As of 2024, Mexico's travel advisory status is something that you need to keep a close eye on. The advisory level for the country can range from Level 1 (Exercise Normal Precautions) to Level 4 (Do Not Travel), depending on various factors. There seems to be a new level blending between 3 and 4 - currently only Zacatacas is listed in this category of increased caution and high security risk.
I know it is essential for potential you to stay informed about the current advisory level before planning a trip or making any travel arrangements. That’s why I put together this safety map of Mexico.
I have travelled to some of the red, Level 4, zones and I would say the danger lies outside the major towns and cities.
Discover the rich culture and history of this beautiful country in our in-depth Mexico country travel guide.
Here is a full list of the states listed from the US State Department site based on their assessments.
Colima state due to crime and kidnapping.
Guerrero state due to crime.
Michoacan state due to crime and kidnapping.
Sinaloa state due to crime and kidnapping
Tamaulipas state due to crime and kidnapping.
Zacatecas state due to crime and kidnapping.
Baja California state due to crime and kidnapping.
Chihuahua state due to crime and kidnapping.
Durango state due to crime.
Guanajuato state due to crime and kidnapping.
Jalisco state due to crime and kidnapping.
Morelos state due to crime.
Sonora state due to crime and kidnapping.
Aguascalientes state due to crime.
Baja California Sur state due to crime.
Chiapas state due to crime.
Coahuila state due to crime.
Hidalgo state due to crime.
Mexico City due to crime.
Mexico State due to crime.
Nayarit state due to crime.
Nuevo Leon state due to crime and kidnapping.
Oaxaca state due to crime.
Puebla state due to crime and kidnapping.
Queretaro state due to crime.
Quintana Roo state due to crime.
San Luis Potosi state due to crime and kidnapping.
Tabasco state due to crime.
Tlaxcala state due to crime.
Veracruz state due to crime.
Campeche state
Yucatan state
When it comes to finding a slice of paradise in Mexico, look no further than Cancun and Riviera Maya. With their crystal-clear turquoise waters, powdery white sand beaches, and stunning coral reefs, these destinations offer the ultimate beach getaway.
Not only will you be spoiled for choice with luxurious resorts and all-inclusive options, but you'll also find a lively nightlife scene that caters to all tastes. From beachfront bars serving up tropical cocktails to world-class nightclubs where you can dance the night away, Cancun and Riviera Maya will surely satisfy your craving for excitement.
Situated on Mexico's Pacific Coast, Puerto Vallarta is a gem that combines natural beauty with cultural richness. This charming coastal town boasts breathtaking sunsets over the ocean, picturesque cobblestone streets lined with colorful buildings, and a welcoming atmosphere that instantly makes you feel at home.
In addition to its stunning beaches where you can relax under swaying palm trees or try your hand at thrilling water sports like parasailing or jet skiing, Puerto Vallarta is known for its vibrant arts scene. Stroll along the famous Malecón boardwalk to admire beautiful sculptures and art installations or explore the local galleries showcasing traditional Mexican artwork.
As the pulsating heart of Mexico, Mexico City enchants visitors with its vibrant energy and cultural richness. It is filled with captivating museums, architectural wonders, and culinary delights, this megacity has something to offer for every type of traveler.
Immerse yourself in history at Palacio de Bellas Artes or explore the pre-Hispanic artifacts at Museo Nacional de Antropología. Stroll through the colorful streets of Coyoacán or visit Frida Kahlo's iconic Casa Azul to take a deeper look into her artistic world.
With its bustling markets, lively nightlife scene, and welcoming locals known as chilangos, Mexico City unveils an endless array of experiences that will undoubtedly leave you ready to come back for more.
Nestled in the foothills of the Sierra Madre, Oaxaca is a cultural gem that is captivating with its deep-rooted indigenous heritage. The city's vibrant markets, such as Mercado Benito Juárez and Mercado de Artesanías, showcase an array of traditional crafts including vibrant textiles, intricate ceramics, and exquisitely carved Mezcal bottles.
Oaxaca's culinary scene is equally captivating – indulge in authentic mole negro or sip on Mezcal, a distilled spirit unique to the region. With its rich tapestry of customs, artistry, and gastronomy, Oaxaca offers a truly immersive experience where you can discover Mexico's cultural wealth firsthand
If you’re looking for an authentic Mexican experience filled with history and culture, Guanajuato should be on top of your list. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its well-preserved colonial architecture characterized by colorful buildings adorned with intricate facades.
Many question if it is safe. I have traveled here by car and I had no issues. I would say that the city itself is safe but you will want to exercise caution when traveling around the state and stay away from driving at night.
Explore the narrow alleyways of the city center that lead to charming plazas where you can sip on Mexican hot chocolate or sample traditional street food. Guanajuato is also famous for its lively festivals, such as the International Cervantino Festival, which celebrates music, dance, and theater from around the world.
Whether you're looking for a relaxing beach getaway, an immersive cultural experience, or a combination of both, Cancun and Riviera Maya, Puerto Vallarta, and Guanajuato have plenty to offer. So pack your sunscreen, embrace the vibrant colors and flavors of Mexico, and get ready for an unforgettable journey that will leave you with incredible memories.
Michoacán state has unfortunately experienced a high level of cartel-related violence due to its strategic location along major drug trafficking routes.
While this state boasts natural beauty with its stunning coastlines and picturesque colonial towns like Morelia and Patzcuaro, it is essential to acknowledge the ongoing security concerns that exist here.
You are advised to stay informed about specific areas within Michoacán that may be more prone to violence and to consider avoiding those locations altogether.
By staying in popular tourist areas, maintaining a low profile, and being aware of your surroundings, you can still enjoy the cultural richness and natural splendor that Michoacán has to offer while minimizing potential risks.
To have a safe journey in Mexico, it's important to pack wisely. Keep your travel documents (passport, visa, identification) secure in a money belt or hidden pouch.
It's also essential to carry copies of these documents as backups. Avoid displaying expensive jewelry or accessories that might attract unwanted attention.
Stay vigilant in crowded areas such as markets and public transportation by keeping your belongings close at all times. Be cautious when using ATMs and only withdraw cash from known banks during daytime hours.
Before starting on your Mexican adventure, make sure to check for any updates on travel advisories from reliable sources such as government websites or international news outlets. While certain regions may be considered safe for tourists, situations can change rapidly due to various factors like political unrest or natural disasters.
By staying informed about travel advisories specific to the areas you plan to visit, you can make well-informed decisions regarding your itinerary and ensure your safety throughout your trip.
While it is important to stay aware of any travel advisories when planning a trip to Mexico in 2024 and beyond, there are numerous beautiful destinations that remain safe for you to explore.
Remember, this country offers diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality that will undoubtedly leave you with unforgettable experiences. So embrace the adventure and get ready to celebrate the vibrant spirit of Mexico while keeping these safety tips in mind!
I won't come home till after I shaken hands with native lands and kissed the old friends back there - Swim, Ambulance Ltd