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Is Cabo San Lucas Safe for American Tourists in 2024?

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Is Cabo Safe? The answer is yes. According to recent federal government data, Cabo San Lucas is the fourth safest city in Mexico. Baja California Sur is the third safest state with the lowest murder rate in Mexico, equivalent to the murder rate in Idaho.

Like so many other places south of the border, this popular resort town (2 million U.S. visitors in 2022, per  Travel Analytics ) can be an extremely safe destination for anyone looking for a quick getaway from the U.S.

There is a misconception among some—fed by what are often one-sided portrayals in the U.S. media—that México is wracked by drug-related violence and unsafe for travel.

Although certain towns in Mexico are rife with crime and cartel violence, Los Cabos, isolated at the end of a 760-mile peninsula, isn’t one of them, and anyone who has visited the country can attest, including yours, to this.

While it’s undeniable that México, like every country in the world, suffers from crime and has some undesirable areas, most of its cities and communities—like Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo in particular—are incredibly safe.

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Facts vs fiction: dispelling myths.

In recent years, Cabo San Lucas has worked diligently to shed safety misconceptions that might deter potential visitors.

While media reports sometimes highlight isolated incidents or incidents happening on the other side of the country, Cabo is considered a safe destination for tourists.

The local government and tourism authorities have implemented various measures to ensure the well-being of visitors and residents alike.

Cabo is safe, and crime rates are plummeting. Rest assured, government authorities are working hard to keep it that way.

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

Mexicans are warm and gracious. They want to share their culture with you and repeatedly welcome visitors back.

U.S. State Department Travel Advisory for Cabo San Lucas

Let’s start with advice from the U.S. State Department. Click here  to see if there is any specific Cabo San Lucas travel advisory for the time you plan to travel.

This department assigns a travel advisory level to destinations based on their social and political climate.

These four levels serve as a guide, indicating to travelers the caution they should exercise when visiting or whether reconsidering their travel plans is appropriate.

There are four levels of travel advisories issued by both the U.S. and Canada (and they’re roughly equivalent) for various places around the world:

Level 1 – Exercise normal precautions

Level 2 – Exercise increased caution

Level 3 – Reconsider travel

Level 4 – Do not travel

The State Department  notes that “violent crime is common and widespread in Mexico,” though there are no travel restrictions for Cabo San Lucas.

However, the State Department recommends that travelers reconsider travel to Baja California because of crime and kidnapping. On the flip side, Mexican tourism experts are confident that the country is safe for vacationers and travelers. 

It’s important to note that despite what you may have seen in the U.S. media, incidents involving tourists in Mexico are exceedingly rare.

As I stated above, Los Cabos, Cabo San Lucas, San Jose Del Cabo, and the Tourist Corridor, which links the two cities, are considered the safest areas for Americans to visit.

Fortunately, there are no travel restrictions for Baja California Sur. This means that it’s perfectly safe to visit Cabo San Lucas, San Jose Del Cabo, and La Paz.

While organized crime may be a concern in some parts of Mexico, Cabo San Lucas is relatively safe.

Almost all of the American tourists that have been killed in Mexico are due to buying drugs from the cartel because someone thought it was a good idea to buy drugs in a foreign country. 

You have nothing to worry about if you’re not participating in illegal activities.

Is Cabo San Lucas Safe for Families? 

Cabo, a go-to spot for families, welcomes countless folks each year, mine included, and guess what? Smooth sailing! Families, including ours, have been making memories here without a hitch.

Whether it’s the cozy, all-inclusive resorts or the epic family adventures, like catching a glimpse of whales from a pirate ship, Cabo knows how to cater to the family crew.

It’s not just a destination; it’s practically a family tradition!

Is Cabo Safe for Female Solo Travelers

Cabo San Lucas is a safe destination for solo female travelers, provided that certain precautions are taken.

While Cabo has seen security improvements, it’s still important to prioritize your safety. Opt for well-established accommodations in reputable areas and inform a friend or family about your travel plans.

Utilize authorized transportation options, such as taxis or Uber Ridesharing, and avoid walking alone late at night.

For solo female travelers who decide to visit Cabo solo, here are some quick and helpful tips for staying safe:

• Learn common, handy phrases in Spanish.
• Share your travel itinerary with friends and family, and keep in touch.
• Avoid traveling around alone at night.
• Enroll in the U.S. State Department’s  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  (STEP).

Scams in Cabo San Lucas

Every popular destination deals with its fair share of folks trying to pull a fast one on unsuspecting travelers.

If you’ve traveled before, you’ve probably encountered these Cabo-style shenanigans – the smooth talkers at the airport and the sneaky pickpockets in busy spots.

Here are the five most common scams in Cabo San Lucas and tips on how to avoid them:

• Taxi Overcharging: Some taxi drivers might overcharge tourists, especially if the fare is not agreed upon before the journey. To avoid this, insist on using licensed taxis, request an estimate before starting the ride, and ensure the meter is used if available.
• Timeshare Presentations: Visitors are often lured into attending timeshare presentations with promises of gifts or tours. These presentations can be high-pressure sales tactics. To steer clear, politely decline such invitations and avoid giving personal information to strangers.
• Fake Excursion Packages: Scammers might sell counterfeit or overpriced excursion packages. Always book activities through reputable agencies or directly with your hotel. Research online reviews and ask for recommendations from fellow travelers.
• Counterfeit Money: Be vigilant when receiving change, especially in busy places. Counterfeit bills occasionally circulate. Verify the authenticity of larger bills and be cautious when dealing with unfamiliar currency.
• ATM Skimming: Criminals sometimes install skimming devices on ATMs to steal card information. Use ATMs located in well-lit, busy areas, preferably inside banks. Cover your hand while entering your PIN, and regularly check your bank statements for any unauthorized transactions.

Cabo Safety vs. Major U.S. Cities

Let’s compare the safety of Cabo vs. the good old US of A.

Both the U.S. and Cabo have their share of places with a bit of a rowdy reputation. But here’s the kicker: Cabo doesn’t even appear in the top 50 most violent cities globally.

Can you believe it? Now, want to take a wild guess at who’s hogging the limelight on that list?

St. Louis, Baltimore, Detroit, and New Orleans are the contenders. Clocking in at 60.59 homicides, down to 36.87 per 100,000 people.

Yeah, those are pretty hefty numbers, but here’s the twist—all four cities still manage to pull off the “safe to travel” card and host major shindigs that draw crowds by the hundreds of thousands.

Even Cancun, arguably Mexico’s most visited hotspot, throws its hat into the ring. It’s right there on the list. And get this: in 2022, it made history with a whopping 40 million tourists.

So, despite the digits, it seems like its popularity is on a steady incline.

Statistically speaking, despite media sensationalism, U.S. travelers are safer in Cabo San Lucas than in most U.S. cities.

Cabo’s currently has a crime index of 43.24. When you look at the crime rate in Memphis, Cancun is much lower than the rating of 76.27.  See the comparison here.

Drug Cartels in Cabo San Lucas 

Concerns about drugs and drug cartels have been prevalent among travelers contemplating a trip to Mexico, especially in regions like Cabo and Baja California Sur, where incidents related to these issues have occurred in recent years.

However, it’s important to note that most violence doesn’t directly impact tourists. The most effective way to avoid such situations is by refraining from purchasing drugs or engaging in drug-related activities while in Cabo.

While this doesn’t guarantee safety, it significantly reduces the risks. Unfortunately, drug and gang-related violence, as evidenced by incidents in other popular tourist spots in Mexico, can occasionally spill into tourist areas, potentially involving visitors inadvertently.

