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Mexico Travel Advisory

Travel advisory august 22, 2023, see state summaries.

Reissued after periodic review with general security updates, and the removal of obsolete COVID-19 page links.

Country Summary: Violent crime – such as homicide, kidnapping, carjacking, and robbery – is widespread and common in Mexico. The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in many areas of Mexico, as travel by U.S. government employees to certain areas is prohibited or restricted. In many states, local emergency services are limited outside the state capital or major cities.

U.S. citizens are advised to adhere to restrictions on U.S. government employee travel. State-specific restrictions are included in the individual state advisories below. U.S. government employees may not travel between cities after dark, may not hail taxis on the street, and must rely on dispatched vehicles, including app-based services like Uber, and regulated taxi stands. U.S. government employees should avoid traveling alone, especially in remote areas. U.S. government employees may not drive from the U.S.-Mexico border to or from the interior parts of Mexico, except daytime travel within Baja California and between Nogales and Hermosillo on Mexican Federal Highway 15D, and between Nuevo Laredo and Monterrey on Highway 85D.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Mexico.

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

Visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas .

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. 

Aguascalientes state – Exercise Increased Caution

Exercise increased caution due to crime.

Criminal activity and violence may occur throughout the state.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Aguascalientes state.

Baja California state – Reconsider Travel

Reconsider travel due to crime and kidnapping.

Transnational criminal organizations compete in the border area to establish narco-trafficking and human smuggling routes. Violent crime and gang activity are common. Travelers should remain on main highways and avoid remote locations. Of particular concern is the high number of homicides in the non-tourist areas of Tijuana. Most homicides appeared to be targeted; however, criminal organization assassinations and territorial disputes can result in bystanders being injured or killed. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

U.S. government employees must adhere to the noted restrictions:

• Mexicali Valley:  U.S. government employees should avoid the Mexicali Valley due to the heightened possibility of violence between rival cartel factions.  The boundaries of the restricted area are: to the east, the Baja California/Arizona and Baja California/Sonora borders; to the south, from La Ventana (on Highway 5) due east to the Colorado River; to the west, Highway 5; and to the north, Boulevard Lazaro Cardenas/Highway 92/Highway 1 to Carretera Aeropuerto, from the intersection of Highway 1 and Carretera Aeropuerto due north to the Baja California/California border, and from that point eastward along the Baja California/California border.
• Travelers may use Highways 2 and 2D to transit between Mexicali, Los Algodones, and San Luis Rio Colorado during daylight hours. Travelers may also use Highways 1 and 8 to transit to and from the Mexicali Airport during daylight hours.  Travel on Highway 5 is permissible during daylight hours.

There are no other travel restrictions for U.S. government employees in Baja California state. These include high-traffic tourism areas of border and coastal communities, such as  Tijuana ,  Ensenada , and  Rosarito .

Baja California Sur state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Baja California Sur state.

Campeche state – Exercise Normal Precautions

Exercise normal precautions.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Campeche state.

Chiapas state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Chiapas state.

Chihuahua state – Reconsider Travel

Violent crime and gang activity are common. Most homicides are targeted assassinations against members of criminal organizations. Battles for territory between criminal groups have resulted in violent crime in areas frequented by U.S. citizens and U.S. government employees, including restaurants and malls during daylight hours. Bystanders have been injured or killed in shooting incidents. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

U.S. government employee travel is limited to the following areas with the noted restrictions:

• Ciudad Juarez:  U.S. government employees may travel to the area of Ciudad Juarez bounded to the east by Bulevar Independencia; to the south by De los Montes Urales/Avenida Manuel J Clouthier/Carretera de Juárez; to the west by Via Juan Gabriel/Avenida de los Insurgentes/Calle Miguel Ahumada/Francisco Javier Mina/Melchor Ocampo; and to the north by the U.S.-Mexico border.  Direct travel to the Ciudad Juarez airport (officially called the Abraham González International Airport) and the factories located along Bulevar Independencia and Las Torres is permitted.  Travel to San Jerónimo is permitted only through the United States via the Santa Teresa U.S. Port of Entry; travel via Anapra is prohibited.

U.S. government employees may only travel from Ciudad Juarez to the city of Chihuahua during daylight hours via Federal Highway 45, with stops permitted only at the Guardia Nacional División Caminos station, the Umbral del Milenio overlook area, the border inspection station at KM 35, and the shops and restaurants on Federal Highway 45 in the city of Ahumada.

• U.S. government employees may travel between Ciudad Juarez and Ascension via Highway 2.
• Nuevo Casas Grandes Area (including Nuevo Casas Grandes, Casas Grandes, Mata Ortiz, Colonia Juárez, Colonia LeBaron, Paquimé and San Buenaventura):  U.S. government employees may travel to the Nuevo Casas Grandes area during daylight hours via Mexico Federal Highway 2, and subsequently Federal Highway 10, to Nuevo Casas Grandes.  Employees are permitted to stay overnight in the cities of Nuevo Casas Grandes and Casas Grandes only.
• City of Chihuahua:  U.S. government employees may travel at any time to the area of the city of Chihuahua bounded to the north by Avenida Transformación; to the east by Avenida Tecnológico/Manuel Gómez Morín/Highway 16/Blvd.José Fuentes Mares; to the west by the city boundary; and to the south by Periférico Francisco R. Almada.
• U.S. government employees may travel on Highways 45, 16, and 45D through the city of Chihuahua and to the Chihuahua airport (officially called the General Roberto Fierro Villalobos International Airport). 
• U.S. government employees may travel to Santa Eulalia to the east of the city of Chihuahua, as well as to Juan Aldama via Highway 16 to the northeast.
• U.S. government employees may travel south of the city of Chihuahua on Highway 45 to the southern boundary of Parral, including each town directly connected to Highway 45, including Lázaro Cárdenas, Pedro Meoqui, Santa Cruz de Rosales, Delicias, Camargo, Ciudad Jiménez, and Parral itself.
• U.S. government employees may only travel on official business from the city of Chihuahua on Highway 16 to Ciudad Cuauhtémoc bounded by Highway 21 to the north and east, Highway 5 to the west, and Bulevar Jorge Castillo Cabrera to the south. 
• Ojinaga:  U.S. government employees must travel to Ojinaga via U.S. Highway 67 and enter through the U.S. Port of Entry in Presidio, Texas.
• Palomas:  U.S. government employees may travel to Palomas via U.S. highways through the U.S. Port of Entry in Columbus, New Mexico, or via Highway 2 in Mexico.

U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of Chihuahua, including  Copper Canyon .

Coahuila state – Exercise Increased Caution

Violent crime and gang activity occur in parts of Coahuila state. 

U.S. government employees must adhere to the following travel restrictions:

• Zaragoza, Morelos, Allende, Nava, Jimenez, Villa Union, Guerrero, and Hidalgo municipalities : U.S. government employees may not travel to these municipalities.
• Piedras Negras and Ciudad Acuña:  U.S. government employees must travel directly from the United States and observe a curfew from midnight to 6:00 a.m. in both cities.

There are no other restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Coahuila state.

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. 

Durango state – Reconsider Travel

Reconsider travel due to crime.

Violent crime and gang activity are common in parts of Durango state.

• West and south of Federal Highway 45:  U.S. government employees may not travel to this region of Durango state.

There are no other restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Durango state.

Guanajuato state – Reconsider Travel

Gang violence, often associated with the theft of petroleum and natural gas from the state oil company and other suppliers, occurs in Guanajuato, primarily in the south and central areas of the state.  Of particular concern is the high number of murders in the southern region of the state associated with cartel-related violence. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

• Areas south of Federal Highway 45D:  U.S. government employees may not travel to the area south of and including Federal Highway 45D, Celaya, Salamanca, and Irapuato.

There are no other restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Guanajuato state, which includes tourist areas in:  San Miguel de Allende ,  Guanajuato City , and  surrounding areas.

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 .

Hidalgo state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Hidalgo state.

Jalisco state – Reconsider Travel

Violent crime and gang activity are common in parts of Jalisco state. In Guadalajara, territorial battles between criminal groups take place in tourist areas. Shooting incidents between criminal groups have injured or killed innocent bystanders. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

• Jalisco-Michoacan border and Federal Highway 110:  U.S. government employees may not travel to the area between Federal Highway 110 and the Jalisco-Michoacan border, nor travel on Federal Highway 110 between Tuxpan, Jalisco, and the Michoacan border.
• Federal Highway 80:  U.S. government employees may not travel on Federal Highway 80 south of Cocula.

There are no other restrictions on travel for U.S government employees in Jalisco state which includes tourist areas in:  Guadalajara Metropolitan Area ,  Puerto Vallarta (including neighboring Riviera Nayarit) ,  Chapala , and  Ajijic .

Mexico City (Ciudad de Mexico) – Exercise Increased Caution

Both violent and non-violent crime occur throughout Mexico City. Use additional caution, particularly at night, outside of the frequented tourist areas where police and security patrol more routinely. Petty crime occurs frequently in both tourist and non-tourist areas.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Mexico City.

Mexico State (Estado de Mexico) – Exercise Increased Caution

Both violent and non-violent crime occur throughout Mexico State. Use additional caution in areas outside of the frequented tourist areas, although petty crime occurs frequently in tourist areas as well.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Mexico State.

Michoacan state – Do Not Travel

Do not travel due to crime and kidnapping.

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.

Morelos state – Reconsider Travel

Violent crime and gang activity are common in parts of Morelos state.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Morelos state.

Nayarit state – Exercise Increased Caution

Criminal activity and violence may occur throughout Nayarit state.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S government employees in Nayarit state.

Nuevo Leon state – Exercise Increased Caution

Exercise increased caution due to crime and kidnapping.

Criminal activity and violence may occur throughout the state. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Nuevo Leon state.

Oaxaca state – Exercise Increased Caution

Criminal activity and violence occur throughout the state.

U.S. travelers are reminded that U.S. government employees must adhere to the following travel restrictions:

• Isthmus region:  U.S. government employees may not travel to the area of Oaxaca bounded by Federal Highway 185D to the west, Federal Highway 190 to the north, and the Oaxaca-Chiapas border to the east.  This includes the cities of Juchitan de Zaragoza, Salina Cruz, and San Blas Atempa.  
• Federal Highway 200 northwest of Pinotepa:  U.S. government employees may not use Federal Highway 200 between Pinotepa and the Oaxaca-Guerrero border.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees to other parts of Oaxaca state, which include tourist areas in:  Oaxaca City ,  Monte Alban ,  Puerto Escondido,  and  Huatulco .

Puebla state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Puebla state.

Queretaro state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Queretaro state.

Quintana Roo state – Exercise Increased Caution

Criminal activity and violence may occur in any location, at any time, 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. 

While not directed at tourists, shootings between rival gangs have injured innocent bystanders.  Additionally, U.S. citizens have been the victims of both non-violent and violent crimes in tourist and non-tourist areas.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Quintana Roo state. However, personnel are advised to exercise increased situational awareness after dark in downtown areas of Cancun, Tulum, and Playa del Carmen, and to remain in well-lit pedestrian streets and tourist zones.

San Luis Potosi state – Exercise Increased Caution

Criminal activity and violence may occur throughout the state.  U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in San Luis Potosi state.

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.

Sonora state – Reconsider Travel

Sonora is a key location used by the international drug trade and human trafficking networks. Violent crime is widespread. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping. Travelers should maintain a heightened level of awareness of their surroundings in all their travels in Sonora.  Security incidents may occur in any area of Sonora.

• Travel between Hermosillo and Nogales:  U.S. government employees may travel between the U.S. Ports of Entry in Nogales and Hermosillo during daylight hours via Federal Highway 15 only. U.S. government employees may not use ANY taxi services, public buses, nor ride-share applications due to a lack of secure vetting and/or dispatching procedures. Travelers should exercise caution and avoid unnecessary stops as security incidents, including sporadic, armed carjackings, and shootings have been reported along this highway during daylight hours. Travelers should have a full tank of gas and inform friends or family members of their planned travel.
• Nogales:  U.S. government employees may not travel in the triangular area north of Avenida Tecnologico, west of Bulevar Luis Donaldo Colosio (Periferico), nor east of Federal Highway 15D (Corredor Fiscal). U.S. government employees also may not travel in the residential and business areas to east of the railroad tracks along Plutarco Elias Calle (HWY 15) and Calle Ruiz Cortino, including the business area around the Morley pedestrian gate port-of-entry. U.S. government employees may not use ANY taxi services, public buses, nor ride-share applications in Nogales due to a lack of secure vetting and/or dispatching procedures and the danger of kidnapping and other violent crimes.  
• Puerto Peñasco:  U.S. government employees may travel between Puerto Peñasco and the Lukeville-Sonoyta U.S. Port of Entry during daylight hours via Federal Highway 8 only. They may not travel on any other route to Puerto Peñasco. U.S. government employees may not use ANY taxi services, public buses, nor ride-share applications in Puerto Peñasco. due to a lack of secure vetting and/or dispatching procedures and the danger of kidnapping and other violent crimes.
• Triangular region near Mariposa U.S. Port of Entry:  U.S. government employees may not travel into or through the triangular region west of the Mariposa U.S. Port of Entry, east of Sonoyta, and north of Altar municipality.
• San Luis Rio Colorado, Cananea, and Agua Prieta : U.S. government employees may travel directly from the nearest U.S. Port of Entry to San Luis Rio Colorado, Cananea (via Douglas Port of Entry), and Agua Prieta, but may not go beyond the city limits. Travel is limited to daylight hours only. Travel between Nogales and Cananea via Imuris is not permitted. U.S. government employees may not use ANY taxi services, public buses, nor ride-share applications in these cities due to a lack of secure vetting and/or dispatching procedures and the danger of kidnapping and other violent crimes.
• Eastern and southern Sonora (including San Carlos Nuevo Guaymas and Alamos):  U.S. government employees may not travel to areas of Sonora east of Federal Highway 17, the road between Moctezuma and Sahuaripa, and State Highway 20 between Sahuaripa and the intersection with Federal Highway 16. U.S. government employees may travel to San Carlos Nuevo Guaymas and Alamos; travel to Alamos is only permitted by air and within city limits.  U.S. government employees may not travel to areas of Sonora south of Federal Highway 16 and east of Federal Highway 15 (south of Hermosillo), as well as all points south of Guaymas, including Empalme, Guaymas, Obregon, and Navojoa.  U.S. government employees may not use ANY taxi services, public buses, nor ride-share applications in these areas due to a lack of secure vetting and/or dispatching procedures and the danger of kidnapping and other violent crimes.

U.S. government employees may travel to other parts of Sonora state in compliance with the above restrictions, including tourist areas in: Hermosillo , Bahia de Kino , and Puerto Penasco .

Tabasco state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Tabasco 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.

Tlaxcala state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Tlaxcala state.

Veracruz state – Exercise Increased Caution

Violent crime and gang activity occur with increasing frequency in Veracruz, particularly in the center and south near Cordoba and Coatzacoalcos. While most gang-related violence is targeted, violence perpetrated by criminal organizations can affect bystanders. Impromptu roadblocks requiring payment to pass are common.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Veracruz state.

Yucatan state – Exercise Normal Precautions

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Yucatan state, which include tourist areas in:  Chichen Itza ,  Merida ,  Uxmal , and  Valladolid .

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.

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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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Americans Warned to Reconsider Travel to Puerto Vallarta & Beyond

Tourists are no longer able to avoid the increased violence between rival gangs.

The State Department is urging U.S. citizens to reconsider or even avoid travel to parts of Mexico — including Jalisco state, home to top queer destination Puerto Vallarta — over increased crime and kidnappings in the region. As travelers make plans for spring break, the federal department’s Bureau of Consular Affairs has issued multiple advisories 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.

Rather than issue a nationwide risk assessment for Mexico, the department reviewed each state, issuing its strongest warning, for Colima, Guerrero, Michoacan, Sinaloa, Tamaulipas, and Zacatecas over crime concerns.

Urging U.S. citizens not to travel to those Mexican states, the Bureau of Consular Affairs cited recent shootings between rival gangs that have injured or killed bystanders, as well as kidnappings targeting tourists and “green card” holders.

Officials advise U.S. citizens to reconsider travel to Baja California, Chihuahua, Durango, Guanajuato, Jalisco, Morelos, and Sonora due to crime and kidnapping.

Regarding Jalisco, which is home to popular LGBTQ + destinations Puerto Vallarta, Guadalajara, and Riviera Nayarit, the advisory notes, “Violent crime and gang activity are common in parts of Jalisco state. In Guadalajara, territorial battles between criminal groups take place in tourist areas. Shooting incidents between criminal groups have injured or killed innocent bystanders. U.S. citizens and [legal permanent residents] have been victims of kidnapping.”

At least some of the increased violence in tourism hotspots can be traced to the appetites of the travelers themselves: demand for drugs has brought competing cartels to the region .

In January, Orange County public defender Elliot Blair died under suspicious circumstances while vacationing in Rosarito in Baja California. His family believes the 33-year-old was murdered, but local authorities have called his death an accident.

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Puerto Vallarta Safety 2024: How Safe is Puerto Vallarta for Travel?

Before you book your trip to Puerto Vallarta, there’s something very important to talk about — your safety!

Puerto Vallarta sits on the shores of Mexico’s Pacific coast, in the state of Jalisco — which, according to the U.S. Government, is a state you need to “Reconsider Visiting .”

In Jalisco, crime and violence go hand in hand, and several incidents involving cartels have harmed innocent tourists and citizens.

But how dangerous is Puerto Vallarta in particular?

In this guide, we’ll expose it all — Puerto Vallarta’s crime rates, COVID-19 epidemic, carbon monoxide poisoning, natural disasters, beach pollution, etc.

Your safety is our utmost priority, so let’s begin.

Unveiling the Reality: A Comprehensive Look at Puerto Vallarta Crime Rates

Puerto Vallarta has a crime rating of 35.23.

If we compare it to other Mexican hotspots, Puerto Vallarta has one of the lowest rates of all. For instance, Cabo San Lucas has a crime rate of 44.50, whereas the beautiful Cancun has a crime rate of 56.16.

Nevertheless, serious crimes are prevalent, as seen in the 2011 crime report .

Puerto Vallarta is also a city in Mexico’s 11th most violent state , Jalisco.

What’s more, Jalisco is the base point for one of the deadliest Mexican cartels — the Jalisco New Generation Cartel , meaning most criminal activity in the state and its cities is mainly cartel-related.

This is why the U.S. State Department issued a travel advisory cautiously guiding tourists to “ Reconsider Traveling ” to the state of Jalisco.

So if you’re looking for an alternative where you can be worry-free, you’ll have to stick to other, safer destinations, like the beautiful island of Cozumel .

Navigating the New Normal: Ensuring COVID-19 Safety in Puerto Vallarta

The state of Jalisco, where Puerto Vallarta sits, has a daily average of 70 positive cases, which is a relatively small number considering the state’s size.

Tourists aren’t required to wear masks in Puerto Vallarta’s restaurants, hotels, or other public places. However, they may need to wear a mask while using public transportation or flying if airline regulations mandate it.

When you arrive in Puerto Vallarta, your temperature may be taken, and you may be sent to a medical institution if you exhibit symptoms .

If you experience some of the symptoms while in Puerto Vallarta and want to get immediately tested, private PCR testing costs around 950 and 4500 MXN ($53 and $250), and viral antigen testing costs between 200 to 1000 MXN ($11 and $55).

To avoid the spread of COVID-19 , continue practicing social distancing, frequently wash your hands, use alcohol-based hand sanitizer, cough or sneeze in the inside portion of your elbow, don’t travel, and most importantly, get treatment.

Perils of Nature: The Risk of Natural Disasters in Puerto Vallarta

Two natural disasters generally threaten Puerto Vallarta: hurricanes and earthquakes. Let’s learn more about them.

