travel advisory for acapulco mexico

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Is Acapulco Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

Mexico : Safety by City

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Acapulco, affectionately known as the “Riviera of Mexico,” is a city and port on the Pacific coast of southwestern Mexico, in the state of Guerrero.

Popular since the 1950s, Acapulco’s picturesque beaches and mountains, robust nightlife, and international clientele once attracted the likes of Elizabeth Taylor, John F. Kennedy, and Judy Garland.

Today, Acapulco remains a popular travel destination for Mexicans and international travelers alike.

However, despite its beautiful scenery and tantalizing tourist attractions, there are some important safety issues to consider before deciding whether a trip to Acapulco is right for your group.

To make sure you’re able to make a well-informed decision, please read on to learn the most recent information and recommendations about visiting Acapulco, Mexico.

• Warnings & Dangers in Acapulco

OVERALL RISK: HIGH

Currently, the U.S. Department of State is advising that Americans not travel to the Mexican state of Guerrero, where Acapulco is located, due to both high levels of COVID-19 in the country, and rampant crime and kidnapping in Guerrero specifically.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM

It is advised that travelers rely on Uber and regulated taxi stands while visiting Acapulco. It’s safest to refrain from hailing cars on the street and to avoid traveling between cities after dark or traveling alone. Whenever possible, travel with a companion, travel during the day, and always let someone know where you are going if leaving the city area.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: HIGH

Thieves and pickpockets commonly frequent high-traffic tourist destinations, and prey on unsuspecting out-of-town visitors. For this reason, it’s important to be self-aware in public areas and to be sure that your valuables, money, identification, and important papers are always secured.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW

The most likely natural disaster to affect Acapulco is an earthquake, however, this is very unlikely to be a factor during your trip. The most recent major earthquake to hit Acapulco was a 7.0 magnitude quake with an epicenter about 11 miles northeast of Acapulco in September of 2021. While some buildings were damaged, and some landslides and gas leaks were triggered by the earthquake, there was no major damage to the city or tourist areas.

MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM

Muggings can be common in Acapulco; however, tourists are not often the target of these crimes. To maintain your safety, be sure not to walk through secluded or dangerous areas alone at night. If you do find yourself a victim of a mugging, do not resist. Give the muggers what they are asking for to avoid the encounter becoming more violent. Losing some money is always better than putting your life at risk.

TERRORISM RISK: LOW

While there is a risk of terrorism in all high-traffic vacation areas, the relative risk of terrorism in Acapulco is quite low. Acapulco has not been a target of terrorist groups in the past, and there are currently no credible public threats against the area. However, as always, you should remain vigilant in crowded areas, just as you would in any city or tourist destination.

SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM

It’s not uncommon in Acapulco for unsuspecting tourists to be victims of a scam. Knowing what to look for can help you to avoid finding yourself in a scam situation. One common type of scam in Acapulco is locals pretending to be law enforcement and demanding money for something they’ve alleged you’ve done.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW

Acapulco poses the same type of risks present for female travels at any tourist destination but doesn’t demonstrate a high level of crime against women. Most of the crime in the state of Guerrero is related to gangs and drug cartels, so if you stay away from that type of activity, you shouldn’t be a target. However, women traveling alone to any destination should always be alert and aware of their surroundings.

TAP WATER RISK: HIGH

While locals may have no trouble drinking tap water, tourists are encouraged to stick to bottled water at all times. Mexican tap water, including in the Acapulco region, is known to cause gastrointestinal distress in people not used to drinking it. To avoid your trip being interrupted by stomach problems, steer clear of tap water.

• Safest Places to Visit in Acapulco

The safest way to explore Acapulco is to make sure you remain in tourist areas, and refrain from wandering too far from the beaten path, especially at night, or on your own.

That said, there are many exciting places to visit within the tourist corridor.

One of the most popular Acapulco attractions is watching the clavadistas, or cliff divers, at Quebrada.

These daring young athletes put on several cliff-diving shows each day and are truly breathtaking to watch.

For something a little more subdued, try relaxing on one of Acapulco’s beautiful beaches.

For a memorable end to your day, you can gather with other tourists and locals to watch the sunset at Sinfonia del Mar, an outdoor theatre near the Quebrada.

• Places to Avoid in Acapulco

To remain safe, avoid the less touristy areas of Acapulco, especially if traveling alone.

Residential areas of the city tend to have higher rates of both petty and violent crimes.

Additionally, do not venture out into other areas of Guerrero, as the state has a much higher crime rate than Acapulco itself.

Refrain from taking unlicensed taxis anywhere in the area and stick to reputable transportation companies recommended to you by the staff at your resort, or a police officer.

While there has been an increase in violent crime in Acapulco, much of this has been caused by drug trafficking, land rights, and conflicts between the cartels.

If you avoid the secluded and residential areas of the city, you should not encounter this type of threat.

• Safety Tips for Traveling to Acapulco
• Choose the right resort. Before traveling, do your research. Be sure to choose a resort that not only meets your party’s needs, but also one that is reputable, well-reviewed by international travelers, and located in a safe area within Acapulco’s tourist district.
• Have a plan for getting from the airport to your resort. Before landing in Acapulco, know how you will travel to your hotel. Do not flag down an unregistered cab. Make sure to use a licensed taxi company, or hire a driver through a regulated platform, such as Uber.
• Make use of your in-room safe. Leave valuables, cash, and jewelry locked in your safe. Only take what you need for the day, including minimal amounts of cash. Avoid wearing expensive jewelry in public, as doing so can make you a target of thieves and pickpockets.
• Rely on your credit cards.   Most restaurants and businesses will accept credit cards, particularly Visa and Mastercard. Rather than traveling with large amounts of cash, try to primarily use your credit card. Not only will this make you less of a target, but if your card is stolen or misplaced, it is much easier to cancel your card and order a new one than it is to recover stolen cash.
• Blend in. When out and about, try to keep a low profile. Don’t dress in a way that is too flashy, or automatically identifies you as a tourist. Don’t flash expensive electronics or purses, as this can make you a target for thieves. Try not to use travel books or tourist maps while exploring the city, especially after dark.
• Plan most of your activities during the daytime. Like many cities and urban areas around the world, Acapulco is generally safer during the day than it is at nighttime. Whenever possible, try to schedule your excursions and adventures during the day, and stay close to your resort after it gets dark.
• Don’t branch out on your own. Whether you’re vacationing on your own, or want to branch out from your party, refrain from exploring the city on your own. Whenever possible, explore with a partner. If you must travel on your own, stick to the tourist areas, and don’t go out alone at night.
• Avoid residential areas. Tourism is a main source of income for Acapulco, and even the drug cartels know it. For this reason, they will usually avoid tourist areas. Most violent crime happens in residential areas, away from visitors. To remain safe on your trip, stay away from quieter and more secluded residential neighborhoods.
• Limit travel between cities. While many Mexican cities are popular international vacation destinations, traveling from one to the other often means crossing through dangerous rural areas of the country, where crime rates are higher. If you must travel between cities, stick to the main roads, and try to stay in populated areas.
• Be vigilant. As in any international city, the best way to stay safe is to remain vigilant. Don’t have your head buried in a guidebook or focused on your smartphone. Look around. Know where you are at all times. Be aware of exits in public places. Keep an eye out for suspicious activity. The most powerful tools in maintaining your personal safety are awareness and common sense.
• So... How Safe Is Acapulco Really?

Although relatively safe in tourist-heavy areas, Acapulco is not a safe place to visit at the present time.

The U.S. Department of State has issued a level four travel advisory for the Mexican state of Guerrero, where Acapulco is located.

This is the highest level of advisory, labeling Guerrero as a “Do Not Travel” destination.

This is due to widespread crime and kidnapping throughout the state, including Acapulco. U.S. Government employees are currently forbidden from entering Acapulco, which means it would be difficult to receive U.S. Government assistance if you were the victim of a crime during your visit.

Additionally, the Department of State has issued a level three warning (“Reconsider Travel”) for the entire country of Mexico, due to high rates of COVID-19 infection.

Effective December 6, 2021, all travelers boarding international flights to the United States must show a negative COVID-19 test result taken no more than 24 hours before departure, according to the CDC.

While traveling, masks must be worn on airplanes, and at airports within the United States.

Due to both the high rate of violent crime in Guerrero and the prevalence of COVID-19 throughout Mexico, it is not currently safe to visit Acapulco.

If possible, consider rescheduling or postponing your trip until a later date.

If you can’t alter your travel plans, be sure to take every safety precaution possible, and practice smart COVID-19 prevention, such as frequently washing your hands, social distancing, and wearing a face mask when appropriate.

• How Does Acapulco Compare?
• Useful Information

Visas are not required when vacationing in Acapulco unless your trip will last more than 180 days. Instead, if staying in Mexico longer than 72 hours, U.S. tourists must buy an FM-T or tourist card. If you’re flying, this is most likely included in the price of your ticket. If you’re entering via land or sea, a tourist card can be purchased for around $20 at Mexican border crossings, consulates, or tourism offices.

The currency in Acapulco is the Mexican Peso (MXN.) Though the exchange rate fluctuates, as of December 2021, $1.00 USD equals roughly 20 pesos. If possible, it’s best to exchange your money for pesos at home before traveling. Additionally, many tourist locations in Acapulco accept the U.S. dollar, as well as major credit cards.

Acapulco features a tropical climate, with an average daily temperature of about 82 degrees. Average lows and highs range from approximately 76 to 88 degrees year-round. The year is split into a dry season, which lasts from November through May, and a rainy season, stretching from June through October.  Due to the consistently warm temperatures, it’s advised to pack lightweight summer clothes, perhaps with a warmer outfit or two for the cooler nights.

The closest airport to Acapulco is General Juan N. Alvarez International Airport, located about 26 kilometers from the city center. The easiest and safest way to get from the airport to your destination is by hiring a licensed taxicab or using a rideshare service, such as Uber.

Travel Insurance

There are many different companies that provide trip and travel insurance with varying degrees of coverage and at different price points. If you are interested in protecting your trip in the event that you must cancel or postpone, it’s advised to purchase travel insurance upfront, either through a travel agent, or other reputable sources.

Acapulco Weather Averages (Temperatures)

• Average High/Low Temperature

Mexico - Safety by City

• Where to Next?

27 Reviews on Acapulco

My experience at the border.

Went to Juarez for a few hours in the morning had fun they never even asked me for my ID. I had issues on the U.S side I was accused by ICE of transportating drugs and crimes that I did not do. I have no criminal history. Not advisable to go unless you have a week or so to go through customs.

Bull, went many years ago and never had any problems getting through customs or any y borders

Acapulco review

I have traveled here multiple times I have family who lives in Acapulco and have been all over the city and have never once ran in to any issues. When traveling ANY were just travel smart. I live in Oregon, even when you go out of state you have to be cautious. If you aren’t looking for trouble, acting respectfully, and paying attention to your surroundings you will have a safe and relaxing trip. 🙂 highly recommend imperial Mundo hotel and Acasol! Don’t forget to watch the cliff divers at La Quebrada 👍🏼

My daughter n I want to visit Acapulco but I’m wondering is it safe to go, we were thinking of going in March or april. Is old Acapulco safe?

I have been going every year since 1999 in February or March. I recommend staying at Las Brisas

Great Question....Not an Easy Answer

I grew up going to Acapulco because I had family members living their in the winters. The weather is great. The views are incredible. It is not what it used to be. I have been there 3 or 4 times over the last couple of years and I have had a number of uncomfortable experiences. It comes with the territory. I suggest staying in Costa Azul, near Las Brisas or Diamante. La Isla Mall is great and the restaurants are very good in the Diamante area. Going further downtown brings more risk at night. The Acapulco Princess still is a great hotel. I like Hotel Elcano or Dreams Acapulco which used to be the Hyatt. Dreams is an all inclusive packaged rate. It is very helpful if you speak Spanish. Almost a necessity. Here are some of my experiences.

1. I was pulled once for taking a left hand turn in the wrong lane. It was my fault because of a strange extra turning lane that is on the right of the main road in Diamante. The motorcycle police officer was nice and let me go but later changed his mind. He wanted to take my license and give me a ticket. I gave him about $75 ($1,500 pesos) to get rid of him.

2. I was pulled over for supposedly going through a red light but that is not what I recall. The motorcycle police officer wanted to take my license and give me a ticket. He showed me a list of infractions and what they cost. I paid him the cost which was around $1,000 pesos). They are able to recognize rental car license plates. That is what I was told. They look for the Gringos.

3. At 2 AM near Diana Circle, there was a car chase with the second car shooting at the front car. The innocent drivers pulled over and let them do their business, take a right turn going toward the highway into the hills. Everyone got back on the road and drive away like nothing happened. Absolutely true.

4. I was sitting at an outside table at the Starbucks in Costa Azul on the Costera near Sanborns. Across the street, on the side going toward the hills, there were gun shots and two three cab drivers will killed. It was on the side street and the shooters must have run away from the Costera because there are Military Police in Jeeps driving around with machine guns consistently. They ran away. I did nothing. I wasn’t interested in letting them ruin my latte and I knew the shooters would not run into the Costera. People just went about this business after it happened.

The shootings occur but they are not seemingly related to tourists.

People on the street and also that work at hotels who will very possibly ask you for money. It is understandable why. DO NOT TAKE CABS WITH THE YELLOW STRIPES. Those are cabs that take multiple passengers and mainly for the locals. Take the ones that are white with the blue stripes. It is beautiful city. It really is. Unfortunately, it has its baggage. If you decide to go, stay in the areas that I mentioned and you should be fine. Enjoy!!

The most magical place in the world.

I feel sad for people who don’t go to Acapulco because of fear. They are missing out on the most magical place in the world. You say you go to Tulum and Playa del Carmen because Acapulco is dangerous. I’ve been telling you for years that Tulum and Playa are now way more dangerous and that the media is paid by the tourism board of the state of Quintana Roo where Tulum, Cancun and playa are. There is a lot of investment there so they don’t tell you what happens. Don’t forget how dangerous it is also in your home town. Just be safe no matter where you go!!!

Lived here for 20 years and only seen 1 shooting in person. Been there 2 weeks and seen two on the same weekend. I think the choice is clear. You can stay there and not try to convince ldiots to go there

You are not in control

Most crimes happen out of your control. You act like you have full control of what criminals do.

