappings

Virtual kidnappings are a form of extortion. Victims are neither captured nor detained. Criminals use threats and knowledge of their victim’s personal information to create the impression of a kidnapping and demand ransom from the victim’s friends and family.

Criminals gather information on their victims from a variety of sources, including:

• social media
• watching and eavesdropping on conversations
• phone theft or hacking

Criminals use many tactics in virtual kidnapping. Many of these tactics involve criminals calling potential victims in their hotel rooms, posing as their friends or family members in distress, posing as government officials or claiming to represent criminal gangs.

 Always protect your personal information, both in person and over communications networks.

• When you answer the phone, wait for the caller to speak
• If the caller asks who is speaking, you're threatened on the phone or hear screams, hang up immediately and report the call to the authorities
• Don't discuss travel plans, your room number or any other personal information with strangers
• Never leave your cell phone unattended
• Ensure your cellphone is password protected and enable two-step verification for your applications
• Don't share personal details to strangers in person, over the phone or on social media, especially when using hotel phones
• Don’t admit visitors to your room

If you believe a friend or family member is the victim of a virtual kidnapping, you should contact the Government of Canada to verify if the kidnapping is legitimate before taking any action or sending ransom money.

Police corruption

Legitimate police officers have demanded money from tourists or arrested tourists for minor offences such as:

• drinking alcohol on the street
• public urination
• traffic violations

They have requested immediate cash payment in exchange for their release. This practice is common in tourist areas.

If this occurs:

• don’t hand over your money or your passport
• ask for the officer’s name, badge and patrol car number
• ask for a copy of the written fine, which is payable at a later date, or insist on going to the nearest police station
• Payment of traffic violations  – Government of Mexico (in Spanish)

Women’s safety

Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse.

Some incidents of assault, rape and sexual assault against Canadian women have occurred, including at beach resorts and on public buses. 

• Always remain vigilant
• Do not accept offers of transportation from strangers
• Avoid walking alone at night

Advice for women travellers

2SLGBTQI+ travellers

Mexican law does not prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex. However, homosexuality is not widely accepted in Mexican society, particularly in rural areas.

2SLGBTQI+ persons could be discriminated against based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression or sex characteristics. Transgender and gender non-conforming individuals are disproportionately targeted for violence and can face discrimination.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Spiked food and drinks

There are reports of criminals adding drugs into items that could put you at risk of sexual assault or robbery.

Items include:

• food and drinks

Incidents are most likely to occur:

• in nightclubs
• in bars and restaurants
• on public transportation, including taxis on the street

While you’re in Mexico

• be wary of accepting these items from new acquaintances
• never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers
• order drinks in sealed bottles or cans instead of in plastic cups

Unregulated alcohol

Some bars, restaurants and resorts have served unregulated alcohol. Some travellers have reported getting sick or blacking out after drinking alcohol.

• Buy alcohol from reputable establishments
• Seek medical assistance if you begin to feel sick

Alcohol, drugs and travel

Mexico's standards for the height of balcony railings are considerably lower than those in Canada. Falls have resulted in deaths and injuries. Exercise caution when standing close to balcony railings.

Demonstrations

Demonstrations occur frequently and roadblocks are common during demonstrations. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation, as well as airport closures.

It’s illegal for foreigners to conduct political activity in Mexico, including participating in demonstrations. If you participate in demonstrations as a foreigner, you may face detention, deportation, and the denial of future entry into Mexico.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Water activities

Coastal waters can be dangerous. Riptides are common and powerful waves make swimming and water sports dangerous. Several drownings occur each year.

Many beaches don’t have warning flags to indicate unsafe conditions and they don’t always have lifeguards on duty.

Lifeguard services do not always meet Canadian standards.

• Consult local residents and tour operators for information on possible hazards and safe swimming areas
• Respect the areas reserved for swimming

Water sports

Tour operators do not always comply with Canadian standards, and many don’t conduct regular safety checks on their equipment.

Canadians have been involved in accidents where operators of recreational vehicles demand compensation exceeding the value of the damage caused to the vehicle or equipment.

If you undertake water sports:

• use a reputable company
• make sure that your travel insurance covers incidents related to this type of recreational activity
• wear appropriate safety equipment, such as helmets and life jackets
• do not use the equipment if you are unsure of its safety
• do not dive if you have been drinking alcohol or using other substances

Water safety abroad

Adventure tourism

Outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, scuba diving, and other extreme sports can be dangerous.

Tour operators may not meet Canadian safety standards.

If you intend to participate in adventure tourism activities: 

• share your itinerary with a friend or family member if you’re alone
• stay on marked trails and consider hiring an experienced guide from a reputable company
• buy travel insurance that covers incidents related to this type of recreational activity
• ensure that your physical condition is good enough to tackle the challenges of your activity
• ensure that you have proper equipment and bring sufficient water
• monitor weather conditions and other possible hazards
• refrain from using equipment if you are unsure of its condition or safety

Power outages

Mexico sometimes experiences power shortages.

Power outages could impact essential services, such as:

• public transportation, including flights
• medical services
• the public water supply
• telecommunications
• banking transactions
• the supply of basic necessities

Telecommunications 

The telecommunications network is not reliable in rural areas.

Canadian cell phones generally work in major cities.

Using data plans outside Canada  

Road safety

Fatal accidents are frequent.

Police don’t strictly enforce traffic laws, including for drinking and driving. Police don’t regularly patrol the highways. Crime is common on highways, especially in rural areas.

Toll highways are typically better maintained than secondary highways. 

• Only use frequented rest areas and gas stations
• Avoid travelling after dark
• Only use toll roads and highways
• Fill your gas tank before you travel
• Always keep doors and windows closed and locked
• Don’t hitchhike or pick up hitchhikers
• Road alerts – Government of Mexico (in Spanish)
• Information on roadside assistance – Government of Mexico (in Spanish)
• Pre-paid toll card (in Spanish)

Road conditions

Road conditions vary greatly throughout the country. Many common hazards, including construction and speed bumps, are unmarked and many roads or exits are unsigned.

Road conditions can be dangerous, especially on rural roads, due to:

• abandoned vehicles blocking the road
• sharp curves
• slow-moving vehicles
• stray livestock

Driving habits

Drivers don’t always respect traffic laws and often:

• drive at excessive speeds
• drive aggressive or reckless
• don’t use signals to indicate turns or lane changes
• don’t routinely stop at pedestrian crosswalks 

Vehicles and bicycles often operate without sufficient lights and reflectors.

Illegal Roadblocks

Illegal roadblocks are common. Heavily armed gangs have attacked travellers on intercity highways who fail to stop or pay a ‘toll’.

If you are threatened by criminals, stay calm and don’t resist.

Checkpoints

The military and federal police search for drugs and firearms at checkpoints throughout the country.

Public transportation

Some public and private vehicles are poorly maintained. 

The Mexico City metro is often very crowded and a popular place for pickpocketing. During rush hour, there are metro cars reserved for women and children at the front of the trains.

The Metrobus in Mexico City is generally reliable. There are sections reserved for women and children at the front of the buses.

Crime is common on intercity buses.

• Don’t use mini buses
• Take direct bus routes
• Only use bus companies that offer VIP or executive class transportation travelling on toll roads
• Travel only during daylight hours
• Do not carry large sums of cash
• Exercise caution at bus stations

In Mexico City, all government-authorized taxis have licence plates starting with “A” or “B.” Taxis from designated stands have a company logo and icence plate number on the side of the car.

Official taxis in Mexico City are pink and white. Users can reserve these taxis on the CDMX app.

• Only use officially marked taxis
• Never share a cab with strangers

When arriving at an airport in Mexico, pre-pay the taxi fare at the airport inside or outside the terminal and ask to see the driver’s official identification.

My taxi  – CDMX app (in Spanish)

Ridesharing services

Ridesharing apps are available at some airports.

Disputes between taxi and ride-share service drivers may occur. Although tourists have not been targeted, you may be caught up in these incidents and be harassed or injured. 

If you use a ride-sharing app:

• confirm the driver’s identity and license plate before getting in the car
• use the security features in rideshare apps

Pirates commit attacks and armed robberies against ships in coastal waters in the Bay of Campeche. Travellers should take appropriate precautions.

Live piracy report  - International Maritime Bureau

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Mexican authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for the expected duration of your stay in Mexico.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: not required Business visa: required Work visa: required Student visa: required

Canadians travelling to the northern border zone (within 21 kilometres of the U.S. border) for work don’t need a visa for stays of 72 hours or less.

If your employer is processing your visa for you:

• obtain copies of all correspondence between the employer and the Mexican immigration authorities
• verify that these copies are stamped by the immigration authorities
• request a receipt from your employer for any document that you provide for purposes of obtaining the visa
• don't surrender your passport to your employer

Activities requiring a visa

You may not be able to undertake the following activities while visiting as a tourist:

• volunteer work
• religious/missionary work
• certain types of eco-tourism

For information on the type of visa required for these activities, contact the Mexican Embassy or the closest Mexican consulate.

Travelling to Mexico by Land – Embassy of Mexico in Canada

Tourist card

When you enter Mexico for a stay of less than 180 days, you are required to have a Multiple Immigration Form (FMM) or Tourist Card.

If you enter Mexico by air:

• the immigration official will stamp your passport and note the number of days you are allowed to spend in Mexico, or
• if you are a tourist, you will go through an E-gate kiosk where you will scan your passport and self-register your entry. You will receive a receipt and have 60 days to download your e-tourist card

If you enter Mexico by land:

You must present a completed tourist card unless you stay in Mexico for less than 72 hours within the northern border zone. You can complete the tourist card form online before your arrival. However, you must print the form and present it to the migration official at the port of entry. You can also obtain a tourist card at the immigration office located at the border.

If you don’t obtain a tourist card upon arrival, you may face:

You should keep your tourist card with you at all times as proof of your legal stay in Mexico. You may be asked to show it to Mexican officials when exiting the country or if you are stopped at an immigration checkpoint. If you are unable to show your tourist card or digital tourist card upon departure, you will have to pay for a replacement.

• Portal access for digital tourist card  – Government of Mexico
• Multiple Immigration Form  – Government of Mexico

Length of stay

An immigration official will determine the number of days you can remain in Mexico and note it:

• on your tourist card if you’re entering by land 
• in your passport if you’re entering by air

You may not automatically be allowed to stay in Mexico for a maximum period of 180 days. If you're seeking the maximum number of days, you may be required to:

• explain the purpose of your trip to the immigration official
• provide details about your trip (accommodations, funds, return flight, etc.)
• provide a letter of invitation, if staying in someone’s home

You won’t be able to request an extension or change the condition of your stay from inside the country.

Tourism tax

Most visitors must pay a tourism tax.

This tax is normally included in airline ticket prices. Visitors arriving by road or sea will have to pay this tax at a bank following entry. The bank receipt must be attached to the tourist card for submission at departure.

You don't have to pay this tax if:

• you're entering by land for tourism purposes, and your stay will not exceed 7 days
• you're travelling to the northern border zone for less than 72 hours
• you're travelling to Mexico on a cruise ship

Other entry requirements

Immigration officials may ask you to show them:

• a return or onward ticket
• proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay
• proof of accommodations

Mexico has a list of tax-exempt items you can include in your luggage. If you exceed the allowed limits, you will be required to pay an expensive tax and your items may be confiscated. Customs officials pay particular attention to electronic devices, alcohol, and cigarettes. Make sure you carefully read the list of tax-exempt items before travelling to Mexico.

Items you can include in your luggage – Mexico’s National Customs Agency

Dual citizenship

If you enter and leave Mexico as a dual citizen, you must identify yourself as a Mexican citizen and carry valid passports for both countries.

Laws about dual citizenship

Criminal records

Canadians with a criminal record or a warrant for arrest may be refused entry and returned to Canada or to a third country on the next available flight.

• Children and travel

To leave Mexico, children under 18 who are a citizen or resident of Mexico must carry:

• a Mexican Minor Travel Consent Form; or
• a notarized consent form if travelling without a legal guardian
• Mexican minor travel consent form – Government of Mexico (in Spanish)

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• Zika virus: Advice for travellers - 31 August, 2023
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024
• Dengue: Advice for travellers - 9 September, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.

* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

Malaria  is a serious and sometimes fatal disease that is caused by parasites spread through the bites of mosquitoes.   There is a risk of malaria in certain areas and/or during a certain time of year in this destination. 

Antimalarial medication may be recommended depending on your itinerary and the time of year you are travelling. Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic before travelling to discuss your options. It is recommended to do this 6 weeks before travel, however, it is still a good idea any time before leaving.    Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times:  • Cover your skin and use an approved insect repellent on uncovered skin.  • Exclude mosquitoes from your living area with screening and/or closed, well-sealed doors and windows. • Use insecticide-treated bed nets if mosquitoes cannot be excluded from your living area.  • Wear permethrin-treated clothing.    If you develop symptoms similar to malaria when you are travelling or up to a year after you return home, see a health care professional immediately. Tell them where you have been travelling or living. 

In this destination, rabies is carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions , including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. Rabies treatment is often available in this destination. 

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals). 

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Typhoid   is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

Salmonellosis is a common illness among travellers to this country. It can be spread through contaminated food or beverages, such as raw or undercooked poultry and eggs, as well as fruits or vegetables.

Practice safe food and water precautions . This includes only eating food that is properly cooked and still hot when served.

Pregnant women, children under 5 years of age, those over 60 years of age, and those with weakened immune systems are at greater risk of becoming seriously ill.

Cases of multidrug-resistant (MDR) Salmonella have been reported among Canadian travellers returning from Mexico. These strains of Salmonella do not respond to some of the recommended antibiotics if treatment is needed.

Most people recover on their own without medical treatment and from proper rehydration (drinking lots of fluids).

• Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Travellers with severe symptoms should consult a health care professional as soon as possible.

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

There is a risk of chikungunya in this country. The level of risk may vary by:

The virus that causes chikungunya is spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can cause fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times.

Learn more:

Insect bite and pest prevention Chikungunya

• In this country,   dengue is a risk to travellers. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
• Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
• The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region.
• Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites. There is no vaccine or medication available in Canada to prevent dengue. 

Learn more: Dengue Insect bite and pest prevention

Zika virus is a risk in this country. 

Zika virus is primarily spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can also be sexually transmitted. Zika virus can cause serious birth defects.

During your trip:

• Prevent mosquito bites at all times.
• Use condoms correctly or avoid sexual contact, particularly if you are pregnant.

If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, you should discuss the potential risks of travelling to this destination with your health care provider. You may choose to avoid or postpone travel. 

For more information, see Zika virus: Pregnant or planning a pregnancy.

American trypanosomiasis (Chagas disease)   is a risk in this country. It is caused by a parasite spread by infected triatomine bugs. The infection can be inactive for decades, but humans can eventually develop complications causing disability and even death.

Risk is generally low for most travellers. Protect yourself from triatomine bugs, which are active at night, by using mosquito nets if staying in poorly-constructed housing. There is no vaccine available for Chagas disease.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Human cases of avian influenza have been reported in this destination. Avian influenza   is a viral infection that can spread quickly and easily among birds and in rare cases it can infect mammals, including people. The risk is low for most travellers.

Avoid contact with birds, including wild, farm, and backyard birds (alive or dead) and surfaces that may have bird droppings on them. Ensure all poultry dishes, including eggs and wild game, are properly cooked.

Travellers with a higher risk of exposure include those: 

• visiting live bird/animal markets or poultry farms
• working with poultry (such as chickens, turkeys, domestic ducks)
• hunting, de-feathering, field dressing and butchering wild birds and wild mammals
• working with wild birds for activities such as research, conservation, or rehabilitation
• working with wild mammals, especially those that eat wild birds (e.g., foxes)

All eligible people are encouraged to get the seasonal influenza shot, which will protect them against human influenza viruses. While the seasonal influenza shot does not prevent infection with avian influenza, it can reduce the chance of getting sick with human and avian influenza viruses at the same time.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Medical services and facilities

The quality of care varies greatly throughout the country. Good health care is available in private hospitals and clinics in major cities, but health care services are limited in rural areas.