Hurricane Information and Precautions

The hurricane season in Puerto Vallarta runs from June to November. The peak probability for hurricanes is between August and October.

The most recent hurricane that struck Puerto Vallarta was Hurricane Roslyn in October 2022. Roslyn was a category 3 hurricane that brought heavy rain, high waves, and flooded streets.

Another category 4 hurricane, Hurricane Kenna , hit Puerto Vallarta in October 2002. The hurricane flooded streets, homes, and hotels along the beach, ripped down trees and electrical lines, and forced many residents to evacuate their homes.

It’s crucial to know that although these natural calamities happen, Puerto Vallarta isn’t frequently affected by hurricanes or tropical storms. It’s, nonetheless, vital to monitor weather forecasts.

Visit the National Hurricane Service for the most recent updates regarding hurricanes in Mexico and Puerto Vallarta.

Earthquake Information and Precautions

Mexico is situated on the Pacific Ring of Fire , a region recognized for its tectonic activity.

Fortunately, there are no big earthquakes with destructive potential in Puerto Vallarta. However, the city occasionally experiences tremors of a lighter magnitude.

The earthquakes that sometimes occur are of magnitudes 2, 3, and 4. According to the magnitude earthquake scale , these tremors are felt but cause minor damage.

An earthquake last hit Puerto Vallarta on 18 June 2023 with a magnitude of 3.6. There was another a couple of days prior, on June 14, 2023 ,  with a magnitude of 3.8.

For the latest earthquakes hitting Puerto Vallarta, visit the VolcanoDiscovery website or download the  911 CDMX app to your smartphone.

Breathing Safely in Puerto Vallarta: Carbon Monoxide Awareness and Prevention

Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning occurs when a person inhales too much of the toxic carbon monoxide gas.

The gas has no smell, color, or taste, and our senses cannot detect it until we suffer some of its symptoms. The symptoms include feeling dizzy or disoriented, having a headache, losing consciousness, or having chest discomfort, among others.

The main sources of carbon monoxide gas leaks are faulty kerosene and gas space heaters, chimneys and furnaces, gas water heaters, wood stoves, fireplaces, gas stoves, generators, etc.

Once these house appliances leak the toxic CO, the level of oxygen carried in our bloodstream and into critical organs like the heart and brain becomes severely restricted. Prolonged inhalation of CO can cause paralysis, brain damage, or be fatal.

Puerto Vallarta hasn’t suffered any cases of CO poisoning. However, there have been three reported incidents in Mexico City , and a Juarez study found that a substantial percentage of households have harmful levels of CO .

As a result, health experts advise installing carbon monoxide detectors within ten feet of each bedroom in residences, hotel rooms, and rental properties. Additionally, if one is not provided by the rental property, travelers should bring their own CO detectors .

Serenity by the Shore: The Safety of Puerto Vallarta Beaches

If you ignore the U.S. government warning and decide to go to Puerto Vallarta at your own risk, you should know that its beaches are clean, safe, and eco-friendly.

The city has been awarded the prestigious Blue Flag status , recognized as a mark of excellence in terms of cleanliness, environmental care, and safety.

Eight beaches earned the Blue Flag status, including Palmares, Camarones, Sheraton, Oro, Garza Blanca, Amapas, Conchas Chinas I, and Conchas Chinas II.

Puerto Vallarta uses an additional set of multi-colored flags about the conditions for swimming and dangerous marine life. There are a total of five flags, which are as follows:

• Black — Do not swim; deadly currents
• Red — Avoid swimming; dangerous currents
• Yellow — Semi-safe; swim with caution
• White — Dangerous marine life; swim with caution
• Green — Safe to swim

While it’s absolutely amazing that Puerto Vallarta’s beaches have been recognized for cleanliness and safety, remember that you’re in the Jalisco New Generation base point, and danger can strike at any time.

So to stay safe, carefully consider other coastal destinations that are just as beautiful, eco-friendly, and bacteria-free as Puerto Vallarta but are much safer — for instance, Cancun and Cabo San Lucas .

Puerto Vallarta Weather Patterns: What to Expect?

Puerto Vallarta has two seasons: wet and dry.

The dry season occurs in November and ends in May. This period is characterized by extremely clear skies, shimmery sun, and almost no rain. The temperatures revolve around 73°F (23°C), with the maximum reaching 86°F (30°C). The hottest months are November and May, and the driest are February, March, and April.

Puerto Vallarta’s wet season lasts from June through October. The city sees more rainfall, higher humidity, and scorching temperatures during these months. The wettest months are July, August, and September, whereas October is the least rainy. All months have scorching weather, with August slightly hotter than the rest. The average temperature in the wet season is around 82°F (28°C), and a maximum of 90°F (32°C).

Weather Overview in Puerto Vallarta

The summer season in Puerto Vallarta begins in June and ends in August. The daily average temperature is around 83°F (28°C). On days when it’s warmest, the temperature in Puerto Vallarta can exceed 90°F (32°C). Summer nights are nice, with temperatures about 77°F (24°C).

The autumn season in Puerto Vallarta lasts from September to November. The standard daily temperature can rise to 82°F (27°C), with the highest possible high of 90°F (32°C). The temperature at nighttime is 70°F (20°C).

Puerto Vallarta’s winter season lasts from December through February. The average daytime temperature is approximately 71°F (21°C), with a peak temperature of 82°F (27°C). Winter nights are typically around 62°F (16°C).

Puerto Vallarta’s spring season lasts from March until May. The daily average temperature is 73°F (23°C), while on days when it’s hottest, Puerto Vallarta can reach 85°F (29°C). Spring nights are pleasant, with temperatures of 66°F (18°C).

When Is the Best Time to Visit Puerto Vallarta?

This wouldn’t be much of a safety guide if we actually encouraged you to travel to Puerto Vallarta, given that the US government advises tourists to reconsider visiting this place.

So, in terms of safety, there’s no suitable time to visit Puerto Vallarta . The situation could possibly improve in the near future, but until then, it’s advisable to heed the U.S. State Department’s travel advisory.

If you’re wondering when is the best time to visit this city once it’s safer, December through May are the ideal months . This is the time of year when there’s the least chance of rain, the skies are clear, and the nights are perfectly serene. This period is also an excellent time to go whale watching.

Exploring Puerto Vallarta Solo or With a Family: Is It a Good Idea?

With all of the crime spree around Puerto Vallarta, visiting the city alone or with your family is not a good idea .

For those currently in Puerto Vallarta or eagerly planning a vacation at their own risk, here are some tips and tricks for staying safe.

Essential tips for staying safe:

• Learn basic Spanish
• Purchase a Mexican SIM card
• Uber is the most reliable transportation service
• Avoid street taxis. They may scam you
• Use Google Maps to find the nearest police station
• Book in reputable hotels with a solid reputation
• Always keep some pesos on hand
• Don’t wander at night, especially in isolated areas
• Don’t venture too far from your lodging
• Never initiate a conflict
• Never drink tap water
• Know the emergency numbers: 911 (police), 066 (ambulance), 080 (fire services)
• Thieves usually target public transit, ATMs, and the beach — be extremely cautious of your belongings in these areas

Tips for traveling alone:

• Keep in touch with a friend or family member at all times
• Keep it “low-key” and avoid going out frequently so that people don’t notice you’re alone
• Make no friends with strangers
• Never give out personal information to anyone
• Dress modestly
• Stay away from catcallers
• Avoid places that are densely populated with clubs and bars
• Drink responsibly to maintain control over what is going on around you
• Kindly refuse illegal substances
• Be wary of anyone putting a narcotic in your drink

Tips for traveling with your family:

• Stay in your hotel as much as possible for the benefit of your family’s protection
• Renting a car is safer and more dependable than constantly calling a taxi
• You should not drink and drive
• Keep an eye on your children at all times, especially on the beach
• Make sure that the family is never separated
• Pack a first-aid kit
• Visit well-known eateries and reserve hotels that offer family-friendly activities
• Don’t stay too late in bars and restaurants

This concludes our carefully crafted guide on Puerto Vallarta safety for 2023 — fingers crossed that this beautiful destination will be safe to visit soon.

Please heed the U.S. government’s travel advisory until then and think twice before visiting this location! It’s just not worth the danger with all the cartel presence and crime currently happening there.

You deserve a vacation where you always feel comfortable and not constantly on guard against potential threats. Stress and vacation don’t go hand in hand! So, stay safe, and leave Puerto Vallarta for another time.

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Is Puerto Vallarta Safe? Crime Rate & Travel Warnings

Puerto Vallarta and the surrounding areas such as Nuevo Vallarta, Bucerias, or Sayulita have become some of the most popular beach destinations in Mexico. If you’re planning a trip here, you might wonder: Is Puerto Vallarta safe? Is there a high crime rate? Are there health and hygiene protocols in place?

Those are all perfectly valid things to ask!

Below we’ll cover some important safety and travel topics, and hopefully this information will help put your mind at ease if you are considering traveling safely to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

Common Travel Scams

Vallarta travel warnings & advisories, ocean water quality, contact information, is puerto vallarta safe.

You’ve read the headlines, you’ve watched the news, you’ve seen the movies, but we’re here to tell you the truth: Is it a good idea to visit Mexico? Is Puerto Vallarta safe to travel to?

While the perception is that Mexico is a dangerous place to visit, it’s a massive country with vastly different regions. Puerto Vallarta is a very safe destination for international travelers, although tourists should obviously exercise caution, just as they would in their own countries.

Keep reading to learn about the crime rate, general safety tips, cartel news, and common scams to watch out for.

Puerto Vallarta Crime Rate

When comparing the crime rate in Puerto Vallarta with other cities, you’ll notice that it is very safe… even safer than many cities in the US (see comparison table below). In addition, Puerto Vallarta is very LGBT-friendly with a very laid-back atmosphere.

Puerto Vallarta regularly contracts leading international firms specialized in tourism security to conduct a comprehensive Tourist Threat Vulnerability Assessment (2011, 2012, and 2014). The resulting appraisal discovered the following:

“The most common offense in Puerto Vallarta is public drunkenness and the most common serious crime is residential burglary, followed by auto theft. Carjackings are rare since Law Enforcement can close both North and Southbound traffic very quickly. Police maps indicate most serious crimes occur outside the tourist zones. Tour guides report the most common crimes suffered by tourists are usually common theft due to inattentive events i.e. misplacement of personal items or insecure backpacks.” – Thomas Dale and Associates

Corruption & Bribery

Puerto Vallarta’s main problem seems to be corruption and bribery. According to Numbeo, Puerto Vallarta’s corruption index is 63.96 / 100. If you are visiting our city, please do not ever try to bribe the cops. Paying a police officer directly is against the law, and it amounts to soliciting bribery. There is no legal way to pay a spot fine, and fines can only be paid at the office. Simply accept the ticket, and the cop will ask for a document as a guarantee; e.g. your driver’s license or the car’s license plate. Once you go to pay the ticket at the office, this document will be returned. It really is not a complicated process.

Safety Tips & Precautions

Puerto Vallarta is a relatively small and quiet city (population: ~250,000) where you rarely hear about violent crimes. You will occasionally hear about petty theft or home robberies, but travelers have very little to worry about as long as they use common sense and follow a few simple safety guidelines:

Before your Travels

• Leave your travel itinerary and contact information with friends and family.
• Check medical insurance to ensure you are covered during your trip, or get travel insurance .
• Make a list of relevant hospitals and U.S. Embassies in the area.
• Register your travels with the U.S. Department of State here .
• Have emergency numbers and maps already downloaded on your phone.

While Visiting Puerto Vallarta

• Call 911 in case of an emergency.
• Try to keep a low profile . Do not flash cash around and do not wear fancy jewelry. Don’t make yourself an easy target for theft. Use common sense, just as you would back home.
• When pulling out cash at an ATM, be mindful of anything that may look suspicious near the vicinity of the cash machine. If anything looks fishy, simply find another ATM.
• Keep your valuables in a safe (if possible).
• When driving outside the city, avoid isolated roads and use toll road highways when possible.
• When walking around town at night, try to stay in well-lit areas.
• We’re hearing more and more about the mustard scam . Someone squirts mustard or some awful goop on you and then points it out and offers to help you clean it off. While you’re distracted they’ll grab your wallet and take off before you even notice it is gone.
• Don’t pay with dollars at stores or restaurants since they’ll probably be giving you a  bad exchange rate . Instead, learn how to get pesos from an ATM without paying huge fees !
• There have been reports of fraudulent rental listings and classified ads on places like Facebook or Craigslist. Make sure you are booking from one of the popular booking platforms (with buyer protection rights), or from a professional host that has proven history and guest reviews.
• To  avoid bank card cloning  or skimming, never allow your cards out of your sight. If your card has a “chip & pin” method, ask your waiter to bring the payment terminal to your table and cover your hand as you enter your PIN. If the terminal is not portable take your card to the cashier to pay. This is very normal.

Cartel & Drug Violence

Violent crimes in Mexico started to increase back in 2006 when the government decided to crack down on the cartels. Fighting over trafficking routes comprises a lot of Mexico’s crime and murder, but the cartels started to realize that tourists are a big market for the consumption of drugs, which makes them high revenue generators. This is what drove up the violence in tourist destinations such as Cancun, Mazatlan, or Los Cabos. Acapulco was once a world-renowned tourist hotspot but it turned into one of the most dangerous cities in the world.

Just to be clear, drugs are highly illegal in Mexico. Even if someone offers to sell you some on the beach or on the street, just say NO. If you purchase any, you are supporting the cartels financially with your own money. Please support our community and do not help fund violent crime in our country. Plus, foreigners charged with drug possession can be kept in a Mexican prison for months before their cases finally go to court.

The latest crime news in Puerto Vallarta was in December 2020 when the cartel was allegedly linked to the shooting and assassination of the former governor of Jalisco, Aristóteles Sandoval while he was vacationing at a popular beach resort. It was one of the highest-profile political killings in Mexico in recent memory. We have definitely noticed an ‘ increased presence of Mexican security forces ‘, a few clashes with the military, and even a case where suspected drug cartel gunmen abducted two off-duty female soldiers at gunpoint. That being said, the Puerto Vallarta crime rate continues to be very low and the Puerto Vallarta area has remained safe over the years.

Make sure to check the Mexico Travel Advisory page of the U.S. State Department to check for the latest news and travel safety information, as it changes frequently. According to their latest travel advisory, Mexico is considered:

Level 3: Reconsider Travel

The crime and violence rates referenced in the travel advisory are for broad regions while the incidence of this activity tends to be highly concentrated in areas which are not frequented by travelers. Visitors who use common sense and travel in areas frequented by other tourists are safe and have enjoyable visits. Tim Mullen, President of Apple Vacations

The  Government of Canada  is another great source. Whereas the U.S. Department of State provides travel warnings for every specific region of Mexico, the Government of Canada offers more general warnings with advice on areas to avoid.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is great for covering things like:

• Medical emergency insurance: Your health plan back home may provide zero or very little coverage in Mexico. This type of insurance may reimburse you for medical expenses you incur because of an illness or accident that occurs during your trip.
• Trip cancellation insurance: This covers non-refundable expenses such as tours, excursions, hotels, etc. For example, if a storm hits your vacation destination and forces you to cancel the trip, this insurance can cover 100% of the non-refundable trip expenses that you prepaid. It also covers cancellation due to diagnosed illness before traveling.
• Quarantine accommodations: Get coverage for accomodations if you have to quarantine at your destination.
• Trip interruption coverage: This is in case you need to cut your trip short and return home sooner than expected. These benefits apply if you or a traveling companion become ill or injured during a trip, for example.

We personally use InsureMyTrip since they are the largest unbiased travel insurance site that allows you to compare prices across dozens of providers and filter for only the specific coverage options you want. Every program is different and it’s important to review the terms of the insurance policy to determine if the plan is right for your needs. To get a quick estimate, click the button below:

Health & Hygiene

There is a lot of misinformation out there and really it’s about making sure you have all the information so that you can make the right decision for yourself and your family.

General Health Protocols

Puerto Vallarta took the health and hygiene protocols very seriously from the very start to ensure the safety of its citizens and visitors. Puerto Vallarta was actually one of the first cities to obtain the Safe Travels seal issued by the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) for complying with the hygiene and sanitation standards.

The state of Jalisco actually made the use of masks mandatory for the service industry. Staff at restaurants around town will always be wearing masks , and hotels are operating at a limited capacity. Every restaurant is required to administer hand sanitizer and to take the temperature of every customer before entering.

At most hotels, pool chairs are disinfected between each use, public areas are frequently sanitized, and plastic barriers are set up at counters where guests and employees interact.

All the major grocery chains are all checking temperatures as you enter the shopping centers and they make sure everyone has a mask on.

It is pretty easy to follow all the health and hygiene protocols. Wear masks whenever you are indoors without good airflow. Carry hand sanitizer around with you, but most businesses will require a temperature check and will dispense hand sanitizer.

Can you drink the tap water in Puerto Vallarta? It has actually been rated as perfectly safe for human consumption with a certificate of purity for 30 consecutive years. Soraya Topete Camacho , the head of the city’s water quality & testing, said “The population can rest assured that they are receiving quality water. At the national level, we are the only city with 30 consecutive years complying.”

“Touristically, our drinking water quality is something that we need to show off and promote. Many other tourist destinations would love to have drinking water of this quality. It is a great achievement, it gives us pride and a tremendous promotional tool for the city.” – SEAPAL (Puerto Vallarta’s Potable Water, Drainage, and Sewerage Services)

The local government invested a decent amount of money into a state-of-the-art water treatment system so that everybody can have clean drinking water. So yes, you can probably drink the tap water in Puerto Vallarta, just be aware that some areas and buildings may have old pipes. If in doubt, ask your hotel or accommodation if the water is ok to drink.

Puerto Vallarta has the coveted  Blue Flag status , an international certification that recognizes excellence in security, environmental management, and quality of beaches & marinas. The ocean water is also regularly tested by the Mexican government agency, COFEPRIS.

Emergency Information

Though no one wants to think that they will have an emergency while traveling abroad, it happens. We highly recommend registering your travel dates with your consulate. This is easy to do and can be done online. US citizens can go to the Smart Traveler Enrollment website and Canadians can go to the Registration of Canadians Abroad . British Nationals traveling to Mexico can find important information on the Mexico Foreign Travel Advice website.

Creating an Emergency Card

In the case of an emergency, it makes everything much easier if you have all your important information compiled in one place. We suggest creating an emergency card with all the following information and share it with your family and friends (and maybe even have a copy of it in your wallet or purse):

• Medication allergies and a list of medications you take.
• Blood type.
• Emergency contact information (preferably a blood relative). Include name, relationship, phone number, address, and email address.
• Your insurance information.
• Dial 911 in case of an emergency
• CMQ Hospital Puerto Vallarta: +52 322 223 1919
• Hospital CMQ Riviera Nayarit (Bucerias): +52 329 298 0717
• Hospital Joya Riviera (Nuevo Vallarta): +52 322 226 8181
• Hospital Joya Marina Vallarta: +52 322 226 1010
• +52 333 268 2100
• Paseo de los Cocoteros #85, Nuevo Vallarta, Nayarit
• +52 322 293 0098
• Plaza Peninsula, Blvrd Francisco Medina Ascencio 2485, Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco
• +52 322 221 2676

According to Numbeo’s Level of Crime Index, Puerto Vallarta has a crime rate of 38/100, which is considered low. In comparison, Maui is 58/100 and Miami is 58/100.

While the perception is that Mexico is a dangerous place to visit, it’s a massive country with vastly different regions. The cartel violence that makes headlines is concentrated far away from our little beach town. Puerto Vallarta is a very safe destination for international travelers, although tourists should obviously exercise caution, just as they would in their own countries.