Best 30 year destination

I went there for over 30 years and am reluctant to go back. Always stayed at the Princess and it was like coming home for us, people knew our names and always went into the city to eat and have fun. Loved going to Paradise and pretending it was my birthday, haha. First trip was 1978, last was 2004

We own a Beachfront High rise Condo in Acapulco for 13 years now, I been traveling there for over 25 years,, I seen it in Good times and in their bad times, I never personally had any safety issues there, I love it there the People are hard working and Friendly The Bay there is Beautiful , the Beaches are Beautiful, they have many outstanding Restaurants , I personal feel we have just as much crime there as we do in the States , Yes there are areas you definitely show stay clear of just like here in the States ,, I take my Family and Friends there and share the Beauty with them, If I felt unsafe I surely wouldn’t take my loved ones there,,

Do they offer English writing lessons there?

Best comment ever! ROTF

Can’t beat double commas

Please take me! I love Acapulco!

Superb destination

Had a wonderful trip until I was decapitated. Minor inconvenience. Best to ignore such trivialities. Looking forward to going again and due to my recent bodily modification, movie goers sitting behind me complain a whole lot less.

Seriously, go to Acapulco if you want to experience real Mexico where tourism doesn’t influence everything. Guadalajara is another example. The cliff divers of Quebrada are boring. Hard to believe athletes can be so chubby. Risking their lives for the amusement of tourists. Should be illegal. The women are gorgeous, family life thrives, the men and women are dedicated to their families, the children have much hope for the future thanks to ample parental support, the history of Mexico is deep and fascinating, the culture rich in complexity and irony…..all in all a swell place to go.

Hide your MOST of your money well though always have at least $20 for muggers, don’t display ANY signs of wealth like a camera or phone, practice sprinting, wear shoes good for walking/running in case of an emergency, don’t eat junk food, get lots of sleep….normal precautions when you travel anywhere so you’re full of energy and well rested.

If you like water snorkel at La Roqueta island (OK visibility), see crashing beach surf at Pie de la Cuesta, try body surfing at Playa Revolcadero, get food at the huge downtown market and above all else, if you feel sick do NOT take pills. Rather find a source of purified water and drink only that at room temperature for a of couple days until you feel better. Then you’ll build an immunity to the bacteria/virus that made you sick. Pills are useless.

If you have some time Zihuatanejo to the north and Puerto Escondido to the south and Huatulco south of that are relatively close and very different. All well worth seeing.

Be a traveller, not a toursit, talk in depth to the locals, learn a few popular Spanish slang words to break the ice and you’ll have an experience you’ll never forget instead of a mad dash of escapism to get a break from a dreaded job.

Questionnaire

Of all the comments, on all the ex pats in Mexico forums, yours is hands down the best! And most informative…

Could I possibly pick your brain?

Need to be pointed in the direction of a forum containing boots on the ground ex pats and good data including where to search (online) for affordable furnished 6 month accommodations?

I’m an older Canadian gringa. Unafraid of possible decapitation.

Would you known of a “locals Acapulco” site I can peruse for solid info? Cannot find ANY such board…

San Miguel has an “ex pat” (former yahoo groups) site, however terribly boring frightened elderly folks post nonsense, daily. Double or single vaccinated, driving to the border for booster shots, local mask, social distancing and Covid protocols, as well as announcements about the latest R.I.P.

There will be an ex pat celebration of “life”. Please wear your mask and kindly show your vax passport to our Covid Ambassador who’ll be stationed at the entrance?

I believe I would die quickly there too. Of boredom.

I have zero interest in relocating there.

Nothing about PV ever interested me either.

That leaves Puerto Escondido. (Wondering whether the main street is still dirt?)

Or Acapulco.

Now there’s a city which holds a lot of attraction for me.

Would Acapulco Bob, or anyone else, kindly reply to my query?

Muchas Gracias por su ayuda.

It’s safe!!!

Just got back home to Vancouver tonight. I couldn’t sleep unless I voiced my opinion on the beautiful destination of Acapulco. I’m happy to dispel ( in my opinion)any notion of this being a dangerous town( at least where the tourist areas are) From what I hear, the new mayor has made a huge clean-up of the town’s It’s a very clean city I’m already planing on booking my return back there! Lols Safe for everyone using common sense. P.S. : Hotsson Smart is beautiful great hotel! Go and enjoy / Book now Be ahead of the masses, this town defiantly is on its way to making a comeback!

acapolco is safe

one of the most beautiful city in the world and a beautiful bay sunsets are the best in the world, just be sensible, we felt very safe at the beach walking around, food is great people are nice very nice, been all over Mexico Acapulco is the most beautiful city in Mexico don’t worry be happy.

Acapulco Beachfront Condo Fabulous View! Affordable Too!

A favourite place in the tropical sun is here at my Affordable Acapulco Beachfront Condo with fabulous views right on Acapulco Bay! The studio’s panoramic 270 degree view of Acapulco Bay, city lights and Sierra Madre mountains is candy to my eye. For the past 14 years, it has allowed me to write novels and paint local scenes in peace and total privacy. From my very private terraza, I watch the sun rise in the morning while having breakfast. Perhaps later, viewing a sailing regatta, a cruise ship arrival, fascinating marine life in the reef below. Take in a museum, an old historic fort and maybe some markets, mariachi bands with lunch at a beachside restaurant. Beach time or pool time might round out the afternoon. Then, as the city lights begin to sparkle, watching the very colorful sunset while having dinner on my terraza with the golden illumination of the navy’s sailing ship lit up and the dazzling displays of fireworks from weekend dinner celebrations ringing Acapulco Bay. I have other favorite places which are similar in lifestyle – an Aloha Beach Condo in Kona on the island of Hawaii and a mountaintop aerie overlooking a panorama from Vancouver’s snow-capped Coastal Mountains, towards Seattle and the Olympic Mountains, all from above Victoria harbor on Vancouver Island in Canada.

Much better than it was.

“Going further downtown brings more risk at night.” Nah, I disagree. I own a place at the end of the Costera by Playa Caleta. Pretty much anyplace along the Costera (main road along the bay) are equal in terms of safety. My area is just quieter at night, nothing to do for tourists. Most of the tourist action at night runs from the Naval Base to just before Park Papagayo, then dies out. Though the area by the Zocalo is picking up again in the evenings with locals.

I love Caleta. I lived over there with my Mexican husband. I loved how quiet it was but if you wanted to hit the strip it wasn’t far. I really miss it!! I’m going for the month of February and will definitely take a trip over for old times sake. See if my favourite restaurant on tye beach is there.

I’ve been going to Acapulco for past 7 yrs. I LOVE. Have many friends there now. Did not go this yr. because of Covid .Miss being there. I’m SAD.

May I share that Acapulco keeps calling me; 2 visit again, and again, despite not being there, for 15 yrs. Wish me success; bc, I am planning 2 return.

I LOVE ACAPULCO!!❤️❤️

I LOVE Acapulco. I have been going since 1985. Yes it has changed immensely which is sad but it’s still my beautiful Acapulco. I lived there for six months from 1989 to 1990 and have been there 33 times. I was married to a man from there. Unfortunately that didn’t work out but through him I saw the real Acapulco and it’s amazing. The people are warm, good hearted, hard working and would give you the shirt off their sometimes very poor backs. Also very hospitable. You have to keep your wits about you but the main thing is to be respectful and kind to the locals. They will be a friend forever if you are. You have to see things from their side too. They see people coming on vacation from other countries like Canada, the US, Europe, etc. They see the money we have. My friends all work at bars and restaurants and they rely on tips so tipping them well goes a long way. It’s a beautiful, magical place and I doubt you’d be sorry you went. Stay at your resort and if you go on tours make sure they’re arranged through your hotel. If you go outside your resort or hotel just stick to the Costera (the main strip) and you will be fine. There is a strong military presence on the streets but that made me feel safer. They actually looked really bored so I asked to get a picture taken with them. Lol. That made their night. I feel nowhere is totally safe these days so honestly you should be fine there. I’m going for the month of February. I’m staying at the HS Hotsson which is a beautiful hotel, all inclusive, on the main strip and close to everything. I hope this helps anyone thinking about going. You will love it.

I live in Acapulco…and American widowed female …when my husband was alive we were here every winter…became pregnant with my oldest son here and he is 50! I am from NYC.. apartment in Manhattan… so maybe is am used to being in a busy city … like anywhere else in the world you don’t do stupid things… do I walk down the mountain myself at night … no … just the same way I am cautious in NYC!

The people of this city are lovely … do you come across idiots…yes … but duh NYC is loaded with them!

The weather is amazing … the vistas are sensational… great food..lovely people…much more courteous than most people from NYC!

Scariest Taxi Ride Ever

Had a very bad experience in a taxi in Acapulco in the late 90’s where the driver drove off the highway and proceeded to drive into the hills which was pitch black before he stopped at a derelict shack where he got out the car and approached 2 other men who were sitting on a bench. To say I was petrified was an understatement. The men came over to the car and looked in at me and said something to the driver who then got back in car accompanied by one of the men who sat in the front seat. Petrified I said ‘hotel, hotel’ and he said nothing. Luckily I saw the lights of the highway and beach approaching as he drove and further on he pulled into the gas station where the other man helped him fill the car with gas. He then took me back to my hotel. Scariest 30 mins ever.

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Article Contents

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

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US issues Mexico 'increased caution' warning for spring break travelers

The U.S. Embassy and Consulates in Mexico has issued a spring break travel warning for Americans planning to visit the country. The message posted on Monday highlighted a range of potential safety threats in the popular destination like crime.

“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 advisory said, though it noted that crime can occur anywhere in Mexico. The U.S. State Department's travel advisory for the country notes various warning levels for different states, ranging from Level 1 (“exercise normal precautions") through 4 (“do not travel”).

The message also warned of other potential hazards like unregulated alcohol and pharmaceuticals. “Unregulated alcohol may be contaminated, and U.S. citizens have reported losing consciousness or becoming injured after consuming alcohol that was possibly tainted,” the advisory said. 

The U.S. Embassy and Consulates noted that counterfeit medication is “common” and could be ineffective or an incorrect strength. Those products may also have dangerous ingredients. “Medication should be purchased in consultation with a medical professional and from reputable establishments,” the message said.

Why some travelers are skipping the US: 'You guys are not afraid of this?'

Learn more: Best travel insurance

The advisory warned of drowning and high private hospital prices, as well, among other risks. The message urged travelers to take precautions like keeping an eye on their drinks; staying with a group of friends in bars and clubs, while walking in dark areas or in taxis at night; and letting family and friends know about their travel plans.

Despite the warning, however, it noted that “the vast majority” of U.S. citizens visiting Mexico at spring break each year do so safely.

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].

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Acapulco Travel Guide: Safe to Visit? [2024]

· [updated in october 2023] in this post, we’ll answer the question “is acapulco safe to visit” as well as explain how to get there, the top things to do, the best restaurants, and more. ·.

If you’ve been considering a beach getaway in Mexico, the odds are that Acapulco has come up as an option. Known for its long, semi-circular bay on the Pacific Ocean and its popularity with celebrities in the 50s and 60s like Frank Sinatra and Elvis Presley, Acapulco is a resort city that absolutely deserves a visit.

As a couple living in Mexico, we traveled to many of the popular beach destinations, and we’d definitely put Acapulco among the top beach destinations in Mexico , along with other popular tourist destinations like Playa del Carmen, Cozumel, Cabo San Lucas, and Puerto Vallarta.

As great of a city as it is, many people find themselves wondering about safety in Acapulco. While the area has earned a bad reputation over recent years, things seem to have improved a lot. We’ll get into more detail on that later. Whether you’ve already decided to pay the city a visit or you’re still making up your mind, this post is for you.

Whether you’ve already decided to pay Acapulco a visit or you’re still making up your mind, this post is for you.

– R E A D –

This post contains affiliate links through which we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products I would use myself and all opinions expressed here are our own.

Is Acapulco Safe to Visit?

Safety in Acapulco is an interesting topic because depending on who you ask, you get two entirely different viewpoints. There are those who are really worried about visiting the city asking questions like “are there drug cartels in Acapulco?” and then there are the skeptics who don’t believe it can possibly be that bad, asking things like “is it really that dangerous?”

The Fears About Acapulco Are Valid

I don’t want to dismiss anyone’s fears. Fears are valid, especially when planning a trip to Acapulco. First and foremost, I’ll be clear in saying that this city is definitely not one of the safest places in Mexico . The city has gotten some negative news coverage over the past decade as crime rates skyrocketed and it became one of the most dangerous places in Mexico.

Stories of kidnappings, sexual assaults, murders, and robberies emerged left and right, and many of those stories are indisputably true. Still, there are some mitigating factors that tend to go unmentioned.

So is it really that dangerous? Nah. Not as long as you follow the steps we’re about to give you!

The Violence Is not Usually Against Tourists

Firstly, the violence was hardly ever targeted at tourists. Mexico’s economy is extremely dependent on tourism, and even criminal organizations know that tourists in tourist zones are to be left alone – especially foreign tourists. The violence in most of Mexico’s dangerous cities takes place outside of the city and is specifically targeted toward rival gang members engaging in criminal activity.

Mexico is not nearly as dangerous as the press and the U.S. State Department travel advisory page make it out to be, and we didn’t have a single reason to be scared the entire time we lived there. While some parts of Mexico report a high crime rate driven by gang violence and other drug-related violence, the bigger threat almost anywhere in Mexico is petty crime, just like in the United States.

Is Acapulco Really Dangerous?

Nah. Not as long as you follow the steps we’re about to give you and use your common sense! Acapulco is by no means an especially safe place, but it is not nearly the hotbed of crime that it used to be.

Most violent crimes occur in remote areas, and any involvement of international tourists usually just has to do with them, unfortunately, being in the wrong place at the wrong time.

Acapulco Safety Tips

Just like any popular tourist area, you still should take these general precautionary steps to make sure that your vacation goes smoothly:

Try to stay in a hotel or resort that offers an in-room safe and leave whatever you don’t need for the day in your room.

Even though violent crime toward tourists is very low, carrying wads of cash and wearing nice jewelry isn’t the best choice anywhere in Mexico.

Don’t flash shiny expensive items in anyone’s face

Most places in the Zona Dorada accept credit card payments, including Visa and Mastercard. You won’t need large amounts of cash in this area.

If you’re going for a day trip to any of the places we list below, it might be a good idea to bring some more cash, as these areas operate more so on a cash-only basis. If you bring only what you need and you don’t flash shiny expensive items in anyone’s face, you’re probably going to be fine.