Health care from private hospitals and clinics is generally expensive. Most private facilities don’t deal directly with medical insurance companies and will require payment with a credit card in advance or a bank transfer/direct deposit.

Mental health services are extremely limited in Mexico, particularly outside of Mexico City. Services and treatment standards may differ substantially from those in Canada.

Most healthcare providers speak Spanish.

Emergency and ambulance services are widely available. Response times vary widely depending on traffic and availability of services and may be slow in rural areas.

Medical evacuation can be very expensive, and you may need it in case of serious illness or injury.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Health and safety outside Canada

Contaminated beaches

Storm run-off, sewage or oil may affect the water quality at some beaches. Water can contain bacteria, parasites and viruses and cause illness.

• Avoid swimming in polluted water
• Avoid swallowing water while swimming

Medical tourism

Canadian travellers have had serious health complications following cosmetic or other elective surgeries abroad.

Before leaving for medical travel, you should do your research, considering:

• the health and financial risks
• the medical facility
• language barriers
• travel insurance coverage

You should discuss your medical plans with your primary healthcare provider in Canada before travelling. Most provincial and territorial health care programs are extremely limited in their coverage offered abroad.

• Ensure that the healthcare providers you choose are authorized by the Mexican health authorities
• Ask to see the credentials of the healthcare providers
• Obtain a written agreement detailing the proposed treatment or procedure
• Travelling outside Canada to receive medical care
• If you become sick or injured while travelling outside Canada or after your return
• Medical tourism  – Government of Mexico (in Spanish)

Some prescription medications may not be available in Mexico.

If you take prescription medication, you’re responsible for determining its legality in Mexico. 

• Bring sufficient quantities of your medication with you
• Always keep your medication in the original container
• Pack your medication in your carry-on luggage
• Carry a copy of your prescriptions

Medication cannot be sent to Mexico from Canada via courier services.

Many types of medication, both over the counter and prescription, are readily available with little oversight. Counterfeit medication is common in certain parts of Mexico.

If you purchase medication in Mexico:

• obtain a local prescription
• exercise caution
• purchase from a reputable location

Air quality

You may experience health problems caused by air pollution in major cities. In Mexico City, air pollution peaks between December to March.

Consult your doctor before booking your trip if you have lung, heart or respiratory problems.

Altitude sickness

Mexico City is 2240 metres above sea level. In some parts of the country, you may experience health problems due to high altitudes.

Altitude sickness can be life-threatening. It may require immediate medical evacuation.

• Know about the symptoms of altitude sickness
• Find out how to prevent or reduce the effects of altitude sickness

Death abroad

If you plan to retire or spend long periods of time in Mexico, or travel there for medical procedures, you should:

• share your plans or wishes with relatives
• make sure important documents can easily be located
• make arrangements in case of your death while in the country
• What if I Die in Mexico?
• Death outside Canada

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Penalties for breaking the law in Mexico can be more severe than in Canada, even for similar offences.

Foreign nationals are often held in pre-trial detention and there can be lengthy delays before a trial.

Police may detain you for up to 72 hours for many petty crimes including:

• failure to pay a bill
• disorderly behaviour

Detention conditions are below the standards of Canadian prisons.

• The Mexican criminal law system
• Arrest and detention

Transfer to a Canadian prison

Canada and Mexico are signatories to the Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons. This enables a Canadian imprisoned in Mexico to request a transfer to a Canadian prison to complete a sentence. The transfer requires the agreement of both Canadian and Mexican authorities.

This process can take a long time, and there is no guarantee that the transfer will be approved by either or both sides.

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect lengthy prison sentences.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Imports and exports

The Mexican government enforces strict laws on the possession, importation and trafficking of firearms and ammunition.

Anyone entering Mexico with a firearm or ammunition without prior written authorization from Mexican authorities is subject to imprisonment.

It is illegal to enter the country with knives with blades longer than 6cm.

Vehicles and boats

Mexico has very strict rules on importing foreign vehicles and boats.

You must enter Mexico with the proper import permit and insurance since it cannot be obtained once you are in Mexico. If you fail to provide the proper permit and insurance, you could:

• face a fine
• have your vehicle seized

You must present a paper document of your vehicle registration to obtain a vehicle importation permit from Mexican authorities. If you present a digital document of your vehicle registration, your vehicle may be refused entry into Mexico.

• Importing foreign vehicles  – Government of Mexico (in Spanish)
• Temporary vehicle import application system  – Government of Mexico (in Spanish)
• Travelling to Mexico by land  – Embassy of Mexico in Canada

Cigarettes and alcohol 

If you are over 18, you can bring into Mexico up to: 

• 10 packs of cigarettes 
• 25 cigars or 200 grams of tobacco 
• 3 litres of alcohol 
• 6 litres of wine 

If you bring more than the allowed quantities, even if you declare or hand them over to authorities, you will have to pay a hefty import tax.

It’s illegal to remove archaeological artifacts or to export such items from Mexico.

• What is included in your luggage?  – Government of Mexico
• Restricted goods  – Government of Mexico

Smoking and vaping 

Smoking and vaping are prohibited in all public places except for clearly marked designated smoking areas. This includes the following places: 

• beaches 
• hotels 
• markets 
• parks 
• restaurants 

You may be fined or arrested if you’re caught smoking in public. 

Electronic cigarettes

It’s illegal to bring, sell or distribute:

• electronic cigarettes 
• vaping devices 
• vaping solutions 

Customs officials could confiscate these items if you have them in your possession upon arrival. You could also be fined or detained. 

Merchandise that you cannot bring into Mexico – Government of Mexico (in Spanish)

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Mexico.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Mexico, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

Dual citizens

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and Mexico.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Mexico, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Mexican court.

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Mexico to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children's Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country's judicial affairs.

• List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abductions: A guide for affected parents
• The Hague Convention – Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Request emergency assistance

Identification

Authorities may request to see your identification at any time, including your, tourist card or proof of your legal status in Mexico. Carry your original identification at all times.

Identity documents

The names on your identification must match those on your birth certificate to obtain official Mexican documents, including:

• marriage certificates
• immigration documents

Middle names are often not included in Canadian identity documents. This has caused significant difficulties for many Canadians planning to move to Mexico or dealing with the Mexican Civil Registry. Obtain a Canadian passport that will meet Mexican requirements prior to applying for residency.

Investments

Mexican real estate agents are not licensed or regulated. Disputes related to property acquisition or other investments are costly and take time to resolve.

If you plan to buy property or make other investments in Mexico:

• seek legal advice in Canada and in Mexico before making commitments
• choose your own lawyer
• avoid hiring a lawyer recommended by a seller

Rental accommodations

Rental agreements between two individuals in Mexico are considered a private matter and are not regulated by the government.

If you encounter difficulties with a rental agreement, you must obtain the services of a local lawyer.

You should carry an International Driving Permit.

International Driving Permit

Auto insurance

Mexican liability insurance is mandatory. Canadian automobile insurance is not valid in Mexico.

You can obtain insurance at the Mexican border. You should obtain full coverage, including coverage for legal assistance.

If you’re involved in a traffic accident, you may face serious legal problems, including imprisonment. If you don’t have Mexican liability insurance, you could be prevented from leaving the country until all parties agree that adequate financial satisfaction has been received. If you’re found to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs at the time of an accident, or if you don’t have a valid driver’s licence, your insurance will be considered invalid.

You could be taken into custody and have your vehicle seized until responsibility for the accident is determined and all fines are paid. You must report any accident you’re involved to the police.

Criminals may deliberately cause traffic accidents and threaten you with violence in order to make insurance claims or request cash from the other party.

Driving restrictions in Mexico City

To reduce air pollution, the Hoy No Circula (No Driving Today) program restricts some cars from driving in Mexico City from Monday to Saturday between 5 am to 10 pm.

Additional driving restrictions apply between February and June when pollution levels are high.

You will face driving restrictions depending on:

• the last digit of your license plate
• where your license plate was issued
• your car’s emission sticker

Hoy No Circula program is strictly enforced. You may face heavy fines and temporary confiscation of your vehicle if you don’t comply. Consult the Hoy No Circula calendar before driving.

Electric and hybrid cars are exempted from these restrictions. Gas-fueled cars of a 2008 model or later may obtain a tourist pass valid for selected drive days.

• Driving restrictions calendar for Mexico City  – Government of Mexico (in Spanish)
• Tourist pass  – Government of Mexico (in Spanish)
• Ministry of Environment  – Government of Mexico (in Spanish)

Buying or selling a vehicle

You can only buy a car in Mexico if you are a temporary or permanent resident.

Selling your imported vehicle is illegal in Mexico and is subject to penalties including:

• car seizure
• deportation

The currency of Mexico is the Mexican peso (MXN).

You must declare upon arrival and departure if you carry more than $10,000 USD or equivalent in other currencies in:

• money orders
• any other receivable document 

Failure to make this declaration is against Mexican law and often results in detention.

There is a limit to the amount of U.S. dollars that residents and foreigners can exchange in Mexico, depending on your immigration status. The rule doesn’t apply to Canadian dollars, but some financial institutions, hotels and currency exchange bureaus don’t make the distinction.

Money declaration – Government of Mexico

Tropical Storm John

Tropical Storm John is expected to sweep across the southwestern coast of Mexico between September 26 and 27, 2024.

The storm is likely to bring excessive rainfall and violent winds. It may cause flash flooding and landslides and could severely disrupt the following essential services:

• transportation
• power distribution
• water and food supply
• telecommunications networks
• emergency services
• medical care

If you are on the southwestern coast of Mexico:

• monitor local news and weather reports
• follow the instructions of local authorities

Latest advisories  – U.S. National Hurricane Centre

Hurricane Helene

Hurricane Helene swept across the Yucatan Peninsula on September 25, 2024. It caused significant damage to buildings and infrastructure.

The storm brought excessive rainfall and violent winds. It may cause flash flooding and landslides and could severely disrupt the following essential services:

If you are in the Yucatan Peninsula:

Mexico is subject to various natural disasters, which can occur at any time.

In the event of a natural disaster:

• monitor local news to stay informed on the evolving situation
• follow the instructions of local authorities, including evacuation orders
• Secretary of Integrated Risk Management and Civil Protection  – Government of Mexico City (in Spanish)
• Get prepared

Climate change

Climate change is affecting Mexico. Extreme and unusual weather events are becoming more frequent and may affect your travel plans. Monitor local media for the latest information.

Hurricane season

Hurricanes usually occur from mid-May to the end of November. During this period, even small tropical storms can quickly develop into major hurricanes.

These severe storms can put you at risk and hamper the provision of essential services. You could face serious safety risks during a hurricane.

If you decide to travel to a coastal area during the hurricane season:

• be prepared to change your travel plans on short notice, including cutting short or cancelling your trip
• stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
• carry emergency contact information for your airline or tour operator
• follow the advice and instructions of local authorities
• Severe storms outside Canada
• Large-scale emergencies outside Canada
• Active storm tracking and hurricane watches and warnings – U.S. National Hurricane Center

Severe heat waves occur during the hot season, from April to May in the south, and from July to September along the Pacific Coast.

Know the symptoms of dehydration and heatstroke, which can both be fatal.

Sun and heat safety tips for travellers

Flooding and landslides

Heavy rains can cause flooding and landslides, especially between June and November. They can hamper overland travel, especially in rural areas. Roads may become impassable and infrastructure damaged.

Landslides — Get Prepared

Earthquakes and tsunamis

Mexico is located in an active seismic zone and there is a risk of earthquakes, aftershocks and landslides.

Earthquakes occur, particularly in Mexico City and the following states:

A tsunami can occur within minutes of a nearby earthquake. However, the risk of a tsunami can remain for several hours following the first tremor. If you’re staying on the coast, familiarize yourself with the region’s evacuation plans in the event of a tsunami warning.

• Latest earthquakes  - U.S. Geological Survey
• Tsunami alerts  - U.S. Tsunami Warning System

Forest fires

Forest fires may occur, particularly during the dry season from:

• January to June in the centre, north, northeast, south and southeast
• May to September in the northwest

The air quality in areas near active fires may deteriorate due to heavy smoke.

In case of a major fire:

• stay away from the affected area, particularly if you suffer from respiratory ailments

Daily report on wildfires  – Government of Mexico (in Spanish)

Mexican authorities are closely monitoring multiple active volcanoes including:

• Popocatepetl

Access to national parks in these areas could be restricted at any time without notice.

Eruptions could occur at any time. They sometimes lead to short-notice evacuations of surrounding areas, and ash clouds may also disrupt domestic and international flights.

Exposure to falling ash and toxic fumes from active volcanoes can affect your health.

If you are planning to travel near active volcanoes:

• consult a physician in advance to determine associated health risks if you suffer from respiratory ailments
• familiarize yourself with local emergency plans
• avoid restricted areas
• be prepared to modify your travel arrangements or even evacuate the area on short notice

In the event of a volcanic eruption:

• Popocatepetl volcano updates – Government of Mexico (in Spanish)
• Colima Volcano  – University of Colima (in Spanish)

Local services

In case of an emergency, dial 911.

Roadside assistance

The Angeles Verdes is a highway patrol service that provides free assistance on all major toll highways from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

You can download the App on your mobile device.

In case of an emergency, you can also dial 078 or 800 006 8839 (toll-free in Mexico) to reach them.

Consular assistance

Aguascalientes, Chiapas, Chihuahua, Coahuila, Durango, Estado de Mexico, Guanajuato, Hidalgo, Michoacán, Morelos, Mexico City, Oaxaca, Puebla, Querétaro, San Luís Potosí, Tabasco, Tamaulipas, Tlaxcala, Veracruz, Zacatecas.

Campeche, Yucatán, and Quintana Roo north of the municipality of Solidaridad, including Puerto Morelos, Isla Mujeres and Holbox

Baja California, Sonora

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada to Mexico, in Mexico City, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

U.S. State Department warns to avoid parts of Mexico over ongoing violence, kidnappings

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The State Department is urging U.S. citizens to avoid travel to parts of Mexico over fears of kidnappings and other crime across multiple states, renewing warnings as tourists make travel plans for spring break season.

The department’s Bureau of Consular Affairs has issued multiple advisories in the last several weeks over the ongoing violence in Mexico. Cartel violence erupted in Culiacan in early January after authorities arrested Ovidio Guzmán , a leader of the Sinaloa drug cartel and son of imprisoned drug lord Joaquín “El Chapo” Guzmán.

A State Department spokesperson said the safety and security of U.S. citizens is the department’s highest priority, adding that officials are aiming to provide relevant information for people to make travel plans. Rather than issue a nationwide risk assessment for Mexico, the department provides a state-by-state summary .

State Department officials urged U.S. citizens to not travel to the states of Colima, Guerrero, Michoacan, Sinaloa, Tamaulipas and Zacatecas over crime concerns.

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The six states have received the strongest warning from the Bureau of Consular Affairs, which cited shootings between gangs that injured or killed bystanders, and kidnappings in which tourists and lawful permanent residents or “green card” holders were targeted.

The Bureau of Consular Affairs issued its last countrywide advisory on Mexico in October and subsequent advisories on individual Mexican states in recent weeks. Officials advise U.S. citizens to reconsider travel to Baja California, Chihuahua, Durango, Guanajuato, Jalisco, Morelos and Sonora due to crime and kidnapping.

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Last month, Orange County public defender Elliot Blair died while on vacation at a resort in Rosarito in the state of Baja California. His family believes the 33-year-old was killed under mysterious circumstances, while Mexican officials have called his death an accident.

U.S. officials also ask tourists to exercise increased caution when traveling in 17 Mexican states, including Quintana Roo, which is home to the popular tourist destination Cancun. There have been disputes in the state between Uber and Cabify drivers and taxi unions, which have turned violent and injured U.S. tourists, according to the U.S. Embassy and consulates in Mexico.

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Is it safe to travel to Mexico? Here's what you need to know

March 10, 2023 / 2:04 PM EST / CNN

By Marnie Hunter, CNN

The kidnapping and killing of US travelers this week in the Mexican city of Matamoros, just over the border from Brownsville, Texas, has put a glaring spotlight on violence in a country that millions of international visitors flock to each year.

