For many Americans, Mexico is a go-to destination for its beautiful beaches, rich culture, and vibrant cities. However, ongoing security concerns have led the U.S. State Department to issue stern travel advisories for several regions. Understanding these warnings is crucial for anyone planning a trip south of the border.
Understanding the Travel Advisory System
The U.S. State Department uses a four-level system to communicate travel risks:
- Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions – This is the lowest advisory level for safety and security risks.
- Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution – Be aware of heightened risks to safety and security.
- Level 3: Reconsider Travel – Avoid travel due to serious risks.
- Level 4: Do Not Travel – This is the highest advisory level due to greater likelihood of life-threatening risks.
As of early 2026, several Mexican states carry the most severe Level 4 “Do Not Travel” designation, primarily due to threats of cartel and gang violence, kidnappings, and general lawlessness.
Mexican States Under “Do Not Travel” Advisories
The State Department advises U.S. citizens to avoid all travel to the following states:
- Colima: Widespread violent crime and gang activity.
- Guerrero: Home to the resort city of Acapulco, but plagued by crime outside tourist zones.
- Michoacán: A key region for cartel activity and violence.
- Sinaloa: A major center of cartel operations.
- Tamaulipas: Notorious for kidnappings and armed robberies, especially along the border.
- Zacatecas: Intense cartel conflicts over trafficking routes.
Travel to these areas is strongly discouraged for any reason, including tourism. U.S. government employees are typically prohibited from traveling to these states.
States Where You Should “Reconsider Travel”
An even larger group of states carries a Level 3 “Reconsider Travel” advisory. This includes popular tourist destinations, meaning travelers must be exceptionally vigilant. These states are:
- Baja California
- Chihuahua
- Durango
- Guanajuato
- Jalisco (which includes Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta)
- Morelos
- Sonora
In these areas, crime can occur anywhere and often targets tourists. Violent incidents like shootings, kidnappings, and carjackings are common. While major resort areas often have enhanced security, the State Department warns that violence can spill over even into these zones.
Staying Safe If You Travel
If you choose to travel to areas under advisories, taking proactive safety measures is non-negotiable.
- Stay in Tourist Zones: Remain within well-known tourist areas and reputable resorts.
- Be Low-Profile: Avoid displaying signs of wealth like expensive jewelry or watches.
- Travel During Daylight: Avoid driving at night, especially in rural areas.
- Use Official Transportation: Only use regulated taxi services or transportation arranged by your hotel.
- Enroll in STEP: Enroll in the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts and make it easier for officials to assist you in an emergency.
The Bottom Line for Travelers
While millions of Americans visit Mexico safely each year, the security landscape is complex and varies dramatically by region. The key to a safe trip is thorough research and heeding official guidance. Always check the latest State Department travel advisories for Mexico before booking your trip and right before you depart, as conditions can change rapidly. Your safety depends on staying informed and exercising heightened caution in areas of known risk.
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