Don’t do too much after dark

Do most of your exploring during the day and make sure anything you do after sunset is fairly close to your hotel or resort. The best way to avoid crime in Acapulco is to stay in popular tourist areas after dark and only venture further out during daylight hours.

In the event that something does happen, 911 is the emergency number in Mexico just like in the United States. There are also police everywhere, and you can yell “policía” if you really need a police officer to assist you.

So all in all, is Acapulco safe for American tourists to visit in 2024? Absolutely. It is a beautiful beach destination that is safe for Non-American and American travelers to visit, so long as they exercise caution.

Best Things to Do in Acapulco

This post outlines the best things to do in Acapulco other than the beach. I understand that if you’re heading to Acapulco, you probably want to visit some of the best beaches that Mexico’s Pacific coast has to offer…don’t worry! For this reason, I advise you check out my Acapulco Beach Guide , where I go in-depth on the best beaches in the area.

Naturally, you can’t spend all of your time at the beach. If you’re interested in learning about the best things to do in Acapulco other than the beach, this next section is for you.

1. Watch the La Quebrada Cliff Divers

Located on the western end of the city about a quarter of a mile from the Zocalo, you’ll find the famous site of La Quebrada . Recognized as the tallest organized cliff dive in the world, a team of divers has been jumping from the 80-foot ledge for almost 90 years. The divers put on shows every day at 13:00, 19:30, 20:30, 21:30, and 22:30.

We went to the afternoon show and absolutely loved it, but the night shows are said to be even better because the divers dive with torches! The thing that makes these dives so famous is the extremely shallow water that the men dive into. They need to time their dives perfectly because even when a wave comes in and the water is at its highest, it is only 12 feet deep.

If you want a real VIP experience you can grab a table at La Perla restaurant which overlooks the cliffs.

Tickets are cheap and can be bought right at the entrance, but if you want a real VIP experience you can grab a table at La Perla restaurant which overlooks the cliffs. The food and service are great, and you will get a spectacular view of the bay and the cliffs.

2. Go Hiking on Isla de la Roqueta

Another one of the best things to do in Acapulco is to visit Isla de la Roqueta. Located just south of Playa Caleta you’ll find Isla de la Roqueta, or La Roqueta for short. Ferries depart Playa Caleta all day long and only take around 8 minutes to arrive at the island.

This island is known for its beautiful woods, a zoo with local wildlife, a lighthouse with fantastic views, and waters that are significantly clearer than most of the other beaches along the bay. The island’s dock is right next to its biggest and most populated beach and you’ll find plenty of food options there.

If you’re feeling more adventurous, there are numerous hidden and secluded beaches that require a minor hike through the woods. We hiked for around 40 minutes and wound up at Playa de Los Enamorados which was absolutely beautiful and you can find it here on Google Maps! We’d advise you to pack a picnic lunch and hike around the island until you find a pretty lookout point.

If you choose to visit the island, you will buy a round-trip ticket from the docks in Playa Caleta which is valid for any returning ferry throughout the day.

Playa de los Enamorados can be found HERE on Google Maps!

3. Go Snorkeling to La Virgen de Los Mares

Located between Isla La Roqueta and Playa Caleta and submerged about 10 feet under the bay you’ll find the statue of La Virgen de los Mares, or the Virgin of the Seas. This statue curiously arrived in the 1950s and many locals make a yearly trek to visit her on December 12, which is the Catholic feast day of Our Lady of Guadalupe, the patroness of Mexico and the Americas.

You can take a glass-bottom boat from the dock in Playa La Caleta or you can hire one of the locals to take you snorkeling to the site, which we recommend.

Honestly, snorkeling to see her is very cool, and as far as we’re concerned is definitely one of the best things to do in the area. It’s also something that isn’t very touristy.

Everybody gets on the boat to see her, but it was actually challenging for us to find information on how to snorkel with her. So, if you want a unique experience, definitely choose snorkeling!

The statue is definitely worth a visit, and it pairs well with a trip to La Roqueta because the ferries to La Roqueta leave from the same place as the snorkeling tours and glass bottom boats. 

Pair this trip with a ferry to La Roquetta as the island is on the same route that the ferries take

4. Wander Around the Zocalo and Old Acapulco

Depending on where you’re staying, this may be a very quick trip for you or a very long trip for you, as Acapulco Bay is huge. Regardless, getting around the city is very easy with buses, as we explain in t he section on getting around. The zocalo, like in all Mexican cities, is a traditional city square where people gather and socialize. There are plenty of food and drink options here.

The rest of Old Acapulco is within a several-block walk of the zocalo and is also very beautiful. This whole area definitely deserves an afternoon to explore, and you can even hike from here up to La Quebrada! You can knock out two of the best things to do in Acapulco on the same afternoon.

5. Relax at Puerto Marques & Playa Diamante

While we have a whole separate post dedicated to the best beaches in Acapulco, we felt like Puerto Marques and Playa Diamante deserved a mention in this post, too. Puerto Marques is an area about 30 minutes south of the main strip, and it is just north of a strip of very luxurious condos and resorts in the area called Playa Diamante.

Puerto Marques is a very local area where you will encounter more friendly locals, but also more hagglers. The beach is really nice, though!

Playa Diamante Is the Nicest Beach in Acapulco

Playa Diamante is the nicest beach area we found in all of Acapulco , and that is probably why all the condos are there. The sand is super fine and soft cream color, the water is very clear, and there is an extremely gradual drop-off when you enter the water. You can walk 30 feet in and still be at waist height!

We packed a picnic lunch and a bottle of wine and had a fantastic time spending the day here. All of our best photos are from this marvelous beach. A picnic on Playa Diamante is very romantic, and absolutely one of the best things to do in Acapulco!

Best Places to Eat in Acapulco

During our week in Acapulco, we had plenty of great food. We were staying at the Fiesta Americana which is right along the Costera in the Zona Dorada (Avenida Costera Miguel Aleman), and this strip is absolutely stuffed with dining options.

Whether you like authentic Mexican food, some American or European cuisine, or more niche options like vegan and farm-to-table food, Acapulco has it all! With that being said, there was one place that stood out to us as really special. While we are not vegan, this vegan restaurant really made a mark on our trip and is worth visiting.

1. Verde Vegan

Verde Vegan is one of the greatest casual restaurants we have ever eaten at, and by far the best vegan restaurant we have ever visited. The owner, Gustavo, is an absolutely awesome guy with a personal devotion to conscious eating. His wife is a dietician with a health food store right next door.

The food here is all to die for, but we absolutely loved both flavors of the Brolitas (Broccoli + Alitas, the Spanish word for wings), the French toast, and the Acai Bowl. If you’re in the mood for a smoothie, you can’t go wrong with any of them – we tried them all!

Everything here is great, and the prices are very reasonable. We actually loved this place so much that we visited 4 times throughout the week!

2. Barbarroja

Barbarroja is a great little spot located in the Zona Dorada. The menu is pretty diverse, blending American, European, and Mexican cuisine. The prices are affordable and the view of the bay over Playa Condesa is great!

They also run several specials, which you can find on their Facebook page. At night this place turns into a low-key hangout for the 35+ crowd. Be sure to bring cash , as they do not accept credit cards.

3. 100% Natural

100% Natural is a chain that you can find in many cities across Mexico, and they have several locations in Acapulco. They specialize in organic food and clean eating, and their menu is long and delicious. Whether you’re looking for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or juice, 100% Natural has you covered!

We find places like this to be extra appealing while we are traveling, because we frequently have trouble finding clean food that truly fuels us. Traveling can be demanding, and finding a place to stock up on good, energizing foods can be a challenge. This is part of what makes 100% a great spot to check out while in Acapulco!

How to Get to Acapulco

There are two good ways to get to Acapulco for your vacation. One option is to fly into Acapulco International Airport (ACA) and catch a taxi or public transportation to your resort, and the other option is to fly into Mexico City and take a bus to Acapulco. If you fly into Acapulco, all you need to do is figure out transportation into the city from the airport. This option is definitely easier but it will cost you more, as the Acapulco airport is very small.

Flying to Acapulco

Your other option is to fly into Mexico City and then take a bus southwest to Acapulco. The intercity busses in Mexico are incredible, and the journey will definitely be comfortable if you choose to get to Acapulco this way. They have some TV screens, lounging seats, bathrooms, and air conditioning. We typically use ADO in other parts of the country, but on this route the main options are Diamante and Estrella de Oro (who is actually operated by ADO). The bus will take around 5 hours.

Transiting to Acapulco after Flying into Mexico City

Your other option is to fly into Mexico City International Airport (MEX) and then take a bus southwest to Acapulco. The intercity buses in Mexico are incredible, and the journey will definitely be comfortable if you choose to get to Acapulco this way. They have some TV screens, lounging seats, bathrooms, and air conditioning. We typically use ADO in other parts of the country, but on this route, the main options are Diamante and Estrella de Oro (which is actually operated by ADO). The bus will take around 5 hours.

Transiting from the Acapulco Bus Station or Airport to your Hotel

If you arrive in Acapulco via plane, you should either take a certified taxi or a city bus into town. Acapulco isn’t served by any ridesharing apps, so you really don’t have an option other than taxis and public transport. If you arrive in Acapulco via bus from another city, there will be plenty of buses to different parts of the city leaving from the main bus station. It definitely helps to speak Spanish, but you may be able to find some help in English, too!

Avoid Renting a Car in Acapulco

You could also opt to rent a car, but we personally think that it is both cheaper and simpler to just take the bus. Mexican roads can be tricky, and the police have a reputation for being hawks looking for foreign drivers to pull over for a “multa” or fine (basically just a bribe).

If you do decide to rent a car and drive, stick to toll roads as much as possible, and check out our posts on tips for driving in Mexico and dealing with corrupt Mexican police .

How to Get Around Acapulco

TAXI | BUS | COLECTIVO | UBER

While most of Mexico uses Uber, there are some parts of the country that haven’t adopted it yet. Acapulco is one of those few places. We aren’t the fondest of traditional taxis, and in Mexico, the general consensus is that you should never trust traditional taxi drivers and never get in unlicensed taxis.

However, if you do ever need one, just know that there usually isn’t a meter, and you should agree on a price before getting in . If you are staying in a hotel, the hotel staff will happily call a taxi for you.

You will probably be able to get to most places that you want to see without a taxi, because there is a great bus network that runs through the city and all of the options are very cheap. While the buses aren’t luxurious by any means, they are generally safe and hardly put a dent in your wallet. Some of them are really fun and blast reggaetón music while putting forth a grungy party vibe. These ones are definitely worth experiencing at least once!

The buses operate on one-way flat fares, and they were around 5 pesos each way while we were there, which is about 25 cents. If you’re not a fan of loud music, you can opt for the more tranquil and upscale Acabus, which pretty much follows the same routes as the party bus.

The prices are between 1.5x and 2x higher than the party buses, at about 7-10 pesos per trip. The Acabus runs the whole way up the main strip and beyond.

The final type of public transportation that we highly recommend is the colectivo . These are smaller vans that drive around on main roads and take you all around the city. They are cheap and fit fewer people than the buses, but they may take you to more niche places, like La Quebrada.

They are also typically used for airport transportation. For a trip to the airport, it’s about 100-120 pesos per person, which is about 5-6 USD. Just look at the windshield to see which places each colectivo stops!

The Best Month to Visit Acapulco

Like anywhere, some times are better than others to visit Acapulco. This beautiful city experiences great weather for a large part of the year. Still, there are some seasons that are better to avoid, if possible.

The dry season in Acapulco runs from November through May, and it is optimal to visit Acapulco during this time. The closer you can visit to the summer, the warmer it will be.

We last visited in October. The weather was very warm and we had plenty of fun on the city’s beautiful beaches.

Avoid Visiting During the Rainy Season

The rainy season in Acapulco runs from June to October, and this is the worst time to visit the city. The weather patterns vary depending on which month of the rainy season you visit.

However, you will likely experience rain almost every day during this time. This hurricane season is not fun, and you are better off waiting to visit at a later date, if possible.

All in all, the best time to visit Acapulco is in the fall, winter, or spring. This season runs from November to May.

Other Tips for Visiting Acapulco

We like to think optimistically. But we also think that giving authentic opinions and feedback can help you to have a better trip, regardless of what Mexican city we’re talking about. So, we have a couple of recommended Do’s and a couple of recommended Don’ts. 

DON’T go to La Caleta beach and expect a nice beach to hang out for the day

La Caleta is a popular place as it is the source of ferries to La Roqueta and La Virgen de los Mares. However, that is all you should really see it as. The sand is very pebbly and there isn’t much else to do.

DON’T go too far from your hotel or resort at night.

Stay in well-lit areas that are walkable. There is plenty of awesome nightlife along the Costera.

We recommend that you stay on the Costera if you’re looking for nightlife so that you can walk back afterward. I wouldn’t advise getting in a taxi after drinking.

DON’T trust every smiling face.

There are plenty of con artists and hagglers in Acapulco just like in any resort town, and they will offer day trips, bargains and plenty of other things. Say no to them and do not give in to their pressure. Check with the front desk of your hotel or resort for verified trips, go to a reliable source like a tour agency in the city, or check an online platform like TripAdvisor or Airbnb .

DON’T drink the tap water.

The tap water might be safe for Mexican people, but it isn’t safe for U.S. travelers to drink. This is because their immune systems are used to some of the natural microbes that exist in the water.

Stick to bottled water and avoid ice when possible.

DO check out all the different tourist areas of the city.

The area along the Costera by Playa Condesa is very fun and popular. However, I recommend going south to areas like Puerto Marques and Playa Diamante.

The nicest beach in Acapulco is there, and it is worth the 20- or 30-minute taxi ride to get there! The whole area between PlayaMar Diamante and the Tres Vidas Golf Club is great.

DO eat Mexican food!

Mexican food is absolutely fantastic and is also very cheap. Acapulco is a great place to try cuisine from many different areas of Mexico. After all, food is one of the most important parts of Mexican culture.

We recommend trying as many different types of tacos as you can during your stay. They are infinitely better than what most places in the U.S. make, and they are extremely budget-friendly.

DO check all travel restrictions before you go.

While Mexican authorities will not stop you from visiting Acapulco, some other entities might. U.S. Government employees, for example, are subject to some travel restrictions while in Mexico. These sometimes include entire Mexican states, and the state of Guerrero (where Acapulco is) has been restricted in the past.

Frequently Asked Questions about Acapulco

Why is acapulco so famous.

Acapulco is famous because it used to be the preferred holiday destination of American celebrities. In the middle of the 1900s, American celebrities flocked to Acapulco to enjoy its stunning coastline, delicious food, and exciting culture.