Puerto Vallarta is a relatively small and quiet city where you rarely hear about violent crimes. You will occasionally hear about petty theft or home robberies, but tourists have very little to worry about as long as they use common sense and follow a few simple safety guidelines.

Make sure to check the Mexico Travel Advisory page of the U.S. State Department to check for the latest news and travel safety information, as it changes frequently. The  Government of Canada  is another great source. Whereas the U.S. Department of State provides travel warnings for every specific region of Mexico, the Government of Canada offers more general warnings with advice on areas to avoid.

Some of the links above are affiliate links. This means we may make a small commission (at no extra cost to you) if you click and make a qualifying purchase.

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Is It Safe to Travel to Mexico? Here’s What You Need to Know.

A spate of incidents, including a kidnapping and the death of two Americans near the border, have prompted travel warnings from the U.S. government.

By Elisabeth Malkin and Isabella Kwai

Two Americans found dead after they were attacked and kidnapped near the border. Airports shuttered amid gang violence in Sinaloa. Turmoil among taxi drivers in Cancún.

A number of recent security incidents have raised concerns about the risks of traveling to Mexico, where more than 20 million tourists flew last year to visit the country’s beaches, cities and archaeological sites, or to obtain health care .

Ahead of the spring break holiday, a popular time for American tourists to visit the country, the U.S. Embassy issued a travel alert , urging visitors to exercise caution by avoiding dangerous situations and drinking responsibly, among other recommendations. “Crime, including violent crime, can occur anywhere in Mexico, including in popular tourist destinations,” the alert said. And the State Department has warned tourists to steer clear of six states, including the state of Tamaulipas, where the recent kidnapping occurred — and to exercise increased precautions in other popular destinations like Playa del Carmen, Cancún, Tulum and Mexico City.

An overwhelming majority of visitors enjoy a safe vacation in Mexico, and tourists are largely sheltered from the violence that grips local communities. But the attack and kidnapping of four Americans in the border city of Matamoros, two of whom were later found dead, along with recent disorder in Cancún and violence in early January that forced the closure of three airports in northwest Mexico, is prompting questions about whether the country’s broader unrest is spilling into other destinations.

What happened on the border?

On March 3, four Americans from South Carolina traveling in a white minivan crossed the border from Brownsville, Texas, into the city of Matamoros, in the Mexican state of Tamaulipas. One of the Americans was scheduled for cosmetic surgery.

Soon after the Americans crossed the border, gunmen fired on their vehicle and then abducted the group in a pickup truck. Officials later said that two of the group were found dead at a rural location alongside the other two, who had survived.

The Americans were attacked as a result of “confusion,” according to Irving Barrios, the state prosecutor in Tamaulipas. Matamoros has a long history of violence and highway shootouts, though that reputation has partially subsided in recent years. Then, in late February, one gang moved into the city to wrest control of drug sales from another, said Eduardo Guerrero, the director of Lantia Intelligence , a security consulting company in Mexico City.

“There are places in the country where the situation can change abruptly from one week to another,” he said. While the motives in the attack remain unclear, the Americans had “very bad luck,” Mr. Guerrero said, because they likely stumbled into a battle between the two gangs.

What happened earlier this year in Cancún?

Uber has been challenging the taxi unions for the right to operate in Cancún and won a court decision in its favor on Jan. 11. The ruling infuriated the powerful unions, which are believed to have links to local organized crime figures and former governors. Taxi drivers then began harassing and threatening Uber drivers.

The conflict generated widespread attention after a video of taxi drivers forcing a Russian-speaking family out of their rideshare car went viral, and after unions blocked the main road leading to Cancún’s hotel zone. That prompted the U.S. Embassy in Mexico to issue a security alert .

Mr. Guerrero said that the authorities will try to negotiate some kind of compromise, but there was a probability of more violence ahead.

Have authorities curbed violence that might affect tourists?

As a rule, criminals in Mexico are careful not to kill tourists, Mr. Guerrero explained, because doing so “can set in motion a persecution that can last years,” the consequences of which can be “very dissuasive,” he said.

But the rule doesn’t always hold. And in two popular destinations for foreign tourists — Los Cabos , at the tip of the Baja California peninsula, and the Caribbean coast — local and state officials have recently sought help from the United States to take on organized crime that threatened to drive off tourists.

A spasm of violence at the end of 2021 and early 2022 rattled the tourist industry along the Riviera Maya, the 80-mile strip of Caribbean resorts south of Cancún. Two visitors were killed in crossfire between local gangs in Tulum; a gunfight on a beach in Puerto Morelos sent tourists running for cover into a nearby hotel; a hit man gained entry to a luxury hotel in Playa del Carmen and killed two Canadian tourists believed to have links to organized crime.

The federal government sent National Guard units to patrol the beaches, and Quintana Roo state authorities asked U.S. law enforcement agencies, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Drug Enforcement Administration, to provide intelligence, Mr. Guerrero said. Local authorities, flush with tourism revenues, invested in the police, which is typically the weakest link in Mexican law enforcement.

The joint approach led to a lull in gangland gun battles in Quintana Roo’s tourist areas, and experts say that drug sales to meet foreign demand no longer take place on the street, although they are continuing more discreetly.

The success in tamping down drug violence in Quintana Roo follows a similar improvement in Los Cabos a couple of years ago when U.S. authorities also collaborated with local officials in the state of Baja California Sur. The murder rate soared in Los Cabos in 2017 amid cartel wars, and although tourists were not targeted, that year police chased gunmen into the lobby of a luxury hotel in San José del Cabo, and a cooler containing two heads was left in a tourist area.

What about tourist areas in other states?

Even in states where crime is very high, tourist areas have generally been spared. San Miguel de Allende, a haven for U.S. retirees, is an island of relative peace in a state, Guanajuato, that has been riddled with cartel violence .

The Pacific Coast state of Jalisco, home to the resort of Puerto Vallarta, picturesque tequila country and the cultural and gastronomic attractions of the state capital, Guadalajara , is also the center of operations of the extremely violent Jalisco New Generation Cartel . The cartel’s focus of violence is in the countryside; Puerto Vallarta and the beaches to its north, including the exclusive peninsula of Punta Mita and the surfers’ hangout of Sayulita, are all booming — and, despite drug sales, the cartel’s control seems to limit open conflict.

Mexico City has become a magnet for digital nomads and shorter term visitors , and concerns about violence there have receded. The city’s police force has been successful in reducing violent crime, particularly homicides, and the number of killings has been cut almost in half over the past three years.

Are there any other safety concerns?

Street crime is still a problem almost everywhere, especially in bigger cities and crowded spaces. Kidnapping and carjacking are a risk in certain regions and many businesses that cater to tourists operate under extortion threats. While tourists may not be aware of underlying criminal forces, their power sometimes spills out into the open in spectacular shows of violence.

The attack in Matamoros is only the most recent example. Mexican border cities, which have long endured waves of violence, are not typically tourist destinations, although Americans often cross the border to visit family, seek out cheaper health care or dine at restaurants.

Three airports in the state of Sinaloa, including the beach destination Mazatlán, were closed on Jan. 5 amid gang violence after Mexican security forces arrested Ovidio Guzmán López, a son of Joaquín Guzmán Loera, the crime lord known as El Chapo, who is serving a life sentence in the United States. A stray bullet fired by cartel gunmen shooting at a Mexican military plane as it landed at the airport in the state capital, Culiacán, clipped an Aeromexico plane preparing to take off for Mexico City. Nobody was hurt and the plane returned to the terminal.

In August, gunmen positioned burning cars and buses to block roads around Guadalajara in response to a military raid on a meeting of criminal bosses. In October, a local politician was shot and killed in an upscale steakhouse in suburban Guadalajara as terrified diners crawled to safety.

Pierre de Hail, the president of Janus Group Mexico, a risk management company in Monterrey, is skeptical that security has improved. “There is too much random risk,” he said. “It’s all about being in the wrong place at the wrong time.”

What precautions should tourists take?

Mr. de Hail recommends researching the resort and news from the area you’re visiting. The U.S. State Department provides state-by-state information about travel risks in Mexico. As of early March, the department had issued its strongest possible warning — Level 4: Do Not Travel — for six states, including Tamaulipas and Sinaloa. Quintana Roo and Baja California Sur are at Level 2, indicating that visitors should exercise increased caution. (By comparison, the same Level 2 advisory is applied to France and Spain.)

The Matamoros incident shows how violence can flare up in places that have been quiet recently. Mr. Guerrero suggests searching on the internet before traveling for news of recent outbreaks.

Mr. de Hail also suggests buying travel insurance in case of a medical emergency or theft, and recommends that tourists keep a low profile to avoid attracting attention, he said, warning that it is easy to misread situations.

As anywhere, common sense should prevail, Mr. de Hail said: Don’t wear expensive watches or jewelry, and avoid dark and deserted places. He recommends making a copy of your passport, remaining alert while walking home at night and not leaving your drinks unattended. “I have had numerous cases of people asking for help because they were extorted coming back from bars,” he said.

He added: “If you’re staying in a place that has a report of strikes or demonstrations, don’t go there. You’re a fish out of water.”

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram , Twitter and Facebook . And sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to receive expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2023 .

Isabella Kwai is a breaking news reporter in the London bureau. She joined The Times in 2017 as part of the Australia bureau. More about Isabella Kwai

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

Italy :  Spend 36 hours in Florence , seeking out its lesser-known pockets.

Southern California :  Skip the freeways to explore the back roads between Los Angeles and Los Olivos , a 100-mile route that meanders through mountains, canyons and star-studded enclaves.

Mongolia : Some young people, searching for less curated travel experiences, are flocking to the open spaces of this East Asian nation .

Romania :  Timisoara  may be the most noteworthy city you’ve probably never heard of , offering just enough for visitors to fill two or three days.

India: A writer fulfilled a lifelong dream of visiting Darjeeling, in the Himalayan foothills , taking in the tea gardens and riding a train through the hills.

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

From USA/CAN

From mexico, is it safe in puerto vallarta for tourists.

• Destination
• Travel Updates

When it comes to planning a vacation, safety is undoubtedly a top concern for travelers. If you're considering a trip to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, you may be wondering, "Is Puerto Vallarta safe?".

Rest assured, Puerto Vallarta is a popular and safe destination that offers the perfect blend of stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality. Read on to find out what makes Puerto Vallarta safe to travel to year after year and over 20 invaluable tips to ensure a secure and worry-free visit.

Is it Safe in Puerto Vallarta?

One of the most frequently asked questions by travelers is, "Is it safe to travel to Puerto Vallarta?" The answer is a resounding yes! Puerto Vallarta has earned a reputation as one of Mexico's safest tourist destinations. The city takes great pride in ensuring the well-being of its visitors, making it an ideal place to unwind and explore.

However, like any other travel destination, it's essential to exercise caution and follow some basic Puerto Vallarta safety guidelines.

You may want to read the Travel Update of the Local Government.

20 Top Safety Tips for Traveling to Puerto Vallarta

• Choose reputable accommodations: Opt for well-reviewed hotels or resorts with good security measures. The city has a few all-inclusive resorts that are perfect for your family vacation and their location is idyllically located in the quieter parts of town where swimming is accessible. 
• Research your neighborhood: Prioritize staying in safe areas such as the Hotel Zone, Zona Romantica, and Marina Vallarta.
• Keep your valuables secure: Use hotel safes or lockers to store your passports, cash, and other important belongings. When hanging around your resort or galavanting through town, you’ll rarely. need your passport or an excessive amount of cash. 
• Stay vigilant in crowded places: Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded tourist areas. While pickpocketing is uncommon, you shouldn’t leave your belongings unattended or your purse hanging off the back of a chair where it can easily be snatched. 
• Use authorized transportation: Prefer official taxis or reputable transportation services, such as Uber, for getting around the city. 
• Avoid displaying excessive wealth or wearing flashy jewelry, as well as carrying your cell phone in your hand.
• Stay hydrated: Drink bottled water and stay hydrated, especially in warmer months.
• Be cautious with alcohol consumption: Drink responsibly and be aware of your limits.
• Learn basic Spanish phrases: Familiarize yourself with some essential Spanish phrases for better communication.
• Stay informed about local laws and customs: Respect local traditions and adhere to the laws of the land.
• Avoid street confrontations: Maintain a calm demeanor and avoid engaging in conflicts or altercations.
• Learn about species that are endemic to the area: While uncommon, you may run into scorpions, crocodiles, snakes, and other unwanted visitors on your trip. Pay attention to signage, steer clear of these creatures if you encounter them in nature, and make sure you report it if you’ve seen one. 
• Protect yourself from the sun: Apply sunscreen, wear hats, and stay in shaded areas to avoid sunburn.
• Secure your belongings on the beach: Don't leave your belongings unattended while enjoying the beautiful beaches.
• Stay connected: Keep your loved ones informed about your whereabouts and share your travel plans.
• Research reputable tour operators: Book tours and excursions with well-established and trusted companies.
• Follow beach safety guidelines: Pay attention to lifeguards' instructions and be cautious while swimming in the ocean. Puerto Vallarta uses a flag system, when it is orange or red, stay out of the water. 
• Use ATMs inside banks: Utilize ATMs located inside reputable banks to ensure transaction security.
• Trust official information sources: Rely on reliable sources for up-to-date information about local safety conditions.
• Trust your instincts: If something feels off or uncomfortable, trust your gut and remove yourself from the situation.

Safest Places in Puerto Vallarta

While Puerto Vallarta, in general, is considered safe, certain areas are particularly known for their safety and visitor-friendly environments. The Hotel Zone, Downtown, Zona Romantica, Marina Vallarta, and Nuevo Vallarta are popular neighborhoods with an excellent safety record.

These areas offer a wide range of accommodations, dining options, and attractions, ensuring a pleasant and secure experience for travelers. As a general rule of thumb, you can usually tell how safe is Puerto Vallarta by the number of people on the street.

Each of the neighborhoods mentioned above will have people walking the streets morning, noon, and night, and they are great places to hang out if you’re a tourist.

You may be interested in this article:  Puerto Vallarta Weather - The Myths About Rainy Season.

Crime in Puerto Vallarta

Most of the dangers in puerto vallarta, and the majority of crimes reported are non-violent. In recent years, the local government has implemented various measures to enhance security, such as increased police presence, surveillance cameras, and community programs. These efforts have continued to make Puerto Vallarta one of the safe Mexico destinations.

Puerto Vallarta is a popular tourist hub, attracting millions of visitors each year. The presence of tourists contributes to a vibrant and lively atmosphere, with an added layer of safety as businesses and local authorities prioritize the well-being of their guests.

Next time you're wondering, "Is Puerto Vallarta Mexico safe," read up on Mexico travel warnings and comments from those who have been to the city in recent months. You’re sure to find an overwhelming reassurance that makes Puerto Vallarta safe to travel to. So book your hotel and flight, pack your bags, and head off to the stunning shores of Banderas Bay. 

Check out the Puerto Vallarta Airport Guide.

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Mexico Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

• Packing List

After Your Trip

Be aware of current health issues in Mexico. Learn how to protect yourself.

Level 1 Practice Usual Precautions

• Dengue in the Americas February 28, 2024 Dengue is a risk in many parts of Central and South America, Mexico, and the Caribbean. Some countries are reporting increased numbers of cases of the disease. Travelers to the Americas can protect themselves by preventing mosquito bites. Destination List: Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, French Guiana (France), Guadeloupe, Guatemala, Haiti, Jamaica, Martinique (France), Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Saint Barthelemy, Saint Martin, Turks and Caicos Islands (U.K.)
• Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever in Mexico December 11, 2023 There have been reports of Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF) in people traveling to the United States from Tecate, in the state of Baja California, Mexico.
• Salmonella Newport in Mexico September 08, 2022 Some travelers who have spent time in Mexico have been infected with multidrug-resistant (MDR) Salmonella Newport.

⇧ Top

Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Mexico.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old traveling to Mexico. Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to Mexico.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

CDC recommends that travelers going to certain areas of Mexico take prescription medicine to prevent malaria. Depending on the medicine you take, you will need to start taking this medicine multiple days before your trip, as well as during and after your trip. Talk to your doctor about which malaria medication you should take.

Find  country-specific information  about malaria.

Malaria - CDC Yellow Book

Considerations when choosing a drug for malaria prophylaxis (CDC Yellow Book)

Malaria information for Mexico.

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Rabid dogs are commonly found in Mexico. However, if you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other mammal while in Mexico, rabies treatment is often available. 

Consider rabies vaccination before your trip if your activities mean you will be around dogs or wildlife.

Travelers more likely to encounter rabid animals include

• Campers, adventure travelers, or cave explorers (spelunkers)
• Veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers handling animal specimens
• Visitors to rural areas

Since children are more likely to be bitten or scratched by a dog or other animals, consider rabies vaccination for children traveling to Mexico. 

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil

Clinical Guidance

Avoid bug bites, chagas disease (american trypanosomiasis).

• Accidentally rub feces (poop) of the triatomine bug into the bug bite, other breaks in the skin, your eyes, or mouth
• From pregnant woman to her baby, contaminated blood products (transfusions), or contaminated food or drink.
• Avoid Bug Bites

Chagas disease

• Mosquito bite

Leishmaniasis

• Sand fly bite
• An infected pregnant woman can spread it to her unborn baby

Airborne & droplet

Avian/bird flu.

• Being around, touching, or working with infected poultry, such as visiting poultry farms or live-animal markets
• Avoid domestic and wild poultry
• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Mexico, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Mexico. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Some diseases in Mexico—such as dengue, Zika, leishmaniasis, and Chagas disease—are spread by bugs and cannot be prevented with a vaccine. Follow the insect avoidance measures described above to prevent these and other illnesses.

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Mexico include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Leptospirosis, a bacterial infection that can be spread in fresh water, is found in Mexico. Avoid swimming in fresh, unchlorinated water, such as lakes, ponds, or rivers.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Mexico’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Malaria is a risk in some parts of Mexico. If you are going to a risk area, fill your malaria prescription before you leave, and take enough with you for the entire length of your trip. Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking the pills; some need to be started before you leave.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Mexico may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in Mexico, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

For information traffic safety and road conditions in Mexico, see Travel and Transportation on US Department of State's country-specific information for Mexico .

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

To call for emergency services while in Mexico, dial 066, 060, or 080. Write these numbers down to carry with you during your trip.

Learn as much as you can about Mexico before you travel there. A good place to start is the country-specific information on Mexico from the US Department of State.

Americans in Mexico have been arrested for purchasing souvenirs that were, or looked like, antiques and that local customs authorities believed were national treasures. Familiarize yourself with any local regulations for antiques and follow these tips:

• When you are considering purchasing an authentic antique or a reproduction, ask if you are allowed to export these items before you purchase them.
• If you buy a reproduction, document on the customs form that it is a reproduction.
• If you buy an authentic antique, obtain the necessary export permit (often from the national museum).

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Mexico for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

If your doctor prescribed antimalarial medicine for your trip, keep taking the rest of your pills after you return home. If you stop taking your medicine too soon, you could still get sick.

Malaria is always a serious disease and may be a deadly illness. If you become ill with a fever either while traveling in a malaria-risk area or after you return home (for up to 1 year), you should seek immediate medical attention and should tell the doctor about your travel history.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

Map Disclaimer - The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on maps do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement are generally marked.

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Mexico travel advice

Latest updates: Risk levels - updated information on Guerrero State risk level and regional advisory

Last updated: March 28, 2024 15:58 ET

On this page

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.

Guerrero - Avoid all travel

This advisory excludes the cities of Ixtapa/Zihuatanejo, where you should exercise a high degree of caution.