And as spring break gets under way in popular beach resorts hundreds of miles away in the country's west and south, the question of safety is likely top of mind.

Here's what to know about travel safety in Mexico:

Travel warnings There are 32 states in Mexico, and the US State Department has "do not travel" advisories in place for six, including Tamaulipas state, where Matamoros is located.

Zachary Rabinor, founder and CEO of travel company Journey Mexico, points out that this week's violence happened far from some of the most sought-after tourist destinations in Mexico, in a state that has long held a US State Department "do not travel" warning.

"To put things in perspective, Matamoros is about 1,360 miles away from Cancun; that's about the equivalent distance from the Texas side of the border to Chicago, Illinois," said Rabinor, whose company creates tailored luxury trips.

Seven Mexican states are listed one tier down in the State Department's "reconsider travel" category and 17 are listed under "exercise increased caution."

 "Crime and kidnapping" is listed as the cause for advisories in some states in each of those three categories, including Tamaulipas. The rest of the advisories list "crime" as the reason to either not travel, reconsider or exercise caution.

"Exercise normal precautions" is the guidance for the states of Campeche and Yucatán on the Yucatán Peninsula.

Countries including Canada and the United Kingdom also have detailed travel warnings related to Mexico.

Situational awareness wherever you go Playa del Carmen and Cancún, which are welcoming an influx of spring break travelers, are located in the state of Quintana Roo, where the State Department advises travelers to "exercise increased caution due to crime and kidnapping."

Rabinor highlighted other popular destinations carrying the "exercise increased caution" advisory, including France and the Bahamas. France receives the caution because of possible terrorism and civil unrest. Crime is listed as the reason for caution in the Bahamas.

The State Department notes in its Quintana Roo advisory that violence and criminal activity may occur anywhere, "including in popular tourist destinations."

"Travelers should maintain a high level of situational awareness, avoid areas where illicit activities occur, and promptly depart from potentially dangerous situations," the advisory warns.

Those popular resort areas are still reasonably safe, says Jaime Lopez-Aranda, who is a senior security manager at travel risk management firm International SOS.

"It is relatively safe for travelers to head to tourist destinations and major urban centers such as Mexico City, Guadalajara and Monterrey," Lopez-Aranda told CNN Travel.

Lopez-Aranda lives in Mexico City, where petty crime is a persistent risk and precautions should be taken, he said, "but the most popular locations are relatively safe for all kinds of travelers."

Journey Mexico has more than 50 employees based in the country who are always monitoring for potential risk, Rabinor said.

"We are confident that with proper preparation and information, travel to and within Mexico continues to be a great option," he said.

If January's international flight arrivals are any indication, the risks associated with travel to parts of Mexico aren't keeping visitors away from the country as a whole.

Passenger arrivals on international flights were up by 13% in January compared with January 2019, before the pandemic took hold around the world.

Precautions and planning Caution and situational awareness are key all over the country -- and the world for that matter.

For travel in Mexico, Lopez-Aranda says precautions could include: • Traveling with a trusted driver in a private vehicle • Traveling only in daylight hours outside urban centers or in higher-risk locations • Avoiding trouble spots in major cities • Avoiding traveling alone • Staying up-to-date through news and government alerts • Making sure your mobile device is charged

All of those tips are measures to take at a destination, but much of the work that goes into ensuring the safest possible trip happens before anything is even booked.

You'll want to research the security and medical risks of destinations you're considering and make sure that you have confidence in your accommodations, transport, means of communication and security arrangements, says Lopez-Aranda.

"It is important that you share all plans with friends and family at home. While traveling, you should also keep constant communication to ensure safety and discuss any potential risks that may arise," he says.

And you should have copies of your documents, contact information for your country's embassy or consulate and the location of the closest hospital with you. Insurance that covers you in your destination is also key.

Trust your gut Journey Mexico links to the US State Department advisories on its website, as well as travel guidance for the citizens of other countries including the United Kingdom and Australia.

The company also notes conflicts between rival criminal organizations in various areas of Mexico in its own "Is Mexico Safe?" safety assessment.

"Though these conflicts can be unpredictable, they are almost always among and between organized crime groups" and are very rare in tourist areas, the posting says.

The site also includes precautions travelers can take to avoid pickpocketing or robbery, including using ATMs only in secure locations, hiring reputable private transportation, not wearing expensive jewelry and avoiding deserted, unlit areas.

If you're uncomfortable, try to get away from the situation or environment immediately, says Lopez-Aranda.

Because "intuition is often right."

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Travel | Mexico travel risk map: U.S. issues new warnings

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6 states remain in ‘do not travel’ classification

The warnings for U.S. residents traveling to Mexico have been revised by the U.S. State Department.

The changes in September 2024 moved Chiapas to the Level 3 advisory (“reconsider travel”) and reclassified Durango to Level 2. The six states in the “do not travel” classification remained the same.

The map above shows the advisory level for each Mexican state.

Level 4 : The six states with the “do not travel” advisory, because of kidnappings and other crimes, are the northern border state of Tamaulipas, the central state of Zacatecas and the Pacific coast states of Sinaloa, Colima, Michoacán and Guerrero.

Level 3 : The seven states for which visitors are advised to “reconsider travel” because of crime are Baja California (Norte), Sonora, Chiapas, Chihuahua, Guanajuato, Jalisco and Morelos.

Level 2 : Except for the two Level 1 states, travelers to all the rest are advised to “exercise increased caution.” They are: Aguascalientes, Baja California Sur, Coahuila, Durango, Hidalgo, state of Mexico, Nayarit, Nuevo Leon, Oaxaca, Puebla, Queretara, Quintana Roo, San Luis Potosi, Tabasco, Tlaxcala and Veracruz. Mexico City (Distrito Federal) is Level 2.

Level 1: The State Department advises “normal precautions” when traveling to Campeche or Yucatán, shown in green.

In addition to the general tourist warnings, specific prohibitions are issued to U.S. government employees staying or traveling in Mexico. The State Department advises that all U.S. travelers adhere to those rules.

Click here for the full document on the warnings.

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Mexico Safety Travel Advisories From The US Department of State (2024)

Last Updated: June 25, 2024 Leave a Comment

Map created by reddit user 33Sharpies The map displays the US Department of State’s travel advisories for Mexico , indicating safety levels for different regions.

The colors represent different levels of caution:

• Green: Normal Caution
• Yellow: Increased Caution
• Orange: Reconsider Travel
• Red: Do Not Travel

It was accurate at the time of publication (June 2024), but advisories may have since changed. For the latest visit the official Mexico Travel Advisory page here .

Here’s what the Department of State has to say about their reasons:

Do Not Travel To:

• Colima state due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Guerrero state due to  crime .
• Michoacan state due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Sinaloa state due to  crime  and  kidnapping
• Tamaulipas state due to  crime  and  kidnapping.
• Zacatecas state due to  crime  and  kidnapping .

Reconsider Travel To:

• Baja California state due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Chihuahua state due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Durango state due to  crime .
• Guanajuato state due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Jalisco state due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Morelos state due to  crime .
• Sonora state due to  crime  and  kidnapping .

Exercise Increased Caution When Traveling To:

• Aguascalientes state due to  crime .
• Baja California Sur state due to  crime .
• Chiapas state due to  crime .
• Coahuila state due to  crime .
• Hidalgo state due to  crime .
• Mexico City due to  crime .
• Mexico State due to  crime .
• Nayarit state due to  crime.
• Nuevo Leon state due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Oaxaca state due to  crime .
• Puebla state due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Queretaro state due to  crime .
• Quintana Roo state due to  crime .
• San Luis Potosi state due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Tabasco state due to  crime .
• Tlaxcala state due to  crime .
• Veracruz state due to  crime .

Exercise Normal Precautions When Traveling To:

• Campeche state
• Yucatan state

And here are their tips if you do decide to travel to Mexico:

If you decide to travel to Mexico:

• Keep traveling companions and family back home informed of your travel plans. If separating from your travel group, send a friend your GPS location. If taking a taxi alone, take a photo of the taxi number and/or license plate and text it to a friend.
• Use toll roads when possible and avoid driving alone or at night. In many states, police presence and emergency services are extremely limited outside the state capital or major cities.
• Exercise increased caution when visiting local bars, nightclubs, and casinos.
• Do not display signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive watches or jewelry.
• Be extra vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Follow the U.S. Embassy on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Mexico.
• Mariners planning travel to Mexico should check for U.S. maritime  advisories  and  alerts , which include instructions on reporting suspicious activities and attacks to Mexican naval authorities.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .
• Visit the  CDC page  for the latest travel health information related to your travel.

And finally here are the full reasoning and restrictions for states listed as Do Not Travel To.

Colima state – Do Not Travel

Do not travel due to crime and kidnapping.

Violent crime and gang activity are widespread. Most homicides are targeted assassinations against members of criminal organizations. Shooting incidents between criminal groups have injured or killed bystanders. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

Travel for U.S. government employees is limited to the following areas with noted restrictions:

• Manzanillo:   U.S. government employee travel is limited to the tourist and port areas of Manzanillo.
• Employees traveling to Manzanillo from Guadalajara must use Federal Toll Road 54D during daylight hours.

U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of Colima state.

Guerrero state – Do Not Travel

Do not travel due to crime.

Crime and violence are widespread. Armed groups operate independently of the government in many areas of Guerrero. Members of these groups frequently maintain roadblocks and may use violence towards travelers. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping in previous years.

Travel for U.S. government employees is limited to the following area with the noted restrictions:

• Taxco:  U.S. government employees must use Federal Highway 95D, which passes through Cuernavaca, Morelos, and stay within downtown tourist areas of Taxco. Employees may visit Grutas de Cacahuamilpa National Park during the day with a licensed tour operator.

U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of the state of Guerrero, including to tourist areas in  Acapulco ,  Zihuatanejo , and  Ixtapa .

Michoacan state – Do Not Travel

Crime and violence are widespread in Michoacan state. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

Travel for U.S. government employees is limited to the following areas with the noted restrictions:

• Federal Highway 15D:   U.S. government employees may travel on Federal Highway 15D to transit the state between Mexico City and Guadalajara.
• Morelia:  U.S. government employees may travel by air and by land using Federal Highways 43 or 48D from Federal Highway 15D.
• Lazaro Cardenas:  U.S. government employees must travel by air only and limit activities to the city center or port areas.

U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of the state of Michoacan, including the portions of the  Monarch Butterfly Reserve  located in Michoacan.

Sinaloa state – Do Not Travel

Violent crime is widespread. Criminal organizations are based in and operating in Sinaloa. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

• Mazatlan:  U.S. government employees may travel to Mazatlan by air or sea only, are limited to the Zona Dorada and historic town center, and must travel via direct routes between these destinations and the airport and sea terminal.
• Los Mochis and Topolobampo:  U.S. government employees may travel to Los Mochis and Topolobampo by air or sea only, are restricted to the city and the port, and must travel via direct routes between these destinations and the airport.

U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of Sinaloa state.

Tamaulipas state – Do Not Travel

Organized crime activity – including gun battles, murder, armed robbery, carjacking, kidnapping, forced disappearances, extortion, and sexual assault – is common along the northern border and in Ciudad Victoria. Criminal groups target public and private passenger buses, as well as private automobiles traveling through Tamaulipas, often taking passengers and demanding ransom payments.

Heavily armed members of criminal groups often patrol areas of the state and operate with impunity particularly along the border region from Reynosa to Nuevo Laredo.  In these areas, local law enforcement has limited capacity to respond to incidents of crime. Law enforcement capacity is greater in the tri-city area of Tampico, Ciudad Madero, and Altamira, which has a lower rate of violent criminal activity compared to the rest of the state.

U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

• Matamoros and Nuevo Laredo:  U.S. government employees may only travel within a limited radius around and between the U.S. Consulates in Nuevo Laredo and Matamoros, their homes, the respective U.S. Ports of Entry, and limited downtown sites, subject to an overnight curfew.
• Overland travel in Tamaulipas:  U.S. government employees may not travel between cities in Tamaulipas using interior Mexican highways. Travel between Nuevo Laredo and Monterrey is limited to Federal Highway 85D during daylight hours with prior authorization.

U.S. government employees may not travel to other parts of Tamaulipas state.

Zacatecas state – Do Not Travel

Violent crime, extortion, and gang activity are widespread in Zacatecas state. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

• Zacatecas City : U.S. government employee travel is limited to Zacatecas City proper, and employees may not travel overland to Zacatecas City.
• U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of Zacatecas state.

Have you traveled to Mexico? Did you feel safe? Leave a comment in the comment section below:

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Home » North America » Travel Safety

Is Mexico Safe for Travel? (Insider Tips – 2024)

Mexico is one of those countries that really divides opinions. With a bad reputation for violent crime and criminal groups, it often scares people away.

Though Mexico has a good reputation for many, many other things. Colourful art, soulful music, elaborate food, rich history… So before people consider travelling to Mexico, they end up asking themselves (or the internet) “is Mexico safe to travel to?”

I’ve spent years now travelling Mexico safely. And let me tell you, this is a special country. I want to share some love for my Mexican brothers and sisters who don’t deserve the bad reputation that the country generally holds. 

Though, granted, it’s not just a place you can drop into unannounced and expect everything to be hunky dory. You should know the score when it comes to staying safe in Mexico. I’ll cover a range of topics about using public transport, personal safety, criminal activity, the popular tourist destinations, and where exactly you need to exercise increased caution. 

If you’re thinking to visit Mexico with your family or even as a solo female traveller, you have every potential for an incredible trip. Though I’m not going to encourage anything without good, solid research.

So let’s start here.

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you . Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more .

There is no such thing as a perfect safety guide, as things change quickly. The question of “Is Mexico Safe?” will ALWAYS have a different answer depending on who you ask.

The information in this safety guide was accurate at the time of writing. If you use our guide, do your own research, and practice common sense, you will probably have a wonderful and safe trip to Mexico.

If you see any outdated information, we would really appreciate it if you could reach out in the comments below. Otherwise, stay safe friends!

Updated March 2024

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Is it Safe to Visit Mexico Right Now?

Safest places in mexico, top safety tips for travelling to mexico, is mexico safe to travel alone, is mexico safe for solo female travellers, where to start your travels in mexico, is mexico safe for families, getting around mexico safely, crime in mexico, what to pack for your mexico trip, getting insured before visiting mexico, faqs on mexico’s safety, so, is mexico safe.

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The quick answer to that question is yes . Travelling to Mexico right now is safe. Based on the reports of Gobierno de Mexico tourism , Mexico recorded an estimated 30,700,000 tourists from January to November 2022. Amongst these are pretty much safe travels.

Before people start kicking off in the comments about that statement, let me turn that question on its head. Is Mexico dangerous to travel? Well, yes, it can be too.

But no matter what horror stories people want to share about Mexico, it’s absolutely possible to visit Mexico and have a safe – nay – FANTASTIC trip. In fact, it’s one of the top-visited countries in the world – and the vast majority of tourists don’t encounter any problems.

The problem really is what people consider as “dangerous”. That really is a big umbrella term when it comes to the question “ is Mexico safe? “.

Like anywhere, there are things you need to be aware of and safety precautions to take. In this guide to safety in Mexico, I’ll also give you my best safety advice on how to avoid trouble.

Mexico’s bad reputation mainly comes from being situated between coca-producing nations and the USA (the world’s largest drug market). But that doesn’t necessarily reflect how tourists are treated in this country. Gang warfare is basically just that: violence between gangs.

Tourist destinations don’t see the same level of crime that other parts of the country experience; the local authorities are working to keep, at the very least, these popular areas and neighborhoods of Mexico open for business.

Be cautious but also be reassured that since you’re not a part of the violence in Mexico, you’re less likely to be targeted. Unless you’re looking for trouble in Mexico, it shouldn’t come looking for you. At the end of the day, Mexican people are friendly, family-oriented, religious, fun-loving, helpful, and open.