Which Is Nicer Acapulco or Puerto Vallarta?

This all comes down to personal preference. Puerto Vallarta is a great resort city and it is known for its surfing. Acapulco is much older and feels more authentic. Both cities offer great experiences, hotels, and food to guests.

I would recommend Acapulco if you want to truly experience Mexico. I’d recommend Puerto Vallarta if you want to stay on a nice resort. Still, both are authentic places and offer great hotels. You can’t go wrong!

Is Acapulco Still a Nice Place to Visit?

Acapulco is absolutely still a nice place to visit. If anything, it’s better than ever!

The city experienced some issues with cartel violence in recent years, but it seems to have fully recovered. The diminished crowds make for a much more relaxing, inviting experience.

When Did Acapulco Become Dangerous?

Acapulco has had periods of danger come and go over the decades. As a large bay and popular tourist destination, the city is very attractive to drug cartels. Currently, the risk is low.

If you are wondering “Is Acapulco safe in 2024?” you can take a deep breath. For now, the city is experiencing a safe period. I recommend visiting while you can!

That’s all we have for you about Acapulco! Hopefully, after reading this guide you’re no longer wondering about safety in Acapulco. If you have any questions be sure to drop a comment in the comment section or shoot us an email.

Hi, I'm Greg. I'm an avid traveler who has traveled to over 50 countries all around the world with my wife and kids. I've lived in Italy, Mexico, China, and the United States, and I dream of moving abroad again in the future. With this blog, I provide my audience with detailed destination guides to my favorite places and pro-tips to make travel as stress-free as possible.

Fahreen Ramjee

Lovely comprehensive article that sums up Acapulco well! Thank you. My daughter (who is currently a high school exchange student in Queretaro) wants us to do a family vacation in Acapulco in Aug this year. You just pointed out that it’s their rainy season. Do you recommend we think about another location? Or is it still worth a thought, in your opinion? Thank you in advance!

Hi Fahreen! Sorry for the delay in getting back to you. I still recommend visiting in August. While it will likely rain during parts of the day, the rain doesn’t tend to be consistent throughout the day. Rather, it is probably going to rain very hard for an hour or two per day and then be sunny the rest of the time. I hope that you have a great trip!

Philip Sane

Great travel guides and tips thanks for sharing!! I’m wondering about your thoughts of driving from Mexico City at night to Acapulco paid highway, from the airport directly to our hotel Las Brisas Acapulco. Would you consider it safe? We’re arriving around 7 pm and will be fully rested and morning our time (coming from Europe). Instead of wasting one night at an airport hotel when we can’t sleep anyways, we’re thinking of driving. Rented a Dodge Journey SUV (or similar) via Hertz and have two small children with us, hence need to be extra cautious. Also, if I may ask, continuing to Puerto Escondido, have you driven that route from Acapulco? Looks like a 6-7hrs drive according to googlemaps (driving daytime this route:-). Many thanks and looking forward to hearing back from you. /Philip

Hey Philip – I responded to your email!

Since the hurricane in October 2023 I would not recommend A Acapulco The bay will be so badly polluted from runoff. Hotel accommodation will be limited. The local people are desperate for help but Choose playa del Carmen or PV for now

I heard about the hurricane. I’m saddened to hear that the bay is still experiencing that runoff issue. Thanks for sharing!

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Acapulco   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Holger Leue | Getty Images

Why Go To Acapulco

In the 1950s – long before the rise of  Cancún  and  Cabo – Acapulco was the go-to Mexican vacation destination. During its heyday, the "Pearl of the Pacific" attracted the likes of Elizabeth Taylor, Frank Sinatra, Judy Garland and even John F. Kennedy with its amber beaches and pulsating nightlife. Acapulco's former beauty was celebrated on the big screen in films like Elvis Presley's "Fun in Acapulco" and the hit TV series, "The Love Boat." But as the 20th century wore on, Acapulco's glorious reputation tarnished as the city succumbed to overcrowding, pollution and drug trafficking.

Several decades after its fall from beach-destination grace, Acapulco is steadily reviving. It's a popular weekend getaway for many Mexican vacationers, not to mention a prevailing hideaway for European travelers, so you'll find the ambience is more international than the Americanized Cancún. Dance to the live music along the   Zócalo , hunt down some of Mexico's best ceviche downtown or escape from the tourist hubbub in  Punta Diamante 's swank nightclubs – you can still hear echoes of the glamour and glitz of the city's Hollywood heyday. However, travelers should note that the U.S. Department of State issued a travel advisory for several states in Mexico, including Guerrero, where Acapulco is located. Citing widespread crime and violence, the State Department advises U.S. travelers, including government employees, against visiting Guerrero.

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Best of Acapulco

Best hotels in acapulco.

• # 1 in Encanto Acapulco
• # 2 in Pierre Mundo Imperial
• # 3 in Las Brisas Acapulco

Best Things to Do in Acapulco

• # 1 in La Quebrada Cliff Divers
• # 2 in Playa Condesa
• # 3 in Fort of San Diego

Popular Tours

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Acapulco Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best times to visit Acapulco are April, May, October and November. The weather is consistently sunny, hot and humid during these months, and deals abound. Dry season runs from November through May, while the rainy season spans June through September. Average highs throughout the year rest in the upper 80s and lower 90s, while the average lows hover above 70 degrees Fahrenheit.

Weather in Acapulco

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

• Siesta, Siesta Many stores and restaurants close between noon and 2 p.m. while area residents take a break from the afternoon heat. So, sit back, relax and take a nap before you hit the nightlife.
• Only drink bottled water As in many other areas of Mexico, tap water in Acapulco is not potable. Stick with bottled water to avoid any stomach woes.
• Avoid driving Navigating Acapulco's hectic traffic won't be worth the added convenience of a rental car. Plan to use taxis instead.

How to Save Money in Acapulco

• Bargain for your taxi Always negotiate your taxi fare before entering the cab. You can also negotiate an hourly price if you want to stop for a meal or check out entire areas like Old Acapulco.
• Go local Although they don't have the extended hours of the casas de cambios (exchange houses), local banks will give you the best exchange rates.
• Barter at 50% Always barter for your souvenirs, suggesting at least 50% of the vendor price, and stick to your guns. Be sure to ask for a discount if you're buying more than one item at a time.

Culture & Customs

The dress code in Acapulco is informal during the day; standard beach apparel is acceptable. During the night, "dressy casual" is the norm, and many clubs prohibit jeans, T-shirts, sneakers or shorts.

English is a common language spoken in Acapulco, but you'll win over local citizens if you try to speak some Spanish. Common phrases include hola (hello), adios (goodbye), por favor (please), and gracias (thank you). The official currency in Mexico is the peso. Since the peso to U.S. dollar exchange rate fluctuates, check the current rate before your trip.

What to Eat

The Zocalo offers more than enough options for dining, with plenty of choices for every taste. On any beach you might find yourself, seafood restaurants are plentiful, and you won’t find a menu without ceviche – a specialty in the region.

For more upscale options, head to Diamante or the hotels south of Acapulco Bay. Zona Dorada is known for its variety of both Mexican and international cuisine.

Acapulco has been the scene of several high-profile shootings related to the ongoing battle between drug cartels and the Mexican government. According to the  U.S. State Department , the violence is not directed toward Americans. However, the Guerrero state, where Acapulco is located, is designated a "level four" alert by the state department. This means U.S. citizens should not travel there due to crime. If you do decide to travel to the Guerrero state, make sure you enroll in STEP , the state department's Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, which can help you stay up to date on information from the embassy, as well as help family and friends reach you in an emergency. The destinations along Riviera Maya in the east, including  Cancún ,  Cozumel and  Tulum , currently remain safer alternatives to Mexico's west coast.

Another safety concern in Acapulco is turbulent water. Avoid the rough surf at  Playa Revolcadero  and stick to the beaches in front of the hotels along the Costera, most of which are supervised by lifeguards. When going out at night, be sure to stay in the tourist zones and avoid dark side streets. Generally, taxis are safer than rental cars, experts say.

Getting Around Acapulco

The best way to get around Acapulco is by bus or taxi, since driving yourself can be a hassle thanks to heavy congestion and poor road conditions. Taxis are prevalent and affordable throughout the city, including to and from the General Juan N. Álvarez International Airport (ACA), which is located about 20 to 30 minutes east of the hotel zone.

Nonstop flights from Houston and Dallas are available during the winter season from United and American airlines. During the rest of the year, your best bet is to fly into Mexico City and then take a regional airline, such as Aeroméxico or Interjet, to Acapulco.

Entry & Exit Requirements

A passport is required for entry into Mexico. Travelers must also carry a Mexican tourist permit (known as a Forma Migratoria Multiple or FMM), which is usually issued free of charge upon arrival. If there is a fee, it is usually absorbed in your airfare cost. Be sure to hold on to the tourist card throughout the trip, as you will need to present it upon departing the country. For more information on entry and exit requirements, visit the U.S. State Department's  website .

Acapulco's most storied tradition vaults daily from La Quebrada 's daunting clifftops in Old Acapulco.

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Is Acapulco Safe to Visit in 2024? Your Insider’s Guide

If you are planning a trip to the Guerrero resort town of Acapulco, you are likely to be concerned about safety. Mexico, on the whole, is a destination that people are often concerned about traveling to and Acapulco doesn’t have the best reputation. 

But is Acapulco safe to travel to? Honestly if you take precautions and only stick to certain areas then yes, you can have a safe trip to Acapulco.

The city does attract a relatively large amount of Mexican domestic tourists and while it is no longer the Hollywood A-list jetsetter destination of choice, there are still an amount of foreign travelers who choose to come here regularly or live here part or full time as expats. 

However still, Acapulco is far from the safest part of Mexico. I have been living in Mexico for the last two and a half years and have passed through Acapulco several times. 

You are in good hands here and in this post, we will take a look at everything you ought to know before you go. From there, you can make an informed decision as to whether or not Acapulco is the best place for your beach getaway. 

Table of Contents

Is Acapulco Safe to Visit in 2024?

Acapulco is not the safest place in Mexico but that doesn’t mean that you should absolutely write off going or that you cannot be safe here. I just feel that it is important to give you a realistic view of things. 

Violent things do happen in Acapulco and crime rates are high, but before you let yourself become terrified by the rates of violent crime, do note that most of these incidents are clashes between criminal groups and they do not affect tourists. 

Tourism is a super important contributor to the Mexican economy (it constitutes 7.1% of the countrys GDP and is growing year on year). Nobody wants anything bad to happen to tourists or for the tourists to stop coming and for that reason, you will notice a heavy police presence in the city. 

Still, there are plenty of other gorgeous beaches and resort towns in Mexico where the things that happen in Acapulco simply don’t happen. (For instance, Puerto Vallarta in Jalisco, the remote beaches of the Yucatan state , Mahahual , Los Cabos, etc). 

If you are hoping for a relaxing beach break in the tropics, it is definitely worth taking a look at other parts of Mexico where you will feel more comfortable to explore freely, unless you absolutely have your heart set on Acapulco. 

Once upon a time, Acapulco was the vacation destination of choice for Hollywood’s A list. The likes of John Wayne, Elizabeth Taylor, Rita Hayworth, and Ronald and Nancy Reagan all loved spending their free time in Acapulco. 

Acapulco was Mexico’s own Cote d’Azur if you will. But as organized crime waves rocked Mexico, the glitterati stopped visiting Acapulco, and the city is no longer the desirable, chic tropical getaway destination it once was.

The best areas to stay in Acapulco 

It is important to put some thought into where you are going to stay in Acapulco as not all neighborhoods are created equal. The best areas in Acapulco are:

• Zona Dorada (The Golden zone)
• Acapulco Diamante
• Revolcadero Beach
• Puerto Marques Bay 

The Zona Dorada is one of the most popular tourist areas in the city and you will find something for every taste and budget here. Its also great from a convenience perspective since it place you right in the heart of the action, close to the beach, and a number of excellent bars and restaurants in the city. 

Acapulco Diamante is one of the more high-end areas to base yourself and the area is filled with upscale hotels, resorts, and condominiums, as well as fine dining restaurants operated by globally renowned chefs. Revolcadero beach and the nearby Puerto Marques Bay are both great for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing by the Pacific. 

Of course, it pays to check past reviews before booking a hotel. Many properties in these areas offer 24/7 security which can offer you peace of mind if you are worried about traveling here for the first time. 

Which areas to avoid in Acapulco 

One thing to note about Mexican cities (including Acapulco) is that you cannot just blindly wander around walking all over the city. One moment, you could be in a perfectly nice area and then just 10-15 minutes down the road, you may find yourself in a sketchy part of town where your presence is not appreciated. 

Avoid the below districts in Acapulco:

• Jardin Mangos
•  El Rena

La Progreso is also not that safe. A lot of expats live out in this part of the town but some of the most dangerous roads in the city are found here so you need to exercise caution if you don’t know where you are going. 

Hurricanes and natural disasters in Acapulco

The hurricane season in Acapulco runs between June and October each year, with August and September being the months when a hurricane is the most likely. Most coastal parts of Mexico (both in the Pacific and along the Carribean coast) share the same hurricane season.

While usually this just brings heavy storms and rains, September 2023 brought Hurricane Otis to Acapulco – the largest hurricane that Guerrero has ever seen, killing dozens of people and causing billions of dollars worth of damage. Although the damage and aftermath have now largely been cleared up, other parts of Mexico, including Puerto Vallarta, saw strong hurricanes in 2023. 

With global warming becoming an increasing issue, it is difficult to predict the risk of hurricanes in the area going forward so you may prefer to travel outside of August/September. If you do decide to travel to Acapulco during this time, keep an eye on the news and weather forecasts. 

Government travel advice for Acapulco 

I always recommend that people check their country’s government travel advice before traveling anywhere for the first time and that includes Mexico. Your government’s travel advisory will likely be updated in real-time in line with any changing entry requirements or recent safety and security developments. 

The US Department of State has a pretty decent travel safety page that offers a state-by-state look at the safety and security situation in Mexico. It provides each of Mexico’s 32 states with a safety rating so that you can assess how safe it is (or not) to travel there. 

While the US Department of State’s travel advisory is more in-depth than its UK and Canadian counterparts, the reality is still more nuanced than that. The truth is that safety in Mexico can vary substantially from state to state, city to city, and even within the barrios of a city. 