Ultimately, the safety of visiting Cabo involves assessing these risks. Many tourists find that violent or drug-related crime is not a concern during their stay, so Cabo San Lucas is often perceived as a secure destination.

You are more likely to encounter scams at the airport or have valuables stolen than to become involved in organized crime in Cabo.

Police Extortion in Cabo San Lucas

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

10 Tips to Stay Safe in Cabo San Lucas

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

The Mexican government is highly motivated to keep tourists safe to preserve the tourist trade but you must also do your part when traveling to Mexico .

Traveling anywhere requires some safety precautions. So, remember to enlist these general rules during your vacation, and you will not have to ask continually if Cabo is safe.

Here are some precautions that you can take to make sure your trip goes as planned :

• Stay Informed : Keep up-to-date about safety news through a few methods. First, talk with your travel agent and/or hotel concierge about safety updates and where to go. They’ll have the most current read on the situation. As an American Citizen, you should also consider signing up for  STEP ,  the Department of State’s Safe Traveler Enrollment Program. This will sign you up for travel alerts, put you on the consulate and Embassy radar, and make it easier to work things out if there’s an incident. 
• Keep your valuables locked up when you leave the hotel.
• Research your destination :  Ensure you are current on travel warnings. 
• Don’t walk around yourself late at night : You are asking for trouble.
• Be careful taking money out of the ATM: these are good spots to rob people. 
• Use a money belt or a crossbody bag : Keep the thieves at bay.
• Don’t get scammed: If someone is asking you for your personal information, you are likely scamming.
• Don’t wear flashy jewelry – looking like you are balling out of control will get you robbed. Leave your LV and Gucci in the States. 
• Don’t try to buy drugs : Don’t ask about buying drugs, and don’t even think about buying drugs.
• DON’T travel at nigh t: Most crime occurs at night.

Top Places to Avoid in Cabo San Lucas:

• Swimming in the sea in Cabo San Lucas is extremely dangerous, so avoid the Pacific side, which has harsh tides and dangerous currents.
• Avoid going downtown at night as it’s unsafe.
• Avoid visiting San Jose Del as it’s easy to access for tourists. It’s a residential area with a prominent crime percentage in Cabo San Lucas Crime rate. San Jose del Cabo is 30 minutes away from the Cabo San Lucas resort town.

Is it Safe to Drink The Water in Los Cabos?

Even the locals don’t drink the water in Mexico.   

You can buy bottled water anywhere, but to guarantee its safety, ensure it is factory-sealed. Crystal is one of the most famous brands in Los Cabos.

Use bottled water for drinking and brushing your teeth. Most ice in the area comes from factories and is purified. If you are uncertain about the ice, ask your waiter.

Many travelers take risks with food and water. Being sick for a few days isn’t such a big deal if you are on a long trip.

If this is a week-long vacation with your bestie, do you want to spend half of it sick just because you were too lazy to get bottled water when you brushed your teeth?

Wear Sunscreen in Cabo San Lucas

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

The sun in Cabos San Lucas is pretty strong and high in damaging UV rays. Stay hydrated and limit the sun you get based on your skin type.

• Protecting skin with clothing .
• • Applying sunscreen to protect skin from harmful rays.
• • Wear a hat preferably with at least a 2-3-inch brim all around.
• • Wear sunglasses to protect yourself from UV rays.

Is it Safe to Rent a Car in Cabo San Lucas?

For the most part, bus travel is the best way to get around in Mexico, but if you are anything like me, I prefer to rent a car , be on my own time, and not have to wait on other people. 

I like to explore and make up my itinerary as I go, and those tour buses do not give me the freedom, and they may not cover every place I want to see. 

The Yucatan, for example, is especially suited to driving: Many beaches, barely developed ruins, and intriguing villages lie a reasonable distance from the main road.

Highways are well-maintained, constantly improved, and so straight that the slightest curve bristles with warning signs and reflectors.

Driving in Los Cabos is generally safe, but I suggest parking your car at night and not staying out too late.

Travel Insurance is a Must

I’ve traveled without insurance, and trust me, you don’t want to get sick on your vacation. I’ve had flights canceled and got sick in the Czech Republic. Travel insurance will help you keep peace of mind.

Depending on your needs, you can find a policy that fits them.

Make sure to get your insurance before you head off on an adventure!  I highly recommend Travelex Insurance.

Where to Stay in Cabo 2024?

Are you looking for the best places to stay in Cabo San Lucas but unsure which suits your budget and interests? Let us help you choose the best hotels in the marina or downtown, keeping your budget in mind.

• One & Only Palmilla  is a high-end resort that opened 60 years ago, making it a benchmark for all visitors to stay in Cabo if budget is not an issue. The incredible suites, rooms, and villas have gorgeous patios featuring cushy daybeds. The stunning fine-dining restaurants and luxurious spas with private beaches are the real attraction.
• Montage Los Cabos  is an ultra-modern resort on the beach where you can snorkel, swim, paddle board, and scuba dive. Other amenities at the Montage include a massive spa with a serene pool and fine dining.
• The  Nobu Hotel   is located on the Pacific Ocean, with the western end meeting the Baja California peninsula. Its Japanese design reflects Cabo’s sensibility, featuring a minimalistic, ultramodern look. The stunning suites, with proper construction, make you fall in love with them. The restaurants here are highly satisfying.
• The  Cabo Platinum villa  is luxurious and spectacular, with fantastic views and a swimming pool. You can easily customize the villa for a seamless trip experience. It offers riding adventures, scuba-diving trips, shopping tours, and more!
• The  Pueblo Bonito Sunset Beach Golf & Spa Resort  is an all-inclusive resort on the Pacific side. It is a delightful vacation experience, with several outdoor activities for visitors. The resort features more than 700 suites with around six different swimming pools. The incredible scenic views of this resort with adventurous excursions are worth visiting!
• ME Medano Beach  is another exotic resort within Medano. It is an intimate location, with rooms featuring stunning views. This resort has a hot tub, a huge pool, a swimming bar, and lounge beds. The perfect location combined with an easy walk to downtown makes it a preferred choice among visitors.

ASSISTANCE FOR U.S. CITIZENS

• U.S. Embassy Mexico City
• Paseo de la Reforma 305 Colonia Cuauhtemoc Mexico, D.F., Mexico C.P. 06500
•  Telephone
• 011-52-55-5080-2000
•  Emergency
• American Citizen Services: 01 800 681 9374 (toll-free in Mexico) / 81 4160 5512 (from within Mexico) / 844 528 6611 (toll-free in the U.S.)
• 011-52-55-5080-2201
•  Email
• [email protected]
•  Website

Additional safety tips from the State Department

Basic tips when traveling to Mexico include:

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  
• Review the  Crime and Safety Reports  for Mexico

Conclusion: Is Cabo San Lucas Safe

Is Cabo safe ? If you stay abreast of all Mexico travel warnings, exercise common sense, and pay attention to news about safety in the city you visit, I don’t think you will have any issues.

Remember that bad things can happen anywhere, not just in Mexico, but I am sure crimes occur right in your neighborhood. 

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

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

You can stop asking why Cabo San Lucas is so dangerous.

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

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

ADDITIONAL ARTICLES

Mexico vs. Costa Rica Which is Safer

Is It Safe To Travel To Mexico

Best Luxury Resorts in Los Cabos

Do you allow Mexico travel advisory to affect your travel decisions, and are you still wondering if Cabo is safe? I would love to hear your thoughts, so comment on Facebook ,  Twitter ,  or  Instagram.

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Why not save this post to your Pinterest board for later? I am also on Pinterest so feel free to follow  Passports and Grub   boards and get the latest pin directly.

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22 comments.