Regional Advisory - Avoid non-essential travel

• all Chihuahua
• all Colima, except the city of Manzanillo
• all Coahuila, except the southern part of the state at and below the Saltillo-Torreón highway corridor
• all Durango, except Durango City
• Highway 45 between León and Irapuato
• the area south of and including Highway 45D between Irapuato and Celaya
• all Michoacán, except the cities of Morelia and Patzcuaro
• the Lagunas de Zempoala National Park
• the municipality of Xoxocotla
• the area within 20 km of the border with Sinaloa and Durango
• the city of Tepic
• all Nuevo León, except the city of Monterrey
• all Sinaloa, except the cities of Los Mochis and Mazatlán
• all Sonora, except the cities of Hermosillo and Guaymas/San Carlos and Puerto Peñasco
• all Tamaulipas
• all Zacatecas

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Deteriorating security situation in Guerrero State

Hurricane Otis struck Guerrero State on October 25, 2023. The security situation remains volatile and unpredictable after the storm. Damage to transportation and communications networks have left many towns and cities isolated, increasing the risk of criminal and gang activity.

Certain areas are particularly affected by banditry and violence, including:

• the highway between Acapulco and Zihuantanejo
• the highway between Acapulco to Chilpancingo

You should avoid all travel to Guerrero State. If you are in Guerrero despite the advisory, you should take necessary precautions to ensure your safety, including:

• avoid travelling alone or after dark
• exercise extreme vigilance
• monitor local media for the latest updates on the situation
• follow the instructions of local authorities

Levels of crime, particularly violent crime, are high throughout Mexico. Arrest and detention rates are low and don’t deter criminal activity.

Criminal groups, including drug cartels, are very active. ‎Clashes between cartels or gangs over territory, drugs and smuggling routes are common.

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

• patrolling the streets
• setting up roadblocks
• conducting random vehicle checks  

If you plan on travelling to Mexico:

• remain vigilant at all times
• stay in tourist areas
• be very cautious on major highways
• avoid travelling at night
• monitor local media closely

If you’re the victim of a crime, you must report it immediately to local authorities. No criminal investigation is possible without a formal complaint. Complaints must be made in person before leaving Mexico. You should hire a local lawyer to represent your interests and follow up on your case after you return to Canada. Failure to do may result in incomplete investigations or long delays in bringing cases to trial.

Violent crime

There are high rates of violent crime, such as homicides, kidnappings, carjacking and assaults, including in popular tourist destinations such as the Mayan Riviera (Cancún, Playa del Carmen, Puerto Morelos and Tulum), and Acapulco.

Criminal groups and drug cartels are present in tourist areas. Inter-gang and cartel fighting has taken place in restaurants, hotels and nightclubs frequented by tourists.

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 often see higher criminal activity and violence, including in rural areas. Confrontations between organized criminal groups and Mexican authorities continue to pose a risk. Shootouts, attacks and illegal roadblocks may occur without warning.

You should travel to Mexico by air to avoid international land border crossings, particularly along the border with the United States, in the following cities:

• Ciudad Juárez
• Nuevo Laredo

If crossing an international land border:

• remain extremely vigilant
• use only official border crossings

Armed robbery

Armed robbery occurs. Foreigners have been targets of robberies that sometimes involve assault.

Robbers will follow a victim after they exchange or withdraw money at airports, currency exchange bureaus ( casas de cambio ) or ATMs.

• Stay in hotels and resorts with good security
• If you are threatened by robbers, stay calm and don’t resist
• Avoid withdrawing or exchanging money in public areas of the airport

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

• Avoid walking after dark, especially alone
• Avoid isolated or deserted areas
• Avoid excessive alcohol consumption

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

Credit card and ATM fraud

Credit card and ATM fraud occurs in Mexico. When using debit or credit cards:

• pay careful attention when others are handling your cards
• use ATMs located in public areas or inside a bank or business
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Overcharging

Some bars and nightclubs may try to charge exorbitant prices. Discussions about overcharging may lead to threats of violence and security guards may force you to pay. Avoid running a tab or leaving your credit card with bar or restaurant staff.

Overseas fraud

Police officers

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

• drinking alcohol on the street
• urinating on public roads
• traffic violations

They have requested immediate cash payment in exchange for their release. Travellers driving rental cars have been targeted.

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

Virtual kidnappings

Extortion, including virtual kidnappings, is the third most common crime in Mexico. Criminals use a variety of tactics to gather information about potential victims for extortion purposes, including using social media sites or eavesdropping on conversations

In a virtual kidnapping, criminals contact the victim’s hotel room landline and threaten the victim to stay in their room. The criminals then instruct the victim to provide information needed for the caller to use to contact family and friends, to demand the immediate payment of ransom for their release.

• Don't discuss travel plans, your room number or any other personal information around strangers
• Never leave your cellphone unattended
• Ensure your cellphone is password protected
• Don't divulge personal business details to strangers in person or over the phone or on social media, especially when using hotel phones
• If you're threatened on the phone or hear screams, hang up immediately
• When you answer the phone, wait for the caller to speak. If the caller asks who is speaking, hang up immediately.
• Don’t answer unrecognized or blocked phone numbers
• Don’t answer hotel landlines

Kidnappings

Mexico has one of the highest kidnapping rates in the world. Kidnapping, including virtual and express kidnapping, is a serious security risk throughout Mexico.

Kidnappers target all classes. Canadian citizens and contractors working for Canadian businesses have been kidnapped, mostly in areas that are not under the control of police and security forces.

If you're kidnapped:

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

Express kidnappings

Express kidnappings occur in large urban areas. This is a method of kidnapping where criminals ask for a small and immediate ransom.

Thieves most commonly work in cooperation with, or pose as, taxi drivers. They force victims to use their debit or credit card to withdraw money from ATMs in exchange for their release.

• Use only a reputable taxi company or a trusted ride-sharing app
• Book taxis through your hotel or an authorized taxi stand ( sitio )

Petty theft

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, is common in Mexico.

• Be aware of your surroundings at all times, even in areas normally considered safe
• Ensure that your belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
• Avoid showing signs of affluence, such as flashy jewellery, cell phones, headphones and designer bags
• Carry only small amounts of money
• Be cautious when withdrawing cash from ATMs

Home break-ins

Tourists staying in rental homes have been the victims of break-ins and burglaries. Whether you're staying in private or commercial accommodations, make sure you lock windows and doors securely.

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. 

• Exercise caution when dealing with strangers or recent acquaintances
• Be wary of rides or other invitations

Advice for women travellers

Spiked food and drinks

Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances. These items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

Unregulated alcohol

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

• Be cautious if you choose to drink alcohol
• Seek medical assistance if you begin to feel sick

Alcohol, drugs and travel

Height standards for balcony railings in Mexico can be considerably lower than those in Canada. Falls have resulted in deaths and injuries.

• Exercise caution when standing close to balcony railings

Demonstrations

Demonstrations take place regularly throughout the country. Protests and roadblocks are common in:

• Mexico City, including to and from the airport
• the states of Chiapas, Guerrero, Michoacán and Oaxaca

Such incidents may last a long time, leading to shortages of fresh food, medicine and gasoline.

Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• 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. Several drownings occur each year.

Many beaches don’t offer warnings of dangerous conditions and they don’t always have lifeguards on duty.

Rescue services may not be consistent with international standards.

• Consult local residents and tour operators for information on possible hazards and safe swimming areas
• Always obey warning flags at beaches
• Follow the instructions and warnings of local authorities

Water sports

Tour operators may not adhere to international standards. Many operators don’t conduct regular safety checks on their sporting and aquatic equipment.

Also, Canadians have been involved in accidents where operators of recreational vehicles, such as watercraft, have demanded compensation exceeding the value of the damage caused to the vehicle or equipment.

If you undertake water sports, such as diving:

• choose a well-established and reputable company that has insurance
• ensure that your travel insurance covers the recreational activities you choose
• wear the appropriate safety equipment, such as helmets and life jackets
• ensure that equipment is available and in good condition
• don’t consume alcohol before the activity

If in doubt concerning the safety of the facilities or equipment, don’t use them.

Water safety abroad

Adventure tourism  

Outdoor activities, such as white water rafting, kayaking, scuba diving, snorkelling, bungee, zip lining, paragliding, hiking, mountain biking, etc and other adventure activities can be dangerous if unprepared. Trails are not always marked, and weather conditions can change rapidly, even during summer.  

Tour operators may not always adhere to international safety standards. 

If you intend to practice adventure tourism: 

• consider hiring an experienced guide from a reputable company 
• obtain detailed information on your activity and on the environment in which you will be setting out  
• buy travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation   
• know the symptoms of acute altitude sickness, which can be fatal  
• pay attention to the symptoms of dehydration and heatstroke, both of which can be fatal  
• avoid venturing off marked trails  
• ensure that you’re adequately equipped and bring sufficient water   
• stay informed about weather and other conditions that may pose a hazard  
• refrain from using facilities or equipment if you have doubts on their safety  
• inform a family member or friend of your itinerary  

Road travel

Road conditions and road safety.

Road conditions and road safety can vary greatly throughout the country.

Road conditions can be dangerous due to:

• sharp curves
• poorly marked or hidden road signs
• construction sites
• roaming livestock
• slow-moving or abandoned vehicles

Toll highways are typically safer and better maintained than secondary highways.

Mexican driving styles are very different from those in Canada. Many drivers don’t respect traffic laws, and police don’t strictly enforce these laws. Drivers often drive at excessive speeds and may be aggressive or reckless. Drinking and driving laws are not strictly enforced. Accidents causing fatalities are common. Police don’t regularly patrol the highways.

Roadblocks and checkpoints

Illegal roadblocks and demonstrations are common. Heavily armed gangs have attacked travellers on intercity highways. Criminals especially target sport utility vehicles and full-size pickup trucks for theft and carjacking.

The military searches for drugs and firearms at military checkpoints throughout the country.

• Avoid road travel at night between cities throughout the country
• Ensure that you only stop in major centres, at reputable hotels or at secure campsites
• Keep your car doors locked and the windows closed, especially at traffic lights
• Avoid hitchhiking which is not a common practice in Mexico
• Don’t leave valuables in the vehicle
• Rent cars that don’t have stickers or other advertisements for the rental company on them, as rental cars have been targets for robbery, sometimes using force
• Ensure operators provide insurance and helmets if renting scooters
• Travel on toll roads to lower the risk of targeted roadblocks and robberies
• Never attempt to cross roadblocks, even if they appear unattended

Public transportation

Remain vigilant in airports, at bus stations, on buses and on the metro.

The Mexico City metro is often very crowded and a popular place for pickpocketing. There are metro cars dedicated to women and children during rush hours. They are located at the front of the trains.

The Metrobus in Mexico City, which has dedicated lanes and stops, is relatively safe. There are sections dedicated to women and children at the front of the buses.

The “colectivos” and “pesero” mini-buses that stop when hailed are frequently targeted for robbery.

When travelling to other cities, use bus companies that offer VIP or executive class transportation. These buses only travel on toll roads, which lower the risks of targeted roadblocks and robberies, and follow a speed limit.

Taxis and ridesharing services

Disputes between taxi and ridesharing application drivers may occur, especially in Quintana Roo. They may result in:

• altercations

Although tourists have not been targeted, you may be caught up in these incidents and harassed or injured. 

In Mexico City, all government-authorized taxis have licence plates starting with “A” or “B.” Taxis from designated stands have both the logo of their company and the plate number stamped on the side of the car. Official taxis in Mexico City are pink and white. Users can validate the pink and white taxis on the CDMX app.

• Avoid hailing taxis on the street
• Don't share taxis 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. You can also use a ridesharing app to arrange for a pickup at certain airports. Not all airports in Mexico allow ridesharing service pickups.

If you use a trusted ridesharing app, confirm the driver’s identity and the licence plate before getting in the car.

Mi Taxi  – CDMX app (in Spanish)

Cruise ship travel

Plan carefully if you plan to take a cruise departing from or stopping in Mexico.

Advice for cruise travellers

Pirate attacks and armed robbery against ships occur in coastal waters of the Bay of Campeche. Mariners 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.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

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

Required documents

To enter Mexico, you must present a valid passport and a duly completed tourist card (Multiple Immigration Form). Carry documents to prove the purpose of trip, such as hotel or tour booking confirmations, as immigration officers may request them.

Tourist card

You must obtain a tourist card to enter the country unless you stay in Mexico for less than 72 hours within the northern border zone. 

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

It is highly recommended to keep your digital tourist card, or tourist card if entered by land, 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 on an immigration check point.

If you are stopped at an immigration check point and you are unable to prove your legal stay, you may be fined, detained or expelled from the country.

Entering by land

If entering Mexico by land, you must stop at the immigration office located at the border to obtain a tourist card, even if not explicitly directed by Mexican officials. Immigration officials will write down on your tourist card the number of days you are allowed to stay in Mexico.  

You may 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.

Multiple Immigration Form  - Government of Mexico

Entering by air

If entering Mexico by air, you are advised to download your tourist card issued by Mexican officials upon entry.

Depending on your airport of entry:

• the immigration official will stamp your passport and note the number of days you are allowed to spend in Mexico or
• you will go through an E-gate kiosk where you will scan your passport and self-register your entry in the country. Only use this option if you are entering Mexico as a tourist.

Once in the country, whether you entered via a E-gate or not, you will be able to access the digital tourist card online. You have 60 days to download it.

If you are unable to show your tourist card or digital tourist card upon departure, you will have to pay for a replacement at the immigration office of any international airport before boarding.

Make sure to plan sufficient time at the airport to obtain a new card in time for your flight.

Portal access for digital tourist card  - 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. The maximum length granted for a tourism-related trip is 180 days; the maximum number of days is not granted by default.

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.)

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

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

If you require a business or work visa, you should take care of the process yourself. If a prospective employer is processing your visa for you:

• obtain copies of all correspondence between the employer and Mexican immigration authorities
• verify that these copies are stamped by the immigration authorities as proof that your papers are being processed
• request a receipt from your employer for any document that you provide for purposes of obtaining the visa
• avoid surrendering your passport to your employer

Volunteer, religious, research and eco-tourism activities

You may not be able to undertake volunteer, religious/missionary, research or certain forms of eco-tourism activities while visiting as a tourist. Contact the Mexican Embassy or closest Mexican consulate for information the type of visa required for these activities.

Tourism tax

Most visitors to Mexico must pay a tourism tax.

This fee is normally included in airline ticket prices. Visitors arriving by road or sea will have to pay this fee at any bank in Mexico. There is a bank representative at every port of 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

Dual citizenship

If entering and leaving Mexico as a dual citizen, you must identify yourself as a Mexican citizen. You must 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

Learn more about travelling with children .

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 - 25 March, 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 risk may vary between regions of a country.  Chikungunya is a virus spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Chikungunya can cause a viral disease that typically causes 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. There is no vaccine available for 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 that protects against dengue.

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.

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, but it’s generally expensive. Most private facilities won’t agree to 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.

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.

Travel health and safety

Medical tourism

Medical tourism is common in Mexico. Canadian travellers have had serious health complications following cosmetic or other elective surgeries abroad.

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

• the health and financial risks
• the medical facility where the procedure will be performed
• language barriers, which can lead to misunderstandings about your medical care and conditions
• travel insurance that includes coverage for the type of medical procedure you will be undergoing

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.

• Make sure 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
• Receiving medical care outside Canada
• If you become sick or injured while travelling outside Canada or after your return
• Medical tourism – Government of Mexico (in Spanish)

If you take prescription medication, you’re responsible for determining their 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 need to purchase medication while in Mexico, make sure to get it from a reputable location.

Federal Commission for protection against sanitary risk  (in Spanish)

Air quality in Mexico City

In Mexico City, you may experience health problems caused by high altitude or by air pollution, which is at its peak during the winter months.

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

Death in Mexico

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? – Fact sheet
• Death Abroad Factsheet

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.

Many petty crimes (such as public urination, failure to pay a bill or disorderly behaviour) can result in a 72-hour detention by police. Paying a fine can secure an early release from detention.

Detention conditions are below the standards of Canadian prisons.

• Overview of the criminal law system in Mexico
• Arrest and detention

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

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Smoking is prohibited in all public places except for clearly marked designated smoking areas. This includes but is not limited to:

• restaurants

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

Electronic cigarettes

It’s illegal to bring electronic cigarettes/vaping devices and solutions into Mexico.

You could have these items confiscated by customs officials if you have them in your possession. You could also be fined or detained.

It is strictly prohibited to sell or distribute these devices and solutions in Mexico.

Imports and exports

The Mexican government strictly enforces its laws concerning possession, importation and trafficking of firearms.

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

It is also illegal to enter the country with certain types of knives.

Importing vehicles and boats

Mexico has very strict rules regarding the importation of 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. You may face a fine and have your vehicle seized if you enter Mexico without the proper permit.

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

• Vehicle importation  – Government of Mexico (in Spanish)
• Temporary vehicle import application system  – Banjército
• Travelling to Mexico by land  – Mexican Embassy in Canada

Cigarettes and alcohol

If you are older than 18, you are allowed to bring into Mexico up to:

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

If you bring more alcohol and cigarettes into Mexico than allowed, even if you declare your imported items, you will be subject to a high import fee. You will still be subject to a significant fee if you decide to relinquish your imported items

It’s illegal to possess archaeological artefacts or to export such items from Mexico.

• Goods you can bring to Mexico as part of your personal luggage  – Government of Mexico
• Goods you cannot bring into Mexico  – Government of Mexico
• Agricultural product restrictions  – Government of Mexico (in Spanish)

Political activity

It’s illegal for foreigners to conduct political activity in Mexico, including participating in demonstrations.

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+ travellers 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

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 .

Travellers with dual citizenship

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 Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
• Travelling with children
• The Hague Convention - Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Emergency Watch and Response Centre

There are no clear procedures or regulations about surrogacy in Mexico.

If you're considering surrogacy, seek advice from legal professionals knowledgeable in Canadian and Mexican laws and citizenship procedures.

Identity documents

The names on your identity documents must be identical to those on your birth certificate to obtain official Mexican documents, such as marriage certificates, immigration documents or passports.

Middle names are often left off Canadian identity documents. This has caused significant difficulties for many Canadians. If you plan on residing in Mexico or dealing with the Mexican Civil Registry, obtain a Canadian passport that will meet Mexican requirements.

Identification

You should carry photo identification.

Authorities can ask you to show identification and a proof of your legal status in Mexico. They can demand to see your tourist card at any time. You must carry the original at all times. You must carry the original at all times, and should also carry a photocopy of the identification page of your passport.

Investments

If you plan on buying property, or making other investments in Mexico, seek legal advice in Canada and in Mexico. Do so before making commitments. Related disputes could take time and be costly to resolve.

Mexican real estate agents are not licensed or regulated.

• Choose your own lawyer
• Avoid hiring a lawyer recommended by a seller

Problems with timeshare arrangements occur.

Timeshare representatives may be very persistent. They use pressure tactics and offer free tours, meals, gifts or alcoholic beverages.

It's illegal for timeshare companies to ask you to sign a waiver that prevents you from cancelling a contract. You're legally entitled to cancel a timeshare contract without penalty within 5 working days. Contracts must be cancelled in writing directly with the timeshare company.

Before purchasing a timeshare:

• gather as much information as possible
• review carefully the contract; anything not included in the contract will not be honoured
• provide your credit card only if you are sure you want to make the purchase
• keep copies of all correspondence

If you suspect a 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

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 Mexican 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.

Automobile insurance is much more expensive in Mexico than in Canada. Many local drivers don’t have any form of car insurance.

If you’re involved in an accident, and 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.

If you’re involved in a traffic accident, you may face serious legal problems, including imprisonment. You could be taken into custody until responsibility for the accident is determined and all fines are paid. You must report any accident you’re involved in to the police.

Driving restrictions in Mexico City

The Hoy No Circula (No Driving Today) program restricts some cars from driving in Mexico City and in some municipalities of the State of Mexico, from Monday to Saturday, from 5 am to 10 pm.