Guerrero is a state on the “do not travel” list, although Acapulco is considered an okay place for tourists (including Americans) to visit. Similarly, Sinaloa is on the “do not travel” list when Mazatlan is a popular tourist and expat hub, and the page recommends that people “reconsider travel” to Jalisco, home to Puerto Vallarta, one of the safest and most popular beach towns in the country.

Review the travel advice, take note on any advice or recent developments, but to an extent, take it with a pinch of salt. People on the ground here in Mexico or in expat groups like “Expats in Acapulco”, “Expats in Mexico” can often give you a better insight into reality.

Crime in Acapulco 

Unfortunately, Acapulco sees some of the highest crime and homicide rates in both Mexico and the world. Statistica, along with numerous other sources, cited it as being the world’s second most dangerous city with a murder rate of  110.5 per 100,000 inhabitants in 2022, down to 54.13 in 2023.

These are not random acts of violence and these events happen between cartel members not random tourists or civilians. Most people who are killed or “disappear” in Mexico were involved with the cartel. 

Do not go looking for trouble in Mexico and trouble will not go looking for you. I have never experienced anything violent or met any criminals (that I know of) in my 2.5 years here. 

Still, I cannot deny that there is a lot of cartel-related violence in the area and while tourists are never the targets, there have been a number of instances where shootings between criminal organizations have taken place in public places, dead bodies have washed up on beaches , and gangs have blocked roads and burned cars. 

The chances of being in the wrong place at the wrong time are pretty small, but its still a possibility, albeit a small one. 

Tourists may be the victim of opportunist crimes such as bag snatching or pickpocketing. But you can protect yourself by investing in a theft-proof backpack and never letting your valuables out of your sight.

Other crimes, both violent and petty, are not unheard of either. A lot of muggings and break-ins take place in Acapulco.

Could you be the victim of a crime in Acapulco?

It is a controversial thing to say, as obviously no life/person is more important than another. But if you spend any amount of time in Mexico, you will note that crimes and scams are generally more likely to happen to other Mexicans than they are to western tourists. 

Why? More than 20 million international travelers visit Mexico every year, despite the fact that the matter of safety in Mexico is a concern for many. 

If tourists were getting attacked and kidnapped left right and center, it would be an international scandal, fewer tourists would return, and local businesses would be harmed. It is for this reason that tourist areas see such a high police presence.

Is it safe to take day trips to other parts of Guerrero? 

Usually I recommend getting “off the beaten path” in Mexico and taking the time to explore lesser known pueblos, ruins and natural wonders. However, Guerrero is on the “do not travel” list and outside of Acapulco and Zihuatanejo, the state really is not safe so you really need to be careful about where you go. 

This is one of the main narco-trafficking states in Mexico and crime rates are high across the board. The villages in the northern part of the state are controlled by cartels and cities like Chilpancingo see high rates of crime. 

If you are renting a car and planning to drive to/from Zihuatanejo or Ixtapa, the route is pretty safe during the day. Stick to the toll roads and don’t be alarmed by police checkpoints – they are pretty standard here in Mexico and are there for everyones safety. 

I have personally never been stopped but if you are, they will just ask to check the inside of your car and to see your ID. 

How to get around safely in Acapulco 

While you can walk around the Zona Dorado and Acapulco Diamantes, the city isn’t really that walkable if you are trying to get from one part of town to another. Local buses and colectivos (minivans) are an affordable way to get around, although the bus network can be a little confusing to navigate and some of the vehicles are a little rickety and dated. 

Try to avoid both intercity and long-distance bus journeys at night, when crimes and muggings can be more common. 

Taking taxis in Acapulco

In many parts of Mexico, Uber and other local ridesharing apps like Didi and Indrive are most people’s preferred way to get around safely. (Largely because there is more accountability via the app vs getting into a random street car). Unfortunately, these do not work in Acapulco and the local taxi firms have monopoly. 

Taxi drivers are often a law unto themselves the world over and that includes Acapulco. Many taxis here are not metered, meaning that you have to negotiate and agree on a price before you get in the car. 

Still, people are very likely to just make up whatever they think they can get away with charging you because they will assume that you are an unsuspecting tourist with no idea of the correct going rates. For this reason, its a good idea to organise taxis via your hotel who will have trusted drivers that they can call.

Once you find a driver that you like and trust, take their number so that you can call them when you need a ride.

Is Acapulco safe at night?

Acapulco is not safe at night in the sense that it is okay to be going on walks along empty beaches or wandering randomly into unknown neighborhoods. If you are going from your hotel on the main strip to the bars or restaurants on the main strip, you should be fine. 

Make sure that the place that you are going to is a short distance from your hotel and only walk along well-lit, busy streets rather than side streets and passageways. Acapulco is known for its vibrant nightlife and there are always tons of people around the main strip in the evenings.

If you want to go to a bar or club that is a little further away, plan your return journey back to the hotel. You should never get into a random street taxi in Mexico, so you can ask the receptionist or concierge at your hotel to organize pick up for you at a certain time. 

Can I drink the water in Acapulco?

No. You cannot drink the water in Acapulco or in Mexico as a whole. Although it is purified at the source, it is often contaminated en route to the tap.

The bacteria, germs, parasites, and other matter found in Mexican tap water can make you very sick. Even Mexicans don’t drink it.

Fortunately, most hotels will usually provide complimentary water for their guests. Then, you can buy more at any Oxxo/convenience store/supermarket, etc.

You don’t have to worry about having ice in your drinks or drinking Mexican drinks like agua frescas because these are all made with bottled water and businesses have ice delivered.

Street food safety in Acapulco 

Street food is a huge part of Mexican culture and missing out on it while you are in Acapulco would be a real shame. A lot of people seem to assume that traveling to Mexico goes hand in hand with getting sick but not everyone that visits the country is destined to feel unwell. 

In Acapulco, fresh harina and maize tortillas are prepared by hand daily and used to make mouthwatering tacos that you can enjoy for just $0.50 cents. You can find street vendors serving elotes, tamales, tacos, and burritos in Acapulcos mercados and on virtually every street corner. 

Mexicans usually buy their street food and eat it there and then next to the cart. Some carts set up little tables and chairs beside them so that you can enjoy the fare.

To give yourself the best chance of avoiding getting sick, look out for street food carts that are busy. If there is a line of locals waiting to eat there, it probably has a good reputation. 

Avoid anywhere where it looks like food has been sitting out or there are flies around. (These things aren’t appealing anyway!) 

Food safety in Acapulco 

Acapulco has an excellent dining scene that is sure to satisfy even the fussiest eaters. You can find a mixture of local and international eateries here, as well as everything from humble taquerias that have been in operation for decades, to ultra-chic high-end sushi bars. 

It is a good idea to check past reviews on Google to see what other tourists thought of the food quality, dining experience, etc. One spot to add to your radar is El Amigo Miguel (Av Costera Miguel Alemán s/n, Hornos). 

This is one of the oldest continually operating seafood restaurants in town and it has been delighting locals and tourists alike for years. Dishes are prepared with seafood that is caught fresh earlier that same day. 

If you want to enjoy their specialty, order the “drunken shrimp” or the lobster. Nearby, Los Rancheros (C. M.F. Maury 17, Fracc Costa Azul, Costa Azulis) another Acapulco institution that specializes in homely Mexican fare. 

If you are looking for something a little more glamorous, add Thai-Mexican fusion restaurant Zibu Acapulco (Escénica S/N, Fracc. Gloma) to your radar, or Japanese restaurant Shu Acapulco (Blvd. de las Naciones 1813, Col Diamante). 

Is Acapulco safe for solo female travelers?

This entire website has been written by a solo female traveler in Mexico. (Me!)

I have traveled to 57 countries and 13 Mexican states alone and I am a big advocate for never letting your gender or physical appearance deter you from anything you want to do. Personally, I would not hesitate to travel to Acapulco alone but I would say that to do so, you need to be assertive and well-versed in traveling to places where you need to be more aware of your surroundings.

Since Acapulco thrives on tourism (even if it is mostly domestic), you won’t get weird looks or remarks for being here solo. However, you may feel uncomfortable with looks and attention from men, particularly on the beach. 

Do not walk alone at night and be careful about wandering into sketchy areas as unfortunately, assaults are not unheard of. For your peace of mind, it is worth paying extra for a more high-end hotel.

Keep your friends and family updated on your trip plans but don’t share your real-time updates or location on social media. If you haven’t spent a ton of time in Mexico, Merida, the Riviera Maya, Mexico City, or Santiago de Queretaro are among my top recommendations for solo female travelers here.

Is Acapulco safe to live in?

Safety is a very personal thing. Some people may feel perfectly comfortable in Acapulco whereas others feel anxious about the things that they read and hear about.

You could argue that the longer you stay in a place, the more likely you are to become a victim of a crime. (It’s just a maths game, right? Sticking around longer increases your probability of being caught up in something). 

At the same time, you could argue that when you live in Acapulco for an extended period, you become accustomed to the safety concerns here. You know where to go and where not to go. 

You adjust your schedule so that you do not walk in certain areas after a certain time of night, and you know where and how scammers operate. Plenty of international expats live in Acapulco and many enjoy their experience.

If you living in Acapulco is something that you are considering, it is a good idea to visit for an extended period first. Try renting a short-term apartment for a month or two to see how you would feel about basing yourself in Acapulco. 

Connect with other expats via Acapulco and Mexico expat Facebook groups and get some insight from people who have lived in the city for a few years. 

I personally would not feel all that comfortable living in Acapulco, purely because of the increased probability of experiencing/witnessing something the longer you stick around. 

I live in the Yucatan capital of Merida , which is the safest city in Mexico and where you never hear of any crime or violence. Lake Chapala, Puerto Vallarta, and the Riviera Maya are other expat hubs that you may want to consider.

Useful safety tips for visiting Acapulco 

I have summarised some useful pointers for staying safe in Acapulco below. Some of this stuff might seem like common sense advice that will serve you well anywhere but I thought it was important to reiterate it here.

• Purchase a Mexican SIM card to stay connected if Mexico is not included in your cell phone plan. (Many American and Canadian plans do include Mexico so double check first).
• Dont carry around wads of cash. International credit/debit cards are widely accepted with the exception of smaller markets and mom and pop stores. 4,000 – 5,000 MXN pesos is plenty to last you a couple of days.
• Dont wear expensive accessories/jewlelry or flash the designer goods. It will make you a target for petty theft
• Make sure that you have your eyes on your personal belongings at all times and never leave them unattended.
• In crowded markets, walk with your bag in front of you rather than slung over one shoulder and consider investing in a theft-proof backpack or moneybelt if you spend a lot of time in Latin America
• Never walk alone at night and always take an Uber back to your hotel if youve had a couple of drinks
• Make sure that you buy a comprehensive travel insurance policy. A good policy includes at least $250,000 worth of medical coverage and added extras like theft/loss of luggage, sports, repatriation and cancellations
• Consider buying an alarmed doorstop for your hotel/Airbnb
• Learn a little Spanish if you can
• Check your surroundings at ATMs and don’t use ATMs at night 

Try and learn a little Spanish before your trip 

English is not widely spoken in Mexico on the whole and while some hotels, tour companies, and tourist-facing businesses in Acapulco do speak a small amount, the area mostly attracts domestic Mexican tourists.

Learning a handful of handy phrases will go a long way, make your life easier and is always appreciated.

Useful phrases for your first trip to Acapulco

• Yo tengo una reserva – I have a reservation
• Mi nombre es – My name is
• Lo siento, no entiendo – I’m sorry, I don’t understand
• Disculpe – Excuse me
• Yo quiero – I want (useful for ordering food)
• La cuenta por favor – The bill please
• Quanto es – How much is it?
• Buenos dias – Good morning!
• Buenos tardes – Good afternoon!
• Buenos noches – Good night
• Hasta luego – See you later
• Una mesa para uno/dos/tres – A table for one/two/three…
• Dónde está – Where is…
• Gracias! – Thank you
• Tienes wifi? – Do you have wifi?
• Necesito ayuda – I need help
• Habla Inglés?
• Lo siento no puedo hablar español – Im sorry I cannot speak Spanish

You may also find that Duolingo is a fun and easy way to learn some basic Spanish in a short amount of time (nobody expects you to become fluent ahead of your vacation). Meanwhile, Google Translate makes it easy to communicate if you find yourself unable to speak to someone. 

(You can simply talk or type what you are trying to say and it automatically translates it to Spanish). The translations are actually pretty good. 

Is Acapulco safe for families? 

Families can have safe trips to Acapulco, but that largely means heading to the Golden Zone or the more upscale Acapulco Diamante and staying in resorts. Many resorts will offer amenities for families and kids like kids pools, play pens, interactive clubs and classes, etc. 

Plenty of locals and expats have children here and they are a common sight. Just use your common sense if you head into downtown Acapulco.

Is Acapulco safe for tourists? Final thoughts

Acapulco is not the safest place in Mexico and it isn’t necessarily the place I would recommend for a first time visit. There are so many gorgeous places in this country that you can travel to without having to constantly worry about whether you are in a safe neighborhood or not, or even have a slight stress about violence breaking out. 

Still, over 6 million tourists travel to Acapulco each year and most of their trips are trouble-free and memorable for all the right reasons. I really hope that this post has helped you plan your trip and I hope it doesn’t come across as overly negative, I just think it’s important to give an honest opinion.

Do you have any more questions about traveling to Guerrero or Mexico in general? Please dont hesitate to reach out to me via the comments below or by connecting with me via email/social media. 

I will do my best to get back to you as soon as I can. Safe travels! 

Buen Viaje! Melissa xo 

Melissa Douglas

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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..

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

Mumbai:  Spend 36 hours in this fast-changing Indian city  by exploring ancient caves, catching a concert in a former textile mill and feasting on mangoes.

Kyoto:  The Japanese city’s dry gardens offer spots for quiet contemplation  in an increasingly overtouristed destination.

Iceland:  The country markets itself as a destination to see the northern lights. But they can be elusive, as one writer recently found .

Texas:  Canoeing the Rio Grande near Big Bend National Park can be magical. But as the river dries, it’s getting harder to find where a boat will actually float .

Acapulco Safety 2024: How Safe is Acapulco for Travel?

When planning a vacation, safety is a top concern for any traveler.

So let’s get right to the point: Acapulco isn’t safe . In fact, it’s one of the most dangerous cities in Mexico .

One of the main reasons for Acapulco’s reputation as a dangerous city is that the city is dominated by cartels and the illegal activity typically associated with them.