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Thank you for this fantastic article. I have not been able to find current detailed information that you have provided here. I was specifically looking for opinions for renting a car while in Cabo but found additional very helpful information as well. As far as car rental goes, we are planning to stay in San Jose del Cabo the night before and the night after our 5 night all inclusive stay in Cabo San Lucas. I have found we can rent a car for less than the cost of hired transportation, especially staying at multiple locations. I am still on the fence about renting the car due to safety concerns, but sounds like as long we stay on the main roads during the day we should not have any issues???

Cabo is extremely safe. I normally rent a car but this last time I decided to hire a private driver due to COVID and my life is forever changed. I am never renting a car again. It was just so much easier

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So many helpful suggestions and advice. Thank you for compiling all of this information. We leave for Los Cabos Thursday, and I’m feeling more at ease for sure.

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Travel Advisory August 22, 2023

Mexico - see state summaries.

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

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

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

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

Do Not Travel To:

• Colima state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Guerrero state  due to  crime .
• Michoacan state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Sinaloa state due to  crime  and  kidnapping
• Tamaulipas state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping.
• Zacatecas  state due to  crime  and  kidnapping .

Reconsider Travel To:

• Baja California  state due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Chihuahua state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Durango state  due to  crime .
• Guanajuato state  due to  crime and kidnapping .
• Jalisco state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Morelos state  due to  crime .
• Sonora state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .

Exercise Increased Caution When Traveling To:

• Aguascalientes  state due to  crime .
• Baja California Sur state  due to  crime .
• Chiapas state  due to  crime .
• Coahuila state  due to  crime .
• Hidalgo state  due to  crime .
• Mexico City  due to  crime .
• Mexico State  due to  crime .
• Nayarit state  due to  crime.
• Nuevo Leon  state due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Oaxaca state  due to  crime .
• Puebla state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Queretaro state  due to  crime .
• Quintana Roo state  due to  crime .
• San Luis Potosi state  due to  crime and kidnapping .
• Tabasco state  due to  crime .
• Tlaxcala state due to  crime .
• Veracruz state  due to  crime .

Exercise Normal Precautions When Traveling To:

• Campeche state
• Yucatan state

Visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas .

If you decide to travel to Mexico:

• Keep traveling companions and family back home informed of your travel plans. If separating from your travel group, send a friend your GPS location. If taking a taxi alone, take a photo of the taxi number and/or license plate and text it to a friend.
• Use toll roads when possible and avoid driving alone or at night. In many states, police presence and emergency services are extremely limited outside the state capital or major cities.
• Exercise increased caution when visiting local bars, nightclubs, and casinos.
• Do not display signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive watches or jewelry.
• Be extra vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Follow the U.S. Embassy on Facebook and Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Mexico.
• Mariners planning travel to Mexico should check for U.S. maritime  advisories  and  alerts , which include instructions on reporting suspicious activities and attacks to Mexican naval authorities.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .
• Visit the CDC page for the latest travel health information related to your travel. 

Aguascalientes state – Exercise Increased Caution

Exercise increased caution due to crime.

Criminal activity and violence may occur throughout the state.

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

Baja California state – Reconsider Travel

Reconsider travel due to crime and kidnapping.

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

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

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

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

Baja California Sur state – Exercise Increased Caution

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

Campeche state – Exercise Normal Precautions

Exercise normal precautions.

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

Chiapas state – Exercise Increased Caution

Exercise increased caution due to crime.  

Criminal activity and violence may occur throughout the state.  

U.S. government employees may not travel to the following restricted areas. All areas within the boundaries, including highway and roads unless specifically exempted, are restricted.  

East-Northeast Boundary – The eastern boundary follows the Mexican-Guatemalan border from the southern point on the Pacific coast, along the border, to the northern end point east of Netzahualcóyotl.  

Northern Boundary - From Netzahualcóyotl in a straight line southwest towards the northern limit of Ocosingo.  

Western Boundary - From Ocosingo in a straight line south to El Ocote. From El Ocote in a straight line west to San Francisco Pujiltic. From San Franciso Pujiltic southwest to just north of Mapastepec.  

South-Southwest Boundary - Highway 200 from Mapastepec to Tapachula. All towns along this highway are not restricted. The area to the north of highway 200 defines the southern boundary of the restricted area. From Tapachula, the restricted area boundary is north and east of the city limits and then extends southeast to the Pacific coast at Tres Hermanos San Isidro.  

Tapachula – Travel to Tapachula and within the city limits is not restricted. Highway 225, from Port Chiapas to Tapachula, to include the Tapachula Airport, is not restricted.  

To view a map of the restricted areas, visit https://mx.usembassy.gov/maps-of-restricted-areas

Chihuahua state – Reconsider Travel

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

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

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

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

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

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

Coahuila state – Exercise Increased Caution

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

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

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

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

Colima state – Do Not Travel

Do not travel due to crime and kidnapping.  

Violent crime and gang activity are widespread. Most homicides are targeted assassinations against members of criminal organizations. Shooting incidents between criminal groups have injured or killed bystanders. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.  

Travel for U.S. government employees is limited to the following areas with noted restrictions: 

• Manzanillo:   U.S. government employee travel is limited to the tourist and port areas of Manzanillo.  
• Employees traveling to Manzanillo from Guadalajara must use Federal Toll Road 54D during daylight hours.  

U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of Colima state. 

Durango state – Reconsider Travel

Reconsider travel due to crime.

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

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

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

Guanajuato state – Reconsider Travel

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

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

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

Guerrero state – Do Not Travel

Do not travel due to crime.

Crime and violence are widespread. Armed groups operate independently of the government in many areas of Guerrero. Members of these groups frequently maintain roadblocks and may use violence towards travelers. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping in previous years.

Travel for U.S. government employees is limited to the following area with the noted restrictions:

• Taxco:  U.S. government employees must use Federal Highway 95D, which passes through Cuernavaca, Morelos, and stay within downtown tourist areas of Taxco. Employees may visit Grutas de Cacahuamilpa National Park during the day with a licensed tour operator.

U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of the state of Guerrero, including to tourist areas in  Acapulco ,  Zihuatanejo , and  Ixtapa .

Hidalgo state – Exercise Increased Caution

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

Jalisco state – Reconsider Travel

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

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

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

Mexico City (Ciudad de Mexico) – Exercise Increased Caution

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

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

Mexico State (Estado de Mexico) – Exercise Increased Caution

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

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

Michoacan state – Do Not Travel

Do not travel due to crime and kidnapping.

Crime and violence are widespread in Michoacan state. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

Travel for U.S. government employees is limited to the following areas with the noted restrictions:

• Federal Highway 15D:   U.S. government employees may travel on Federal Highway 15D to transit the state between Mexico City and Guadalajara.
• Morelia:  U.S. government employees may travel by air and by land using Federal Highways 43 or 48D from Federal Highway 15D.
• Lazaro Cardenas:  U.S. government employees must travel by air only and limit activities to the city center or port areas.

U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of the state of Michoacan, including the portions of the  Monarch Butterfly Reserve  located in Michoacan.

Morelos state – Reconsider Travel

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

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

Nayarit state – Exercise Increased Caution

Criminal activity and violence may occur throughout Nayarit state.

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

Nuevo Leon state – Exercise Increased Caution

Exercise increased caution due to crime and kidnapping.

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

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

Oaxaca state – Exercise Increased Caution

Criminal activity and violence occur throughout the state.

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

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

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

Puebla state – Exercise Increased Caution

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

Queretaro state – Exercise Increased Caution

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

Quintana Roo state – Exercise Increased Caution

Criminal activity and violence may occur in any location, at any time, including in popular tourist destinations.  Travelers should maintain a high level of situational awareness, avoid areas where illicit activities occur, and promptly depart from potentially dangerous situations. 