Check out our detailed where to stay guide for Mexico so you can start your trip right!

Mexico is an extremely diverse and dynamic country. Undoubtedly, some of these places to stay in Mexico are safer than others…

As a loose note, the tourist destinations are generally the safest. It’s important for the Mexican government to maintain this huge income from tourism, so ensuring the safety of these visitors is paramount.

Riviera Maya and the state of Quintana Roo receive the most tourists. It is a stretch of Caribbean coastline on Mexico’s northeastern Yucatán Peninsula.

That doesn’t mean to say that you can’t have a completely safe trip if you’re visiting Mexico City or even some of the areas considered dangerous to travel in Mexico too. Sometimes travelling comes down to pure luck.

Do your research on the area you want to stay in and what trip you want to have. But generally, these areas have very few safety issues.

• Playa Del Carmen – Cancun’s little brother is a great place for a safe Mexican vacation. Lots of entertainment for kids, big and small. Staying in Playa Del Carmen is a great alternative for families staying in Mexico.
• Oaxaca State – One of the most culturally diverse states in Mexico attracts visitors from across the globe. Visiting Oaxaca City for El Dia De Los Muertos (The Day of the Dead) festival is one of the country’s top attractions.
• Isla Mujeres – This breathtaking island is something drawn up in a fairytale. Everyone deserves a vacation in Isla Mujeres at some point in their life.

Dangerous Places in Mexico

As in almost every country, there are areas that are better avoided if you want to have a safe trip. The same goes for Mexico.

Some areas are not recommended for travel for various reasons. However, these are generally not places that tourists should have much interest in any way.

Actually, at the time of writing this, the travel advisory from the UK and the USA differed. So before travelling, always do your own research into the area you want to visit before you book anything and before you travel to Mexico.

Drug-related crimes mainly involve (but not limited to) the northern states. Before booking your trip to Mexico and before travelling, check your countries travel advice. They will detail the exact places not recommended and where you should reconsider travel.

To help you out a bit, I’ve listed some areas in Mexico that the U.S government do not recommend travel (at the time of writing). For the sake of caution, I suggest not putting them on your Mexico itinerary .

Note that even in those areas, there are safe places. But, please do your research and exercise extreme caution.

• State of Colima
• State of Guerrero
• State of Michoacan
• State of Sinaloa
• State of Tamaulipas  
• State of Zacatecas

Keeping Your Money Safe in Mexico

One of the most common things to happen to you whilst travelling is losing your money. And let’s face it: the most annoying way for this to actually occur is when it’s stolen from you.

Petty crime is pretty much a problem all over the world.cThe best solution? Get a money belt .

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

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It’s generally safe to travel around Mexico, but there’s no such thing as being too careful. To be as secure as possible, here’s a list of top tips for staying safe in Mexico.

• Research – understand what kind of place you are getting into. There are some places in Mexico that you should reconsider travel.
• Blend in – Don’t make yourself look rich.
• Use sun protection – the sun is relentless in Mexico! 
• Take a good medical kit with you – you never know when you might need it!
• Read reviews – for trustworthy bus companies, accommodation, and tours.
• ONLY use official taxis – anything else is illegal and unregulated.
• Don’t walk around after dark – Use those official taxis. 
• Use ATMs with caution – in daylight hours, inside shops/malls, and be discreet.
• Ask about dangerous neighbourhoods – or places to avoid in the local area.
• Hide your money well – money belts work good.
• Always keep an emergency stash of cash – Never keep all your cards/ currency in one place. And hide it all from thieves with a hidden money belt .
• Be wary of scams – if strangers seem to close they are likely to be scamming.
• Learn some Spanish – this will help with eeeeeeverything.
• Ask for recommendations – your hostel/hotel staff are full of safety tips.
• Avoid drinking TOO much – keep your wits about you.
• Don’t drink tap water – stick to bottled water.
• Watch out for weather warnings – especially if you’re travelling in hurricane season.
• Comply with kidnappers – I hate to include this but just to clear all bases: in the extremely unlikely event that this occurs…
• Stay away from drugs – look, I know. But this is the souce of many of Mexico’s problems. 
• Get good travel insurance ! – Essential.

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Yes, travelling alone in Mexico is safe. Though it is a very different experience.

Solo travel in Mexico can make one feel very vulnerable at times – though that goes for anywhere, especially in Latin America. If you want to travel solo in Mexico, you absolutely can , but you must take some extra precautions…

• Make friends . There is safety in numbers. 
• Check out reviews for hostels . The best hostels in Mexico aren’t always the cheapest option.
• Keep an open mind. Absolutely, Mexico can be overwhelming. But dismissing it or getting panicked is a good way to lose rational action.
• Ask for advice . Mexicans are very friendly and helpful. If you get lost or need help, approach somebody in a personable, polite manner and they’ll be more than happy to help.
• Don’t walk around at night . Regardless of gender or group size, it’s never a good idea. 
• Never leave your drink or food unattended . Again, regardless of gender, you’re not immune to being spiked . 
• Carry hidden cash . Losing all your cash at once while travelling in Mexico is far from ideal. 
• Pay attention to government warnings . Check weather and heightened crime warnings in the area.

Regardless of popular belief, Mexico is a safe destination to travel alone. Probably not the first country I’d recommend to dive into your first solo tour – but it’s not exactly a no-go zone. With the proper safety habits and some extra attention, Mexico is safe for solo travellers.

Yes! Mexico is a great destination for solo female travellers .

Again, before people start losing it in the comments, I’ve done it. I’ve met many other women who have done it. 

Let me make it clear that there are always safety protocols to follow to ensure that statement can be upheld. Unfortunately, yes, there are some things that women should be aware of before they start their travel to Mexico.

Much of Mexico is safe for solo female travellers. Though, how safe Mexico is for female travellers varies on perspective. Here is some advice and top tips:

• Trust your spidey senses! – if your gut says something is wrong then it probably is.
• Find good hostels for women . Plenty of women travel alone. Meet other female travellers and see how they’ve done it.
• Assaults happen . Avoid drinking too much, buy your own drinks (and watch them), and only travel with reputable bus companies.
• Again, DO NOT WALK HOME AT NIGHT . 
• Look confident – Even if you’re lost, walk confidently until you feel like you can ask someone friendly-looking.
• Observe what local women are wearing and dress accordingly . I love empowerment but Mexico is still conservative in many ways. This is not the time to break boundaries.
• Get to know people but don’t tell them exactly where you’re staying . You never know who you’re talking to.
• Be aware of threats and dangers – but don’t let them overwhelm you .

Lastly, and most importantly, remember that ‘no’ is a full sentence. 

Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen offers something for everyone – while being generally very safe. Whether you just want to chill at the beach, explore caves and cenotes or learn more about the Mexican culture, you can find everything here.

Yes , again, Mexico is safe for families. But like everywhere you take your precious brood – go heavy on the research.

I’ve covered the main safety concerns already, but there is plenty more information on how to have a safe trip to Mexico.

Mexico is a family-oriented place. Children are a big part of society and you’ll be well looked after if you travel there with your own in tow. Having your kids with you will help break down barriers between you and locals, making for a more authentic, memorable experience.

On the whole, Mexico is safe to travel for families. For a start, you’re less likely to be travelling through the rougher and less trodden paths that backpackers would be taking.

Stick to the tourist destinations, but you don’t have to stick to the confines of an all-inclusive resort. Venturing out to local markets and seeing the life and colour of the country is easily done with children. People will be warm and welcoming.

I hate feeling like I’m preaching to the choir but the most important note here is to make sure your children are protected from the sun . The beaches get seriously hot and there are lots of places at high altitudes with very strong UV rays.

Yes, I’m talking to you parents and guardians here too. Take care of yourself too and set a good example! The sun really is not something to mess around with here.

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Whether you’re driving in Mexico or using public transport, you can do it safely. There are just a few things to be aware of.

Driving is a good way to see the country at your own pace. In fact, many travellers visit Mexico by crossing the US border in their own vehicles or rent a car. That being said, things aren’t always straightforward.

Generally, it’s safe to drive in Mexico, but  I advise against driving at night . Crucially, you’re more likely to get people who are involved in unlawful activities driving around. There’s also animals on the road, vehicles driving with no lights, etc.

You’ll need an international drivers license. Pay attention to local laws and use reputable car rental companies.

Illegal roadblocks happen at random places along highways – they’ll ask to see your driver’s license. Especially in remote areas, these are not always official and will demand cash in exchange for being able to pass.

Toll roads are run by private companies and can be pricey. However, these are safer to use than roads not on the main highway.

Taxis are safe in Mexico ! Just so long as you play by the (very simple) rules – e.g. get licensed cabs, use an app, or ask your hotel for help. Do this and you’ll be getting around with no trouble at all.

Don’t hail a cab off the street after dark – that’s probably an illegal taxi.  Go to a Sitio  (taxi ranks) to find a licensed cab.

Generally, public transport is safe in Mexico. It’s the road conditions with crazy drivers that’s the most dangerous part. Of course, it’s much safer to use in the daytime than at night.

Then there’s traveling around the country itself. Highway buses ( camiones ) are safe in Mexico, easy to get, and are run by reputable bus companies. First class bus companies , like ADO, do checks for alcohol and drugs on the driver, and check security for passengers too.

Crime and kidnapping are the words thrown around a lot when referring to safety in Mexico. Unfortunately, crime does loom over the nation.

Warring drug cartels have resulted in a high (and increasing) murder rate and violence. But as long as you stay in your lane, mind your business, and practice caution, you should have no problem. There’s very little reason for these crimes to affect tourists, especially while traveling in the safest cities in Mexico .

Petty theft is common – like anywhere with a tourist industry.

It should also be noted that the police do pose some safety issues in Mexico too. Yes, in many cases they do keep streets safer – but they are also famously corrupt too.

It’s best just to not get on the wrong side of them. “Yes, sir. No, sir. 3 bags full, sir.” (That works much better in Spanish too.) A hidden bribe has been known to come in handy too.

Everyone’s packing list is going to look a little different, but here are a few things I would never want to travel to Mexico without…

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

A decent head torch could save your life. If you want to explore caves, unlit temples, or simply find your way to the bathroom during a blackout, a headtorch is a must.

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Monopoly Deal

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

This is a regular looking belt with a concealed pocket on the inside – you can hide up to twenty notes inside and wear it through airport scanners without it setting them off.

Without a doubt, you should have good Mexico travel insurance . With all the best wishes in the world, you can’t plan for everything.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

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SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

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Planning a safe trip to Mexico can seem quite overwhelming. But no worries, you’ve got this. Here are some more of the most frequently asked questions on safety in Mexico.

Is Mexico too dangerous to visit?

No, Mexico is not too dangerous to visit if you use your common travel sense. There are plenty of regions and cities that are more than safe to visit. Stay away from the areas that are known for trouble and you’ll have a great trip.

What should you avoid in Mexico?

Avoid these things in Mexico to add another level of safety to your trip: – Stay away from drugs. – Leave your belongings out of sight. – Don’t resist if you get robbed. – Don’t walk around alone at night.

What is the biggest safety issue in Mexico?

Gang activity and drug-related crimes are the biggest safety threat in Mexico. However, popular tourist destinations are unlikely targets. Stick to the safe areas of Mexico and exercise increased caution if you decide to travel outside of these zones.

What are the safest areas in Mexico?

Quintana Roo and Oaxaca are two of the safest states in Mexico to visit. Isla Mujeres, Isla Holbox, Playa del Carmen, and Oaxaca City are some of the safest areas to stay in Mexico. They have generally low crime rates. Although, I’m going to suggest that you still maintain the same level of caution as you would anywhere else.

Is Mexico safe to live?

Yes, Mexico is a safe country to live in. Again, some places are much safer than others and it is a different experience than simply visiting Mexico. Do your research, respect local laws, and stay up to date on the areas that interest you to move your life to.

Safety-wise… well, I won’t sugar coat it: Mexico does pose some safety risks. Though, so does almost anywhere in the world. The advice I offer you in this guide to staying safe in Mexico is very similar to what I would offer you for many other places. 

Of course, criminal groups and violent crime are active in Mexico. But more tourists are affected by sunstroke than express kidnappings – yet no one will try and scare you with that one. Believe me, many more Mexicans are affected by the high crime rate than tourists – with the Mexican government actively protecting these popular tourist areas.

That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be aware of the risk of violent crime. I’m just saying don’t get consumed by it. Exercise normal precautions, even go a little overboard if it makes you feel better. 

Remember, you are a guest when you are travelling in Mexico. Remain vigilant at all times, respect local authorities, stick to tourist destinations, and don’t get involved with Mexican drug cartels. (I would hope that last one really is common sense but hey, covering all bases.)

If something seems sketchy – get the hell out of there! Be smart and stay aware of your surroundings and you should have a safe experience.

It’s also a good idea to check weather warnings. Hurricane season and earthquakes really are up to Mother Earth. 

With that, is Mexico safe to visit right now? YES! 

This stunning Latin American highlight makes this wide world a much brighter place to live. I urge you to see it for yourself.

Looking for more info on travelling to Mexico?

• Let me help you choose where to stay in Mexico
• Swing by one of these fabulous festivals
• Don’t forget to add an epic national park to your itinerary
• Check out my favourite Airbnbs in the centre of all the action
• Plan the rest of your trip with our fantastic backpacking Mexico travel guide!

Disclaimer: Safety conditions change all over the world on a daily basis. We do our best to advise but this info may already be out of date. Do your own research. Enjoy your travels!

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13 Comments

Travelled to Mexico last January. Though it can be pretty overwhelming, you can be safe if you take the normal precautions you would take in any big European city. The only thing a tourist has to fear is just petty street crime in crowded spots in the big cities, but not much more. Even in places that are kind of rough around the edges, like Chiapas, being respectful to locals and mindful, will make things easy for you.

Hmm, no mention of kidnapping and murders, highest ever, in the run up to June 2nd elections? We are in PV BUT there has been a significant increase in crime as cities like Acapulco have residents fleeing Constantly thinking about safety is not a way to enjoy a holiday

Thanks for your post. I’m not sure if you have access to media news. It is not safe to travel to many places at the moment this includes Mexico. UK have advised no travel insurance will be given if travelling to Mexico. So not sure what you’re talking about tbh. I hope this ends real soon. This is happening to disrupt the tourist industry. Your story is completely unhelpful at this time and deeply misleading. Apologies if this sounds disrespectful that’s not my intention. But as I came across your blog which you have updated recently after what’s has been happening. Very surprising. Hope this helps. Fellow traveler.

Hello Zane, thanks for your comment. I understand your concerns: it’s unfortunate what has happened in the state of Baja California recently. However, this doesn’t affect the safety of the vast majority of travellers in Mexico currently and you should have no issue getting travel insurance. We also recommend companies like World Nomads and Safety Wing that have great insurance for Mexico. We do always advise to check your country’s advisories before travelling anywhere. There are (like always) travel warnings for certain areas of Mexico like Tijuana in Baja California but this doesn’t apply to most of the country. Though I would advise people who are uncertain about managing their own safety in a place to avoid it. Maybe Mexico isn’t for you right now, my friend.

When people speak of crime I propose the majority of it is incidental. I feel what needs to be considered and frequently missed is the number of successful trips, vacations and business affairs people have experienced without problems. These do not become newsworthy because they’re not, right? Those that indulge in reckless behaviors WILLINGLY become magnets for trouble and the more often they do, the odds go up. I speak from experience. I used to be a FUP and kept repeating the same patterns getting the same results. I got sober. Now the troublesome arenas have disappeared (amazingly). Like I tell my wife. Your vulnerability has a lot to do with your behavior. You want to walk with your head down rarely if ever looking around ? You’re a target. Criminals look for the soft hit. This is not anything new….it’s been an ongoing process since the dawn of mankind. STAY AWARE &ALERT in public. If you’re over 50, male or female, your reflexes are diminished and cannot put up the same fight against the bad guy. So what do you do? Even the playing field by learning how to defend yourself and develop awareness. I cannot emphasize this enough. The bad guys are everywhere.