Due to the city’s location along major Mexican trafficking routes violent crime and territory disputes between rival cartels occur often.

As a result, the U.S. government has issued a travel advisory not to travel to this country.

Let’s dive deep into Acapulco’s underbelly including its crime rates and homicide statistics. We’ll also share the current situation regarding the COVID-19 pandemic, the issue of carbon monoxide poisoning, natural disasters, beach pollution, etc.

Here’s all you need to know about Acapulco safety in 2024.

Unveiling the Reality: A Comprehensive Look at Acapulco Crime Rates

Acapulco sits in the Mexican state of Guerrero. When you see images of the city, it looks too beautiful to be put into words — as a masterpiece plucked from the head of a painter. This beauty has made it a very attractive destination for travelers from all around the world, and it’s also popped up in cinema and pop culture.

Did you know that Acapulco was the scene for one of Elvis Presley’s films , as well as John and Jacqueline Kennedy’s honeymoon spot?

Yes, Acapulco is very enchanting. Its lofty mountain peaks and lovely seashore have always been on the bucket list of celebrities and tourists alike.

The splendor of Acapulco, however, changed for the worse when cartels started to rule the city’s underworld. Acapulco currently ranks as one of the world’s 50 most dangerous cities , with more than 20 cartels ruling its streets.

The United States has issued a level 4 travel warning for Acapulco, which is “ Do Not Travel. ” This is the highest warning level and applies to countries with life-threatening dangers. If tourists disregard the warning and travel to Acapulco, the U.S. government will have little to no capacity to protect them.

Acapulco Crime Rates

Acapulco has a crime index of 60.52% out of 120%, which is pretty high.

As of 2023, Acapulco is the 18th most dangerous city in the world . The top three spots are all Mexican cities, the first one is Celaya, the second one is Tijuana  (105.15), and the third is Juarez .

The cause for violence in Acapulco is the territorial disputes between the cartels over the Guerrero opioid trade, which is substantially financed by the US illegal drug market. “Here, who governs are the cartels, gangs, hit men, and extortionists,” an Acapulco civilian noted in the PBS TV news broadcast .

Navigating the New Normal: Ensuring COVID-19 Safety in Acapulco

Acapulco doesn’t require testing or COVID-19 vaccines upon entrance.

However, no journey is risk-free during the pandemic. Authorities may implement restrictions at any time. Passengers’ temperatures may be tested upon arrival in Acapulco and transferred to a healthcare facility if they’re showing symptoms.

The symptoms of coronavirus include shortness of breath, temperature, frequent coughing, fever or chills, fatigue, muscle pain, headache, and loss of taste and smell, among others.

In Mexico, private PCR testing costs between 950 and 4500 MXN ($53 and $250), while viral antigen testing costs between 200 and 1000 MXN ($11 and $55). The results arrive through text message or email. 

Avoid close contact with anyone who is coughing or acting feverish. Frequently wash your hands and go get treatment if you suspect you have any of the above-mentioned symptoms.

Perils of Nature: The Risk of Natural Disasters in Acapulco

Hurricanes and earthquakes are two natural disasters that could affect Acapulco. Let’s learn more about them.

Hurricane Information and Precautions

Acapulco sits in the Eastern Pacific hurricane basin, where hurricanes can affect coastal areas.

The hurricane season in Acapulco typically runs from June to November, with the peak activity occurring between August and October.

The city was last affected by a hurricane in September 2017, when a category 1 storm known as “Hurricane Max” hit. The storm brought severe rains and winds of up to 80 miles per hour. The storm caused no severe damage except a few power losses and broken tree limbs.

A more severe hurricane happened in September 2013, a category 1 storm known as “Hurricane Manuel.” The hurricane brought catastrophic flooding, mudslides, and great loss of lives, 72 of whom happened in Acapulco alone.

In October 1997, a category 4 hurricane struck Acapulco, called “Hurricane Pauline.” The hurricane dumped 16.9 inches (430 mm) of rain in 24 hours and tragically ended the lives of 94 people , the majority of whom perished in flash floods.

Visit the National Hurricane Service for the most recent updates regarding hurricanes in Mexico and in the city of Acapulco.

Earthquake Information and Prevention

Mexico is situated on the Pacific Ring of Fire, which is the most seismically active region in the country.

Acapulco can experience several earthquakes in the span of 24 hours. For instance, from June 14 to June 15, 2023 , Acapulco was hit by a 4.0 earthquake, three earthquakes with a magnitude between 3.0 and 4.0, and one lighter 2.9 earthquake. According to the earthquake magnitude scale , these tremors are felt, but cause little to no damage.

One powerful earthquake that hit Acapulco happened in September 2021 . The quake had a magnitude of 7.1, damaging buildings and resulting in one fatality.

For the latest earthquakes hitting Acapulco, visit the VolcanoDicosvery website or download the  911 CDMX app to your smartphone.

Breathing Safely in Acapulco: 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 scent, color, or flavor, and our senses are unable to detect it until we become ill.

One of the main sources that can cause CO to leak are kerosene and gas space heaters, chimneys and furnaces, gas water heaters, wood stoves, fireplaces, gas stoves, generators, etc.

The symptoms of CO poisoning include headaches, dizziness, nausea, disorientation, weakness, chest discomfort, and loss of consciousness. Prolonged inhalation of CO can cause paralysis, brain damage, and loss of life.

Every year, around 420 US citizens get fatally poisoned from unintentional CO inhalation. As for Acapulco, there aren’t any reported CO incidents in 2024.

Authorities advise homeowners, hotels, and rental properties to install CO detectors within 10 feet of each bedroom and tourists to bring their own CO detectors for safe and risk-free travels.

Serenity by the Shore: The Safety of Acapulco Beaches

The World Health Organization (WHO) identified potentially hazardous amounts of bacteria on three beaches in Acapulco — Manzanillo, Hornos, and Suave.

The regulations specify that every 100 milliliters of beach water must have no more than 200 of the bacteria enterococcus faecalis . Results revealed that Manzanillo had 373 enterococci, Hornos 292, and Suave 241.

Common illnesses associated with polluted water and sand include nausea, skin rashes, vomiting, stomachache, diarrhea, headache or fever, and ear, eye, nose, and throat infections.

The good news is that these are Mexico’s only contaminated beaches ! So if you prefer a beach holiday, there are still lots of safe and bacteria-friendly coastlines to enjoy across Mexico, including Cozumel , Cabo San Lucas , and Cancun .

Acapulco also has multi-colored flags set up on each beach to indicate how risky it is to swim out there, including:

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

When it comes to shark attacks, there have been no known reports in recent years. The last shark attack happened in 1973, leaving two people dead and two injured.

Acapulco Weather Patterns: What to Expect?

Acapulco has two main seasons: dry and wet.

The dry season in Acapulco occurs from November to May. During this period, the temperatures revolve around 78°F (26°C), with the maximum reaching 88°F (31°C). The hottest and least rainy months are November and May, with a maximum of 3 rainy days and 1 inch (25 millimeters) level of participation.

The wet season in Acapulco spans from June to October, bringing higher amounts of rainfall and increased humidity. September is the wettest month, raining for 14 days and 12.1 inches (310 millimeters) levels of participation. The temperature in the wet season is warm, with an average of 83°F (28°C), and a maximum of 89°F (31°C).

Weather Overview in Acapulco

The summer season in Acapulco begins in June and ends in August. The average daily temperature is around 83°F (28°C). On the hottest days, Acapulco reaches up to 89°F (31°C). Summer nights are pleasant, around 78°F (25°C).

Acapulco’s fall spans from September to November. The daily average temperature may reach 82°F (27°C), with a maximum high of 88°F (31°C). The temperature during the night is 75°F (24°C).

The winter season in Acapulco spans from December to February. The daily average temperature is around 78°F (26°C), with a maximum of 86°F (30°C). Winter nights hover at about 71°F (21°C).

Springtime in Acapulco is from March to May. The daily average is 78°F (26°C), while on the hottest days, Acapulco reaches up to 88°F (31°C). Spring nights are warm, hitting a maximum of 78°F (24°C).

When Is the Best Time to Visit Acapulco?

Safety-wise, there’s no good time to visit Acapulco. Weather-wise, the most enjoyable period is from December to April. This is the time of the year when there is the least chance of rain, and it is also outside of the dangerous hurricane season.

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

Acapulco is not a safe place to visit alone or with children. The US government encourages travelers not to visit the nation or to leave as quickly as possible.

For travelers who are already there and wish to securely return home, the safety tips listed below will be quite useful.

Essential tips for staying safe:

• Learn fundamental Spanish words and phrases
• Get a Mexican SIM card
• Look up the nearest police station on Google Maps
• The emergency numbers are: 911 (police), 066 (ambulance), 080 (fire services)
• Never walk at night
• Never walk in secluded neighborhoods
• Never go too far from where you’re staying
• Never start a conflict
• Public transportation and ATMs are hitpoints for thieves
• Don’t wear expensive clothes, jewelry, or too much cash with you
• Never drink tap water
• Always be wary of your surroundings
• Respect the locals
• Book in trustworthy hotels with a good reputation
• Have some pesos on hand
• Keep valuables in locks or hotel safes, or hide them in different spots around your room

Tips for traveling alone:

• Maintain constant contact with a friend or family member
• Keep it “down low” and avoid going out a lot so that people don’t realize you’re alone
• If you go out, never do it at night
• Don’t make friends with strangers
• Don’t share personal information with anybody
• Dress modestly
• Avoid catcallers
• Avoid areas densely packed with clubs and bars
• Drink responsibly so that you’ll be in control of what’s going on around you
• Kindly refuse illegal substances
• Be cautious of someone putting a narcotic in your drink
• If you are threatened for your belongings, do not fight back and give them what they want

Tips for traveling with your family:

• Stay in your hotel as much as possible
• Rent a car rather than using other means of transportation
• Don’t drink and drive
• Always keep an eye on your kids
• Make sure the family is together, and never separated
• Pack a medical kit
• Go to reputable restaurants

This brings us to the end of our Acapulco safety guide for 2024.

Unfortunately, Acapulco continues to be one of the most dangerous places to be. Cartels are ruling everything from the underworld to the everyday life of commoners and tourists. Natural disasters tremble buildings and oceans. Beaches are contaminated with dangerous bacteria and are therefore unfit for swimming.

Acapulco was once a beautiful place where celebrities, politicians, and regular tourists flocked to experience its true magic. But Acapulco is no longer like that. We don’t think it’s a good idea to go there — choose a safer destination, and leave Acapulco for another time.

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Exploring Acapulco: Current Travel Restrictions And Tips To Navigate Them

• Last updated Aug 03, 2023
• Difficulty Intemediate

• Category United States

Welcome to Acapulco, a vibrant and lively destination known for its beautiful beaches, rich history, and vibrant culture. However, before you pack your bags and head to this tropical paradise, it's important to familiarize yourself with the current travel restrictions in place. These restrictions have been put in place to ensure the safety and well-being of both visitors and locals alike. So, join us as we explore the ins and outs of Acapulco travel restrictions and discover what you need to know before embarking on your unforgettable journey.

What You'll Learn

What are the current travel restrictions in place for acapulco, are there any specific entry requirements or documents needed to travel to acapulco, are there any quarantine requirements for travelers arriving in acapulco, are there any restrictions on flights or transportation to and from acapulco, are there any specific health and safety guidelines that tourists should be aware of when visiting acapulco.

Currently, there are travel restrictions in place for the popular tourist destination of Acapulco in Mexico. These restrictions are in response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and are aimed at reducing the spread of the virus.

As of now, the Mexican government has implemented a traffic light system to categorize states and municipalities based on the risk of COVID-19 transmission. Acapulco is currently classified as being in the orange phase, which indicates a high level of transmission.

Under the orange phase, there are several travel restrictions in place for Acapulco. These include limitations on the capacity of hotels, restaurants, and other public spaces. Additionally, certain non-essential activities and businesses may be restricted or closed altogether.

Travelers visiting Acapulco are also advised to follow certain health protocols to prevent the spread of COVID-19. These include wearing face masks in public, practicing social distancing, and frequently washing hands or using hand sanitizer. It is also important to avoid crowded places and gatherings.

In terms of international travel, Mexico currently does not have any specific entry requirements or travel restrictions for foreign visitors. However, it is recommended that travelers check with their respective countries' government for any travel advisories or restrictions that may be in place for Mexico.

It is important to note that the situation regarding travel restrictions and COVID-19 measures can change frequently. Travelers are advised to stay updated on the latest information from official sources, such as the Mexican government and the World Health Organization.

In conclusion, there are travel restrictions in place for Acapulco due to the COVID-19 pandemic. These restrictions aim to reduce the spread of the virus and include limitations on capacity and activities. Travelers should follow health protocols and stay updated on any changes in travel restrictions before planning their trip to Acapulco.

Understanding the Travel Restrictions for L-2 Visa Holders: What You Need to Know

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To travel to Acapulco, Mexico, there are certain entry requirements and documents that visitors need to be aware of. Whether you are traveling for vacation, business, or any other purpose, it is important to ensure that you have the necessary paperwork in order to enter the country smoothly. Here are some of the specific entry requirements and documents needed to travel to Acapulco.

Valid Passport:

All visitors, regardless of their nationality, must have a valid passport to enter Mexico. It is important to ensure that your passport does not expire within six months of your planned departure date. Mexican authorities are very strict about this requirement, and travelers who do not meet this criteria may be denied entry.

Tourist Card:

In addition to a passport, tourists traveling to Mexico by air are required to obtain a tourist card, also known as a FMM (Forma Migratoria Múltiple). This card is usually provided by the airline during the flight to Mexico or can be obtained at the airport upon arrival. The tourist card is valid for a maximum stay of 180 days and must be returned upon departure.

Depending on your nationality, you may be required to obtain a visa before traveling to Mexico. Citizens of certain countries, including the United States, Canada, the European Union, Australia, and Japan, do not need a visa for stays of up to 180 days. However, it is always advisable to check the visa requirements for your specific country before traveling.

Return or Onward Ticket:

Mexican immigration officials may ask for proof of a return or onward ticket to confirm that you do not plan to overstay your allowed time in the country. It is advisable to have a confirmed flight ticket or travel itinerary that shows your departure from Mexico within the permitted time frame.

COVID-19 Requirements:

Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, additional requirements may be in place for travelers to Mexico. These could include providing a negative PCR or antigen test result taken within a specified timeframe before departure, completing a health declaration form, and following any quarantine or testing measures determined by Mexican authorities.