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

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

San Luis Potosi state – Exercise Increased Caution

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

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

Sinaloa state – Do Not Travel

Violent crime is widespread. Criminal organizations are based in and operating in Sinaloa. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

• Mazatlan:  U.S. government employees may travel to Mazatlan by air or sea only, are limited to the Zona Dorada and historic town center, and must travel via direct routes between these destinations and the airport and sea terminal.
• Los Mochis and Topolobampo:  U.S. government employees may travel to Los Mochis and Topolobampo by air or sea only, are restricted to the city and the port, and must travel via direct routes between these destinations and the airport.

U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of Sinaloa state.

Sonora state – Reconsider Travel

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

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

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

Tabasco state – Exercise Increased Caution

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

Tamaulipas state – Do Not Travel

Organized crime activity – including gun battles, murder, armed robbery, carjacking, kidnapping, forced disappearances, extortion, and sexual assault – is common along the northern border and in Ciudad Victoria. Criminal groups target public and private passenger buses, as well as private automobiles traveling through Tamaulipas, often taking passengers and demanding ransom payments.

Heavily armed members of criminal groups often patrol areas of the state and operate with impunity particularly along the border region from Reynosa to Nuevo Laredo.  In these areas, local law enforcement has limited capacity to respond to incidents of crime. Law enforcement capacity is greater in the tri-city area of Tampico, Ciudad Madero, and Altamira, which has a lower rate of violent criminal activity compared to the rest of the state.

U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

• Matamoros and Nuevo Laredo:  U.S. government employees may only travel within a limited radius around and between the U.S. Consulates in Nuevo Laredo and Matamoros, their homes, the respective U.S. Ports of Entry, and limited downtown sites, subject to an overnight curfew.
• Overland travel in Tamaulipas:  U.S. government employees may not travel between cities in Tamaulipas using interior Mexican highways. Travel between Nuevo Laredo and Monterrey is limited to Federal Highway 85D during daylight hours with prior authorization.

U.S. government employees may not travel to other parts of Tamaulipas state.

Tlaxcala state – Exercise Increased Caution

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

Veracruz state – Exercise Increased Caution

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

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

Yucatan state – Exercise Normal Precautions

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

Zacatecas state – Do Not Travel

Violent crime, extortion, and gang activity are widespread in Zacatecas state. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

• Zacatecas City : U.S. government employee travel is limited to Zacatecas City proper, and employees may not travel overland to Zacatecas City.
• U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of Zacatecas state.

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

Passport must be valid at time of entry

One page per stamp

Yes, if visiting for more than 180 days

See Travelers’ Health section

Embassies and Consulates

EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE FOR U.S. CITIZENS IN MEXICO From Mexico: 800-681-9374 or 55-8526-2561 From the United States: 1-844-528-6611

U.S. Citizen Services Inquiries: Contact Form

U.S. Embassy Mexico City

Paseo de la Reforma 305 Colonia Cuauhtémoc 06500 Ciudad de México

U.S. Consulate General Ciudad Juarez

Paseo de la Victoria #3650 Fracc. Partido Senecú 32543 Ciudad Juárez, Chihuahua

U.S. Consulate General Guadalajara

Progreso 175 Colonia Americana 44160 Guadalajara, Jalisco

U.S. Consulate General Hermosillo

Monterey, Esqueda 141 El Centenario 83260 Hermosillo, Sonora

U.S. Consulate General Matamoros

Constitución No. 1 Colonia Jardín 87330 Matamoros, Tamaulipas

U.S. Consulate General Merida

Calle 60 No. 338-K x 29 y 31 Colonia Alcalá Martin 97050 Mérida, Yucatán

U.S. Consulate General Monterrey

Avenida Alfonso Reyes 150 Colonia Valle del Poniente 66196 Santa Catarina, Nuevo León

U.S. Consulate General Nogales

Calle San José s/n Fracc. Los Álamos 84065 Nogales, Sonora

U.S. Consulate General Nuevo Laredo

Paseo Colon 1901 Colonia Madero 88260 Nuevo Laredo, Tamaulipas

U.S. Consulate General Tijuana

Paseo de las Culturas s/n Mesa de Otay Delegación Centenario 22425 Tijuana, Baja California

Consular Agencies

Acapulco Hotel Continental Emporio Costera M. Alemán 121 – Office 14 39670 Acapulco, Guerrero Cancun

Blvd. Kukulcan Km 13 ZH Torre La Europea, Despacho 301 77500 Cancún, Quintana Roo

Los Cabos Las Tiendas de Palmilla L-B221, Km. 27.5 Carretera Transpeninsular 23406 San José del Cabo, Baja California Sur

Playa Gaviotas 202, Local 10 Zona Dorada 82110 Mazatlán, Sinaloa

Oaxaca Macedonio Alcalá 407, Office 20 68000 Oaxaca, Oaxaca

Piedras Negras Abasolo 211, Local 3, Centro 26000 Piedras Negras, Coahuila

Playa del Carmen Plaza Progreso, Local 33 Carretera Federal Puerto Juarez-Chetumal, Mz. 293 Lt. 1. 77710 Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo

Puerto Vallarta

Paradise Plaza, Paseo de los Cocoteros 85 Sur, Local L-7 63732 Nuevo Nayarit, Nayarit

San Miguel de Allende Plaza La Luciérnaga, Libramiento Jose Manuel Zavala 165, Locales 4 y 5 Colonia La Luciérnaga 37745 San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato

Destination Description

See the  State Department’s Fact Sheet on Mexico  for more information on U.S.-Mexico relations.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

A valid passport book is required to enter Mexico by air, and those attempting to enter at an airport with a U.S. passport card only may be denied admission.

Review the Mexican government’s most current  entry, exit, and visa requirements  ( Spanish only ) or visit the  Embassy of Mexico  in Washington, D.C., for more information.

For travelers entering Mexico by air only, Mexican immigration authorities implemented a process to replace the previous paper Forma Migratoria Multiple or FMM with a Forma Migratoria Multiple Digital or FMMD.  The FMMD process is in place at all 66 international airports in Mexico.  Upon arrival at an airport, Mexican immigration authorities will determine a traveler’s authorized length of stay and either place a date stamp in the traveler’s passport or direct the traveler through a self-service electronic gate (E-Gate) that will generate a printed receipt with QR code. Air travelers who wish to download a record of their FMMD or find more information on the FMMD process may visit the National Migration Institute’s (INM) website .

Travelers entering Mexico by land should have a valid passport book or card.  If you enter Mexico by land and plan to travel beyond the immediate border area (approximately 12 miles or 20 kilometers into Mexico), you must stop at an INM office to obtain an entry permit (Forma Migratoria Multiple or FMM), even if not explicitly directed to do so by Mexican officials.  INM may opt to allow tourists entry of up to 180 days without a visa or may limit authorized stays to shorter periods at their discretion; visitors should confirm the specific length of authorized stay written on the entry permit (FMM) or by the stamp in their passport. Mexican immigration authorities could ask you to present both your passport and entry permit if applicable at any point and may detain you while they review your immigration status if you are not carrying your passport and proof of legal status in Mexico, or if you have overstayed your authorized stay. Immigration check points are common in the interior of Mexico, including in popular tourist areas far from the border.  

You will also need a temporary vehicle import permit to bring a U.S.-registered vehicle beyond the border zone. These permits are processed through Banjercito and require a deposit that will be refunded once the vehicle leaves Mexico.  For more information, visit the  Banjercito  website ( Spanish only ).