You will face driving restrictions depending on:

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

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.

• Hoy no circula – Government of Mexico (in Spanish)
• Tourist pass  – Government of Mexico (in Spanish)
• Ministry of Environment  – Government of (in Spanish)

Buying/selling a vehicle

You must be either a temporary or a permanent resident if you wish to buy a car in Mexico.

It’s illegal to sell your imported vehicle in Mexico. If you do, your vehicle may be seized and you may be subject to a fine and deportation.

The currency of Mexico is the Mexican peso.

In some parts of Mexico, particularly tourist destinations, hotels and other service providers may advertise prices in USD.

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.

When carrying more than US$10,000 or the equivalent in other currencies, cash, cheques, money orders or any other monetary instrument, you must declare the amount exceeding US$10,000. Failure to make this declaration is against Mexican law and often results in detention.

Hurricane Otis

Hurricane Otis made landfall in Acapulco on October 25, 2023, causing significant damage to infrastructure. Avoid all travel to Guerrero state.

There are significant disruptions to the following essential services in Acapulco:

• transportation, including flights
• power distribution
• water and food supply
• telecommunications networks
• emergency services
• medical care, including hospitals.

Latest advisories  – U.S. National Hurricane centre

Mexico is subject to various natural disasters, such as:

• earthquakes
• volcanic eruptions
• torrential rains, floods and mudslides
• forest fires

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)
• National Center for Disaster Prevention  (CENAPRED) – Government of Mexico (in Spanish)
• Get prepared

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.

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

• know that you expose yourself to serious safety risks
• 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
• Tornadoes, cyclones, hurricanes, typhoons and monsoons
• Large-scale emergencies abroad
• Active storm tracking and hurricane watches and warnings  - United States’ National Hurricane Center

Flooding and landslides

Heavy rains can cause flooding and landslides. Roads may become impassable and infrastructure damaged.

Earthquakes and tsunamis

Mexico is located in an active seismic zone. Earthquakes, tsunamis and volcanic eruptions can occur.

A tsunami can occur within minutes of a nearby earthquake. However, the risk of 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.

Useful links:

• National Seismological Institute  – Government of Mexico (in Spanish)
• Latest earthquakes  - U.S. Geological Survey
• Tsunami alerts  - U.S. Tsunami Warning System
• Centre for Studies and Research of Volcanology  - University of Colima (in Spanish)

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
• always follow the instructions of local emergency services personnel, including any evacuation order
• monitor local media for up-to-date information on the situation

Daily report on wildfires – Government of Mexico (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.

Should travelers worry about being kidnapped in Mexico? Travel experts discuss safety in Mexico.

The high-profile case of four U.S. citizens being kidnapped in Mexico sent shock waves through the nation. Two were killed last week after getting caught in the crossfire of cartel violence in the border city of Matamoros. 

Many are wondering what's next for the popular tourist destination, and whether Mexico is safe for travel. 

The four Americans – one woman and two men from South Carolina – crossed the southern border for cosmetic surgery last Friday when a cartel shootout erupted.

Social media videos show the gunmen pulling the Americans from their car and driving away, all during daylight. Mexican officials announced Tuesday that they had found two dead. the other The two survivors were escorted back to the U.S.

Is it safe to take a taxi in Cancun?: Here are the safest ways to get around, per travel agents.

Learn more: Best travel insurance

With 2 Americans dead in Matamoros: A cartel-scarred Mexican border town wonders what's next

Violence around border cities is not unusual and can involve Mexicans or migrants with little public attention, but it typically doesn't involve Americans. Officials said the abduction was probably a case of mistaken identity , but the FBI is investigating further.

Meanwhile, questions arose on how the Mexican and U.S. governments will respond, which could affect regular travel to Mexico. A heavy-handed response could likely mean "a wave of violence where it gets worse before it gets better," said Michael Ballard, director of intelligence at Global Guardian , a firm that specializes in travel security. 

Currently, the travel advisory for Mexico warns Americans of crime and kidnapping. On Tuesday, White House press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said the State Department takes it "seriously" when it comes to providing "clear, timely, and reliable information about every country in the world ... so they can make informed travel decisions." 

Is Mexico safe to travel to?

In 2021, nearly 29 million American travelers  headed down to Mexico. That same year, about 75 American citizens died by homicide in Mexico, according to the most recent U.S. State Department statistics. 

Mexico is "a tricky place" when it comes to travel and safety because "the security landscape and the security dynamic is so different state to state and city to city," according to Ballard. 

Unlike some other countries, Mexico's travel advisory assesses each state individually. 

The agency issued a "do not travel to" warning for the Colima, Guerrero, Michoacan, Sinaloa, Tamaulipas and Zacatecas state because of violent crime.

"You probably don't want to go to one of these border cities" because cartels "contest these ports of entry pretty heavily and fight for their economic control," Ballard said.

When it comes to the "do not travel to warning," Jean-Pierre said, "We've been very clear about that. The State Department, again, has put that out. We urge Americans to read these alerts before traveling."

Popular tourist spots like Quintana Roo, Nayarit and Mexico City have warnings of "exercised increased caution when traveling to" and Jalisco, where Puerto Vallarta is, has a "reconsider travel to." Travelers can "exercise normal precautions" when traveling to Yucatan, which includes the popular attraction Chichén Itzá.

How likely is it to encounter cartel violence? 

"I don’t think anyone can ensure 100% clearance on (avoiding cartel violence), unfortunately. We know that Mexico has been plagued by drug violence, and cartels are in many parts of the country, just as in other nations," said Vanessa Karel, a Latinx entrepreneur who founded Greether , a travel startup that helps women travel with fewer risks. 

"However, it is well documented that some areas have a higher presence of violence. Please do your due diligence on which areas these are," she said. Steer clear of these areas and avoid taking part in anything drug-related, Karel advised. 

Ballard agreed and offered this analogy: "Getting struck by lightning is a really rare occurrence, but if you are standing on top of a tree in a thunderstorm, those odds go up. That's how I view being in and around some of these higher-risk cities in Mexico, the border cities."

Getting caught in cartel activity is less common somewhere like Cancun than it is in Colima.

Because Mexico's economy heavily depends on tourism dollars, cartels "tend to stay away from harming or hurting Americans because they know the response would be pretty severe," Ballard said.

The Mexican government has also implemented several initiatives to maintain safety in high-tourist areas, like deploying tourist police forces to high-traffic visitor areas. These officers are easy to spot and usually speak English.

"Travelers will have fewer risks by staying at highly rated hotels, areas and booking tour guides to show them around," Karel said. 

Should people be worried about being kidnapped in Mexico?

Being "in the wrong place at the wrong time" is the main risk for Americans and cartel activity, Ballard said. It's rare for Americans to be kidnapped by cartels for ransom.

He does warn of occasional "express kidnappings," which happen not just in Mexico but in other countries too. In this situation, a tourist who is likely drunk and wandering around downtown gets kidnapped, driven around to ATMs and forced to withdraw money. Usually, they end up being let go. 

As long as you stay in resort areas and use common sense, it should be relatively easy to keep safe. 

Check out USA TODAY's 17 travel safety tips from the CIA .

What should you do if you witness or encounter cartel crime? 

If you do witness or encounter cartel crime such as an express kidnapping or carjacking, Ballard said, you should report the case to the U.S. Embassy or to the local equivalent of 911. "You definitely want to have a record of something like that out there." Unfortunately, response times can be slow depending on where you are, he said. 

According to the State Department , if something happens, you'll probably be relying on local resources. 

Global Guardian clients, he pointed out, have a 24/7 panic button on the Global Guardian app, which will connect users to a safe haven, like a hospital. 

In some cases, he said, your response depends on the situation, and it may be best to cooperate. 

Top safety tips

Karel's top rule for traveling to Mexico is "to plan on going to places that are designed for you to go. If you are trying to visit an area that not even locals feel comfortable going to, don't attempt it, and please, simply avoid it," she said. 

She also advised people to have situational awareness. "We are concerned that travelers going to Mexico think they can go just about anywhere, especially when they don’t blend as a local," she said. Visitors "should be aware of how much they stand out and how little or how much they know about the area they are going to."

Here are some other safety tips when traveling in Mexico:

• Travel during daylight hours and avoid walking around unknown areas, especially at night.
• Don't walk around with jewelry or your head down looking at your phone because that makes you an easy target to get robbed, Ballard said. 
• "Please ask trustworthy travel businesses and, most importantly, check travel advisories and what the tourism boards say. T they are there for a reason, and a lot of us are fighting to make cities safer and more sustainable," Karel said.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program , a free service for U.S. travelers to receive safety alerts about their destination from the U.S. Embassy in real time.
• Before departing on your trip to a high-risk area, the State Department recommended you share important documents and points of contact with someone at home, and create a communication plan if something were to happen. 
• Share your location via your smartphone with someone at home while you are abroad. 
• Consider purchasing travel insurance for kidnapping or ransom. Depending on the plan, it can cover ransom payments, emergency evacuation costs, and payment for any negotiations needed. 

Contributing: Michael Collins, USA TODAY

Kathleen Wong is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Hawaii. You can reach her at [email protected]. 

Puerto Vallarta   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Elenathewise | Getty Images

Why Go To Puerto Vallarta

This is more than just a coastal resort getaway. Somehow Puerto Vallarta – also known as "Vallarta" or just "PV" – maintains a small-town atmosphere, while still boasting one of the most unique and sophisticated oceanfronts in Mexico. The dining options and the hotel choices reflect more of the same – you'll find both elegance and efficiency mingled together within the hotel and restaurant areas. 

Most people associate this west coast town with its boundaries – the Banderas Bay that snakes along the coast or the palm tree-lined Sierra Madre mountains that stand tall in the east – but Puerto Vallarta is more than its scenery. Take some time to discover its other perks for yourself by sampling the delicious food, discovering a hidden boutique in the Zona Romantica , sipping a signature cocktail at a bar along the Malecón  or dancing to a salsa beat in a Havana -style nightclub. When you want a little guidance exploring beyond your resort, sign up for one of the best Puerto Vallarta tours . And if you like to cruise, you'll be delighted to know that deals can be found year-round to this destination. 

Find Flight and Hotel Deals

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Best of Puerto Vallarta

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• # 1 in El Malecón
• # 2 in Zona Romantica (Romantic Zone)
• # 3 in Bucerías

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Puerto Vallarta Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best time to visit Puerto Vallarta is between April and June when the weather is pleasant and the room rates are affordable. During these months, rain is scarce and there are fewer tourists compared to the winter high season. If you're interested in whale watching, however, visit from December to March. Just prepare yourself for the area's most astronomical travel fares.

Weather in Puerto Vallarta

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

PV's a haven for timeshares You'll want to avoid the timeshare reps that circle the airport, the beach and even the restaurants. That is, unless you're willing to give up several hours of your vacation listening to a sales pitch.

PV's a haven for LGBTQ travelers This town is recognized as the gay beach capital of Mexico. Zona Romantica is the best neighborhood for gay nightlife and many of that area's condos, hotels and bed-and-breakfast accommodations are LGBTQ friendly.

PV's a haven for artists As evidenced by the elaborate sand sculptures lining the Malecón or the beautiful ceramics and paintings in the art galleries. There are clusters of galleries and art walks in El Centro, Zona Romantica and Bucerias .

How to Save Money in Puerto Vallarta

Buy a map  Taking the bus or a taxi around town is cheap in theory, but in practice, you could end up covering extra ground and paying unnecessary fares if you don't know where you're going.

Pack an umbrella  If you don't mind the frequent (but short) rain showers, then plan your visit for late summer. Just don't forget to bring your umbrella or a light rain jacket.

Just say no  From the beach vendors that stroll along Banderas Bay to the timeshare representatives that stroll along just about everywhere, there are plenty of ways to let go of more money than you intended. Learn to say a firm but courteous, " No, gracias ," if you're not interested in what they're selling.

Culture & Customs

Spanish is the primary language spoken, but many people – especially those who work in the tourist zone – speak English. It may be both helpful and respectful to know some basic Spanish vocabulary, such as "hello" ( hola ), "goodbye" ( adíos ), "please" ( por favor ) and "thank you" ( gracias ).

Puerto Vallarta's official currency is the Mexican peso. Since the Mexican peso to U.S. dollar exchange rate fluctuates, be sure to check what the current exchange rate is before you go. American dollars are, however, widely accepted in Puerto Vallarta.

What to Eat

As is the case with neighboring Mexican and Caribbean vacation destinations, Puerto Vallarta's dining scene can be as narrow or expansive as you like, depending on how willing you are to venture off the grounds of your all-inclusive resort . From food carts to European fine dining establishments, PV's cuisine runs the gamut. For a crash course in the bold regional flavors that define the city, consider signing up for a food tour – Vallarta Food Tours comes highly recommended for its variety of experiences and knowledgeable and engaging guides. One of its most popular is An Evening Taco Adventure, which explores the night street foods of Vallarta. If you'd rather take your own self-guided tour, you may want to head over to Food Park, where you'll find a collection of food trucks, along with live music and a DJ on the weekends. 

Of course, no visit to Mexico would be complete without a sunset dinner on the beach. For that, travelers and experts recommend La Palapa Restaurant . Sitting pretty on Playa Los Muertos , this family-run eatery serves what it calls "tropical Mexican cuisine" that combines combines Mexican, Asian and French flavors. If you're on the hunt for an upscale setting with a sophisticated menu to match, Barcelona Tapas , La Leche and the award-winning Café Des Artistes both come highly recommended.

The drug and gang violence that has afflicted much of Mexico in the past several years has not greatly affected Puerto Vallarta. That said, be sure to check U.S. State Department travel advisories before heading to Puerto Vallarta or anywhere in Mexico. Most of the dangers in Puerto Vallarta involve swimming and food safety. Never swim by yourself or without the supervision of a lifeguard. Travelers should also note that the surf is rougher in the days following rain or a thunderstorm, so proceed with caution after bad weather. If you're going hiking or walking in the wilderness, wear long pants and shoes to prevent serious injury from snake bites.

Getting Around Puerto Vallarta

The best way to get around Puerto Vallarta is by bus – there are plenty of stops and the fares are cheap. If you're looking for a less bumpy ride (though not by much) you can also take a taxi or an Uber. The bus is also the best means of getting from PV's Licenciado Gustavo Diaz Ordaz International Airport (PVR) to the hotel zones. Renting a car is also an option, but you'll pay hefty fees for the privilege. To really get a feel for Puerto Vallarta's neighborhoods , you'll want to rely on your own two feet, especially in areas like the Zona Romantica .

Most travelers arrive via airplane or cruise ship. The cruise ship terminal sits about 3 miles north of downtown Puerto Vallarta. Meanwhile, the Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport (PVR) is located about 3 miles south of downtown. Expect a taxi ride from the airport to the Hotel Zone to start at around $26. 

Entry & Exit Requirements

Citizens of the United States need a passport to visit Mexico. Travelers must also carry a Mexican Tourist Permit, which is usually issued free of charge upon arrival. Any additional fees for the tourist permit are usually absorbed in the cost of your plane ticket. Be sure to hold onto this card throughout your trip, as you will need to present it upon departure. For more information on entry and exit requirements, visit the U.S. State Department's website .

Puerto Vallarta has incredible beaches, restaurants, shopping and nightlife – it's the ultimate Mexican vacation . 

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Another new warning on travel to Mexico just ahead of spring break

As tens of thousands of Americans prepare to spend spring break in Mexico, there is yet another new warning for tourists.

The U.S. Embassy and Consulates in Mexico issued a travel alert warning Americans about high levels of crime and the dangers of spiked alcohol, illicit drugs, fake prescription drugs and more.

The alert reads, in part:

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. ... 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.

Additionally, the bulletin cautions people to be aware that U.S. citizens have been the victims of rape and sexual assault: "Perpetrators may target inebriated or isolated individuals or may employ drugs that alter the victim's physical or mental state."

The new alert also warns tourists about the danger of illegal drug use in Mexico, "U.S. citizens have become seriously ill or died in Mexico after using synthetic drugs or adulterated prescription pills."

According to the embassy, counterfeit medication is common and could contain dangerous unregulated ingredients.

It comes just days after the state of Texas issued an unusual travel warning for Mexico , saying it's too dangerous to visit for spring break this year. That warning came on the heels of the U.S. Department of State reiterating its calls for caution on travel to Mexico.

The Texas Department of Public Safety urges residents to avoid the country because of drug cartel violence and other crime.

"Based on the volatile nature of cartel activity and the violence we are seeing there, we are urging individuals to avoid travel to Mexico at this time," DPS director Steven McCraw said in a statement.

The State Department also recently renewed its warning to Americans on travel to Mexico. The U.S. government advises Americans to either skip Mexico trips, reconsider travel or at least use extra caution when traveling to parts of the country because of the potential for violence.

"Violent crime — such as homicide, kidnapping, carjacking, and robbery — is widespread and common in Mexico," reads the advisory from the U.S. Department of State. Currently, a travel advisory is in place for 30 of Mexico's 32 states.

Related: Cancun travel advisory over taxis

The advisories come as we learn of violence that involved Americans in Matamoros, a town in Mexico near the Texas border.

Current US State Department advisories

The State Department breaks down its Mexican risk assessment on a detailed, state-by-state basis.

Six Mexican states have a "Do not travel" warning: Colima, Guerrero, Michoacan, Sinaloa, Tamaulipas and Zacatecas.

Related: The difference between CDC and State Department travel warnings

Seven states are under a "Reconsider travel" advisory, including Baja and Jalisco – home to the popular destination of Puerto Vallarta .

Another 17 states get an "Exercise increased caution" advisory, including Baja California Sur – home to the popular resorts of Cabo San Lucas — and Nayarit, where you'll find Riviera Nayarit. Mexico City is also included in that category.

The state of Quintana Roo on the Caribbean side of Mexico is also in the "Exercise increased caution" category due to crime and the potential for kidnapping. Quintana Roo includes Cancun , Playa del Carmen and Tulum . It's a region that's generally considered safe for foreigners and is certainly popular for leisure travel.

Campeche and Yucatan are the only states that aren't under any special advisory for U.S. travel.

Mexico travel safety tips

The State Department suggests visitors review personal security plans, be aware of their surroundings, pay attention to local media and immediately call Mexican 911 in case of any issues.

The government also suggests Americans should register with a local Mexican consulate or embassy before they travel to Mexico through the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program.

For its part, the Mexican government insists Mexico is safe for travelers.

"There is no problem in traveling safely in Mexico," President Andrés Manuel López Obrador said in a news conference this week .

Bottom line

While headlines like travel warnings can be scary, remember that millions of tourists visit Mexico every year without ever encountering problems.

In this environment, however, it is probably best to be prepared and use common sense. Of course, that remains true when traveling to any foreign destination.

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Is Puerto Vallarta Safe for Travel in 2024?

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Are you planning a trip to Mexico in 2024? As a popular tourist destination, many people may be concerned about this country’s safety.

However, with the correct information and precautions, Mexico can be a wonderful and safe place to visit. In particular, the coastal city of Puerto Vallarta is a top destination for tourists, but is Puerto Vallarta safe for travel in 2024?

We will discuss the latest Mexico travel advisory and provide tips on how to stay safe while enjoying all that this beautiful city has to offer.

So, let’s address the question on everyone’s mind: is Mexico safe, and specifically, is Puerto Vallarta safe for tourists? Keep reading to find out.

We’ll also cover how to stay safe in both places so you can enjoy your holiday or vacation with peace of mind.

Situated on Mexico’s Pacific coast in Jalisco state, Puerto Vallarta is surrounded by the clear waters of Bahía de Banderas (Banderas Bay), lush forests, and the ridges of the Sierra Madre.