No. You cant compare usa to mexico. Mexico is far more dangerous Id rather travel the us than travel mexico I was born and raised in mexico

I am from Chicago, that city today is the most dangerous on earth! 750 to 800 homicides are committed each year with 7000 to 8000 wounded! Car jacking is a daly occurrence and so are drive by shootings! Mexico by comparison is far safer!

Just got back from Puerto Vallarta Mexico and was drugged and for some reason I was given some little injections in my neck during a spa treatment and I ran up off the table with my heart beating and it’s just super dangerous I was at the Hyatt ziva which is considered a very swanky resort and I felt very vulnerable it felt like everybody knew each other it feel like it was run by one big gang I don’t recommend Mexico ever.. unfortunately after these crimes were perpetrated on me I finally decided to read all about the crimes in Mexico I wish I would have done that before I made my vacation plans there I feel very fortunate to be back home very unsafe place.

I am from Mexico and I live in the States. I visit my hometown Saltillo in Coahuila every once a year. Sometimes I tend to cross the border by car.

What I’d recommend is to inform yourself very well. Border towns can be very dangerous, even if they are literally feet away from the United States. Nuevo Laredo, for example, is terrible right now. I had to get a police escort to drive 30 miles south away from the town. It all depends on the state. Avoid Tamaulipas and Nuevo Leon.

Also remember that when you go to Mexico, or any different country, be on your best behaviour and keep your wits about you. Also be open to whatever that may happen. Try to blend in and don’t look like a tourist. Don’t wear expensive clothing as well as typical Mexican clothing. Learn some Spanish, as well as the slang. Always carry cash, and keep your credit card hidden only for important and safe transactions such as hotels or plane flights.

If you go out drinking, do have fun, but always observe your surroundings. Always figure out a way of letting people know where you are. Mexico can be very hospitable, but just as it can be nice, it could take the wrong turn very fast. Don’t go there looking for trouble. It is a very gray area and it can be whatever you want it to be. But remember that with every action there is a consequence.

As of September 2020 I’d stay away from Mexico. I LIVE in Baja California normally but have been staying in the states because of COVID and crime. The Mexican government has not tracked the numbers, testing is almost non-existent and the locals are not masking or distancing. In addition, the disease has hit the economy so hard that crime is spiking. A San Diego couple who were very familiar with Baja and been coming for 30 years was just murdered for their car and their bodies turned up in Ensenada. I was attacked at the border crossing when a police officer directed me into a trap and I was lucky to get away fro 700 pesos (about $35 US). I love MX, the food, the people, the natural beauty, the wine country, my beach home (which cost me only $80k). But right now I am staying away and I advise others to do the same.

So I think the short answer is basically “no”, its not safe. That tip about always complying with your kidnappers is great advice. lol.

It is possible to travel through the rural areas of the United States without fear. You are more likely to be robbed in a city, near one of these “touristy” destinations, than some road between nowhere. Its very strange to me that its the opposite in Mexico, but maybe not surprising. It sounds like complete lawlessness.

Very disappointing. I’d like to see the “real Mexico”, but that doesn’t sound like its possible without huge risk.

Honestly… if you want to enjoy travelling around and not worry about getting caught in a crossfire, Mexico will not be the best place to visit right now. Went there in March this year and got involved in a shooting in the bar street in the (tourist) center of Tulum. This shooting did not reach the news while a lot of tourists and other people were there when it happened. One man was killed. It was terrifying.

Many things mentioned can also be applied when traveling to the USA. ;-D

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Is Mexico Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

• Mexico : Safety by City
• Aguascalientes
• Cabo San Lucas
• Chichen Itza
• Guadalajara
• Isla Holbox
• Isla Mujeres
• Mexico City
• Nuevo Laredo
• Piedras Negras
• Playa del Carmen
• Puerto Morelos
• Puerto Vallarta
• Queretaro City
• San Luis Potosi
• San Miguel de Allende
• Zihuatanejo

Mexico has a lot to offer, from beautiful beaches, mountains, canyons, and rich cultural life from a diverse group of influences.

There is something intriguing for everyone.

Ancient Mayan and Aztec ruins, as well as some amazing colonial architecture, is itself a major reason to visit Mexico.

In the south especially, there are gorgeous beaches with clear blue water complete with a thriving nightlife.

While Cancun is the major tourist attraction, there are beaches just as nice that are not as developed or crowded.

In some cases, you can find more than one attraction in the same area, such as beaches, ruins, and lots of variety in Mexican culture.

From major cities to out-of-the-way hamlets, Mexico is the neighbor you should want to get to know.

• Warnings & Dangers in Mexico

OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM

The U.S. Government advises people to "reconsider travel" to Mexico, which is the third-highest of four levels of danger.Covid-19, as well as a rise in crime and kidnappings, are the major reasons.Like many countries, some areas are safer than others.Major tourist areas are generally safe.The overall crime rate per thousand people is actually higher in the United States than in Mexico.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW

You need to use some common sense.Don't accept rides from independent drivers.Ride only in approved or licensed taxis, which are labeled.Get your hotel to call a taxi for you, instead of hailing one on the street.Public transportation is safe but can be crowded and uncomfortable.Generally, it is much safer than renting a car and driving yourself.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: HIGH

This is especially true in tourist areas, where people look for easy targets.Try not to look like a tourist.Don't flash your money or expensive electronics around in public. Keep your valuables locked up and carry as little cash as possible.Keep your papers and wallet safe.Tourist areas and large cities are the worst.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW

There have been earthquakes in mountainous areas, as well as hurricanes along the coast, but it is rare to have a major disaster in Mexico.Keep an eye on weather forecasts as you would at home.The infrastructure in Mexico is not that great, so if there is one, it may be worse than if you were at home. Even so, they are rare here.

MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM

Robberies and muggings are on the rise in certain areas.Even so, tourist areas are generally safe during the daytime, as is most of the country.If you stay at a resort in a tourist area, your risk is very low.If you are out at night by yourself in a city, your risk increases dramatically, just as it would in the United States.

TERRORISM RISK: LOW

According to U.S. Govt reports, there is no evidence of foreign terror groups having a base in Mexico or working with drug cartels.There have been very few incidents of terrorism in recent years and those were isolated cases.While terrorism could happen anywhere, there seems to be little risk of it happening in Mexico.

SCAMS RISK: HIGH

Especially in tourist areas, scammers are on the prowl looking for a victim.Fake taxis, fake tour operators, souvenirs, and timeshares seem to be the most common scams.One very common scam is for restaurants to have a different menu and prices for tourists than what locals get.You won't get much help from the police if you are scammed, so you need to be careful.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW

We say low because it really is not any different than in the United States.If you stay in tourist areas, use some common sense - don't go out at night alone - there is little danger.There have been some kidnappings, so that could be a danger.It is not good for a woman to be away from tourist areas alone for that reason.

TAP WATER RISK: HIGH

 "Montezuma's Revenge," causes most tourists who drink water to get sick for a day or two.Some are just different minerals that you could get used to. Water is contaminated in many areas, however. Ice at a restaurant may come from tap water.You will get sick from tap water, but it is not fatal or serious in most cases.

• Safest Places to Visit in Mexico

The safest place to visit in Mexico is Cancun, or anywhere along what is called the Mexican Riviera.

The area of Yucatan is built for tourists and it is safe for that reason.

You can also take guided day trips from there to see the Mayan Ruins of Chichen Itza or Tulum, which are also safe.

Cozumel is a tiny island near Cancun that is also a tourist haven, as well as a snorkeling paradise.

The historic center of Mexico City is also a fabulous place to visit and is safe as long as you don’t wander about at night alone.

Merida is a large Yucatan city that is often overlooked by American tourists.

It has a great colonial heritage, beautiful streets, and squares.

It is close to the ocean, with some beautiful underdeveloped beaches.

• Places to Avoid in Mexico

Cities that border the United States are considered unsafe because of drug cartels.

Ciudad Juarez, across from El Paso; Tijuana, south of California; Reynosa, which borders Texas, and Ciudad Obregon near Arizona, are all considered unsafe.

Do not travel there alone and exercise extreme caution.

The U.S. Government has issued a “do not travel” designation for Mazatlán, Acapulco, Matamoros, and Nuevo Laredo.

The “do not travel” designation is because of increased violence, drug cartel activity, and Covid-19.

Generally, the southern part of Mexico is much safer than the northern states.

The states of Sinaloa, Nuevo Leon, Guerrero, and Michoacan all have “do not travel” advisories from the state department.

Some resort cities on this list are unsafe outside the resort, but nearly all resorts themselves are safe for travelers.

• Safety Tips for Traveling to Mexico

1. Avoid looking like a tourist.

Try to blend in as far as clothing, wherever you are.

Don’t flash expensive electronics, jewelry, or cash around where a pickpocket might see it.

Criminals look for easy opportunities.

Don’t be an easy mark.

2. Obey your intuition.

If something feels off or scary, don’t hesitate to run away.

Your intuition is probably right, and even if not, better safe than sorry.

While most areas are safe, there are bad people everywhere, so if your radar is going off, it is doing so for a reason.

3. Safe mentality.

Stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Make safety your top priority, no matter what else you are doing.

4. Take the Uber.

Public transportation and taxis are safe, but nothing beats Uber as far as safety goes.

When it is available, it’s safer than public transportation.

5. Take group tours.

These are operated by well-trained guides and drivers, and they have a lot of tours to choose from.

Don’t take a tour with some guy on the street making an offer.

It might be great, or you might get killed.

6. Don’t drink the water.

It won’t kill you, but it will make you very sick for a day or two.

Some of it is just the minerals in the water that we are not used to, but there are also contaminated systems in Mexico.

7. Don’t go out at night alone.

Criminals wander around at night looking for an easy target, and a tourist alone is an easy target.

This is especially true for women, but it’s dangerous for men too.

8. Stay downtown.

Unlike the United States, the culture and tourist areas are downtown in Mexico.

Look for the “Centro Historico,” which is the major tourist area in town.

These areas cater to tourists and the government helps keep them safe.

9. Learn a little Spanish.

You don’t need to be fluent, but knowing some words will help.

If people see you are trying to speak their language, they are more likely to offer to help you.

10. Climate awareness.

Be aware of where you are.

Mexico City, for instance, is at a high elevation and that can give you altitude sickness.

The southern areas are hot, so drink plenty of water.

• So... How Safe Is Mexico Really?

There is no place on Earth that is safe all the time.

Bad things can happen, and that is what makes the news.

In reality, Mexico is as safe as the United States.

Forbes Magazine interviewed an FBI agent who worked in Mexico, and he said the country is safe if you use common sense.

A website compared crime statistics between Mexico and the United States and found Mexico to be less dangerous in many statistical categories.

• Crime in general per thousand people is three times higher in the United States.
• Rapes per thousand people are higher in the United States.
• Murders per thousand are higher in Mexico, but gun violence is less prevalent in Mexico.
• Assaults are four times as likely to happen per thousand people in the United States than in Mexico.
• Robberies, or muggings, are more prevalent in Mexico and this happens when people are caught out alone in most cases.
• Some areas are unsafe, and it is not safe to be out at night alone.

Driving a car in rural areas alone is also unsafe.

Tourist areas are safe.

The Mexican government makes a lot of effort to keep it that way.

Even in dangerous areas, you should be fine at a resort as long as you stay at the resort.

• How Does Mexico Compare?
• Useful Information

You do not need a visa to travel to Mexico.A regular passport is all you need.If you are on a cruise ship that leaves and returns to the USA, you won't even need a passport. It takes 8-10 weeks to get a passport once you have applied.The passport costs $110, but you can get a passport card for a short-term visit for $30.

The Peso is used in Mexico, and the exchange rate can change daily.The best place to make the exchange is at a bank, or at an ATM.You may also make the exchange at airports.Mexicans love to have U.S. Dollars, so take some and use them judiciously.Avoid changing money on the street as that can be a scam.

Mexico is a big country, so the weather is as diverse as it is in the United States.In the south, it is hot all the time in a Caribbean-type ecosystem.It can get cold at night in the high mountains around Mexico City any time of year. Light, loose-fitting clothing is best in summer, but bring some warm clothes if you head to the mountains.

Major cities have big airports, and some relatively small cities have them.If you are not on a cruise ship, flying is the best way to get to Mexico.The airport has taxis that will take you to town or where you need to go.Use official taxis, as there are fake ones at times.

Travel Insurance

Part of the fun of traveling is not knowing what will happen.Bad things do happen at times though, so it is a good idea to get some travel insurance.This can help you if you have a sudden change of plans, or if you get injured while in Mexico.It will give you some peace of mind as you explore and find new adventures.

Mexico Weather Averages (Temperatures)

• Average High/Low Temperature

Mexico - Safety by City

Explore mexico.

• 12 Cheapest Places to Live in Mexico
• 10 Best Beaches in Mexico
• 10 Most Dangerous Cities In Mexico
• 10 Best Zoos & Aquariums in Mexico
• 11 Most Beautiful Castles in Mexico
• Are There Alligators in Mexico?
• 15 Best Flea Markets in Mexico
• 16 Pros and Cons of Living in Mexico
• 10 Safest Cities in Mexico
• Top 6 All-Inclusive Family Resorts in Mexico
• Reasons To Visit the City of Tampico in Mexico
• Mexican Slang You Should Know to Feel Like a Local
• Top 12 Activities for Your Trip to Rocky Point, Mexico
• Staying Safe in Mexico: 8 Simple Tips You Should Follow
• Where to Next?

19 Reviews on Mexico

Give mexico a chance.

Mexico and it’s people are beautiful, personally have never had any problems, but Mexico has lost it’s way over the years (Very Sad). Just use caution, and you should be ok

I HAVE TRAVELLED TO SEVERAL MEXICAN CITIES AND HAVE YET TO EXPERIENCE ANY PROBLEMS ALWAYS BEING CAREFUL ABOUT OUR SURROUNDINGS AND ALWAYS USING A CAB RECOMMENDED BY OUR HOTEL FOR ALL OUR LOCAL EXCURSIONS, ALWAYS TIPPING THEM FAIRLY AND ESTABLISHING A TRUSTING RELATIONSHIP WITH OUR DRIVERS AND REUSING THEM. WE AVOID LATE EXCURSIONS, NO JEWELRY, AND FEW CREDIT CARDS, ALONG WITH A SMALL CAMERA TO AVOID ATTRACTION. WE WILL EVEN HAVE LUNCH WITH OUR DRIVER TO MAKE US AND HIM FEEL AT EASE. I HAVE NOTICED THAT WHEN WE FLAG A CAB DOWN THE PRICE FOR THE TRIP IS EXCEGERRATED SIGNIFICANTLY USALLY TWO OR THREE TIMES WHAT IT SHOULD BE.

I have been to Mexico and I had no problem at all.People were friendly,food was great.There is no crime. Go to Mexico! It’s safe!

Truth is bitter

The only thing that’s missing from half of the country is effective government control. The drug cartels field military-grade weapons, and the government needs to respond with their own military helicopters and army formations e.g. to arrest some major druglords.

Brazil might be the only country besides Mexico that’s officially at peace, and yet has to regularly deploy the army to fight against organized crime (though there might be a few other countries as well in Latin America). The cartels will set roadblocks on major highways to enforce the borders of their extensive domains and will commit atrocities to make everyone remember who’s actually in control.

Only the Yucatan peninsula should be relatively safe for travel.

PICKPOCKETS? SCAMS? No way. I have been to Mexico and I have experienced NONE of that. There may be some in the northern part, but NOT in Mexico City! People are VERY friendly. Please go!

The fact that you dont experience a crime, doesnt mean crime doesnt exist. Dont be silly, mexico is alright, but as any latin american country, you cannot do things you can do in Europe like going out by night.

And im a mexican btw, i know my country way better than you

No you don’t You’re over exaggerating things because you’re believing all the things that the media exaggerated about safety in Mexico.

– I’m a Mexican living in the UK.

Need more information

Thank you for your reviews and information. I have noticed that Mazatlan is not covered within your list, is there a reason this city has been overlooked.

Mexico is not safe. Cartels target tourists you need to be careful. Police are corrupt and do not care.