Baja California, Baja California Sur, and Sonora have a “hassle-free” zone that allows cars traveling without an entry permit or car registration within the zone. 

Mexican authorities can impound a vehicle that enters the country without a valid U.S. registration, a vehicle driven by a Mexican national who is not resident in the United States, or a vehicle found beyond the border zone without the temporary import permit.

Mexican law permits Mexican immigration authorities to deny foreigners entry into Mexico if they have been charged with or convicted of a serious crime in Mexico or elsewhere.

Travelers bringing in goods beyond their personal effects worth $300.00 or more must declare those goods with Mexican customs (SAT) Mexican customs  ( Spanish only ) or risk having them confiscated. This also applies to used goods or clothing, including items for donation. U.S. citizens driving such items into Mexico without declaring them or without sufficient funds to pay duty fees are subject to having their vehicle seized by Mexican customs authorities. For further information about customs regulations, please read our  customs information page .

The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents in Mexico.

A parent or legal guardian departing Mexico with minor children should carry a notarized consent letter from the other parent if traveling separately. INM requires at least one parent to complete a  SAM  ( Formato de Salida de Menores, Spanish only ) for all Mexican or foreign minors with Temporary Resident, Temporary Student Resident, or Permanent Resident status departing Mexico alone or with a third party.  Further information about the  prevention of international parental child abduction  is available on our website.

Find information on dual nationality , and customs regulations on our websites. Both Mexico and the United States allow dual nationality.

Safety and Security

Travelers are urged to review the  Mexico Travel Advisory  for information about safety and security concerns affecting the country on a state-by-state basis.

U.S. citizens traveling to and residing in Mexico should not expect public health and safety standards like those in the United States. Even where such standards exist, enforcement varies by location. Travelers should mitigate the risk of illness or injury by taking standard health and safety precautions.

The phone number to report emergencies in Mexico is “911.”  Although there may be English-speaking operators available, it is best to seek the assistance of a Spanish speaker to place the call.

Crime:  Crime in Mexico occurs at a high rate and can be violent, from random street crime to cartel-related attacks. Over the past year, Mission Mexico has assisted U.S. citizens who were victims of armed robbery, carjacking, extortion, homicide, kidnapping, pick-pocketing, and sexual assault. Increased levels of cartel-related violence have resulted in territorial disputes and targeted killings, injuring or killing innocent bystanders. Travelers who find themselves in an active shooter scenario should flee in the opposite direction, if possible, or drop to the ground, preferably behind a hard barrier.

Drivers on roads and highways may encounter government checkpoints, which often include National Guard or military personnel. State and local police also set up checkpoints in and around cities and along the highways to deter criminal activity and enforce traffic laws. In some parts of Mexico, criminal organizations and other non-governmental actors have been known to erect unauthorized checkpoints and have abducted or threatened violence against those who fail to stop and/or pay a “toll.” When approaching a checkpoint, regardless of whether it is official, cooperate and avoid any actions that may appear suspicious or aggressive.

While Mexican authorities endeavor to safeguard the country’s major resort areas and tourist destinations, those areas have not been immune to the types of violence and crime experienced elsewhere in Mexico. In some areas of Mexico, response time of local police is often slow. In addition, filing police reports can be time consuming. See our  Mexico Travel Advisory  for more information.

Demonstrations  occur frequently.  They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events.  Protesters in Mexico may block traffic on roads, including major thoroughfares, or take control of toll booths on highways.  Travelers who encounter protesters who demand unofficial tolls are generally allowed to pass upon payment.  U.S. citizens should avoid participating in demonstrations or other activities that might be deemed political by authorities, as Mexican law prohibits political activities by foreign citizens and such actions may result in detention or deportation.

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable, avoid areas around protests and demonstrations.  
• Past demonstrations have turned violent.
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.  

International Financial Scams:  See the  Department of State  and the  FBI  pages for information.  

Internet romance and financial scams are prevalent in Mexico. Scams are often initiated through Internet postings/profiles or by unsolicited emails and letters. Scammers almost always pose as U.S. citizens who have no one else to turn to for help. Common scams include:   

• Romance/Online dating 
• Money transfers 
• Lucrative sales 
• Grandparent/Relative targeting 
• Free Trip/Luggage 
• Inheritance notices 
• Bank overpayments 

Mexico’s consumer protection agency,  PROFECO  (Procuraduría Federal del Consumidor, Spanish only), can sometimes  provide assistance  (Spanish only) to victims of such scams. In addition, there have been allegations of banking fraud perpetrated by private bankers against U.S. citizens. U.S. citizens who believe they have been victims of fraud can file a police report  file a complaint  (Spanish only) with the Mexican banking regulatory agency, CONDUSEF  (Comision Nacional para la Proteccion y Defensa de los Usuarios de Servicios Financieros, Spanish only), or consult with an attorney.

Victims of Crime:  U.S. victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy or nearest Consulate for assistance.  Report emergencies to the local police at 911, report crimes already committed to the Ministerio Publico, and contact the Embassy or Consulate at +52-55-85262561.  Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes.

U.S. citizen victims of crime should contact the local authorities to file a Mexican police report before departing Mexico. In most instances, victims of crime will file reports with the Ministerio Publico (equivalent to the office of public prosecutor or district attorney in the United States) and not with police first responders. U.S. citizens should also inform the  U.S. Embassy or nearest consulat e . 

See our webpage on  help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .    We can:

• help you find appropriate medical care,
• assist you in reporting a crime to the police,
• contact relatives or friends with your written consent,
• provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion, 
• provide a list of local attorneys,
• provide information on  victim’s compensation programs in the United States ,
• provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution,
• help you find accommodation and arrange flights home,
• replace a stolen or lost passport.

Domestic Violence:  U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the  U.S. Embassy or nearest consulate  for assistance.

Kidnapping:  Mexico experiences very high rates of kidnapping.  If you believe you or your U.S. citizen or Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR) relative has been kidnapped, please contact the U.S. Embassy or nearest consulate immediately.

Robbery:  Mexico experiences robberies, typically in cities, in which abductors force victims to use their debit or credit card to withdraw money from ATMs in exchange for their release. Perpetrators commonly work in cooperation with, or pose as, taxi drivers. To minimize the risk of such robberies:

• Only use a reputable taxi company or a trusted ride-sharing app.
• Book taxis through your hotel or an authorized taxi stand.

Extortion:  Extortion schemes are common in Mexico.  In a typical scheme known as a virtual kidnapping, criminals convince family members that a relative has been abducted, when, in fact, the person is safe but unreachable.  The purported abductors will often use threats to persuade victims to isolate themselves, making communication with family members less likely.  Unable to reach their loved ones, family members often consent to paying the “ransom” demand.  Criminals use various means to gather information about potential victims, including monitoring social media sites, eavesdropping on conversations, or using information taken from a stolen cell phone.  Some of these extortions have been conducted from Mexican prisons.  You can reduce the risk of falling victim to this type of extortion through the following:

• Do not discuss travel plans, your room number, or any other personal information within earshot of strangers.
• Do not divulge personal business details to strangers in person or over the phone, especially when using hotel phones.
• If you are threatened on the phone, hang up immediately.

Sexual Assault:  Rape and sexual assault are serious problems in some resort areas. Many of these incidents occur at night or during the early morning hours, in hotel rooms, on hotel grounds, or on deserted beaches. In some cases, assailants drug the drinks of victims before assaulting them. Pay attention to your surroundings and to who might have handled your drink.

