Enhanced Travel Cautions Issued for Mexico; Restrictions Not Yet Enforced
Mexico, known for its vibrant culture, stunning beaches, and rich history, remains an attractive destination for many travelers. However, it is crucial to exercise caution due to ongoing security concerns.
As of August 2025, the U.S. State Department has issued a Level 2 travel advisory ("exercise increased caution") for most of Mexico, citing concerns about terrorism, crime, and kidnapping. This includes popular destinations like Baja California Sur (where Cabo San Lucas is), Mexico City, Nayarit, Oaxaca, and Quintana Roo (Cancún and surrounding areas).
The advisory levels for different regions in Mexico are as follows:
- Level 1 ("Exercise normal precautions"): Campeche, Yucatán
- Level 2 ("Exercise increased caution"): Baja California Sur, Mexico City, Nayarit, Oaxaca, Quintana Roo, Aguascalientes, Coahuila, Durango, Hidalgo, Mexico State, Nuevo León, Puebla, Querétaro, San Luis Potosí, Tabasco, Tlaxcala, Veracruz
- Level 3 ("Reconsider travel"): Baja California, Chiapas, Chihuahua, Coahuila, Guanajuato, Jalisco, Morelos, Sonora
- Level 4 ("Do not travel"): Colima, Guerrero, Michoacán, Sinaloa, Tamaulipas, Zacatecas
Certain municipalities near the U.S. border, such as Matamoros, Nuevo Laredo, and Nuevo Progreso, are explicitly listed as no-travel zones due to terrorism, crime, and kidnapping risks.
When traveling in Mexico, it is recommended to comply with local authorities’ instructions at checkpoints, avoid traveling alone or after dark, and remain alert in tourist places, transportation centers, markets, government buildings, hotels, and events.
The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) allows U.S. citizens to register their trip with the nearest U.S. Embassy, ensuring they receive important safety information. It is strongly advised to stay informed, choose your destination wisely, and follow the latest updates from the U.S. Embassy in Mexico and the State Department.
It is also important to note that the U.S. government has flagged several other countries and regions that travelers should be cautious about, including parts of Africa, the Middle East, and Eastern Europe. Travelers are encouraged to monitor local news and check the State Department’s website for real-time updates.
Despite the advisories, Mexico's attractions remain accessible for travelers who proceed with caution. Popular tourist destinations like Cancun, Riviera Maya, Mexico City, Los Cabos, and Puerto Vallarta remain under "Exercise Increased Caution" or "Reconsider Travel" advisories.
To ensure a safe and enjoyable trip, it is recommended to avoid displaying signs of wealth, stick to tourist-friendly areas, and avoid wandering off the beaten path, especially at night. By following these guidelines and staying informed, travelers can still experience the wonders that Mexico has to offer while minimizing risks.
- Adhering to travel tips such as obeying local authorities' instructions at checkpoints, avoiding solo travel at night, and staying informed about advisories can lead to a successful trip in Mexico, given its Level 2 travel advisory ("exercise increased caution") in various regions.
- To maintain a safe and enjoyable lifestyle during travel, it's important to consider the vibrant destinations within Mexico under the Level 2 advisory, like Cancun, Mexico City, and Los Cabos, but remain cautious by avoiding displaying wealth, sticking to tourist-friendly areas, and avoiding wandering off the beaten path, especially at night.