Mexico is actually not what you think.

If you stick to the right areas in Mexico you will be completely safe. This whole Narco stuff is a problem but where I’ve been that being a small town in Jalisco called San Juan De Los Lagos, Its pretty safe, people in Mexico are nice too and will help you if needed. The media is just making Mexico look like a bad place, (which it is on some parts) but for the most part its a safe country if you stick to the good parts.

If you go to Mexico, you might get your head cut off

Mexico is my second home

In my opinion, Mexico is one of the most beautiful countries in the entire world. As a side note, for those that are gamers, you probably know that Forza Horizon 5 is based in Mexico and that game is so beautiful just as Mexico is. This place never fails to amaze me every time I get a chance to visit. I only had time for visiting a few of the many beauties it offers.

What I’ve managed to see so far:

1. Mexico’s Grand Canyon or Copper Canyon or Barranca del Cobre is a spectacular group of deep canyons. There are many ways to explore this place which believe it or not, is larger than the Grand Canyon.

2. Guanajuato is one of those places that needs to be explored by walking. It has many beautiful plazas, many, many splendid buildings architecturally wise. The San Diego Church or the Juarez Theater are just two of them. Another place to visit here is the Museum of Quixote. Don’t miss it.

3. Guadalajara is the second city in size after Mexico City and has a magnificent mix of colonial and Tapatios influences. Here you can truly experience Mexican culture with mariachi being present everywhere, dancing, singing and many, many amazing Mexican dishes that leave my mouth watering just thinking about them.

4. Cancun is a place where you go to relax on the beach and admire the smooth, clear sea. Snorkeling is awesome here as is scuba diving. Plenty of tropical fish to see and places to explore underwater if that’s your cup of tea.

All these places are generally safe during the day, less during the night. Pickpockets are present especially in the larger cities or where there are a lot of crowds so be careful in those instances. It’s generally safe to travel alone, as a man or woman, but traveling during night time is not ok I think. I wouldn’t do it.

Multiple listing "Los Cabos" is the capes, which is CSL and SJD.

Los Cabos consists of Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo (which you suggest people avoid.)

I am confused why both are listed, and why Cabo San Lucas gets a score of 68, but when you combine the two (to Los Cabos) it gets a score of 80. Since you’re warning people away from San Jose del Cabo, the score should logically be lower, not higher. I guess San Jose del Cabo is MUCH safer than Cabo San Lucas as it would need a score of 92 to average the two into the 80 score of the two cities, assuming equal weighting on each city – 200k vs 150k people. Please sort this out, it’s confusing, from what you’re posting most of the dangers of swimming, riptides, sharks etc are in CSL.

Mérida is the best of Mexico

I crossed the Mexican border for the very first time in 1977.

I spent the day in Juárez which, at that time, was perfectly safe.

Three years later, I crossed the border at Laredo/Nuevo Laredo, launching a three-month-long journey across all of eastern Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua and Costa Rica. At no point did I feel in danger.

I had fallen in love with Mexico, and returned soon afterward (1981). Eventually, I made my way to Mérida, and really fell in love with that city. I have had a connection with Yucatán since that day. Yes, many parts of Mexico are dangerous today, especially for foreigners. So, rule #1 is to NOT stick out as a tourist. Blend in. It truly breaks my heart to see what has happened over the past 42 years.

I do not personally recommend Quintana Roo, except for the islands of Isla Mujeres and Cozumel.

Cancún and even Tulum have become dangerous. Anyway, I never did like Cancún. Too touristy for my taste. Mérida has always had a reputation for being a very safe city and, while not as safe as it was when I arrived 40 years ago, what city IS? It is a beautiful city with a rich history and culture, and it is very walkable. Winter is the best time to visit, since it is the dry season.

Winter nights are cool, but the days are warm to hot. Public transportation is excellent. Nearby places of interest include Progreso, Dzibilchaltún, Uxmal (and the Ruta Puuc), the Grutas de Loltún, Chichén Itzá (2½ hrs by bus), and various beautiful cenotes. Merida’s central mercado spreads over several city blocks. The “plaza grande” (central square) is historic and beautiful. The cathedral was completed in 1598.

Yucatán has a culture all its own, including dishes that you will find nowhere else (Poc Chuc, Relleno Negro, Cochinita Pibil, Papadzules, Huevos Motuleños, etcetera). I highly recommend Mérida.

Ok but could be better

It’s not that bad last time i went was when i was real little. If you feel lucky maybe you can buy some things there. You should never let your guard down when traveling to such places. I know there are worse places to visit in the world but this gets 4 stars because it is not that interesting. I’m not recommending you go there but if you want to no one is stopping you.

I spent three months in Mexico in 1982 and was married on Isla Mujeres. I have been back many times, sometimes alone, with my young children and with friends. I have never had any problems anywhere I have gone. I have rented cars, had accidents, used public transportation and have travelled by air. When I travel alone I don’t go out at night and I don’t drive at night on the highways but have no trouble driving in the cities or towns. I speak Spanish well enough and this helps so much. I love the geography, people, and culture. As long as you stay away from heavy boozing and drugs you’ll be fine. So much to explore.

Safe but extremely boring sometimes

Mexico wasn’t too bad when i payed a visit. However it can veg boring from time to time. The people were really friendly. I’ve been to this country as a kid but thats when i was a little kid. I wouldn’t let me guard down when it comes to crime but it is good to take a tour every once in a while.

EARTHQUAKES?TSUNAMIS genuine threat

Plenty of major earthquakes, including 2 just 4 years before you created this article that were over 7 on the scale! Tsunamis even possible on the coast. Do more research

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Article Contents

• Overall Risk
• Transport & Taxis Risk
• Pickpockets Risk
• Natural Disasters Risk
• Mugging Risk
• Terrorism Risk
• Women Travelers Risk
• Tap Water Risk
• Weather Averages (Temperatures)
• User Reviews
• Share Your Experience

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Safety and security

This guide also has safety advice for  regions of Mexico .

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.  

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on  staying safe abroad  and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out  how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad .

Terrorism in Mexico

Terrorist attacks in Mexico cannot be ruled out.

Political situation

Political demonstrations are common in Mexico City and can happen across the country. Demonstrations can be tense, confrontational and potentially violent. Onlookers can be quickly drawn in.

It is illegal for foreign nationals to participate in political activities in Mexico. If you join demonstrations, the Mexican authorities may detain and deport you.

Monitor local media and avoid all demonstrations. If you come across protests, move away from the area.

Crime is a risk to foreign nationals in Mexico, particularly in major cities and tourist resort areas. Street crime is a serious issue in these places.

Many Mexican and foreign businesses choose to hire private security. You should:

• research your destination thoroughly
• only travel during daylight hours when possible
• monitor local media
• tell trusted contacts your travel plans

If you want to report a crime, do so immediately at the nearest branch of the state prosecutor’s office (‘Agencia del Ministerio Público’). A criminal investigation is not possible without a formal complaint to the Mexican authorities. You must make a complaint in person before you leave Mexico.

The  Mexico City Command and Control Centre (‘Centro de Atención a Emergencias y Protección Ciudadana de la Ciudad de México’) has information and advice on safety in Mexico City in Spanish.

Take care withdrawing money from ATMs or using exchange offices (bureau de change). Criminals have targeted people using these services. It’s generally safer to use ATMs during daylight hours inside shops or malls. Avoid withdrawing large amounts and watch who is around you while you are at an ATM.

Protecting your belongings

Pickpocketing and theft are common, including on public transport. You should:

• avoid wearing expensive-looking clothing, jewellery or watches
• limit the amount of cash or credit and debit cards you carry
• watch your luggage, even in apparently secure places like the lobby of your hotel

Be wary of criminals posing as police officers and trying to fine or arrest you for no reason. They have targeted travellers driving rental cars.

Some genuine police officers have extorted money from tourists for alleged minor offences or traffic violations. If this happens:

• do not hand over money or your passport
• ask for a copy of the fine, which is payable later
• try to note the officer’s name, badge number and patrol car number

Criminals may try to get your friends or relatives to transfer money to Mexico. This can happen if your phone is stolen or hacked. Before you travel, agree how you will contact friends or relatives and how you would arrange to transfer money.

A common phone scam involves criminals posing as a kidnapped family member or employee and demanding money for their release. They may also claim a relative is being detained. If you are threatened over the phone, hang up and check on your family member or employee’s safety.

Drink and food spiking

Do not leave food and drinks unattended in bars and restaurants. Criminals have robbed or assaulted travellers after drugging them.

Tainted alcohol

Tainted alcohol has caused illness or blackouts. If you have any concerns, get advice from your tour operator or the local authorities.

Sexual assault

Sexual offences have been reported in tourist areas. Take care even in areas close to hotels, and especially after dark.

Kidnapping is more common in some areas of Mexico than others. See Regional risks for areas of higher risk. While tourists are not usually targeted, you should always remain aware of your surroundings.

Short-term opportunistic kidnapping (called ‘express kidnapping’) can happen, particularly in urban areas. Kidnappers force victims to withdraw money at an ATM to secure their release.

Longer-term kidnapping for financial gain also happens, and there have been allegations of police involvement. You should always remain alert and avoid travelling in higher risk areas, especially at night. Be discreet about discussing your financial or business affairs in places where others may overhear you.

Drug-related violence in Mexico has increased over recent years. Do not become involved with drugs of any kind.      

Some areas of Mexico have a high crime rate due to fighting between rival organised crime gangs. In these areas, there is a risk of being caught in the crossfire or of being mistaken for a gang member. While risks are lower in tourist areas, you should:

• take advice from local authorities or your hotel
• be aware of your surroundings at all times
• use reputable tourism or transport companies
• travel during the daytime where possible

Vehicle crime

Stay away from isolated roads and use toll roads (‘cuotas’) whenever possible. Keep car doors locked and windows closed, especially at traffic lights.

Violent carjackings and robberies happen along the Pacific Highway. If you suspect someone is following or watching you, drive to a police station or another safe place. Criminals have targeted large camper vans and sports utility vehicles (SUVs).

Criminals can deliberately cause traffic accidents to make insurance claims or get cash from the other party. They sometimes threaten violence or intimidation. Contact the authorities for support if necessary.

If you are involved in a carjacking, stay calm and surrender your valuables and your vehicle if asked. Resisting demands for your belongings can put you at significant risk of harm.

In remote areas, you may come across unofficial roadblocks, including on main roads. Local groups seeking money for an unofficial toll control these roadblocks. They can become violent and deny entry.

Unlicensed taxis

Unlicensed taxi drivers have robbed and assaulted passengers, including in Mexico City. Use the better regulated ‘sitio’ taxis from authorised taxi ranks or ask your hotel to order you a taxi. At airports, only use authorised pre-paid airport taxi services.

Licensed taxi drivers protesting about Uber have blocked roads near Cancun’s hotels. The protesters have pulled tourists from Uber taxis. Tourists have also missed flights due to roadblocks. Protests can happen without notice. Look for local announcements and follow your hotel’s advice on how to avoid protests.

Public transport

Be alert on public transport, at airports and in bus stations. Theft on buses is common, so keep your belongings safe.

There is a risk of bus hijacking. Try to travel on first-class buses using toll roads, which have a lower rate of incidents than second and third-class buses travelling on the less secure free (‘libre’) roads. Most first-class bus companies perform security checks when passengers board the bus.

Women travelling alone on public transport have been harassed, robbed and sexually assaulted.

Cancun and other tourist destinations

The Mexican government makes efforts to protect major tourist destinations, including:

• Nuevo Vallarta
• Playa del Carmen
• Puerto Vallarta

Criminals have physically and sexually assaulted British travellers in these locations. In some cases, hotel employees, taxi drivers and security personnel were involved. Hotel staff have sometimes been unhelpful and tried to convince victims not to contact police.

Rival criminal gangs have clashed in popular Cancun tourist destinations and surrounding areas. Gangs have not targeted tourists, but violent incidents could affect anyone nearby. Since 2021, several shootings have affected tourists.

Be very cautious after dark in downtown areas of Cancun, Tulum and Playa del Carmen. Stay in well-lit pedestrian streets and tourist zones. Follow advice from the local authorities and your tour operator.

Laws and cultural differences

For information on procedures, local laws or social services, you can contact Mexico City’s public telephone service LOCATEL  on 5658 1111 (English-speaking staff available).

Personal ID

The Mexican authorities can ask to see your passport and entry stamp to prove your entrance and stay. They do not accept copies or photos. To prove your visa status, you can get a digital registry of your entry documents from the Portal de Servicios INM (in Spanish). If you cannot show the correct documents, immigration officers may question and detain you while they check your immigration status. Depending on the outcome, they can deport you.

If you are a resident, the police may ask to see your Mexican residency card. They have detained British people for not having the correct documents.

Smoking and e-cigarette bans

It is illegal to bring e-cigarettes, vaping devices and solutions into Mexico or to buy and sell them. Customs officials will confiscate these items; and they could fine or detain you.

If you smoke or vape in a public place, you can get a fine of up to 3,000 Mexican pesos (about £150).

Illegal drugs and prison sentences

Do not become involved with drugs of any kind. Penalties for drug offences are severe and convictions carry sentences of up to 25 years.

LGBT+ travellers

Same-sex relations in Mexico are generally tolerated, rather than accepted. Civil unions between same-sex partners are legal in Mexico. People may frown on same-sex couples showing affection in public. Read more  advice for LGBT+ travellers .

Surrogacy in Mexico

Only some Mexican states legally recognise assisted human reproduction, including surrogacy. Before you consider a surrogacy arrangement in Mexico, make sure you:

• learn and follow the relevant laws and regulations
• meet all legal requirements to take the child out of Mexico
• get independent legal advice

For more information, see surrogacy overseas .

Hotel balconies

In some hotels, balcony railings are low and there is a risk of falling.

Outdoor activities and adventure tourism

Adventure sports.

If you take part in adventure sports, including paragliding, skydiving, scuba diving and jet-skiing, be aware equipment may not meet UK safety and insurance standards. British nationals participating in these activities have been injured and, in some cases, killed. Check your travel insurance covers you for all your planned activities.

Make sure the company you use:

• is reputable
• takes safety precautions
• uses up-to-date equipment
• is fully licensed and insured

Swimming safety

Sea conditions can be unpredictable, and some beaches are unpatrolled. Follow coastguard and local authority guidance on whether it is safe to swim.

See water safety on holiday from the Royal Life Saving Society. 

Sharks and crocodiles

Shark attacks are rare in Mexico, but you should take care, particularly when surfing. Research the area and follow local advice.

Crocodiles normally live in lagoons and coastal areas in Mexico, including Cancun and Pacific coast resorts. Respect warning signs around lagoons in these areas and do not walk close to the water. Crocodiles have attacked and seriously injured tourists in the past.

Transport risks

Road travel.

If you are planning to drive in Mexico, see information on driving abroad .

You can use a UK photocard driving licence to drive in Mexico. If you still have a paper driving licence, you may need to update it to a photocard licence or get the 1926 version of the international driving permit (IDP) as well.

Driving standards

Driving standards are very different from the UK. Roads can have potholes, and conditions can be unpredictable. Be prepared to stop unexpectedly and beware of vehicles moving slowly, changing lane without indicating and going through red lights. Many drivers do not have car insurance.

Driving restrictions

To reduce pollution, the authorities ban cars entering parts of Mexico City and other places on some days of the week, based on their number plates. For details, check the Hoy no Circula programme (in Spanish).

The authorities strictly enforce these regulations. Offenders face heavy fines and temporary confiscation of their vehicle. Check with your car hire company to see if these rules apply to you.

In Mexico City, vehicles without registration plates from the State of Mexico (‘Estado de Mexico’) or Mexico City are not allowed to enter Mexico City from:

• Monday to Friday, 5am to 11am
• Saturday, 5am to 10pm

There may be further driving restrictions if air pollution is high, generally from February to June.

Extreme weather and natural disasters

Find out what you can do to prepare for and respond to extreme weather and natural hazards .