Credit/Debit Card “Skimming:”  There have been instances of fraudulent charges or withdrawals from accounts due to “skimmed” cards. If you choose to use credit or debit cards, you should regularly check your account to ensure there are no unauthorized transactions. Travelers should limit the amount of cash they carry in public, exercise caution when withdrawing cash from ATMs, and avoid ATMs located in isolated or unlit areas.

Alcohol:  If you choose to drink alcohol, it is important to do so in moderation and to stop and seek medical attention if you begin to feel ill. There have been reports of individuals falling ill or blacking out after consuming unregulated alcohol. The Mexican Federal Commission for the Protection against Sanitary Risk,  COFEPRIS  ( Comision Federal para la Proteccion contra Riesgos Sanitarios, Spanish only ), is responsible for inspecting hotels, restaurants, and other establishments for health violations, including reports of unregulated alcohol. Please email COFEPRIS at  [email protected]  for more information or if you wish to file a report. You can file a report online (Spanish only) via the COFEPRIS website, by calling the COFEPRIS call center at 800 033 50 50 (from Mexico) or +52 (55) 5080-5425 (from the United States), or by scheduling an appointment  (Spanish only)  to visit a COFEPRIS office.

There have also been instances of criminals drugging drinks to rob or sexually assault victims. Additionally, if you feel you have been the victim of unregulated alcohol or another serious health violation, you should notify the U.S. Embassy or nearest consulate . You may also contact the U.S. Department of State – Bureau of Consular Affairs in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries).

Drug Smuggling:  Mexican criminal organizations are engaged in a violent struggle to control trafficking routes. Criminal organizations smuggling drugs into the United States have targeted unsuspecting individuals who regularly cross the border. Frequent border crossers are advised to vary their routes and travel times and to closely monitor their vehicles to avoid being targeted.

Tourism:  In major cities and resort areas, the tourism industry is generally well-regulated.  Best practices and safety inspections are regularly enforced.  Hazardous areas and activities are identified with appropriate signage, and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities.  In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country.  Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and/or provide life-saving assistance.  In smaller towns and areas less commonly frequented by foreign tourists, the tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities do not commonly occur.  Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field.  In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in or near major cities.  First responders are generally unable to access areas outside of major cities to provide urgent medical treatment.  U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance . 

Since 2016, Mexico has opened seven multilingual Centers for the Care and Protection of Tourists (CAPTA) and Tourist Assistance Centers (CATTAC) in Los Cabos, La Paz, Acapulco, Playa del Carmen, Mazatlan, Ciudad Madero, and Queretaro. These offices have proven helpful assisting U.S. citizen visitors in resolving disputes with merchants and government entities, filing criminal reports, securing needed services, and locating special needs accommodations. 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:  You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities prior to practicing or operating a business.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website.

Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy or nearest consulate immediately. See our  webpage  for further information.

The Mexican government is required by international law to contact the U.S. Embassy or consulate promptly when a U.S. citizen is arrested if the arrestee so requests.  This requirement does not apply to dual nationals.  

Firearms and Other Weapons:  Weapons laws in Mexico vary by state, but it is generally illegal for travelers to carry weapons of any kind including firearms, knives, daggers, brass knuckles, as well as ammunition (even used shells). Illegal firearms trafficking from the United States to Mexico is a major concern, and the Department of State warns all U.S. citizens against taking any firearm or ammunition into Mexico. If you are caught entering Mexico with any type of weapon, including firearms or ammunitions, you likely will face severe penalties, including prison time. U.S.-issued permits allowing an individual to carry weapons are not valid in Mexico.  Visit the Department’s  Traveling Abroad with Firearms webpage .

Vessels entering Mexican waters with firearms or ammunition on board must have a permit previously issued by a Mexican embassy or consulate.

Drugs:  Drug possession and use, including medical marijuana, is illegal in Mexico and may result in a lengthy jail sentence or fines.  

Electronic Cigarettes (Vaping Devices):  It is illegal for travelers to bring electronic cigarettes (vaping devices) and all vaping solutions to Mexico. Customs will confiscate vaping devices and solutions and travelers could be fined or arrested. Avoid delays and possible sanctions by not taking these items to Mexico. 

Real Estate and Time Shares:  U.S. citizens should exercise caution when considering time-share investments or purchasing real estate and be aware of the aggressive tactics used by some sales representatives. Before initiating a real estate purchase or time-share investment, U.S. citizens should consult with a Mexican attorney to learn about important regulations and laws that govern real estate property.

Mountain Climbing and Hiking:  The Mexican government has declared the area around the Popocatepetl and the Colima volcanoes off limits. In remote rural areas, there can be limited cell phone coverage and internet connectivity, and it may be difficult for rescue teams and local authorities to reach climbers and hikers in distress.

Potential for Natural Disasters:  Mexico is in an active earthquake zone. Tsunamis may occur following significant earthquakes. Please visit our  disaster and crisis preparedness  webpage for more information. For additional information concerning disasters, see:

• U.S. Embassy Mexico City website
• Civil Protection  ( Proteccion Civil, Spanish only ) provides information from the Mexican Government about natural disaster preparedness
• U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)  provides general information about natural disaster preparedness
• U.S. Geological Survey  provides updates on recent seismic and volcanic activity

Storm Season:  Tropical storms in the Gulf of Mexico or along the Caribbean and Pacific Coast between May and November can produce heavy winds and rain. Please visit our disaster and crisis preparedness  webpage for more information.

Spring Break:  Millions of U.S. citizens visit Mexican beach resorts each year, especially during “ spring break ” season. The legal drinking age in Mexico is 18. See the “Alcohol” section above to learn more about the risks associated with drinking, as well as reports of illnesses associated with the possible consumption of unregulated alcohol.

Resort Areas and Water Activities:  Beaches in Mexico may be dangerous due to strong currents, rip tides, and rogue waves. Warning notices and flags on beaches should be taken seriously. Not all hazardous beaches are clearly marked. If black or red warning flags are up, do not enter the water. Strong currents can lead to dangerous conditions for even the most experienced swimmers. U.S. citizens simply walking along the shore or wading have been swept out to sea by rogue waves, and some citizens have drowned or disappeared at Mexican beaches. Avoid the consumption of alcohol while engaging in water activities and do not swim alone. 

Boats used for excursions may not be covered by accident insurance and sometimes lack adequate life jackets, radios, and tools to make repairs.  Participation in adventure sports may not be covered by accident insurance and safety protections and regulations for these activities may differ from U.S. standards.  Visit  our website  and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about adventure travel.

Counterfeit and Pirated Goods:  Although counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries, they may still be illegal according to local laws. You may also be subject to fines or forced to relinquish the goods if you bring them back to the United States. See the  U.S. Department of Justice website  for more information.

Faith-Based Travelers:  See the following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report  – see country reports
• Human Rights Report  – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTQI+ Travelers:  There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or on the organization of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, or Intersex (LGBTQI+) events in Mexico. However, due to sporadic reports of violence targeting LGBTQI+ individuals, U.S. citizens should exercise discretion in identifying themselves publicly as LGBTQI+. See our LGBTQI+ Travel Information page and Section 6 of the  Department of State’s Human Rights Report for Mexico  for further details.

Travelers with Disabilities:   Mexican law prohibits discrimination against persons with physical, sensory, intellectual, or mental disabilities.  Social acceptance of persons with disabilities in public is not as prevalent as in the United States.  The most common types of accessibility may include accessible facilities, information, and communication/access to services/ease of movement or access.  Expect accessibility to be limited in public transportation, lodging, communication/information, and general infrastructure in more rural and remote parts of the country, and more common in public transportation, lodging, communication/information, and general infrastructure in major cities.  U.S. citizens with disabilities should consult individual hotels and service providers in advance of travel to ensure they are accessible.