Despite its scenic views, the city has maintained its authenticity and is one of the most popular beach destinations

Walk down the cobbled and narrow streets, and you’ll find yourself in some of Puerto Vallarta’s most traditional areas, including the Romantic Zone, known for its lively atmosphere and range of art galleries, traditional markets, and eateries.

This guide on Puerto Vallarta safety will provide you with the facts you need to decide is Puerto Vallarta safe.

The links in this post may be affiliate links.  That means that if you click them and make a purchase, this site makes a commission.  It will have no impact on the price you pay or the experience of your purchase.

I will point you in the right direction, and you can decide if Puerto Vallarta’s crime rate is high enough for you not to visit this beautiful resort town.

I will also discuss Puerto Vallarta safety & Puerto Vallarta Travel Advisory.

• Is Puerto Vallarta safer than Cancun?
• Is Puerto Vallarta safe at night?
• Is Puerto Vallarta Safe for Solo Female Travelers?
• Is Mexico safe overall?

Is Puerto Vallarta Safe for Tourists in 2024?

Puerto Vallarta is generally considered a safe destination for travelers. The city has implemented various security measures, and local authorities prioritize the safety of residents and visitors.

Violent crime, petty theft, and petty crime are soaring in certain areas because American tourists are buying drugs from Mexican drug dealers.

The city borders the state of Nayarit, which is home to sister destination Nuevo Vallarta on the Riviera Nayarit, sharing the same international airport on the edge of Puerto Vallarta.

Because Puerto Vallarta is part of Mexico, it has a negative connotation of being unsafe, which is further from the truth. As you will see below, there are other countries with the same travel warning as Mexico, and they are not perceived as dangerous.

Puerto Vallarta Travel Restrictions for 202 4

Updated security alert – quintana roo & puerto vallarta advisory (08/22/2024).

Make sure to check the   Mexico Travel Advisor y  page of the U.S. State Department to check for the latest news and travel safety information, as it changes frequently. According to their latest travel advisory, Mexico is considered:

Level 3: Reconsider Travel

The crime and violence rates referenced in the travel advisory are for broad regions while the incidence of this activity tends to be highly concentrated in areas which are not frequented by travelers. Visitors who use common sense and travel in areas frequented by other tourists are safe and have enjoyable visits.

Additionally, it advises against traveling to certain areas, especially those located outside of the main tourist zones.

It is important to stay informed about any recent safety concerns and follow local authorities’ advice.

It is also recommended to check the latest Mexico Travel Warning, which provides information on the overall safety situation in Mexico.

By staying informed and taking necessary precautions, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip to Puerto Vallarta.

Aside from dangerous areas along the U.S. border and other regions where cartels operate, Mexico is safe, and I firmly believe it is safe to travel to Mexico, including Puerto Vallarta.

In general, if you’re not taking part in illegal activities, you don’t have anything to worry about. 

For example, Four Americans traveling from South Carolina to Mexico were ambushed in the small town of Matamoros in what is believed to be a case of mistaken identity.

While this did not happen in Puerto Vallarta, it has still caused travelers to be concerned about traveling to any part of Mexico.

One of them – a mother of six – was traveling to Mexico to “undergo a medical procedure” across the border.

Who travels with 4 men to get a tummy tuck and expects them to provide aftercare service? Half of these men don’t even wash their hands properly, so we knew she was lying.

Once across the border, they were fired upon by unidentified gunmen, “placed in a vehicle and taken from the scene by armed men,” according to the FBI.

Investigators believe the Americans were targeted by a Mexican cartel that likely mistook them for Haitian drug smugglers, but I personally believe they were looking to purchase drugs.

For years,  Matamoros has been a stronghold for various feuding criminal organizations, particularly the Gulf Cartel , which has used the city as a key pipeline for moving cocaine, meth, and fentanyl across the border into Texas — and from there across the U.S.

No one should be traveling through Matamoros under any circumstances.  A quick Google search would have told them it was a no-no to travel through Matamoros. 

What do you think is going to happen if you go to a Foreign country seeking to buy drugs and then get on the news and play the victim when something bad happens?

To put things in perspective, Level 3 is the same tier given to many other tourist hotspots that have an uptake in criminal activity, including the following countries:

• Dominican Republic
• The United Kingdom

I have been to both Belize and Italy , and I have never wondered if it is safe to travel to those countries.  Are you concerned about traveling to Italy?

Italy has the same level 3 warning, so why is Mexico considered more violent, and why are you asking if Puerto Vallarta is safe?

Is Puerto Vallarta Safer than Cancun

Choosing between Puerto Vallarta and Cancun depends on your preferences and priorities.

In terms of safety, both destinations generally cater to tourists and are considered safe. However, the safety situation can change, so staying updated with the latest Mexico travel advisory is crucial before booking your flight.

Puerto Vallarta offers a more laid-back, traditional Mexican experience with its charming old town and vibrant arts scene.

Cancun, on the other hand, is known as the Spring Break and party capital.

Puerto Vallarta might be your pick if you’re seeking a relaxing beach getaway with a touch of cultural charm.

If you’re looking to party all night and twerking on the beach, Cancun could be what you are looking for. Ultimately, your choice should align with your personal preferences and interests.

When comparing crime statistics between Puerto Vallarta and Cancun, it is vital to note that they both have seen increased violence in recent years.

However, it is crucial to understand that crime can occur anywhere and is often isolated to specific areas.

While Puerto Vallarta has less crime, you should stay aware of your surroundings and keep your valuables secure.

Overall, while both Puerto Vallarta and Cancun have taken measures to ensure the safety of their tourists, it is important to exercise caution and stay informed about any recent safety concerns before your trip.

Puerto Vallarta Safety vs. the U.S. Safety

Mexico is statistically much safer than the United States.

So why is the U.S. State Dept. sending out Travel Alerts, calling Mexico “A Failed State”, and saying that ALL parts of the country (including popular tourist resorts like Puerto Vallarta and Cancun) are now unsafe for travel?

There has been a lot of news coverage about violence in Mexico. But very little of it notes that Mexico is a HUGE country with thirty-one states (+ the Distrito Federal).

They also fail to mention that most of that violence is drug traffic-related or that you could count the number of tourists who are affected by it on one hand.

Did you know that, according to the FBI, an estimated 15,241 persons were murdered in the U.S. in 2009 111 U.S. citizens were killed in Mexico last year, and almost all of them were involved in illicit drug trafficking, gun-running, or smuggling people across the border to/from the U.S?

Imagine 111 people out of the nearly 8 million visitors (about 1 million of whom make Mexico their full-time home). Do you know who else had 111 murders in one year?

Well, Boston, for starters. Then there was Las Vegas. And Orlando. And Indianapolis. Is the State Dept. advising tourists to stay away from those places?

Meanwhile, nearly 1,000 U.S. citizens died in Puerto Rico, but did anybody raise a red flag about that? The State Department can’t issue a Travel Warning because it is not a foreign country

How big is your own city when compared to Mexico? Here are the annual numbers of MURDERS, given by MSA (or Metropolitan Statistical Area)

• Atlanta – 325
• Baltimore – 298
• Boston – 111
• Dallas/Ft. Worth – 310
• Detroit – 447
• Houston – 462 
• Indianapolis – 111
• Jacksonville, FL – 120
• Kansas City – 163 

To put things in perspective, consider that the murder rate in Mexico’s Yucatan State is 2 per 100,000.

That is about the same as Fond du Lac, Wisconsin. Or Evansville, Indiana. Mexico City’s murder rate is 8 per 100,000, despite being the second-largest city on the planet. That is on par with Albuquerque.

Cartel & Drugh Violence

Mexico has strict laws against drug possession and trafficking, and the consequences of getting involved with illegal drugs can be severe.

The drug trade in Mexico has been linked to organized crime and cartels, which have caused significant violence and instability in some areas of the country.

By purchasing illegal drugs, individuals inadvertently contribute to the financial resources of these criminal organizations, which can perpetuate violence and harm local communities.

To emphasize, drug possession is strictly illegal in Mexico. If someone approaches you, whether on the beach or the street and offers to sell drugs, it’s essential to firmly decline.

Additionally, it’s crucial to be aware that if you get caught with drugs, you can face lengthy detention in Mexican prisons before their legal cases are resolved.

If you decide to visit Puerto Vallarta, expect to have a safe and relaxing vacation, free from any security

Puerto Vallarta Crime Rate

While Mexico has a reputation for high levels of violence and crime the excellent news is that Puerto Vallarta is a relatively safe destination compared to many other Mexican cities.

The city has seen a decrease in crime rates in recent years, with a decrease of 50% in homicides between 2018 and 2019.

While there have been isolated incidents of violent crime in Puerto Vallarta, they have mainly involved criminal groups and have not been targeted towards tourists or visitors.

Most crimes in the city are related to petty theft and are preventable by taking common-sense precautions.

While Puerto Vallarta has experienced some crime, it is not as rampant as some might fear.

The city is a popular tourist destination and is well-equipped to provide visitors a safe and enjoyable experience.

By taking some basic safety measures, you can feel secure and make the most of your vacation.

Is it Safe to Cruise to Puerto Vallarta?

Puerto Vallarta is one of the many stops for cruise ships. If you are planning to go on a cruise and Puerto Vallarta is one of your stops, safety is likely a top concern for you and your family.

The good news is that the safety level in Puerto Vallarta is relatively high. As a result, it is generally safe to cruise to Puerto Vallarta.

Cruise ships usually dock in a well-monitored area of the city, and the authorities keep an eye on everything that happens there.

Most cruise passengers feel comfortable exploring the city on their own or taking a shore excursion offered by the cruise line.

These shore excursions provide a range of fun and safe activities in Puerto Vallarta. Some popular options include guided city tours, beach trips, and zip-lining adventures.

Just simply be aware of your surroundings and avoid isolated areas or areas with low visibility. Additionally, be wary of pickpockets and keep an eye on your belongings.

Overall, Puerto Vallarta is a safe destination for cruise passengers.

Is It Safe To Drink the Tap Water in Puerto Vallarta

While Puerto Vallarta has a modern water treatment plant that provides clean water to the city, drinking tap water is not recommended.

As a precautionary measure, it is recommended that visitors should only drink bottled water or water that has been boiled or purified.

Most hotels and restaurants in Puerto Vallarta serve bottled water, which is widely available in grocery stores and supermarkets.

I also recommended avoiding adding ice cubes to your drinks if you are unsure if the water used to make them is safe. It’s better to be cautious and drink bottled water instead.

In addition to drinking water, I also suggest brushing your teeth with bottled water and avoiding swallowing any tap water while showering.

Is Puerto Vallarta Safe for Solo Female Travelers

If you are a solo traveler looking for a safe destination to explore, Puerto Vallarta is an amazing coastal city with no shortage of activities to keep you entertained.

From unique places to snorkel to day trips to quaint towns around the area, to tequila tasting, shopping, and everything in between.

You will have plenty to keep you busy and be surrounded by so many friendly people that you will not even notice you traveling alone.

I’ve traveled to Mexico solo countless times, and I’ve never experienced any violence or felt like my safety was in jeopardy.

Here are some of my tips on how to stay safe as a solo female traveler in Puerto Vallarta:

1. Stay in well-lit areas at night: It’s best to avoid walking alone at night, especially in poorly lit areas. Stick to busy streets or take a taxi instead.

2. Dress conservatively: Generally, it’s best to dress modestly while traveling in Mexico. Avoid wearing revealing clothing or flashy jewelry that may attract unwanted attention.

3. Avoid walking alone on the beach : While the beaches in Puerto Vallarta are beautiful, walking alone on the beach at night is not recommended. Stick to the more populated areas during the evening.

4. Use common sense: As with any destination, use your instincts and common sense. Don’t accept drinks from strangers, and be wary of overly friendly locals.

Don’t let fear stop you from experiencing all the amazing sights and activities Puerto Vallarta offers!

Is Puerto Vallarta Safe for Black People

Puerto Vallarta is a safe and welcoming place for Black travelers. While there may be occasional incidents of racism or discrimination, these are rare and not reflective of the overall attitude towards Black people in the city.

I have never experienced racism in Mexico.

Puerto Vallarta has a growing and vibrant ex-pat community, which includes Black Americans and other Black travelers who have chosen to make Puerto Vallarta home.

If you are a Black traveler planning a trip to Puerto Vallarta, exercising caution and common sense is always a good idea, just as you would in any unfamiliar city.

How to Deal with Police Extortion in Puerto Vallarta

There is even a special force of male and female “Tourist Police”. They are recognizable by their uniforms of white shirts, shorts, and blue caps or sometimes with a Policia Municipal in a blue uniform.

The members of this force all speak English, so if you need any help, even just directions, they are there to serve you. Note they keep changing uniforms, but the labels are the same – “Policía Turística.”

Let’s discuss the elephant in the room.

We’ve all heard the stories about the corrupt cops south of the border. With stories ranging from extortion to kidnapping, the police in Mexico and the rest of Latin America do not have the best reputation.

Police extortion of tourists detained for minor offenses is often a problem, and there have been some grotesque incidents.

However, the authorities cracked down hard and dismissed hundreds of officers, including some top officials. They claim the problem is under control.

If you are stopped for a traffic violation in Mexico, you will be asked for your driver’s license, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance . You will also be told what you did wrong.

 Of course, in the U.S. we would then be issued a ticket requiring us to pay a fine or appear in court later.

If it is a minor infraction, don’t bribe them; even so, they may ask for some money; the amount depends on the seriousness of the infraction; if you pass a red light, it is better if they only give you the traffic ticket.

If you drive without a license, the car must be impounded, and the fine is higher; in that case, I suggest you offer 200 pesos (if you look Mexican), if you are blond with blue eyes, maybe about 500 pesos.

If you are stopped because you were drunk in the street, the fine is 1500 pesos or 24 hours of jail; you will probably have to pay your total fine.

Those are the most common crimes a police officer can pull you over; , if you steal or kill, the amount will be considerably higher.

The key is to remain calm and accept your mistake, and when it is inevitable that they take you to jail and then subtly offer a bribe, it is like a negotiation: start with a low amount, and they will go up to agree on an amount.

The strategy you Should NOT use to Deal with Corrupt Mexican Police

 don’t be a tough guy.

This is the worst thing that you can do.  If you act tough and get angry and make threats, the officer will simply arrest you for being disorderly or assaulting him or her, etc.

This is a very big no-no. Towing your car is technically something that the officer can’t do, even though they will threaten it, but if you give them enough of a desire to cause you harm, they will find a way to make it happen.

While most officers will not do anything illegal beyond soliciting bribes for traffic violations, they can act above the law when they want to.

Don’t give them a reason to want to, because you will not win. Having your car towed (and potentially never seeing it again) is much more expensive than paying him one hundred bucks.

Safest Neighborhoods in Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is home to over 300,000 residents who live full-time in this seaside paradise. Like the Riviera Maya, Puerto Vallarta offers an array of neighborhoods to live in.

Each one has its own characteristics and charm, and there are five main neighborhoods that are safe in Puerto Vallarta.

• El Centro – Locally known as El Centro, Puerto Vallarta downtown is probably one of the most popular areas for tourists and locals.
• 5 de Diciembre -Nestled between El Centro and the Hotel Zone, you will find a neighborhood called 5 de Diciembre. This place is quieter than downtown but close enough to keep you in the hustle and bustle when you need to.
• Zona Romantica – The Zona Romantica, or Romantic Zone, is a place that combines luxury, beauty, heritage, delicious gastronomy, and authentic Mexican culture. Here you will find more boutique hotels, restaurants, and shops versus resorts and larger hotel chains.
• Marina Vallarta -Perhaps the fanciest city in town, Marina Vallarta is where the cruise ships dock. It is a posh area and developed for boat lovers. It features one of the best golf courses in the world and is home to large supermarket chains like Walmart.
• Fluvial Vallarta – This area is an up-and-coming neighborhood for tourists and new ex-pats. While it is still developing, it already promises chain restaurants and stores such as Costco, Starbucks, and big movie theaters.

Safety Tips for Getting Around Puerto Vallarta

Renting a car and catching an Uber in Puerto Vallarta offer distinct transportation options for visitors.

If you are anything like me you prefer to be on your own time and renting a car provides flexibility and the freedom to explore the city and its surrounding areas at your own pace.

It’s convenient for day trips to nearby attractions or for those who prefer the independence of having their vehicle.

However, it’s important to be aware of local traffic rules and parking conditions.

On the other hand, catching an Uber is a convenient and often more affordable alternative for getting around the city.

It’s a straightforward way to navigate Puerto Vallarta without worrying about haggling with taxi drivers, and it’s typically considered safe.

Just keep in mind that Uber may not be available in all areas, especially if you’re traveling outside the city center.

Additionally, it’s always a good practice to double-check the app for the latest information on availability and pricing, especially during peak travel times.

Ultimately, whether you choose to rent a car or use Uber , both options offer convenience and ease of travel, allowing you to make the most of your stay in Puerto Vallarta.

20 Tips to Stay Safe in Puerto Vallarta

Although a Puerto Vallarta travel advisory is in effect, it’s important to remember that tourists flock to Mexico every year without incident.

Puerto Vallarta safety is high on the Mexican government’s crime initiative because it’s imperative to keep tourists safe in order to preserve our tourist dollars but you must also do your part when traveling to Mexico .

Traveling anywhere requires a little bit of safety precaution. So, remember to enlist these general rules during your vacation and you will not have to continually ask is it safe to travel to Puerto Vallarta.

Here are some precautions that you can take in order to make sure your trip goes as planned and check out my must-have items to stay in Mexico.

• Keep Your Nose Clean : As mentioned above, much of the criminal activity in Mexico revolves around the drug trade and sex trade. Although many Americans go south of the border to have a little fun remember the last thing you want is to end up in a Mexican Jail. 
• When Driving, Stick to Main Roads, and Daytime Travel : One of the most popular methods to extort money and protect cartel turf is through carjacks or roadblock ambushes. Avoid back roads and nighttime driving and hire taxis and driving services through the hotel where you’re staying.
• Stay Informed : Keep up-to-date about safety news through a few methods. First of all, talk with your travel agent and/or hotel concierge about safety updates, and where to go. They’ll have the most current read on the situation. As an American Citizen, you should also consider signing up for  STEP ,  the Department of State’s Safe Traveler Enrollment Program. This will sign you up for travel alerts, put you on the consulate and Embassy radar, and make it easier to work things out if there’s an incident. 
• Leave a copy of your passport and itinerary with someone at home.
• Keep your valuables locked up when you leave the hotel.
• Learn the language as much as possible (This is not just for safety, but also for courtesy, which can actually keep you safer too!)  Remember the old saying you can catch more flies with honey than vinegar? 
• Research your destination:   Make sure you are up to date on the current travel warnings. 
• Keep windows shut and doors locked in a car :  especially at traffic lights
• Use first-class bus companies – these bus companies take toll roads that have security checks on passengers as they board.
• Don’t walk around by yourself late at night: You are asking for trouble.
• Be careful taking money out of the ATM: these are good spots to rob people. 
• Use a money belt : Keep the thieves at bay.
• Don’t get scammed: If someone is asking you for your personal information will are likely scamming.
• Don’t wear flashy jewelry – looking like you are balling out of control will get you robbed. Leave your LV and Gucci in the States. 
• Avoid getting DRUNK :  you need to know where you are at all times.
• Don’t try to buy drugs: Don’t ask about buying drugs and don’t even think about buying drugs.
• DON’T travel at night: Most crime occurs at night.
• Only use well-known tour operators : Most of the cheaper tour operators will not have up-to-date equipment and experienced guides.

Also, click here if you need my Travel packing List. You can find everything from drones , Snorkeling Gear, Hiking, Back packs, Cargo Pants , and more for your Next Trip.

Additional safety tips to take while visiting puerto vallarta.