The hurricane season in Mexico normally runs from June to November and can affect the Pacific and Atlantic coasts. Tropical storms and hurricanes cause floods, landslides and disruption to local services, including transport networks. After a hurricane there can still be continued flooding, high winds and rainfall.

Monitor local and international weather updates from the  US National Hurricane Center and follow the advice of local authorities and your tour operator, including evacuation orders.

In 2023, Hurricane Otis hit the south coast near Acapulco. This Category 5 hurricane seriously damaged infrastructure along the coast, in Acapulco and between Zihuatenejo and Punta Maldonado. Reconstruction efforts continue to disrupt tourism, and the security situation is unpredictable. FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the city of Acapulco.

Earthquakes

There is a risk of earthquakes in most parts of Mexico. Tremors happen regularly, particularly in the states of Oaxaca and Guerrero.

The US Federal Emergency Management Agency has advice about what to do before, during and after an earthquake  or  tsunami . There is also advice from the Mexican Ministry of Civil Protection (PDF) (in Spanish).

If you’re in Mexico City, you can download the 911 CDMX app on iOS or Android (accessible only by local phone numbers), which can warn you 60 seconds before earthquake movement starts. Although useful, this app cannot warn you about all types of earthquake.

Volcanic eruptions

The volcanoes Popocatépetl and Colima are active and closed to the public. The danger zones around both volcanoes change depending on the current level of activity.

There is currently a 7-mile (12km) exclusion zone around Popocatépetl and the alert level is level 2 of the amber tier .

Ash fall from Popocatépetl has previously disrupted air travel and caused flight cancellations at Benito Juarez International Airport in Mexico City. Check your flight status with your airline or operator. You can also follow Benito Juárez airport on Twitter .

Falling volcanic ash and toxic fumes can affect your health, especially if you suffer from a respiratory condition.

The  Mexican Disaster Prevention Centre has updates on Popocatepetl, Colima and other volcanoes. There is also Mexican government information on Twitter .

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Latest update

Exercise a high degree of caution in Mexico overall due to the threat of violent crime.

Higher levels apply in some areas.

Mexico (PDF 1007.79 KB)

Americas (PDF 3.29 MB)

Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services, medical emergencies.

Call 911 or go to the hospital.

Call 911 or go to the local police station.

Advice levels

Exercise a high degree of caution in Mexico overall.

Reconsider your need to travel to Michoacán (except Morelia and Lázaro Cardenas and the Monarch butterfly reserves), Sierra Madre Occidental Mountains in southern Chihuahua and the states of Guerrero (including Acapulco), North-eastern Sinaloa, North-western Durango, South-eastern Sonora (except for the Chihuahua-Pacific Railway), Tamaulipas and Zacatecas.

Reconsider your need to travel to:

• Michoacán (except Morelia and Lázaro Cardenas and the Monarch butterfly reserves)
• Sierra Madre Occidental Mountains in southern Chihuahua
• Guerrero State (including Acapulco)
• North-eastern Sinaloa State 
• North-western Durango State
• South-eastern Sonora State (except for the Chihuahua-Pacific Railway)
• Tamaulipas State and
• Zacatecas State

due to high levels of violent crime (including kidnapping and extortion) and their volatile security situation.

• Avoid protests and large public gatherings. These can become violent. It's against the law for foreigners to participate in political activity. 
• Mexico has a high risk of violent crime, including murder, armed robbery, sexual assault and kidnapping. Don't travel at night outside major cities. Drug-related violence is widespread.
• Kidnapping and extortion are serious risks. Don't draw attention to your money or business affairs. Only use ATMs in public spaces and during the daytime.
• Stop at all roadblocks, or you risk getting killed.
• Hurricanes and earthquakes are common in Mexico. Local authorities will direct you to your nearest shelter in the event of a hurricane. Know the earthquake safety measures where you're staying.

Full travel advice: Safety

• Malaria and Zika virus are risks in Mexico. If you're pregnant, ask your doctor about the risk of Zika virus before you travel.
• Mexico has insect-borne diseases, including dengue fever, chikungunya, Chagas disease and leishmaniasis. Ensure your accommodation is insect-proof. Use insect repellent.
• Parts of Mexico are at high altitudes. Air pollution can also cause health issues, particularly over winter (December to February). Talk to your doctor before you travel if you have heart, lung or breathing issues.

Full travel advice: Health

• Smoking, including vaping, is banned in all public places in Mexico, including beaches, parks, hotels and restaurants. Importing electronic cigarettes and vaping devices is also prohibited. You may be fined or arrested.
• Some activities are illegal for foreigners in Mexico. These include political activity, driving without insurance, and failing to report a road accident. Ensure you understand and follow local laws.
• Possessing or exporting ancient Mexican artefacts and carrying firearms or ammunition without a permit are also illegal. Apply for a firearm permit at a Mexican embassy or consulate before you arrive.
• Although same-sex marriage is legal in Mexico, some parts of the country are conservative. LGBTI travellers should consider limiting public displays of affection.

Full travel advice: Local laws

• If you're visiting for 180 days or less as a tourist, you'll receive a visa on arrival for the duration of your planned stay. You can't extend your visa if you plan to stay longer than advised to the immigration officer on arrival. Mexican authorities advise to avoid being detained or deported, you must complete an online Multiple Immigration Form (FMM) and obtain a QR code. 
• Make sure immigration officials stamp your passport on arrival, as this will state the number of days your visa will be valid. Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. You should contact the nearest embassy or consulate of Mexico for the latest details.
• To cross the land border between Mexico and the US, you must provide a verbal attestation for your reason for travel. Make sure you receive an entry stamp in your passport. 
• Periodic closures of Mexico's land borders with Guatemala and Belize may occur. Check with local authorities before crossing the border or taking a flight.
• If you're taking public transport or taxis, use only first-class buses and official registered taxis. Use ride-share services where possible instead of taxis. Crime levels on intercity buses are high, especially after dark.

Full travel advice:  Travel

Local contacts

• The  Consular Services Charter  tells you what the Australian Government can and can't do to help when you're overseas.
• To stay up to date with local information, follow the Embassy's social media accounts: ( Facebook ), ( X ).
• The  Australian Embassy in Mexico City  can provide consular assistance by email, phone, or appointment.
• You can also  contact the Australian Consulate in Cancún  for limited consular assistance.

Full travel advice: Local contacts

Full advice

Violent crime, violent crime.

Mexico has a high risk of violent crime, especially after dark.

Murder, armed  robbery ,  sexual assault  and  kidnapping  are high risks. These crimes can occur at tourist spots and resorts.

Criminals posing as police officers have committed sexual assault, extortion and robbery. They may drive fake police cars.

Gangs have attacked travellers after they've changed money at airports.

To protect yourself from violent crime:

• avoid travelling at night outside major cities, including on major highways
• monitor the media for new safety risks
• don't change large amounts of money at the airport

Crime on intercity buses and highways is common in Mexico.

Thieves have robbed tourists on buses along the Pacific Highway, including from Acapulco to Ixtapa and Huatulco.

Violent carjackings have increased. The northern borders and along the Pacific coast are high-risk areas.

Criminals have attacked tourists on toll roads and highways. The Sonora, Sinaloa, Tamaulipas and border regions are high-risk areas.

Organised crime groups have targeted large campervans and SUVs travelling in and out of the United States.

To reduce the risk of crime when travelling by road:

• use ride-share services where possible instead of taxis
• use official taxis from airports and pre-pay your fare at an official taxi company booth in the airport terminal
• use radio taxis or taxis at assigned stands (sitios), especially in Mexico City
• use first-class buses
• only travel during daylight hours and allow enough time to get to your destination before dark
• drive via toll roads (cuota)

Watch out for drink and food spiking, which can occur in bars, clubs and restaurants. You're at higher risk of sexual assault and theft if you get drugged.

Drug and gang violence

Violent crimes related to the drug trade are widespread in Mexico.

Shoot-outs, grenade attacks and car bombings have occurred in public places.

Targeted attacks have increased on the military, government officials and journalists.

You may become a victim of violence directed against someone else.

Federal police and the military use roadblocks and random vehicle checks to deal with drug-related violence.

Drug cartels set up unofficial roadblocks in the northern areas of Mexico to obstruct military and police movement.

Stop at all roadblocks, or you risk getting killed. Comply with the instructions given.

Risks are higher in those areas most affected by drug-related and gang violence, including:

• Northern border states – Baja California, Sonora, Chihuahua, Coahuila, Nuevo Leon and Tamaulipas
• Pacific coast states – Colima, Guerrero, Jalisco, Michoacán, Nayarit and Sinaloa
• Central region states – Guanajuato, Durango, San Luis Potosi and Zacatecas
• State of Mexico and the State of Veracruz on the Gulf coast
• Major cities along Mexico's border with the United States – Tijuana, Ciudad Juarez, Nuevo Laredo, Matamoros, Nogales, Piedras Negras and Reynosa

State of Guanajuato

Violence and drug cartel activity are on the rise across the State. 

Gang members are known to erect roadblocks on major highways. Murders, including mass killings, occur regularly. 

Even as a tourist, you risk getting caught up in violence inadvertently. 

Avoid known hot spots such as Acámbaro, Celaya, Irapuato, León, Salamanca, Silao and Santiago. 

State of Guerrero

The violent crime rate remains high, and the security situation is volatile.

Violent criminal gangs are more active in rural areas than cities.

Acapulco has high levels of violent crime, such as murder and shootings. The resort city is unsafe, especially outside tourist areas. Due to the precarious security situation following damage by Hurricane Otis, there's a threat of armed violence, banditry, and looting in cities and on roads.

Crime risks are lower in the tourist areas of Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo and Taxco and on the toll road to Taxco than in other parts of Guerrero.

Protesters can disrupt toll booths along the road to Taxco, causing delays.

State of Michoacán

Many 'self-defence' groups have formed in the State. They are unpredictable, and the security situation is volatile.

Security near the Monarch butterfly reserves, including on the border with the State of Mexico, has deteriorated due to cartel activity.  

Crime is lower in Morelia city.

State of Tamaulipas

Tamaulipas has widespread criminal activity linked to drug trafficking. Kidnapping and extortion are also common.

State of Quintana Roo

Violent crimes related to the drug trade have occurred in tourist areas of Quintana Roo, such as Cancun, Tulum and Playa del Carmen. Shoot-outs have occurred in public places, injuring or killing tourists.

State of Zacatecas

Zacatecas has widespread criminal activity linked to drug trafficking. Violence is increasing due to clashes between competing drug cartels. Kidnapping and extortion are common.

Other violent areas

High levels of violent crime and lawlessness occur in:

• the Sierra Madre Occidental Mountains in southern Chihuahua State
• north-eastern Sinaloa State
• north-western Durango State
• south-eastern Sonora State

Organised crime gangs operate in these regions. The Chihuahua-Pacific Railway is less affected.

The State of Mexico has a high level of violent crime. Murder,  assault , armed robbery, extortion and kidnapping are common.

According to Mexican Government statistics, Baja California Sur and Quintana Roo have reported significant increases in drug-related violence, particularly murder. The states with the highest homicide rates are Baja California Sur, Colima, Quintana Roo, Morelos, Zacatecas, Guanajuato, Baja California, Chihuahua, Michoacan and Sonora.

To reduce your risks if travelling to violent areas, stay in:

• tourist areas
• well-known and well-frequented public areas with good access to safe transport in the evenings

To protect yourself from crime in violent areas:

• avoid road travel, especially at night
• avoid isolated locations
• pay close attention to your personal security
• stay alert to possible threats around you
• follow the advice of local authorities
• monitor the media for safety or security risks

Other crime risks

Petty crime.

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag-snatching, is common. Take care on public transport, at tourist spots, airports, hotels and bus stations.

Thieves often work with or pose as taxi drivers. Be aware travellers have been robbed when using taxis hailed from the street. 

More information:

• Preventing crime and petty theft

Cyber security 

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you’re connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth.

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media.

• Cyber security when travelling overseas

Kidnapping occurs across the world with political, ideological, and criminal motives. Foreigners, including Australians, have been kidnapped overseas whilst travelling. Kidnaps can happen anywhere, anytime, including in destinations that are typically at lower risk. 

Kidnapping is a serious risk in Mexico. Kidnapping occurs throughout the country, with the highest number of cases recorded in and around Mexico City, along the Gulf Coast from Tamaulipas to Tabasco states, and in other large cities. Kidnappers target a broad demographic, including foreigners and expatriates. Victims of traditional kidnappings are physically abducted and held captive until a ransom is paid. In some cases, the captors receive a ransom and kill the victim.

Some victims claim police officers are involved in their kidnapping.

Virtual kidnappings target people over the phone to extort money. Kidnappers pose as officials or cartel members and demand payments for the release of a family member they have allegedly detained. If you receive a call or message, contact local police.

Express kidnappings are also regularly reported in Mexico. Kidnappers force victims to withdraw funds from ATMs before they are released.

If, despite our advice, you travel to an area with a high risk of kidnapping, our ability to provide consular assistance in these destinations will be limited. 

To reduce the risk of kidnapping: 

• always be alert to your personal security and surroundings 
• get professional security advice for travel in locations with a heightened kidnap risk 
• check your accommodation has appropriate security measures 
• avoid isolated locations, particularly when travelling alone 
• notify family or friends of planned travel and share your location 
• avoid talking about your money or business affairs 
• use ATMs in public places and during daylight hours 
• avoid giving personal details to strangers online or over the phone 

The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers. Ransom payments to kidnappers have funded further terrorist attacks and criminal activity. Paying a ransom to terrorist groups will likely break Australian counter-terrorism financing laws. 

More information: 

Civil unrest and political tension

Demonstrations and protests.

It's illegal for foreigners to take part in political activity in Mexico.

Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent. They're common and often:

• disrupt public services
• cause traffic delays
• stop movement around affected areas

Protesters may blockade roads.

Public protests in Mexico City are common. Expect protests and potential roadblocks in the states of Oaxaca, Chiapas, Guerrero and Michoacán.

To protect yourself during periods of unrest:

• check local sources for details of possible strikes or unrest
• follow advice from local authorities
• change your travel plans in case of disruptions

Demonstrations and civil unrest

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

Swimming safety

Even strong swimmers can be at risk from undertows and currents on both coasts of Mexico. Obey the beach warning flags.

Climate and natural disasters

Mexico experiences  natural disasters  and  severe weather , such as:

• earthquakes
• volcanic activity

If you're involved in a natural disaster:

• secure your passport in a safe, waterproof location
• keep in contact with your friends and family
• monitor local media and other sources
• contact your tour operator or airline

Register with the  Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System  to receive alerts on major disasters.

Hurricanes and severe weather

Severe weather occurs in Mexico.

The hurricane season is from June to November. The direction and strength of hurricanes can change with little warning.

Landslides, mudslides and flash flooding can also occur, including in Mexico City.

If there's a hurricane or severe storm:

• you may get stuck in the area
• flights could be delayed or suspended
• flights out may fill quickly
• adequate shelter may not be available
• electricity supply, communication networks and transport options may be disrupted. 

To protect yourself if a hurricane is approaching:

• listen to the instructions of local authorities
• know the evacuation plan for your hotel or cruise ship
• identify your local shelter
• monitor alerts and advice from the  US National Hurricane Center  and local authorities

Earthquakes

Mexico experiences earthquakes and tremors each year. Aftershocks are common and can damage already weakened structures.

Earthquakes can disrupt power and communication systems.

Get to know the earthquake safety measures for each place you stay and visit.

Tsunamis may occur in Mexico.

Receive tsunami alerts by registering with the following:

• Global Disaster Alert and Co-ordination System
• Pacific Tsunami Warning Centre

If you're near the coast, move immediately to high ground if advised by local authorities or if you:

• feel a strong earthquake that makes it hard to stand up
• feel a weak, rolling earthquake that lasts a minute or more
• see a sudden rise or fall in sea level
• hear loud and unusual noises from the sea

Don't wait for official warnings, such as alarms or sirens. Once on high ground, check local media.

Active volcanoes include the Popocatepetl and Colima volcanoes.  