Students:  See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers:  There were several reports of sexual assault or domestic violence involving U.S. citizen women over the past year. See our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

Excellent health facilities are available in Mexico City and other major cities. Ambulance services are widely available, but training and availability of emergency responders may be below U.S. standards. Injured or seriously ill travelers may prefer to take a taxi to a health provider. Mexican facilities often require payment “up front” before providing medical care, and most hospitals in Mexico do not accept U.S. health insurance. A list of doctors and hospitals is available on the U.S. Embassy or consulate website.

U.S. citizens have lodged complaints against some private hospitals in Cancun, the Riviera Maya, and Los Cabos to include exorbitant prices and inflexible collection measures.  Travelers should obtain complete information on billing, pricing, and proposed medical procedures before agreeing to any medical care in these locations.  Be aware that some resorts have exclusive agreements with medical providers and ambulance services, which may limit your choices in seeking emergency medical attention.  Some hospitals in tourist centers utilize sliding scales, deciding on rates for services based on negotiation and on the patient’s perceived ability to pay.  In some instances, providers have been known to determine the limits of a patient’s credit card or insurance, quickly reach that amount in services rendered, and subsequently discharge the patient or transfer them to a public hospital.

Visit the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  website for information on Medical Tourism.

For emergency services in Mexico, dial  911 .  Although there may be English-speaking operators available, it is best to seek the assistance of a Spanish speaker to place the call.

Ambulance services are: 

• widely available in major cities but training and availability of emergency responders may be below U.S. standards,
• not present in many remote and rural areas of the country,   
• not equipped with state-of-the-art medical equipment.  
• Injured or seriously ill travelers may prefer to take a taxi or private vehicle to the nearest major hospital rather than wait for an ambulance.  

We do not pay medical bills:  Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas.  Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.  

Medical Insurance:  Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas.  Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See  our webpage  for more information on insurance coverage overseas. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas. 

We strongly recommend  supplemental insurance  to cover medical evacuation as well.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.  Check the Mexican government’s Drug Schedule to ensure the medication is legal in Mexico. 

Vaccinations:  Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations  recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information :

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ( CDC)

Air Quality: Visit AirNow Department of State for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.

The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals .  We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic. 

Medical Tourism and Elective Surgery: 

• U.S. citizens have suffered serious complications or died during or after having cosmetic or other elective surgery.   
• Medical tourism is a rapidly growing industry. People seeking health care overseas should understand that medical systems operate differently from those in the United States and are not subject to the same rules and regulations.  Anyone interested in traveling for medical purposes should consult with their local physician before traveling and visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information on Medical Tourism.  
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance  to cover medical evacuation in the event of unforeseen medical complications.  
• Your legal options in case of malpractice are very limited in Mexico.  Several foreigners have successfully enlisted the support of  PROFECO  (Spanish only) in order to resolve disputes over medical services.
• Although Mexico has many elective/cosmetic surgery facilities that are on par with those found in the United States, the quality of care varies widely.  If you plan to undergo surgery in Mexico, make sure that emergency medical facilities are available and professionals are accredited and qualified.  

Pharmaceuticals

• Exercise caution when purchasing medication overseas.  Pharmaceuticals, both over the counter and requiring prescription in the United States, are often readily available for purchase with little controls.  Counterfeit medication is common and may prove to be ineffective, the wrong strength, or contain dangerous ingredients.  Medication should be purchased in consultation with a medical professional and from reputable establishments.  
• The Drug Enforcement Agency reports counterfeit prescription pills are sold by criminals on both sides of the border. These pills are sometimes represented as OxyContin, Percocet, Xanax, and others, and may contain deadly doses of fentanyl. Counterfeit pills are readily advertised on social media and can be purchased at small, non-chain pharmacies in Mexico along the border and in tourist areas.  U.S. citizens have become seriously ill or died in Mexico after using synthetic drugs or adulterated prescription pills.
• U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration are responsible for rules governing the transport of medication back to the United States.  Medication purchased abroad must meet their requirements to be legally brought back into the United States.  Medication should be for personal use and must be approved for usage in the United States.  Please visit the U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration websites for more information.   
• Visit the  Mexican Health Department  website (Spanish only) or contact the  Embassy of Mexico  in Washington, D.C., for more information about obtaining a permit to import medicine into Mexico.
• For a list of controlled substances in Mexico, visit the  COFEPRIS  website (Spanish only) and the  Mexican Drug Schedule  (Spanish only). U.S. citizens should carry a copy of their prescription or doctor’s letter, but it is still possible that they may be subject to arrest for arriving in Mexico with substances on these lists. Note that a medicine considered “over the counter” in some U.S. states may be a controlled substance in Mexico. For example, pseudoephedrine, the active ingredient in Sudafed, is considered a controlled substance in Mexico. For more information, contact the  Embassy of Mexico  in Washington, D.C.

Assisted Reproductive Technology and Surrogacy  

• If you are considering traveling to Mexico to have a child using assisted reproductive technology (ART) including surrogacy, visit the State Department’s ART and Surrogacy Abroad page for general information regarding U.S. citizenship for the child. 
• Surrogacy in Mexico presents serious risks that must be considered before U.S. citizens begin the surrogacy process.
• If you decide to pursue parenthood in Mexico via ART with a gestational mother, be prepared for possible long delays to document your child’s birth in Mexico and their U.S. citizenship by obtaining a U.S. passport. 
• Ensure you understand Mexican law, which varies by state. The only four states with a legal framework for surrogacy do not permit foreigners and/or same-sex couples to use the procedure. In the other 28 states, surrogacy is largely unregulated.
• In most states, Mexican courts may not enforce surrogacy agreements between non-Mexican or same-sex intending parents and a gestational mother should disputes arise, due to a lack of legal framework for surrogacy. The U.S. Embassy is aware of several cases where surrogacy agencies presented a partial, or false, interpretation of Mexican surrogacy laws.
• In most Mexican states, the gestational mother is the child’s legal parent with full parental rights, and the gestational mother’s name is typically listed on the Mexican state-issued birth certificate. In certain states, a court may amend the birth certificate to remove the name of the gestational mother.
• The U.S. Embassy is aware of cases of foreign nationals, including U.S. citizens, being arrested for attempting to circumvent local law related to surrogacy.

Carbon Monoxide

• Many hotels and other lodgings are not equipped with carbon monoxide detectors, even if they contain sources of this potentially lethal gas. U.S. citizens have died as a result of carbon monoxide poisoning throughout Mexico. If your lodging is not equipped with a carbon monoxide detector, consider traveling with a portable one.

Water Quality: 

• In many areas in Mexico, tap water is not potable. Bottled water and beverages are safe, although you should be aware that many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested. Be aware that ice for drinks might be made using tap water.

Altitude: 

• Many cities in Mexico, such as Mexico City, are at high altitude, which can lead to altitude illness. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about  Travel to High Altitudes .

Adventure Travel

• Participation in adventure sports and activities may not be covered by accident insurance and safety protections and regulations for these activities may differ from U.S. standards.  Visit  our website  and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website  for more information about adventure travel.

General Health

The following diseases are prevalent:

• Typhoid Fever
• Travelers’ Diarrhea
• Chikungunya
• Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever
• Parasitic Infections
• Chronic Respiratory Disease
• Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about Resources for Travelers regarding specific issues in Mexico.   

Air Quality

• Air pollution is a significant problem in several major cities in Mexico. Consider the impact seasonal smog and heavy particulate pollution may have on you and consult your doctor before traveling if necessary.