There are plenty of beaches to discover  and to choose as your favorite, each of them with a particular enchantment, some of them are accessible only by boat, hidden and surrounded by magical sceneries , others with plenty of life going around them

Avoid swimming at the beach when a black warning flag is posted. Cover your child with sunscreen or protective clothing before heading to the beach.

There are two main beaches in Puerto Vallarta, Playa Camarones (Camarones Beach) and Los Muertos Beach (or Playa de Los Muertos), the first beach is along the northern part of downtown and the second beach is in the “Romantic Zone” or Old Vallarta,  south of the Cuale River.

Wear Sunscreen in Puerto Vallarta

You didn’t fly to Mexico to stay inside but please beware that Mexican rays are intense and can lead to a severe burn or sun poisoning, especially during the warmer spring and summer months.

The sun in Puerto Vallarta is pretty strong and high in damaging UV rays. Stay hydrated and limit the amount of sun you get based on your skin type.

• Staying in the shade as much as possible. • Protecting skin with clothing. • Applying sunscreen to protect skin from harmful rays. • Wearing a hat preferably with at least 2-3 inche s brim all around. • Wear sunglasses to protect yoursel f from UV rays.

Best Time to Visit Puerto Vallarta

The best time to visit Puerto Vallarta is between April and June when the weather is pleasant and the room rates are affordable.

During these months, rain is scarce and there are fewer tourists compared to the winter high season. If you’re interested in whale watching, however, visit from December to March.

Just prepare yourself for the area’s most astronomical travel fares.

What Not To Miss in Puerto Vallarta

There are many great activities for those spending just a day in Puerto Vallarta.

• Explore the beautiful Malecón the boardwalk that runs parallel to Banderas Bay.
• Los Arcos or the  Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe  – are two of the most iconic images of the city.
•   Botanical Gardens of Vallarta 
• The Northern seaside town of Bucerías.
• Signing up for one of the  best Puerto Vallarta tours 

Millions of people visit Mexico each year and 99% of travelers do not run into any trouble but the 1% that makes the news is all that you hear about and you begin worrying about Puerto Vallarta crime for absolutely no reason.

If you are the victim of a crime or travel scam please contact the local police department.

Emergency Contact Information

Creating an emergency card.

In the case of an emergency, it makes everything much easier if you have all your important information compiled in one place.

I created an emergency card for myself, my husband, and my daughter with all the following information and shared it with a close family member and made a copy to put in my wallet or purse):

• Medication allergies and a list of medications you take.
• Blood type.
• Emergency contact information (preferably a blood relative). Include name, relationship, phone number, address, and email address.
• Your insurance information.

Contact Information

• Dial 911  in case of an emergency
• CMQ Hospital Puerto Vallarta: +52 322 223 1919
• Hospital CMQ Riviera Nayarit (Bucerias): +52 329 298 0717
• Hospital Joya Riviera (Nuevo Vallarta): +52 322 226 8181
• Hospital Joya Marina Vallarta: +52 322 226 1010
• +52 333 268 2100
• Paseo de los Cocoteros #85, Nuevo Vallarta, Nayarit
• +52 322 293 0098
• Plaza Peninsula, Blvrd Francisco Medina Ascencio 2485, Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco
• +52 322 221 2676

Mexico Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is great for covering things like:

• Medical emergency insurance:  Your health plan back home may provide zero or very little coverage in Mexico. This type of insurance may reimburse you for medical expenses you incur because of an illness or accident that occurs during your trip.
• Trip cancellation insurance:  This covers non-refundable expenses such as tours, excursions, hotels, etc. For example, if a storm hits your vacation destination and forces you to cancel the trip, this insurance can cover 100% of the non-refundable trip expenses that you prepaid. It also covers cancellation due to diagnosed illness before traveling.
• Quarantine accommodations:  Get coverage for accommodations if you have to quarantine at your destination.
• Trip interruption coverage:  This is in case you need to cut your trip short and return home sooner than expected. These benefits apply if you or a traveling companion become ill or injured during a trip, for example.

✈️ Get Travel Insurance NOW! Travelex Is my preferred Insurance

We personally use  Travelex  since they are the largest unbiased travel insurance site that allows you to compare prices across dozens of providers and filter for only the specific coverage options you want.

Every program is different and it’s important to review the terms of the insurance policy to determine if the plan is right for your needs. To get a quick estimate, click the button below:

Are Mexico Resorts Safe

There have been incidents of carbon monoxide poisoning at resorts, which have left some potential visitors with questions and doubts. 

Understanding Carbon Monoxide Poisoning: Carbon monoxide (CO) is an odorless, colorless gas that can be deadly when inhaled in high concentrations.

Common sources of carbon monoxide include faulty fuel-burning appliances, such as gas heaters, furnaces, and water heaters.

In recent resort incidents, carbon monoxide poisoning deaths have been linked to faulty ventilation systems or poorly maintained equipment.

Staying Safe at Mexico Resorts:

• Research and Choose Reputable Resorts : Before booking your stay, research the resort’s safety record, reviews, and certifications. Look for resorts that prioritize guest safety, regularly inspect their facilities, and maintain proper ventilation systems.
• Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Pack a portable carbon monoxide detector or inquire whether the resort provides them in guest rooms. These devices will alert you to the presence of high levels of carbon monoxide and provide an early warning in case of a leak.
• Familiarize Yourself with Resort Safety Measures: Upon arrival, take a few minutes to familiarize yourself with the resort’s emergency procedures, including evacuation routes, fire exits, and safety guidelines. Ensure you know how to report any concerns about gas appliances or ventilation to the appropriate resort staff.
• Be Mindful of Your Surroundings : While in your room, be cautious of any signs of potential carbon monoxide leaks. If you experience symptoms like headaches, nausea, dizziness, or confusion, it could be an indication of carbon monoxide poisoning. Immediately exit the room, alert the resort staff, and seek medical attention.

Safest Hotels in Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta offers a myriad of luxurious accommodations for discerning travelers seeking an indulgent escape.

Here is my list of the most luxurious hotels in Puerto Vallarta, where refined elegance meets world-class hospitality.

• The St. Regis Punta Mita Resort : Immerse yourself in refined luxury at The St. Regis Punta Mita Resort. Nestled within a private peninsula, this exquisite beachfront property boasts stunning ocean views, lavish suites, and a world-renowned Remède Spa. Indulge in exceptional dining experiences, take a dip in the infinity pools, or tee off at the Jack Nicklaus-designed golf courses for an unforgettable stay.
• Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita : Perched on the pristine shores of the Riviera Nayarit, the Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita exudes elegance and tranquility. With its lush gardens, infinity-edge pools, and beautifully appointed villas, this luxury resort offers an idyllic escape. Guests can enjoy a wide range of activities, including snorkeling, paddle boarding, and exploring the nearby Marietas Islands.
• Casa Velas : Located in the exclusive Marina Vallarta area, Casa Velas is an adults-only, all-inclusive boutique hotel that radiates sophistication and charm. This secluded retreat provides a serene ambiance, spacious suites with private plunge pools, and access to the private Ocean Club beach club. Indulge in gourmet dining experiences and pamper yourself at the award-winning Spa Casa Velas.
• Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit : Discover a world of refined luxury at the Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit. This AAA Five Diamond resort boasts spacious suites with panoramic ocean views, world-class restaurants offering culinary delights, and an extensive spa and wellness center. Whether lounging by the pool, enjoying the golden beach, or experiencing their renowned Kids’ and Teens’ Club, this resort caters to every guest’s desires.
• I manta Resorts Punta de Mita : For those seeking unparalleled seclusion and exclusivity, Imanta Resorts Punta de Mita is the epitome of a hidden paradise. Nestled within a lush jungle and perched on a pristine coastline, this eco-luxury resort offers private villas with infinity pools, personalized service, and a deep connection with nature. Indulge in gourmet dining, and spa treatments, and explore the surrounding rainforests for an unforgettable experience.

Conclusion: Is Puerto Vallarta Safe

Is Puerto Vallarta safe? Yes, if you stay abreast of all Mexico travel warnings, exercise common sense, and pay attention to news about safety in the city you are visiting I don’t think you will have any issues.

Keep in mind that bad things can anywhere not just in Mexico but I am sure there are crimes taking place right in your very own neighborhood. 

No matter where you go in Mexico, follow the common-sense rules that are listed above like drinking only in moderation, getting a cab instead of wandering around after dark, and leaving your expensive watches and rings at home. 

Mexico is safe to visit so long as you stay out of trouble, take precautions, don’t buy drugs, and ladies do not allow men to buy you a cocktail and I don’t care how cute he is.  BUY YOUR OWN COCKTAILS!

Ready to plan your trip, grab my  FREE  Vacation Planner to help you plan your trip in the time it takes to watch your favorite TV show!

If you would like to donate to  Passports and Grub click here!

ADDITIONAL ARTICLES ON MEXICO

Is Cancun Safe

Is It Safe To Travel To Mexico

Safest Cities in Mexico for Solo Travelers

Have you allowed the Mexico travel advisory to affect your travel decisions and are you still wondering is Puerto Vallarta safe? I would love to hear your thoughts so leave me a comment on Facebook ,  Twitter ,  or  Instagram.

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10 comments.

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• Pingback: Is Puerto Vallarta Safe For American Tourists? - Apex Breaking News Today
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• Pingback: MUST READ: 13 Safest Cities In Mexico [Updated December 2021]

I have been in Puerto Vallarta off and on for most of the last 18 months. I have never felt unsafe or intimidated by the Mexican Naval members riding their jeeps and fully armed. I appreciate that they are helping out. No one can convince me that this beach paradise is more dangerous than many US cities. I strive to be alert, but personally I have not had any situations that put me in fear. I believe this is more of a political front than an actual danger. Thanks for addressing today’s “travel alert”! Obviously if less visitors come, it will hurt the local economy. I have not found nicer people in any country I have visited in my 49 years of traveling the world! Mike

• Pingback: 10 safe to travel to puerto vallarta Ideas

Hell no it’s not safe in Puerto Vallarta! My son died there on March 10th 2022. His death was ruled an accident. But the fact is, if he wasn’t there. he woud have lived. It took 3 weeks to get his body back to Sacramento. I will never visit Mexico again. Tourists BEWARE!!!!

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This is the Safest City in Mexico in 2024 (According to Experts)

Looking for the safest places in mexico for travelers.

You’re in the right place! I’ve lived in Mexico since 2018, and have traveled to more than half the states in the country — and I’m about to share my knowledge of the safest city in Mexico with you.

It’s Merida, Mexico, which is located in the Yucatan Peninsula. As I lived in Merida for many years , you’re getting my first-hand knowledge here!

This article will highlight everything you need to know about Merida, from the Merida crime rates and statistics, to how to get there, and some things to do in Merida once you arrive.

Think of this as your Ultimate Guide to the Safest City in Mexico — so let’s get to it!

Ultimate Guide to Merida: The Safest City in Mexico

Located in the Yucatan Peninsula, one of the safest parts of Mexico, Merida consistently ranks as the safest place to travel in Mexico — and has for some time.

In fact, Merida is considered the safest place in Mexico to vacation in the entire peninsula.

It is the capital of Yucatán State, which is one of the only two Mexico states that seems to never have any U.S. State Department travel warnings .

Furthermore, many say Merida is definitively the safest place to live in Mexico (or one of the safe places to live in Mexico).

As I lived in Merida for many years, I know this to be true first-hand — but so do many others.

• In 2019, CEOWorld Magazine declared it the second safest city on the entire Americas Continent.
• In 2019, Merida was named the Best Small City in the World in the Condé Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards.
• In 2021, CEOWorld Magazine readers also voted Merida #3 on their Best Small Cities in the World list.
• In 2022, Merida was named the #4 Best City in the World in the Condé Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards.

What are the Crime Rates in Merida Mexico?

Wondering, What city in Mexico is considered safest with the lowest crime rate?

When it comes to bigger cities in Mexico with a population of one million-plus, it’s Merida, hands down!

Merida is known as many things, including the Cultural Capital of Yucatan , and the safest Mexican city.

It consistently ranks as both the safest city to visit in Mexico, and safest place for expats to live in Mexico.

As you can see in the infographic above, there’s not much crime in Merida — though of course, crimes of opportunity and petty crimes do happen from time to time.

You’ll want to be mindful of your belongings at all times, just as you would anywhere else. In crowded places, things like pickpocketing can happen, though it’s rare.

Is there a U.S. State Department travel advisory for Merida right now? 

For the most accurate answer, visit the U.S. State Department website to see if they have any current Merida travel warnings.

They usually don’t, but this site is the best way to stay up-to-date with the most accurate information possible regarding Mexico travel advisories.

Merida Mexico Travel Warnings

On the U.S. State Department site , you’ll see each of the 32 Mexico states ranked in one of these four categories:

• 🛑 Level 4 (Highest Level): Do Not Travel (Highest Level)
• ⚠️ Level 3: Reconsider Travel
• ⚠️ / ✅ Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution When Traveling
• ✅ Level 1 (Lowest Level): Exercise Normal Precautions When Traveling

What state is Merida located in?

Merida is in Yucatan State , which is generally at a Level 1 Warning.

This is the lowest warning level the U.S. State Department issues, and it means “Exercise Normal Precautions When Traveling” — which is what you’d do anywhere.

For perspective, some other Level 1 travel destinations include Australia, Japan, Iceland and Fiji.

Now ask yourself: Would I be scared to travel to Fiji?  How about Australia or Japan?

Of course you wouldn’t — and you might have even laughed at those questions.

So what’s the verdict on Merida Mexico travel safety? In general, Merida is a popular region in Mexico for Americans, as it’s a clean and safe city in the Yucatan.

As with any major tourist town, you will need to exercise some level of caution in Cancun, Mexico — but nothing major.

If you remain aware of yourself, your surroundings and your belongings, you can easily have a safe Cancun trip like the many other visitors just like you.

Merida Travel Guide

Nowadays, this colorful colonial city is fast becoming a top Mexico travel destination . However, there are still many people who don’t know about it.

If you’re one of them, or just need some additional tips on how to visit Merida Mexico like a pro, you’ll find all the info you need below.

Where is Merida Mexico located?

Merida is located in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. This is a three-state region in the southeastern part of the country.

It includes Quintana Roo State (home to Cancun, Tulum and Playa del Carmen), Campeche State, and Yucatan State. Merida is the capital city of this state.

Is there an airport in Merida Mexico?

Yes — Manuel Crescencio Rejón International Airport, better known as Merida International Airport (code: MID), is located near downtown.

The best, safest and most hassle way to get from the airport to your hotel is by booking this Private Merida Airport Shuttle .

• Merida Airport to Downtown Distance : 5 miles (8 km); 25 minutes
• Merida Airport to North Merida Distance : 13 miles (20 km); 40 minutes

What are the best things to do in Merida?

There are so many amazing things to do in Merida , which is a great city to explore Mexico’s rich Mayan history and traditions.

Just outside of the city, you have numerous Merida day trips to places like Valladolid and Izamal (two Mexico pueblos magicos ), as well as beaches, ruins and cenotes.

Here are a few articles that will help you discover the must see Merida sites, located both in the city and just outside of it:

• 15 Amazing Mayan Ruins Near Merida
• 30 Best Merida Cenotes You Must Visit
• Best Merida Mexico Beaches in the Yucatan
• 11 Best Merida to Chichen Itza Tours
• 12 Top Rated Tours in Merida Mexico
• Best Museums in Merida Mexico

Safest City in Mexico: Frequently Asked Questions

What is the safest city in mexico.

Merida is regarded as the safest Mexico city, and has been for some time now.

It has low crime rates in all categories, including robberies, burglaries, vandalism, theft, assault, and drug-related crimes.

Which state in Mexico has the lowest crime rate?

There are two: Yucatan and Campeche — According to U.S. State Department statistics, both Campeche State and Yucatan State have the lowest levels of crime in Mexico.

These states are located next to one another in the Yucatan Peninsula. They’re both considered a Level 1 Zone , and neither have any travel advisories.

What is the safest part of Mexico for tourists?

Yucatan Peninsula — According to the U.S. State Department , much of the Yucatan is a Level 1 Zone with no travel warnings.

In a Level 1 Travel Zone, travelers need only exercise “normal precautions” while visiting this popular region of Mexico.

For some time now, Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula has been considered the safest area in Mexico.

🇲🇽 BONUS: It also have some of the best cities in Mexico for travelers, like Tulum , Merida, Valladolid , Cancun , Puerto Morelos, Isla Holbox , Laguna Bacalar , Playa del Carmen , Akumal , and more.

What city in Mexico has the least crime?

Merida — Given the Merida population of about 1 million, it has the lowest crime rates in Mexico per capita of any major city in the country.

What is the safest place to vacation in Mexico?

Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula is always a great option when it comes to safety.

This part of the country has some of the safest resort towns in Mexico , and there are so many great things to do in Yucatan too.

What city in Mexico do most Americans retire to?

Some of the best places in Mexico for retirees include San Miguel de Allende , Puerto Vallarta, Merida , Puebla City and Ajijic on Lake Chapala.

The small town of Ajijic (pronounced ah-he-heek) might not be on everyone’s radar, but it’s a great option when it comes to safe places in Mexico for travelers .

The town sits on Lake Chapala in Jalisco State, and has peaceful vibes. The largest lake in Mexico, Chapala covers an area of 417 square miles (1,080 square km).

Where do most Americans live in Mexico?

There are a few places that are popular for American expats in Mexico, including Ajijic, Los Cabos, Puerto Vallarta, Merida, Playa del Carmen, San Miguel de Allende, and some parts of Mexico City.

🇲🇽 large numbers of americans are moving to mexico

Did you know that American expats are relocating to Mexico in droves ? (As well as Canadians and Europeans!)

According to statistics from Mexico’s Migration Policy Unit, the number of Americans who applied for or renewed residency visas in Mexico surged by an astounding 70% between 2019-2022.

What is the safest city in Mexico for Americans?

Merida — Known as the safest city in Mexico for both locals and visitors, Merida makes a great Mexico travel destination because of its low levels of crime.

What parts of Mexico are safe?

There are many safe places in Mexico, but the State of   Yucatán  has the lowest crime rate according to the U.S. State Department and  Mexico Peace Index .

Yucatan State is famous for  Chichen Itza , one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, and the most famous of all Mexico archaeological sites .

There are also other fascinating historical sites, like Uxmal , Ek-Balam, and Mayapan.

Visitors can enjoy these best beaches in Yucatan on the Gulf of Mexico, like Puerto Progreso, and these stunning Yucatan cenotes (natural jungle pools).

No matter where you’re headed in Yucatan, you can enjoy the region without worry.

Is Mexico safe to travel to right now?

For the vast majority of travelers, yes , it is perfectly safe to visit Mexico.

Of course, you will want to use the same “travel common sense” as you would anywhere else.

While many want a definitive yes/no answer to the question Is Mexico safe for travelers? , there just isn’t one.

That’s because this is a complex question, and the answer is really yes and no .

Yes, Mexico is safe for nearly all travelers; but no, it’s not always safe if you don’t make personal safety your top priority.

As one of the most visited countries in the world, most travelers are safe in Mexico, but you do need to follow common travel safety measures.

In truth, there’s no guarantee of safety anywhere on Earth, but this quote from Carlos Barron, a 25-year FBI veteran, offers some perspective.

Pay extra attention to the phrase: “the numbers game.”

There’s no denying bad things happen in Mexico. However, they are isolated incidents in Mexico much the same as they are isolated incidents in other countries.

Though bad things happen every minute of everyday in the U.S. and most European countries, they are written off isolated incidents.

Most people would call it insane to label the entire country as unsafe because of an isolated incident — but this is often done with Mexico 🤷‍♀️ Why?

🤯 Mexico Saw 66 Million Visitors in 2022

Contrary to often-sensationalized media reports, Mexico gets a bad rap.