It is always a good idea to check with the nearest Mexican embassy or consulate in your country well in advance of your trip to ensure you have the most up-to-date information regarding entry requirements and documents needed for travel to Acapulco. Additionally, be sure to have copies of all important documents, such as your passport and tourist card, as well as any necessary travel insurance coverage, to facilitate a smooth entry and stay in Mexico.

Exploring the Impact of Travel Restrictions on Tourism in Guatemala

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to affect nations worldwide, it is crucial to stay updated on the current travel regulations in different destinations. For travelers planning a visit to Acapulco, it is essential to know if there are any quarantine requirements upon arrival. The following information will outline the current situation to help potential travelers make informed decisions.

Currently, there are no specific quarantine requirements for travelers arriving in Acapulco. The Mexican government has implemented various measures to control the spread of the virus, but mandatory quarantine is not one of them.

However, it is important to note that travelers should still follow general health guidelines and practice responsible travel behavior. This includes wearing masks in public spaces, practicing social distancing, and frequently washing hands or using hand sanitizers.

Before traveling to Acapulco, international visitors should check the latest travel advisories and guidelines issued by both their home country and the Mexican authorities. These guidelines may change based on the evolving situation of the pandemic.

Furthermore, some airlines or tour operators may have their own guidelines or requirements for passengers. It is recommended to check with the specific airline or tour operator for any additional protocols or instructions they may have in place before traveling to Acapulco.

Travelers should also consider purchasing travel insurance that provides coverage for medical emergencies, including those related to COVID-19. This can offer peace of mind and financial protection should any health-related issues arise during the trip.

It is crucial to keep in mind that the situation is subject to change, and local authorities may introduce new measures or regulations at any time. Staying informed about any updates and following the guidance provided by health authorities will ensure a safe and smooth travel experience to Acapulco.

In summary, as of now, there are no quarantine requirements for travelers arriving in Acapulco. However, it is essential to stay updated on the latest travel advisories and guidelines issued by the Mexican government and one's own home country. Following general health guidelines, checking with airlines or tour operators, and purchasing travel insurance are all important steps to take before visiting Acapulco or any other destination during these times.

Peru's Travel Restrictions: What You Need to Know

As a popular tourist destination, Acapulco is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich cultural heritage. However, like many other places around the world, there may be restrictions on flights and transportation to and from Acapulco due to various factors such as safety concerns, government regulations, and global events. Here are some key points to consider:

• Safety Concerns: Acapulco has experienced security issues in the past, primarily related to drug-related violence. While efforts have been made to improve the situation, there may still be occasional travel advisories or restrictions put in place by various governments. It is advisable to check with your local travel advisory or embassy for the most up-to-date information before planning a trip to Acapulco.
• Government Regulations: Governments around the world have the authority to impose restrictions on flights and transportation to and from certain destinations, including Acapulco. These restrictions can be for various reasons, such as political instability, public health concerns, or natural disasters. In recent times, the COVID-19 pandemic has led to many countries implementing travel restrictions and quarantine requirements to control the spread of the virus. Again, it is important to check with your local authorities or consulate for the latest guidelines.
• Airport Operations: Acapulco has an international airport, General Juan N. Álvarez International Airport (ACA), which serves as the primary gateway for travelers visiting the city. However, during times of reduced travel demand or government-imposed restrictions, airlines may adjust their flight schedules or suspend certain routes. It is essential to stay updated with the flight status directly from the airline or through reliable travel platforms.
• Land and Sea Transportation: In addition to air travel, Acapulco is accessible by road and sea. The city has a well-maintained road network connecting it to other major cities and tourist destinations in Mexico. Private car rentals, taxis, and buses are readily available for transportation within and outside the city. Acapulco is also a popular port of call for cruise ships, but again, it is important to check any cruise line or government advisories regarding sailings to the region.
• Precautions and Travel Insurance: Regardless of any restrictions, it is important to take necessary precautions while traveling to Acapulco or any other destination. This can include purchasing travel insurance that provides coverage for trip cancellations, medical emergencies, or other unforeseen events. Staying informed about the local situation, practicing good hygiene, and following any guidelines or regulations in place will contribute to a safe and enjoyable travel experience.

In conclusion, while there may be restrictions on flights or transportation to and from Acapulco depending on the prevailing conditions, being well-informed and taking necessary precautions can help ensure a smooth and safe journey. It is essential to check travel advisories, stay updated with airlines and transportation providers, and follow any guidelines or regulations put in place by the relevant authorities. With proper planning and awareness, travelers can still enjoy the beauty and attractions that Acapulco has to offer.

Navigating Travel Restrictions with DVT: Tips for Safe and Comfortable Travel

Acapulco is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich cultural heritage. Before embarking on your journey to this beautiful city, it is important to be aware of certain health and safety guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Water and Food Safety:

When visiting Acapulco, it is advisable to drink bottled water and avoid consuming tap water. This precaution applies not only for drinking purposes but also for brushing your teeth or washing fruits and vegetables. Additionally, be cautious about street food vendors and ensure that the food you consume is properly cooked and served hot.

Crime and Personal Safety:

While Acapulco offers a welcoming and safe environment for tourists, it is crucial to be mindful of your personal safety. Like any other tourist destination, petty theft can occur, so it is recommended to keep your personal belongings secure and never leave them unattended. Avoid walking alone at night and stick to well-lit and crowded areas.

Beach Safety:

Acapulco is renowned for its stunning beaches, and it is important to exercise caution when swimming. While the waves may appear calm, there can be strong undertows and currents that can be dangerous, especially for inexperienced swimmers. It is advisable to swim in designated areas supervised by lifeguards and follow any warning signs or flags indicating hazardous conditions.

Sun Protection:

The sun can be intense in Acapulco, so it is essential to protect yourself from the harmful effects of UV rays. Apply sunscreen with a high SPF regularly, wear a wide-brimmed hat, and use sunglasses to protect your eyes. It is also advisable to seek shade during the peak hours of sunlight and stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.

Travel Insurance:

Before traveling to Acapulco, it is strongly recommended to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses, trip cancellations, and lost or stolen belongings. Familiarize yourself with the details of your insurance policy and keep a copy of it handy during your trip.

Medical Facilities:

In case of a medical emergency, Acapulco offers several reputable hospitals and medical facilities. It is advisable to identify the nearest hospital to your accommodation and keep emergency contact numbers readily accessible. If you are on any medication, ensure you have an ample supply for the duration of your stay.

COVID-19 Guidelines:

Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, it is important to stay updated on the latest travel advisories and guidelines issued by the local authorities and health organizations. This may include wearing masks in public areas, practicing social distancing, and following any specific entry requirements or restrictions imposed by the government.

By following these health and safety guidelines, you can enjoy a memorable and worry-free vacation in Acapulco. Remember to always trust your instincts and exercise caution, but don't let it overshadow your ability to have a fantastic time exploring the city's stunning attractions and immersing yourself in its vibrant culture.

Navigating Madagascar's Travel Restrictions: What You Need to Know

Frequently asked questions.

Yes, there are travel restrictions in place for Acapulco. As of now, only essential travel is recommended, and non-essential travel is strongly discouraged. This is due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and the need to limit the spread of the virus.

While non-essential travel to Acapulco is currently discouraged, it is ultimately up to individual travelers to decide whether or not to proceed with their plans. However, it is important to note that there may be additional entry requirements, such as proof of a negative COVID-19 test or mandatory quarantine upon arrival. It is advisable to check with the local authorities and airlines for the most up-to-date information before making any travel arrangements.

The ability to travel to Acapulco from another country will depend on the specific travel restrictions and entry requirements in place. Many countries have implemented strict border control measures, including mandatory quarantine for incoming travelers or restrictions on non-essential travel. It is important to check with the local embassy or consulate of both your home country and Mexico to determine if you are able to travel to Acapulco at this time.

Yes, there are specific health and safety measures in place in Acapulco to protect both residents and visitors. These may include mandatory mask-wearing in public spaces, social distancing guidelines, and enhanced sanitation protocols in hotels, restaurants, and other establishments. It is important to follow these measures and adhere to any local regulations to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 and ensure a safe and enjoyable visit to Acapulco.

• Guilia Velez Author

• Melissa Carey Author Reviewer Traveller

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U.S. State Department Renews Warning About Travel To Mexico — Where It Says Visitors Can Travel This Spring

• News and Tips
• Travel News

Mexico is one of the most popular international destinations for American travelers. Cancun, Tulum, and Playa del Carmen particularly draw high numbers of tourists from the U.S.

However, as the spring break and Easter travel season approaches, anyone planning a trip to Mexico this spring must reckon with the sobering news of four Americans who were recently attacked by gunmen while traveling in Mexico.

The four individuals had traveled to Mexico so one could have a medical procedure. Then, in the city of Matamoros in Tamaulipas state, just south of Brownsville, Texas, the four were shot at and kidnapped. Two of them were killed in the gunfire. The other two, one of whom was also shot, have now been returned to the U.S., according to NBC News .

The U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Mexico issued a statement reminding U.S. citizens that it previously issued a travel advisory listing Tamaulipas state as a “Level 4: Do Not Travel” area in Mexico.

The natural inclination for anyone planning to travel to Mexico, as well as for family and friends of those prospective travelers, is now to question whether or not it’s safe to visit Mexico.

Zachary Rabinor, founder and CEO of the travel company Journey Mexico, says it’s important to remember that the Americans were killed and kidnapped a long distance from popular tourist destinations in Mexico.

“To put things in perspective, Matamoros is about 1,360 miles away from Cancun,” Rabinor said, according to CNN . “That’s about the equivalent distance from the Texas side of the border to Chicago, Illinois.”

Jaime Lopez-Aranda, a senior security manager at travel risk management firm International SOS, agrees that popular resort areas are still fairly safe.

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

Importantly, the U.S. State Department has issued a number of advisories for U.S. citizens traveling to various Mexican states in recent weeks. Now, as violent crime and kidnapping rates increase across Mexico, Americans considering travel to all but two of the states in Mexico should be aware of renewed and increased warnings, the State Department cautions.

“Violent crime — such as homicide, kidnapping, carjacking, and robbery — is widespread and common in Mexico,” the State Department explains .

“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,” the State Department continues. “In many states, local emergency services are limited outside the state capital or major cities.”

Here are the State Department’s travel advisories for each of Mexico’s states.

Do Not Travel To

The State Department advises U.S. citizens to not travel to five states in Mexico due to increasing levels of crime and kidnapping.

Those states are Colima (where Manzanillo is located), Michoacan, Sinaloa (where Mazatlán is located), Tamaulipas, and Zacatecas (home to Zacatecas City).

Guerrero — where Acapulco, Zihuatanejo, and Ixtapa are located — is also on the State Department’s “Do Not Travel” list because crime is widespread in those areas.

Reconsider Travel To

The State Department advises U.S. citizens to “reconsider travel” to five states in Mexico due to crime and kidnapping.

Those states are Baja California (where Tijuana is located), Chihuahua, Guanajuato (where Guanajuato City is located), Jalisco (home to Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta), and Sonora.

The states of Durango and Morelos are also on the State Department’s “Reconsider Travel To” list due to high crime rates.

Exercise Increased Caution When Traveling To

The State Department advises U.S. citizens to “exercise increased caution when traveling to” 17 areas of Mexico, primarily due to crime rates but also due to the threat of kidnapping in some places.

Those states are Aguascalientes, Baja California Sur (where Cabo San Lucas , San Jose del Cabo, and La Paz are located), Chiapas, Coahuila, Hidalgo, Mexico State, Nayarit, Nuevo Leon, Oaxaca (home of Oaxaca City and Huatulco), Puebla, Queretaro, Quintana Roo (where Cancun , Cozumel, Tulum, and Riviera Maya are located), San Luis Potosi, Tabasco, Tlaxcala, and Veracruz.

Mexico City is also on the list due to high crime rates.

Exercise Normal Precautions When Traveling To

The State Department advises U.S. citizens to “exercise normal precautions when traveling to” Campeche and Yucatan, where Chichen Itza and Merida are located.

Know Before You Go

If you decide to travel to Mexico, the State Department offers some guidance.

“Exercise increased caution when visiting local bars, nightclubs, and casinos,” the State Department recommends. “Do not display signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive watches or jewelry. Be extra vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs.”

U.S. citizens with an emergency are also reminded that they can call the U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Mexico for help.

U.S. citizens on their way to Mexico are also advised to make a note of U.S. Embassy & Consulates emergency contacts in the area where they will be traveling.

Finally, the State Department recommends international travelers enroll in STEP, the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program .

Doing so enables U.S. citizens and nationals traveling and living abroad to enroll their trip with the nearest U.S. Embassy or consulate. That way travelers can receive important information from the Embassy about safety conditions in their destination country, make it easy for the U.S. Embassy to contact travelers in the event of an emergency, and also make it easier for family and friends to contact travelers in case of an emergency.

For more about changing travel conditions in countries around the world, be sure to read our Travel News content, including:

• New Cost To Travel To Europe Delayed Until 2024 — What Visitors Need To Know
• Traveling To Europe This Spring? 5 Countries Where Strikes Could Affect Your Trip
• TSA Is Asking Travelers With Pets To Stop Doing This One Thing — Here’s What It Is

Jim Fulcher has been a writer and editor his entire career. In addition to writing, he also enjoys traveling--particularly in an RV. Over the course of numerous trips, Jim has driven an RV through West Virginia, Virginia, Tennessee, Kentucky, Indiana, Illinois, Wisconsin, Iowa, Nebraska, South Dakota, and Wyoming. His favorite national park is Yellowstone, which he has visited three times.

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Mexico travel advice

Latest updates: The Need help? section was updated.

Last updated: April 29, 2024 07:16 ET

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

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

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 - 8 April, 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.

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.

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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 April 18, 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, Ecuador, including the Galápagos Islands, French Guiana (France), Guadeloupe, Guatemala, Martinique (France), Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Turks and Caicos Islands (U.K.), Uruguay
• Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever in Mexico March 12, 2024 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 March 29, 2023 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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• Passports, travel and living abroad
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Warnings and insurance

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

Areas where FCDO advises against all but essential travel

Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against FCDO advice. Consular support is also severely limited where FCDO advises against travel.

State of Baja California

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the city of Tijuana, except:

• airside transit through Tijuana airport
• the Cross Border Xpress bridge from the airport linking terminals across the Mexican-US border
• the federal toll road 1D and Via Rápida through Tijuana to the border

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the city of Tecate in Baja California (including roads between Tijuana and Tecate)

Note: FCDO does not advise against all travel or all but essential travel to any part of the state of Baja California Sur.