Volcanic ash from eruptions of these volcanoes can disrupt domestic and international flights and cause airport closures. Exposure to falling ash and toxic fumes from active volcanoes can also affect your health, especially if you suffer from respiratory ailments.

• Avoid the affected areas
• Monitor local media to remain informed
• Contact your travel agent or airline regarding airport and flight status
• Be prepared to change your travel arrangements or evacuate the area on short notice
• Follow the advice of local authorities, including evacuation orders

The  Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System  can give you general volcano alerts.

Travel Insurance

Get comprehensive  travel insurance  before you leave.

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won’t pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you’ll be away

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition.

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare or the welfare of someone you know, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Mexico. Take enough legal medicine for your trip.

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is
• your required dosage
• that it's for personal use

Health risks

Insect-borne diseases.

Malaria  is a risk in Mexico, particularly in:

• the State of Chiapas
• rural areas of Nayarit, Oaxaca and Sinaloa
• some parts of Chihuahua, Durango and Sonora.

Zika virus  is widespread in Mexico. There's no vaccination for Zika virus.

Read the Australian Department of Health and Aged Care page on  Zika virus  for advice on how to reduce your risk.

If you're pregnant, the department recommends that you:

• discuss travel plans with your doctor
• consider deferring non-essential travel to affected areas.

In Mexico, there's also a risk of:

• chikungunya
• chagas disease
• leishmaniasis

To protect yourself from disease:

• make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing
• consider medication to prevent malaria

Get medical advice if you have a fever, muscle pain, rash or severe headache.

Other health risks

High altitude and air pollution can cause health issues in some regions. Pollution peaks in winter from December to February.

If you have heart, lung or respiratory problems, ask your doctor for advice before you travel.

Foodborne, waterborne and other diseases are widespread. These include:

• tuberculosis
• cyclosporiasis

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

To protect yourself from illness:

• drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
• avoid ice cubes
• avoid raw and undercooked food, such as salads
• get vaccinated before you travel
• avoid contact with dogs and other mammals

If you're bitten or scratched by an animal, get medical help straight away.

Get medical advice if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

• Infectious diseases

Medical care

Medical facilities.

Private hospitals in Mexico City and other major cities provide a reasonable standard of care. Services are limited in rural areas.

Treatment at private clinics and hospitals is very expensive.

Doctors and hospitals are unlikely to work with your overseas travel insurer. You'll need to pay before they'll treat you, even for emergency care.

You can find hyperbaric chambers in major cities and resort towns where scuba diving is popular.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our  Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Smoking, including vaping, has been banned in all public places, including beaches, parks, hotels and restaurants. You may be fined or arrested.

Property laws

Property laws and time-share agreements can be complex.

Before you buy or invest in property, do your research and get legal advice.

In Mexico, it's illegal to:

• conduct political activity, including demonstrations
• possess ancient Mexican artefacts or export them from Mexico
• carry firearms or ammunition without a permit, including in Mexican waters
• drive a car without insurance
• fail to report a road accident.

If you need a firearm permit, apply at a Mexican Embassy or Consulate before you arrive.

You're responsible for any illegal items found in rented or borrowed vehicles. This applies even if you don't know they're there.

If you're the victim of a crime and want to report the incident, do so immediately to the nearest branch of the state prosecutor’s office (Agencia del Ministerio Público). A criminal investigation is not possible without a formal complaint to Mexican authorities. Complaints must be made in person before leaving Mexico.

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you’re overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

Staying within the law and respecting customs

Dual citizenship

Check if being an Australian-Mexican dual citizen may affect your travel.

Always travel on your Australian passport .

• Dual nationals

Local customs

Although same sex marriage is legal in Mexico, some parts of the country are conservative.

LGBTQIA+ travellers  should consider limiting public displays of affection.

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

If you visit for 180 days or less as a tourist, you can get a visa on arrival. Be aware of the date that's stamped in your passport on arrival, as you may not receive the full 180 days. Your visa will expire on the entry stamp date. This is usually for the amount of time you indicate to the immigration officer that you are staying in Mexico.

To avoid being detained or deported, you'll need to:

• fill in an online Multiple Immigration Form (FMM) and obtain a QR code
• make sure your passport is stamped by immigration officials on arrival

You can complete the FMM online before you arrive or on arrival.

If you're entering by road, make sure you get the stamp on your passport at the immigration office  (Instituto Nacional de Migración: Spanish) . These are usually located near, but not directly at, a border crossing.

Present your completed FMM for inspection at immigration if entering by air. You'll need to show it when you leave Mexico.

Border measures

To cross the land border between Mexico and the US, you'll need to verbally provide the reason for your travel.

Periodic closures of Mexico's land borders with Guatemala and Belize may occur. Check with local authorities before crossing the border or travelling by plane.

Confirm your travel and transit arrangements directly with your airline or travel agent. 

Travel via the United States or Canada

If you're  travelling through the US , ensure you meet all current US entry or transit requirements, including if you're transiting through Hawaii. 

If you travel  through Canada , ensure you meet all entry and transit requirements. 

Other formalities

Mexico charges all visitors an immigration fee.

If you arrive on a commercial flight, the cost of your ticket includes the fee.

If you enter by land, the immigration office will arrange for you to pay the fee at a nearby bank. There's no exit tax.

A child under 18 years who's also a citizen or resident of Mexico must carry a  Mexican Minor Travel Consent Form  (Spanish) or a  notarised consent  if travelling with anyone other than their parent or legal guardian. 

You may need a permit if you arrive in Mexico by motor vehicle. Check with the Embassy of Mexico before you travel.

• Advice for people travelling with children

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This may apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport isn't valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting  a new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the  Australian Passport Information Service .
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest  Australian Embassy or Consulate .

Passport with 'X' gender identifier

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can't guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers.

• LGBTQIA+ travellers

Mexico's official currency is the Mexican Peso (MXN).

Declare amounts over US$10,000 or foreign currency equivalent. Do this on arrival and departure. This covers all forms of currency, not only cash.

US dollars are widely accepted in holiday resort areas. You can't generally exchange Australian currency and traveller's cheques in Mexico.

ATMs are widely available in cities and towns. Take care as credit card fraud occurs.

Carry cash if you're travelling to rural areas.

Most international hotels and tourist facilities accept credit and debit cards.

Ask your bank whether your ATM card will work in Mexico.

Local travel

Driving permit.

You can use your valid Australian driver's licence to drive in Mexico.

Road travel

Vehicles generally don't stop for pedestrians or indicate when they're turning. Intersections can be confusing, with vehicles coming from unexpected directions.

Strict laws cover insurance and reporting of accidents.

If you drive in Mexico:

• learn local road use and driving rules
• keep doors locked and windows up, even when moving
• use toll roads (cuota) to reduce the risk of crime

If you're a victim of roadside robbery or stopped at a roadblock, do as you're asked.

Driving on rural roads in Mexico is dangerous due to:

• poor road conditions.
• pedestrians and livestock on roads
• inadequate street lighting and signage

Criminals target vehicles, including campervans and SUVs, especially in rural areas.

• Driving or riding

Use ride-share services, where possible, instead of taxis. If this isn't an option, it's best to use registered official taxis and limousines, preferably arranged through your hotel. To avoid issues:

• use official taxis from airports
• pre-pay your fare at an official taxi company booth at the airport
• use radio taxis or taxis waiting at assigned stands (sitios), especially in Mexico City

Public transport

Crime levels on intercity buses and highways are high, and the risks increase after dark. See  Safety

Use first-class buses.

Women travelling on public transport should be cautious.

• Transport and getting around safely
• Advice for women

Check  Mexico's air safety profile  with the Aviation Safety Network.

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Read the Consular Services Charter . It details what the Australian Government can and can’t do to help you overseas.

Australian Embassy, Mexico City

Ruben Dario #55 Corner of Campos Eliseos, Polanco Colonia Bosque de Chapultepec 11580 CDMX Mexico Phone: +52 55 1101 2200 Email: [email protected] Website: mexico.embassy.gov.au Facebook: Australian Embassy, Mexico City X: Australian Embassy, Mexico City

Check the Embassy website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

Australian Consulate, Cancún

EDIFICIO GRUPO VIVO Calle Luciernaga esquina con Avenida Politécnico Región 501, Manzana 13, Lote 7 Cancún, Quintana Roo C.P. 77535, México Email:  [email protected]

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia

Travelling to Mexico?

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This Map Shows Where Americans Are Being Told ‘Do Not Travel’ in Mexico

T he State Department issued new travel warnings for parts of Mexico on Wednesday, advising American travelers to entirely avoid five regions due to crime.

The advisory tells Americans “do not travel” to the five Mexican coastal states of Sinaloa, Colima, Michoacán, Guerrero, and Tamaulipas. It also suggests exercising “increased caution” or “reconsider travel” to other parts of the country.

Here’s a map of Mexico’s five states the U.S. deemed most dangerous, as well as the general warnings across the rest of the country. The State Department gave Mexico a level 2 travel warning overall, encouraging travelers to exercise increased caution in general.

“Violent crime, such as homicide, kidnapping, carjacking, and robbery, is widespread,” the advisory states.

The latest advisory gives the five Mexican states the same warning level as risky travel destinations like Syria, Yemen and Somalia.

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Helene makes landfall in northwestern Florida as Category 4 hurricane

CRAWFORDVILLE, Fla. -- GET LATEST HERE: Helene downgraded to tropical storm; death toll rises to 3

Hurricane Helene made landfall Thursday night in northwestern Florida as a Category 4 storm as forecasters warned that the enormous system could create a "nightmare" storm surge and bring dangerous winds and rain across much of the southeastern U.S.

The National Hurricane Center in Miami said Helene roared ashore around 11:10 p.m. EDT near the mouth of the Aucilla River in the Big Bend area of Florida's Gulf Coast. It had maximum sustained winds estimated at 140 mph ( 225 kph).

Helene prompted hurricane and flash flood warnings extending far beyond the coast up into northern Georgia and western North Carolina. Before it made landfall, strong winds had already cut power to nearly 900,000 homes and businesses in Florida, according to the tracking site poweroutage.us. The governors of Florida, Georgia, Alabama, the Carolinas and Virginia all declared emergencies in their states.

RELATED: Hurricane Helene prompts airlines to issue travel alerts: Here's what you need to know

One person was killed in Florida when a sign fell on their car and two people were reported killed in a possible tornado in south Georgia as the storm approached.

"When Floridians wake up tomorrow morning, we're going to be waking up to a state where very likely there's been additional loss of life and certainly there's going to be loss of property," Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis said at a news conference Thursday night.

The National Weather Service in Tallahassee had issued an "extreme wind warning" for the Big Bend as the eyewall approached: "Treat this warning like a tornado warning," it said in a post on X. "Take shelter in the most interior room and hunker down!"

Helene arrived barely a year since Hurricane Idalia slammed into Florida's Big Bend and caused widespread damage. Idalia became a Category 4 in the Gulf of Mexico but made landfall as a Category 3 near Keaton Beach, with maximum sustained winds near 125 mph (205 kph).

The storm's wrath was felt widely, with sustained tropical storm-force winds and hurricane-force gusts along Florida's west coast. Water lapped over a road in Siesta Key near Sarasota and covered some intersections in St. Pete Beach. Lumber and other debris from a fire in Cedar Key a week ago crashed ashore in the rising water.

Beyond Florida, up to 10 inches (25 centimeters) of rain had fallen in the North Carolina mountains, with up to 14 inches (36 centimeters) more possible before the deluge ends, setting the stage for flooding that forecasters warned could be worse than anything seen in the past century.

Heavy rains began falling and winds were picking up earlier Thursday in Valdosta, Georgia, near the Florida state line. The weather service said more than a dozen Georgia counties could see hurricane-force winds exceeding 110 mph.

RELATED: Why the Atlantic Basin has been unusually quiet as peak hurricane season nears

In south Georgia, two people were killed when a possible tornado struck a mobile home on Thursday night, Wheeler County Sheriff Randy Rigdon told WMAZ-TV. The damage was reported as heavy thunderstorms raked much of the state. Wheeler County is about 70 miles (113 kilometers) southeast of Macon.

Forecaster Dylan Lusk said the National Weather Service issued a tornado warning for Wheeler County at 8:47 p.m. on Thursday. He said it's one of 12 tornado warnings the office near Atlanta issued for parts of Georgia between 1 p.m. and 11 p.m.

The storm made landfall in the sparsely-populated Big Bend area, home to fishing villages and vacation hideaways where Florida's Panhandle and peninsula meet.

"Please write your name, birthday, and important information on your arm or leg in a PERMANENT MARKER so that you can be identified and family notified," the sheriff's office in mostly rural Taylor County warned those who chose not to evacuate in a Facebook post, the dire advice similar to what other officials have dolled out during past hurricanes.

Still, Philip Tooke, a commercial fisherman who took over the business his father founded near the region's Apalachee Bay, planned to ride out this storm like he did during Hurricane Michael and the others - on his boat. "If I lose that, I don't have anything," Tooke said. Michael, a Category 5 storm, all but destroyed one town, fractured thousands of homes and businesses and caused some $25 billion in damage when it struck the Florida Panhandle in 2018.

Many, though, were heeding the mandatory evacuation orders that stretched from the Panhandle south along the Gulf Coast in low-lying areas around Tallahassee, Gainesville, Cedar Key, Lake City, Tampa and Sarasota.

Among them was Sharonda Davis, one of several gathered at a Tallahassee shelter worried their mobile homes wouldn't withstand the winds. She said the hurricane's size is "scarier than anything because it's the aftermath that we're going to have to face."

Federal authorities were staging search-and-rescue teams as the weather service forecast storm surges of up to 20 feet (6 meters) and warned they could be particularly "catastrophic and unsurvivable" in Apalachee Bay.

"Please, please, please take any evacuation orders seriously!" the office said, describing the surge scenario as "a nightmare."

This stretch of Florida known as the Forgotten Coast has been largely spared by the widespread condo development and commercialization that dominates so many of Florida's beach communities. The region is loved for its natural wonders - the vast stretches of salt marshes, tidal pools and barrier islands.

"You live down here, you run the risk of losing everything to a bad storm," said Anthony Godwin, 20, who lives about a half-mile (800 meters) from the water in the coastal town of Panacea, as he stopped for gas before heading west toward his sister's house in Pensacola.

School districts and multiple universities canceled classes. Airports in Tampa, Tallahassee and Clearwater were closed Thursday, while cancellations were widespread elsewhere in Florida and beyond.

While Helene will likely weaken as it moves inland, damaging winds and heavy rain were expected to extend to the southern Appalachian Mountains, where landslides were possible, forecasters said. The hurricane center warned that much of the region could experience prolonged power outages and flooding. Tennessee was among the states expected to get drenched.

Helene had swamped parts of Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula on Wednesday, flooding streets and toppling trees as it passed offshore and brushed the resort city of Cancun. In western Cuba, Helene knocked out power to more than 200,000 homes and businesses as it brushed past the island.

Areas 100 miles (160 kilometers) north of the Georgia-Florida line expected hurricane conditions. The state opened its parks to evacuees and their pets, including horses. Overnight curfews were imposed in many cities and counties in south Georgia.

"This is one of the biggest storms we've ever had," said Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp.

For Atlanta, Helene could be the worst strike on a major Southern inland city in 35 years, said University of Georgia meteorology professor Marshall Shepherd.

Helene is the eighth named storm of the Atlantic hurricane season, which began June 1. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has predicted an above-average Atlantic hurricane season this year because of record-warm ocean temperatures.

In further storm activity, Tropical Storm Isaac formed Wednesday in the Atlantic and was expected to strengthen as it moves eastward across the open ocean, possibly becoming a hurricane by the end of the week, forecasters said. Officials said its swells and winds could affect parts of Bermuda and eventually the Azores by the weekend.

In the Pacific, former Hurricane John reformed Wednesday as a tropical storm and strengthened Thursday back into a hurricane as it threatened areas of Mexico's western coast with flash flooding and mudslides. Mexico President Andrés Manuel López Obrador raised John's death toll to five as communities along the country's Pacific coast prepared for the storm to make a second landfall.

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