However, it’s not totally undeserved, as there are both safe parts of Mexico and unsafe parts of Mexico.

However, American and international travelers still flock to Mexico en masse.

In fact, Mexico is the 7th most visited country in the world, and according to Statista , Mexico was the top travel destination for international travelers in 2021.

So if Mexico was totally unsafe, as many claim, Wouldn’t people just stop going?

As you can see on SECTUR , the Mexican Secretary of Tourism’s site, they most certainly haven’t stopped going.

According to SECTUR, Mexico welcomed an astounding 66 million visitors in 2022 — up 19.3% from 2021.

With such a sinister reputation, and so many people convinced all of Mexico is unsafe for travel, it seems people would want to avoid Mexico at all costs.

However, the numbers show that the exact opposite is true, and that tourists love Mexico now more than ever.

What are the most dangerous cities in Mexico to avoid?

These include some areas in the states of Colima , Sinaloa , Michoacan , Tamaulipas and Guerrero — though not all parts of each state are considered dangerous.

For a guide on which places are safe at this exact moment, which places to avoid in Mexico, and the most dangerous cities in Mexico — consult the U.S. State Department site .

Their guide offers up-to-date information, current Mexico travel advisory info, Mexico travel warnings, safety alerts and advisories to help you make your travel plans.

⚠️ However, keep in mind they evaluate state by state, not city by city, which would makes more sense for travelers since you’ll likely visit just one small area within a much larger state.

For example, Sinaloa is generally considered one of the least safe states in Mexico.

However, the city of Mazatlan in Sinaloa state is one of the most-visited and safest beaches in Mexico .

This particular city is known as one of the safest places for tourists in Mexico. Though it’s located in an “unsafe” state, millions of people visit each year.

Have you registered for the STEP Program yet?

If you’re from the U.S., make sure you enroll in the FREE STEP Program  before your trip. (🇨🇦 Canadians can check out Registration of Canadians Abroad here for a similar program).

The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, or STEP, allows U.S. citizens traveling to Mexico to document your trip with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

After you’ve registered, the U.S. Embassy or Consulate nearest you can contact you in the event of an emergency, including natural disasters, civil unrest, etc.

STEP can also put you in touch with your family and friends back home, in the event of an emergency while abroad.

They can also shed light on general Mexico travel safety tips, if you’re still in doubt.

Final Thoughts: Safest Cities in Mexico to Visit

Given the negative perception of Mexico as a whole, I hope this article was able to shine a light on the safest city in Mexico.

However, from my personal experience living in Mexico since 2018, there are MANY other safe places in Mexico too.

Now, there are dangerous parts of Mexico and dangerous places in Mexico; but those are small parts of a big country.

I hope hearing stories from actual travelers and Mexico expats like me helps paint a more real picture of the country because I have found most people who say “Mexico is dangerous” — have never even been to Mexico 🤷‍♀️ Go figure!

Ready to book your Merida trip?

Here are some helpful tips and guides to the safest town in Mexico:

• Book the Best Merida Hotels here
• Find the Best Merida Tours here
• For more info, check out Is Merida Mexico Safe for Travelers?

Mexico Travel Planning Guide

Should i buy mexico travel insurance.

YES — With basic coverage averaging just $5-10 USD per day, enjoy peace of mind with a plan from Travel Insurance Master , one of the biggest names in travel insurance. ( Read more )

Can you drink the water in Mexico?

No — You’ll want to buy this Water-To-Go Bottle , which filters your drinking water so you don’t get sick from drinking water in Mexico.

Also, it helps keep you hydrated while traveling Mexico. ( Read more )

Is it safe to rent a car in Mexico?

Yes — Renting a car in Mexico is one of the best ways to see the country! I always rent with Discover Cars , which checks international companies and local Mexican companies, so you get the best rates. ( Read more )

Will my phone work in Mexico?

Maybe — It depends on your company, so check with your provider. If you don’t have free Mexico service, buy a Telcel SIM Card . As Mexico’s largest carrier, Telcel has the best coverage of any Mexico SIM Cards. ( Read more )

What’s the best way to book my Mexico accommodations?

For Mexico hotels, Booking.com is the best site , but for hostels, use Hostel World . If you’re considering a Mexico Airbnb, don’t forget to check VRBO , which is often cheaper than Airbnb.

What do I pack for Mexico?

Head to the Ultimate Mexico Packing List + FREE Checklist Download to get all the info you need on packing for Mexico.

What’s the best site to buy Mexico flights?

For finding cheap Mexico flights, I recommend using Skyscanner .

Do I need a visa for Mexico?

Likely Not — U.S., Canadian and European Passport holders don’t need a visa for Mexico; but check here to see if you need a Mexico travel visa. Most travelers will get a 180-Day FMM Tourist Visa passport stamp a upon arrival.

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Oaxaca beach towns are what I would call clean, calm and an authentic Mexican experience- PV streets are filled with dollar tree junk, souvenirs made in Chin@, the beaches are rough, the entire town experience feels extremely uncomfortable, pretty much a magnified version of Tijuana or Nogales Mexico.

I am not sure why this town is so popular, there’s nothing unique or worth seeing, unless you want to shop at dollar tree type of shops, oxxo, or be harrased by ladies offering to braid your hair at every corner.

Needless to say, don’t bother coming here looking for a relaxed Mexican family getaway, this city offers the above with a touch of rocky beaches with red flags.

38 replies to this topic

Wow! What a wild and contrary viewpoint!

Ok… not for you. You can go somewhere else… easy. PV is one of my favorite places on earth 🌍 it’s great that people like different places, if not it would get extremely crowded. Why would anyone try to enlighten you? You are there, and you don’t like it . The end

I am sorry you have such a bad impression of PV. I love the town and can think of all kinds of reasons I love it, but I guess it's not for everyone.

Would you mind saying where you are staying? Or at least what part of the city? Because my experience (30+ trips) could not be more completely different than what you describe.

The reason why I asked on here, would love to hear specifics as to why this place is so special. Not to bash anyone’s opinions- just not seeing anything worth of coming back.

I asked the part of town you're in, because I wouldn't describe the area I stay ( Zona Romantica ) as having braid ladies on every corner or dollar stores, can't even think where I've seen that. Maybe because I rent an apartment rather than stay at a resort makes a difference? Or the fact I've visited PV for three decades it has a feeling of home-away-from-home to me.

Suze you pretty much hit the nail on the head for what we love about PV , and will keep going there, we love the people, the Malecon and every you said.

I suggest she go where she loves to go and leave PV to us

“can’t shake off the similarities of PV to Tijuana or Nogales”

PV is nothing like TJ whatsoever.

{there’s nothing ... worth seeing}

Have you seen the Voladores de Papantla (aerialists/flyers) on the Malecon? How about the free Friday evening performance of folklorique dance at Lazaro Cardenas plaza (with all the sparkly tile)? Taken a walk along the river on the Isle Cuale? Hiked up to the cross? Watched the couples on Sunday evening ballroom dancing in the square in front of the church. Look at the paintings and sculpture at Galleria Dante. Taken a drive down the south shore to the Botanical Garden and El Eden? Sit in the quiet at the The Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe (Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe). Shop at Mundo de Azuela (World of Tiles). Take the walking tour highlighting the Malecon sculptures. Do a class at ChocoMuseo.

Please keep in mind that you are visiting at one of the busiest times of the year. But…I love PV for the people, wonderful restaurants, playful vibe and the mountains to the ocean geography. Different strokes for different folks.

The people that are selling "junk" are vendors, licensed by the Federal Govt. That is their livelihood. If I buy a "junk" trinket and it puts a smile on their face it makes my day.

The ocean this year has been extremely due to the storm patterns. They put the red flags out because the water us too rough or has rip tides and it is not safe to swim in. Several people have died or had to be rescued this winter. No tourist board can do anything about the ocean conditions but the port captain and the emergency personnel can are authorized to order the beaches closed to swimming.

Sorry, I have been to TJ, Rosarito Beach and Ensenada many times and PV shines compared to border towns.

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8 Best All-Inclusive Resorts: Puerto Vallarta (Adults Only)

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When it’s time for an adults-only luxury escape, Mexico, and Puerto Vallarta in particular, has some of the best all-inclusive resorts from which to choose. Whether you prefer a coastal resort, or would rather stay in a boutique hotel within walking distance of the city sights, these resorts have it all.

With so many stellar options, it was a tough decision for the best overall resort in Puerto Vallarta. Still, Casa Velas emerged as our top pick for the best overall all-inclusive adults-only resort in Puerto Vallarta because this adults-only golf resort includes gourmet cuisine, spa treatments, and an all-inclusive package that will provide the ultimate adults-only getaway.

Top 8 Best All-Inclusive Resorts in Puerto Vallarta (Adults Only)

• Casa Velas ( Best Overall )
• Hilton Vallarta Riviera ( Best Food & Drinks )
• Villa Lala Boutique Hotel ( Best Private Infinity Pools )
• Villa Premiere Boutique Hotel ( Best Adults-Only Boutique )
• Secrets Bahia Mita Surf & Spa Resort ( Best All-Inclusive Luxury )
• Hotel Casa Dona Susana ( Best Location )
• Hotel Amaca Puerto Vallarta ( Best Rooftop Bar )
• Casa Kimberly ( Best Romance )

Best All-Inclusive Resorts Puerto Vallarta (Adults Only)

1. best overall – casa velas.

For an all-inclusive resort designed specifically for adults only, Casa Velas is the place to experience Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

This gorgeous boutique, located along the Pacifica Riviera coast, is settled in a luxurious setting of palm trees, Koi ponds, and even resident peacocks.

There are organic gardens onsite, and the herbs are used in their restaurants, bars, and the spa. Some of the suites offer private plunge pools. The dining package includes one dinner at a sister property, Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit, awarded with 5 AAA Diamonds.

Casa Velas’ all-inclusive options in an adults-only paradise setting, plus the golf course, the spa, and gourmet dining options all led to our choice as the best all-inclusive hotel.

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2. Best Food & Drinks – Hilton Vallarta Riviera

The oceanfront all-inclusive resort at Hilton Puerto Vallarta Riviera Resort blends luxury with leisure and fine dining.

With two infinity pools, a full-service spa, and the Hilton quality of food and drinks, it’s an adults-only all-inclusive paradise retreat.

Their all-inclusive package provides an array of indulgences including welcome drinks, daily breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks, unlimited drinks and cocktails in the restaurants, along with access to daily activities, nightly entertainment, a fitness center, and attentive pool and beach service—making it our top pick for food and drinks.

3. Best Private Infinity Pools – Villa Lala Boutique Hotel

At Villa Lala, this adults-only boutique hotel features 12 exclusive suites set amidst expansive gardens with mountain and oceanfront views.

Enjoy swimming and kayaking, dinner under the stars with the Bay of Banderas as a backdrop, impeccable service, and delicious food and drinks made from locally sourced ingredients. Choose from carefully selected romantic spots for a special dinner to remember.

With a private infinity pool in each suite – there are even tree-top and treehouse suites with private infinity pools – Villa Lala is our top pick for the best private infinity pools.

4. Best Adults-Only Boutique – Villa Premiere Boutique Hotel

Villa Premiere Boutique Hotel provides a romantic Puerto Vallarta getaway, a friends’ reunion, or a destination wedding at an adults-only resort in Mexico.

Experience traditional Mexican cuisine as well as international specialties in one of their three restaurants for exclusive fine dining options.

This beachfront gem offers luxury and serenity in a paradise setting making it our top choice as the best adults-only boutique.

5. Best All-Inclusive Luxury – Secrets Bahia Mita Surf & Spa Resort

All-inclusive luxury awaits at Secrets Bahia Mita Surf & Spa Resort. An adults-only haven, you’ll enjoy mountain, ocean, and garden views from every luxury suite. The resort caters to surfing enthusiasts, spa aficionados, or anyone seeking a unique rooftop infinity pool experience.

If looking for designer hotels, the original design by Sordo Madaleno provides natural elements that elevate the luxury.

The entire experience is imbued with luxury, and the “limitless” gourmet dining, top-shelf spirits, live entertainment, beautiful beaches, and daily activities make Secrets Bahia Mita Surf & Spa Resort our top pick for the best all-inclusive luxury resort.

6. Best Location – Hotel Casa Dona Susana

What makes for a great location? At Casa Dona Susan Hotel, it means being located in the coveted Zona Romantica area and just steps away from the boardwalk, beach, pier, renowned restaurants, and the city’s prime attractions.

You’ll enjoy access to their sister property, Playa Los Arcos Beach Resort & Spa , offering additional dining, beach, and spa services.

The close location to the city’s vibrant gems makes Casa Dona Susana our top pick for the best location of adults-only resorts.

7. Best Rooftop Bar – Hotel Amaca Puerto Vallarta

Hotel Amaca offers an authentic immersion into Puerta Vallarta’s vibrant Romantic Zone, and it’s just a brief walk to the iconic Los Muertos Beach.

With only 25 rooms, the architectural charm and minimalist designs create a unique Mexico vacation experience.

The breathtaking bay views and sunsets seen from the rooftop terrace, rooftop bar, and rooftop pool, make Hotel Amaca our pick for the best rooftop bar. Step up to the bar, high above the city, and relax as you savor one of their specialty margaritas — with a view.

8. Best Romance – Casa Kimberly

Although Casa Kimberly is not an all-inclusive resort, it deserves mention for its Hollywood glamour, luxurious setting, and romantic appeal.

Once the homes of both Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton, Casa Kimberly encompasses nine suites, a spa, pool, tequila bar, open-air dining, and the preserved Puente Del Amor (Bridge of Love).

The setting is as unique as the Hollywood actors who lived – and loved – at this Puerto Vallarta resort. Among the suites is the Elizabeth Taylor Suite, her personal living space. Many of the hotel rooms feature stunning ocean views of Banderas Bay, the cityscape, and the Sierra Madre Mountains. Most of the suites have private jacuzzi tubs located on the private terrace.

It’s a legendary love nest and a luxurious resort, making it our pick as the best resort for romance.

Best All-Inclusive Resorts in Puerto Vallarta (Adults Only) Guide

There are four factors you may want to consider when selecting your ideal adults-only all-inclusive resort in Puerto Vallarta. This guide includes such factors as choosing a resort that has the luxury accommodations and amenities you seek. It also looks at what’s included in all-inclusive packages, the importance of location and scenery, and the adults-only atmosphere.

All-Inclusive Amenities

Study the resort’s all-inclusive packages before reserving your stay. This ensures that the package provides good value for your money.

Determine if the amenities most important to you are included, whether that includes meals, snacks, beverages, or activities. This will help minimize unexpected expenses during your vacation.

Take a look at special promotions or discounts as well, as you’ll sometimes find honeymoon or romance packages to enhance your stay. By considering all of the inclusions in an all-inclusive package, you can make an informed decision that takes your most important needs in mind.

Location and Scenery

Decide in advance what location is most important to you. Do you prefer a city’s nightlife and shopping? Consider a resort located in the city center. If a beachfront resort is more your speed, seek out resorts that are located close to the best beaches.

For those wanting the recreation and scenery the coast offers, Hilton Vallarta Riviera has stunning views of both the mountains and Banderas Bay. To stay in the heart of Puerto Vallarta, Casa Kimberly may be a better option for its central location and unique architecture and backstory.

Adults-Only Atmosphere

If it’s important to have an adults-only environment in Puerto Vallarta, check with the resort beforehand to ensure that all guests are over a certain age. This offers a more tranquil, and sometimes sophisticated environment than resorts that cater to families and offer kids clubs and activities.

Look for resorts that enforce the age limits to ensure your stay fits your desired adults-only status and activities tailored to your interests.

Once you’ve found an adults-only resort in Mexico, check out some of the extra activities and amenities tailored specifically toward adult interests.

Luxurious Accommodations

Read reviews and check out the resort’s website and photos to choose a resort with high-quality accommodations and luxury amenities. Seek out rooms and suites that are spacious and functional, provide gourmet dining options, and premium liquor and beverage selections if it’s an all-inclusive stay, depending on your needs and interests.

Also look for other important amenities and activities such as spa facilities, and any recreational activities you may enjoy such as yoga classes, water activities, or live entertainment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What amenities are included in an all-inclusive package.

The amenities included in an all-inclusive package in Puerto Vallarta can vary by resort or destination. Most typically include the cost of your room or suite, meals, beverages, activities, entertainment, and resort facilities. Check in advance whether gratuities are included in the package.

Since each resort varies, check in advance whether the resort covers top-shelf alcohol, or beer and wine at meals. Also check that desired activities such as spa treatments, snorkeling, or a guided day of fishing are included in your particular package.

Always check for additional fees or limitations, and whether there are optional upgrades.

Are alcoholic beverages included in the all-inclusive package?

Yes, alcoholic beverages are typically included in the all-inclusive packages at resorts. Each resort may have stipulations, so check in advance to make sure a specific selection is included in the package. There may be an additional charge for certain spirits.

In most cases, the all-inclusive package includes a range of domestic and international alcoholic beverages such as beer, wine, cocktails, and spirits.

How far is the resort from the airport and downtown Puerto Vallarta?

The distance between a resort in Puerto Vallarta and the airport can vary, depending if the resort is downtown or located along the beachfront.

For example, our best overall pick of Casa Velas is just 1.2 miles from the Puerto Vallarta International Airport to the resort. In comparison, Villa Lala’s beachfront location is 16 miles from the airport to the resort.

Since distances may vary, be sure and inquire about transportation options. Does the resort offer a shuttle? Are there rideshare options available?

What dining options are available at the resort, and are reservations required?

Each resort or property will have its specific dining options. Generally, though, you can often expect to find these options at an all-inclusive resort: buffet restaurants, a la carte restaurants, snack bars, poolside bars and grills, and room service. Check out the restaurant options in advance to be sure you’ll find the cuisine you crave.

For reservations, it depends on the resort and its dining venues. For example, buffet restaurants, bars and grills, and room service don’t require reservations, but some of the restaurant venues might. Check with the resort beforehand so there aren’t any surprises regarding policies for reservations.

Are there dress codes for the restaurants or evening entertainment?

Many resorts in Puerto Vallarta have dress codes for their restaurants and evening entertainment venues. Inquire in advance so you know what level of dress to pack for your vacation.

Generally, most buffet restaurants, snack bars, and casual dining venues allow for comfortable, casual attire. Others may require “resort casual,” which may be appropriate for some evening entertainment or restaurants. It’s a bit dressier than casual, but not quite formal or elegant. Some of the upscale restaurants or evening entertainment may have a formal dress code.

Since dress codes vary by resort, be sure and inquire in advance.

When looking for hotels in Puerto Vallarta, you’ll find the ideal destination for luxury, relaxation, and all-inclusive resorts experiences designed for the adult traveler.

With its vibrant culture, stunning beaches, and top-notch hospitality, you’ll find an array of exceptional adults-only resorts. All of the resorts mentioned offer lavish accommodations, gourmet dining, and exciting activities and entertainment to make your trip complete.

Our top choice, Casa Velas stands out for its luxurious suites with elegant décor, premium amenities, gourmet dining options, exclusive golf experience, world-class spa facilities, and impeccable service and hospitality. It provides every aspect of the perfect all-inclusive adults-only getaway in a stunning setting.

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In 2015, Jill Dutton started traveling the world to explore culture and place through storytelling, writing about the people she meets along the way. Readers of her articles have come to expect an intimate look at authentic travel experiences. Jill's podcast, Global Journeys with Jill Dutton is ranked #22 in FeedSpot’s “Best Travel Podcasts on the Planet.” Listen to a podcast episode, read her syndicated food column -- Global Plates: The People We Meet, The Food They Eat, or follow her travels at https://globaljourneyswithjilldutton.com/.

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