State of Chiapas

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to within 40km of the Guatemalan border between the Pacific Coast up to and including the border crossing at Gracias a Dio

FCDO advises against all but essential travel on Federal Highway 199 (Carretera Federal 199) between Rancho Nuevo (just outside San Cristobal de las Casas) and the Chancalá junction just outside Palenque (where Federal Highway 199 meets Federal Highway 307).

State of Chihuahua

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the state of Chihuahua, except:

• the city of Chihuahua
• the border crossing in Ciudad Juárez (accessed by federal toll road 45)
• federal toll road 45D connecting the cities of Chihuahua and Ciudad Juárez
• the Copper Canyon rail route to and from Chihuahua and towns immediately on this route including Creel
• the road from Creel via San Juanito to San Pedro
• state highway 16 from San Pedro to Chihuahua

State of Colima

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the state of Colima, except:

• the city of Manzanillo accessed by sea or air via the Manzanillo-Costalegre International Airport

State of Guanajuato

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the areas southwest of road 45D.

State of Guerrero

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the state of Guerrero, except:

• the town of Zihuatanejo/Ixtapa accessed by air.

State of Jalisco

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the areas south and southwest of Lake Chapala to the border with the state of Colima.

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the northern municipalities of:

• Chimaltitán
• Hostotipaquillo
• Huequilla el Alto
• San Martin de Bolaños
• Santa Maria de los Ángeles
• Villa Guerrero

State of Michoacán

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the state of Michoacán, except:

• the city of Morelia accessed by federal toll roads 15D, 126 and 43; and the federal toll road 48D between the city of Morelia and the General Francisco Mujica airport
• the town of Pátzcuaro accessed by federal toll roads 14D and 15 from Morelia, and boat trips out to islands on Lake Pátzcuaro
• the Federal Highway 15D

State of Sinaloa

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the state of Sinaloa, except:

• the cities of Los Mochis and Mazatlán
• road 32 that runs between El Fuerte and Los Mochis
• the 15D federal toll road that runs the length of the state
• the Copper Canyon rail route to and from Los Mochis, El Fuerte and the towns immediately on this route

State of Tamaulipas

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the state of Tamaulipas, except:

• the border crossing at Nuevo Laredo accessed by federal toll road 85D from Monterrey
• Federal highways 80, 81 and 85 between Tampico, Ciudad de Victoria and Magueyes, and the entire area of Tamaulipas south of these highways.

State of Zacatecas

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the state of Zacatecas.

Find out more about why FCDO advises against travel to these areas .

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide and any specific travel advice that applies to you: 

• women travellers  
• disabled travellers  
• LGBT+ travellers

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

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Update April 12, 2024

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Bon Voyaged

15 High-Risk Travel Destinations for 2024

Posted: April 29, 2024 | Last updated: April 29, 2024

The world is a tapestry of diverse landscapes and cultures, but amidst its beauty and wonder, there exist places that are fraught with danger. These perilous locales, known as the most dangerous places on Earth, offer a stark contrast to the serene and inviting destinations that most travelers seek. From war-torn regions where conflict and political unrest are a constant threat, to natural landscapes that are as deadly as they are breathtaking, these areas challenge the very limits of human survival. They encompass treacherous terrains like active volcanoes and deep, uncharted jungles, as well as areas with extreme climates, from the scorching heat of vast deserts to the frigid expanses of polar ice fields. The danger in these places is not only to the physical well-being of those who dare to venture there but also poses a threat to mental fortitude, challenging the resolve and resilience of even the most seasoned adventurers.

In this Middle Eastern nation, the U.S. State Department’s warning is unequivocal: Yemen is engulfed in pervasive violence, rendering no area within its borders safe. The persistent and calculated activities of terrorist groups pose a relentless threat, with bombings and armed conflicts frequently targeting tourist sites, public transportation, shopping centers, and other public venues. This volatile situation has persisted for several years, a fact underscored by the closure of the U.S. Embassy in February 2015. As a result of this withdrawal, American nationals in Yemen find themselves without the safeguard of their country’s diplomatic presence on the ground.

Many travelers fantasize about visiting the vibrant castles of St. Petersburg, yet the U.S. State Department suggests a cautious approach when considering travel to Russia. Although not every region in Russia is fraught with danger, the potential for terrorist attacks and the risk of American citizens facing harassment or extortion by police officers have led to a Level 3 advisory – urging travelers to rethink their plans. For those who decide to visit, heightened safety measures are recommended. It’s advised to avoid demonstrations, stay informed with local news updates, and exercise increased vigilance in areas frequently visited by Western tourists, to navigate the complexities of safety in Russia.

This Central American nation, nestled just below Mexico, currently carries a Level 3 travel advisory from the U.S. State Department. A mix of political unrest, widespread poverty, rampant drug trafficking, and a high risk of crimes such as carjacking and armed robbery contribute to its precarious safety situation. Furthermore, violent crimes, including sexual assault and murder, are alarmingly common, a situation exacerbated by the presence of numerous gangs in urban areas and along border regions. For those who choose to travel there, it is crucial to prioritize safety: staying in hotels with both door attendants and professional security staff is recommended. When exploring, it is advised to be accompanied by a security member from the Guatemalan Tourism Institute. Additionally, it is wise to avoid nighttime travel, using public ATMs, and displaying signs of wealth like wearing watches or jewelry, to mitigate risks in this challenging environment.

Philippines

While much of the Philippines offers a safe experience for travelers, caution is particularly advised in its southern regions, especially the beach areas, as highlighted by Gobbels. The U.S. State Department has issued a Level 2 travel advisory for these parts due to an uptick in kidnappings. Specifically, on the large island of Mindanao, in areas like Zamboanga and the Sulu Archipelago, there’s a risk of encountering the ASG (Abu Sayyaf Group), an ISIS-affiliated terrorist organization notorious for its kidnap-for-ransom activities. In Manila, the capital city, there is an increasing trend in pickpocketing and some violent crimes. Gobbels advises that walking might be safer than driving in these regions due to the high rate of accidents and limited emergency response services.

Cairo holds the unsettling distinction of being the most dangerous city for women globally. Despite a gradual easing of political tensions, the city remains fraught with challenges for both local and visiting women, primarily due to prevalent violence and deeply entrenched cultural norms. The efforts of numerous women’s rights organizations to enhance street safety are ongoing, but meaningful change is progressing slowly. For those determined to travel to Cairo, it is strongly recommended to engage with a reputable and trusted tour operator to navigate the city’s complex social landscape with greater security and awareness.

Madagascar, when compared to other African nations, boasts a relatively lower crime rate. However, the country is not without its challenges. Political instability in the region has led to increased unemployment, which in turn has sparked a rise in robberies and muggings. These incidents are particularly prevalent in densely populated areas such as airports and street markets. Additionally, there is a concerning trend of violent highway robberies, including car thefts, targeting travelers on major roads like RN7, RN27, RN10, and RN1B. Visitors to Madagascar should be especially cautious in these areas and remain vigilant to ensure their safety.

Malaysian Borneo

Situated in the Malay Archipelago of Southeast Asia, this island is a haven for nature enthusiasts, boasting unspoiled beaches, lush rainforests, and a diverse array of wildlife, including leopards and orangutans. While the natural scenery is captivating, the political situation presents significant risks. During the election period in early May, there were heightened concerns regarding the kidnapping of foreigners. Additionally, areas of the island renowned for their diving experiences are identified as particularly perilous due to the current political unrest.

In a ranking by worldatlas.com of the 50 most dangerous cities globally, Brazil notably had 17 cities on the list, underscoring the need for heightened vigilance and safety awareness for travelers. Beyond issues of personal security, health risks are also a significant concern, particularly regarding water pollution. This is true even for renowned beach destinations like Ipanema. A study revealed that exposure to just three teaspoons of beach water in these areas could potentially lead to viral or bacterial infections, highlighting the critical importance of caution in both urban and natural environments in Brazil.

The recent relocation of the U.S. embassy to Jerusalem has intensified the already volatile atmosphere in the region, marking it as a potentially hazardous destination. Despite the celebratory nature of the embassy’s opening ceremony, significant violent protests broke out in Gaza, located just 50 miles away. This area, revered as one of the world’s holiest, continues to attract numerous visitors. However, in light of the current situation, the State Department advises travelers to remain highly vigilant and well-prepared for any eventualities when visiting this region.

This once-idyllic beach resort town on Mexico’s Pacific coast has seen a drastic transformation from its former status as a white-sand party haven. It now falls under a Level 4 travel advisory, placing it in the same risk category as countries like Iran, Syria, and North Korea. The primary reason for this alarming classification is its reputation as the murder capital of Mexico, plagued by an extensive network of gangs that operate blatantly in the area.

The Big Island of Hawaii, commonly known as a romantic haven for honeymooners, has recently emerged as a potentially perilous destination. This shift in perception is largely due to the eruption of the Kilauea volcano, which has led to a declared state of emergency. Visitors to the island now face risks including toxic gas emissions, emerging fissures, unpredictable lava flows, and frequent earthquakes. While attractive airline deals to the island may become more prevalent, travelers should carefully consider these significant natural hazards before planning their journey to this otherwise enchanting destination.

The striking contrast in wealth and social class in India contributes to the risks of scams and theft. However, it’s the country’s medical safety concerns that heighten its danger level. The U.S. State Department currently assigns India a Level 2 travel advisory, which urges travelers to “exercise increased caution.” This advisory is primarily due to significant health risks, including severe air pollution, and the prevalence of diseases like typhoid, as well as various food and waterborne infections. Additionally, India has reported cases of the Nipah virus, a rare but serious infection. For those who have their hearts set on visiting iconic sites like the Taj Mahal, it’s crucial to be well-informed and prepared to navigate these health and safety challenges.

Caracas, Venezuela

has garnered notoriety for its exceptionally high crime rates, particularly in the realms of kidnapping and armed robbery. The city’s dire economic situation, coupled with political instability, has fostered an environment where such criminal activities are rampant. Visitors and locals alike face a constant threat in this urban landscape, where the risk of falling victim to these crimes is significantly elevated.

San Pedro Sula, Honduras

San Pedro Sula, Honduras, has been infamously referred to as the ‘murder capital of the world’, primarily due to its alarmingly high homicide rates. This grim title reflects the city’s intense struggles with gang violence and drug trafficking, which are major contributors to the pervasive sense of insecurity and danger. The city’s challenging socio-economic conditions further exacerbate the situation, making it a particularly hazardous environment for both residents and visitors.

Mogadishu, Somalia

The nature of violence in Mogadishu includes attacks by Al-Shabaab targeting government and security officials, foreign forces, and civilians. These attacks often take place in busy locations such as hotels, restaurants, and teashops, resulting in numerous civilian casualties.

Libya remains a highly dangerous destination due to ongoing conflict and political instability. Recent clashes in Tripoli, the capital, have underscored the precarious security situation, with deadly encounters between major armed groups resulting in significant casualties, including civilians. This instability is undermining the country’s preparations for elections, which are crucial for establishing a unified government and military, and essential for lasting stability. The lack of unified political leadership and the presence of various armed groups, including the Libyan National Army and militias with differing allegiances, further complicate the security landscape.

South Sudan

South Sudan is considered a dangerous place to visit due to a combination of factors, including ongoing violence, political instability, and severe humanitarian crises. The country has been experiencing chronic intercommunal clashes and violence between armed groups, particularly in the Upper Nile, southern Central Equatoria, and southern Unity states. These conflicts have led to significant displacement of people and serious human rights abuses, some of which may amount to war crimes or crimes against humanity.

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Slope repair set to begin along US 84 on May 6

Travel advisory.

Archuleta County -  The Colorado Department of Transportation and Drill Tech Drilling & Shoring, Inc. will begin slope repair work on May 6. Work will occur on US Highway 84, 21 miles south of Pagosa Springs and 7.7 miles north of the New Mexico state line. The project is expected to last until the end of December.

The project will help mitigate a slope adjacent to the roadway that is prone to landslides and will stabilize the roadway infrastructure. Work will consist of the installation of a concrete wall barrier with a reinforced subsurface pile system drilled into the ground. Crews will replace an existing drainage culvert with a new concrete and corrugated metal pipe under the roadway. Slope repairs will help stabilize the roadway including widening the roadway to include a 13’ shoulder. Finally, work will include asphalt repaving and the installation of a new guardrail. 

Traffic Impacts

Beginning May 6, motorists should plan for road work on US 84 between Pagosa Springs and Chromo. Traffic impacts will include:

• Daytime work hours range from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday, with potential for weekend work
• Vehicles will be reduced to a single-lane, alternating traffic intermittently in either direction, throughout the duration of the project
• Lane closures, guided by a temporary light signal or flaggers, will have up to 15-minute delays
• The speed limit will be reduced to 25 mph through the work zone

Project Information

For additional information about this project:

• Call the project information line at 970-398-2714
• Email the project team at: [email protected]
• Visit the project website at: www.codot.gov/projects/us84sloperepair

Know Before You Go

Travelers are urged to “know before you go.” Gather information about weather forecasts and anticipated travel impacts and current road conditions prior to hitting the road. CDOT resources include:

• Road conditions and travel information: COtrip.org
• Download the COtrip Planner app: bit.ly/COtripapp
• Sign up for project or travel alerts: bit.ly/COnewsalerts
• See scheduled construction lane closures: bit.ly/laneclosures
• Connect with @ColoradoDOT on social media: Twitter , Facebook , Instagram and YouTube

Remember: Slow For The Cone Zone

The following tips are to help you stay safe while traveling through maintenance and construction work zones.

• Do not speed in work zones. Obey the posted speed limits.
• Stay Alert! Expect the unexpected.
• Watch for workers. Drive with caution.
• Don't change lanes unnecessarily.
• Avoid using mobile devices such as phones while driving in work zones.
• Turn on headlights so that workers and other drivers can see you.
• Be especially alert at night while driving in work zones.
• Expect delays, especially during peak travel times.
• Allow ample space between you and the car in front of you.
• Anticipate lane shifts and merge when directed to do so.
• Be patient!

Download the COtrip App!

The new free COtrip Planner mobile app was designed to meet the growing trend of information on mobile and tablet devices for the traveling public. The COtrip Planner app provides statewide, real-time traffic information, and works on mobile devices that operate on the iOS and Android platforms. Visit the Google Play Store (Android devices) or the Apple Store (iOS devices) to download!