For further health information, go to:

• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  (CDC)

  Private Residential Treatment Facilities: 

• These facilities provide care to U.S. citizens throughout Mexico and include child behavior modification facilities, rehabilitation facilities, and assisted living centers. 
• There is a wide range in standards for education, safety, health, sanitation, immigration, and residency.  Staff licensing may not be strictly enforced or meet the standards of similar facilities in the United States.  
• The State Department has received reports of abuse, negligence, or mismanagement at some of these facilities. U.S. citizens should exercise due diligence and do extensive research before selecting a residential treatment facility.

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:  Motor vehicle accidents are a leading cause of U.S. citizen deaths in Mexico. If you have an emergency while driving, dial “911.” If you are driving on a toll highway (“ cuota ”) or any other major highway, you may contact the Green Angels ( Spanish only ), a fleet of trucks with bilingual crews, by dialing 078 from any phone in Mexico.  Generally, individuals involved in an accident who do not require immediate medical care should contact their insurance providers, who may come to the site to provide an immediate assessment.

Avoid driving on Mexican highways at night. Travel with a charged and functional cell phone capable of making calls in Mexico. Travelers should exercise caution at all times and should use toll (“ cuota ”) roads rather than the less secure free (“ libre ”) roads whenever possible. Do not hitchhike or accept rides from or offer rides to strangers anywhere in Mexico. Travelers encountering police or security checkpoints should comply with instructions.

Road conditions and maintenance across Mexico vary with many road surfaces needing repair. Travel in rural areas poses additional risks to include spotty cell phone coverage and delays in receiving roadside or medical assistance.

Vehicular traffic in Mexico City is subject to restriction Monday through Saturday, according to the license plate number, in order to reduce air pollution. For additional information, refer to the  Hoy No Circula website  ( Spanish only ) maintained by the Mexico City government. See our  Road Safety Page  for more information.  Also, visit  Mexico’s national tourist office website , MexOnline, and Mexico’s customs website  Importacion Temporal de Vehiculos  ( Spanish only ) for more information regarding travel and transportation.

Traffic Laws:   U.S. driver’s licenses are valid in Mexico. Mexican law requires that only owners drive their vehicles or that the owner be inside the vehicle. Failing to abide by this law may lead to impoundment and a fine equal to the value of the vehicle.

Mexican citizens who are not also U.S. citizens or LPRs may not operate U.S.-registered vehicles in Mexico. Mexican insurance is required for all vehicles, including rental vehicles. Drivers involved in accidents, even minor incidents, may be subject to arrest if they are found to be driving without proper insurance, regardless of whether they were at fault. Driving under the influence of alcohol, using a mobile device while driving, and driving through a yellow light are all illegal in Mexico.

If you drive your vehicle into Mexico beyond the immediate border area (approximately 12 miles into Mexico), you must apply for a temporary vehicle import permit with Mexican customs, Banjercito , or at some Mexican consulates in the United States. The permit requires the presentation of a valid passport and a monetary deposit that will be returned to you upon leaving Mexico before the expiration of the permit. Failing to apply for a temporary vehicle import permit may lead to impoundment and a fine equal to the value of the vehicle. 

Vehicles crossing into Mexico must have a valid license plate and registration sticker. Mexican authorities will often refuse to admit vehicles with temporary or paper license plates. Vehicles with expired registration or unauthorized plates will likely be confiscated and the operator could be charged with a fine equal to the value of the vehicle.

The Mission Mexico Vehicle Recovery Unit  assists with the return of stolen U.S. vehicles recovered by Mexican authorities.

If you have an emergency while driving, dial “911.” If you are driving on a toll highway (“cuota”) or any other major highway, you may contact the Green Angels (Spanish only), a fleet of trucks with bilingual crews, by dialing 078 from any phone in Mexico.  Generally, individuals involved in an accident who do not require immediate medical care should contact their insurance providers, who may come to the site to provide an immediate assessment.

Public Transportation/Taxis:  Security on public buses varies throughout the country but is considered a relatively safe transportation option in Mexico City and other major tourist centers. Passengers should protect their personal possessions at all times as theft is common. Intercity bus travel should be conducted during daylight hours in preferably first-class buses using toll roads.

Robberies and assaults on passengers in taxis not affiliated with a taxi stand (known as “libre” taxis) are common. Avoid taking any taxi not summoned by telephone or contacted in advance, including “libre” taxis. When in need of a taxi, telephone a radio taxi or “sitio” (regulated taxi stand) and ask the dispatcher for the driver’s name and the taxi’s license plate number. Application-based car services such as Uber and Cabify are available in many Mexican cities, and generally offer another safe alternative to taxis. Official complaints against Uber and other drivers do occur, however, and past disputes between these services and local taxi unions have occasionally turned violent, resulting in injuries to U.S. citizens in some instances.

See our Road Safety page for more information. 

Aviation Safety Oversight:  The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the Government of Mexico’s Civil Aviation Authority as not being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Mexico’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel:  Mariners planning travel to Mexico should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts .  Information may also be posted to the  U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the NGA broadcast warnings .

If you enter by sea, review the Mexican boating permit requirements  prior to travel or contact the  Embassy of Mexico  in Washington, D.C., for more information.

Maritime Safety Oversight:  The Mexican maritime industry, including charter fishing and recreational vessels, is subject solely to Mexican safety regulations.  Travelers should be aware that Mexican equipment and vessels may not meet U.S. safety standards or be covered by any accident insurance.

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on X (formerly known as "Twitter") and Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Mexico . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.

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Is it Safe to Travel to Cabo San Lucas? Cabo Safety Tips

By: Author Janice and George

Posted on Last updated: May 11, 2024

Categories Tips

Home / Tips

So you’d like to plan a trip to Los Cabos , Mexico.

But before you get too jazzed about going, you want to know: Is it safe to travel to Cabo San Lucas?

The short answer, in our view, is “yes.”

As regular visitors to Cabo for the past 20+ years, we’ve never hesitated to go to Los Cabos and never experienced any safety concerns.

But for a more thoughtful answer – including crime, health and safety stats, plus tips to help you stay safe – read our guide to safety in Cabo San Lucas (and all of Los Cabos) below.

Contents: Is Cabo, Mexico, safe to visit?

Travel warnings

Crime in Cabo San Lucas

Is Cabo safe at night?

How safe is Cabo for driving?

Is Los Cabos safe re: Covid and disease?

Food safety in Cabo

Beach safety in Cabo San Lucas

Other Cabo safety tips

Last words: Is it safe to visit Cabo?

Is it safe to travel to Cabo, Mexico? Cabo San Lucas travel warnings

Let’s start with advice from the very top – the U.S. State Department. Go here to see if there is any specific Cabo San Lucas travel advisory for the time you plan to travel.

You might also want to check the Canadian government’s Mexico travel advisory . Canada has a less complicated relationship with Mexico, so its Mexico travel warnings are sometimes not as harsh.

There are 4 levels of travel advisories issued by both the U.S. and Canada (and they’re roughly equivalent) for various places around the world:

• Level 1 – Exercise normal precautions
• Level 2 – Exercise increased caution
• Level 3 – Reconsider travel
• Level 4 – Do not travel

What you’ll find is that, in general, Los Cabos hovers in the Level 2 safety category – meaning “exercise increased caution.” (Sometimes the U.S. warning is Level 3.)

The Los Cabos area (aka “Cabo”) includes the resort towns of Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo , along with the Tourist Corridor (the 20-mile stretch of coastline connecting the two towns).

How should you interpret the “Level 2” flag?

To put things in perspective, some other Level 2 travel destinations (according to the U.S. State Department) include the United Kingdom, Italy, Spain and Belgium.

But you probably wouldn’t be scared to travel to Belgium right now, would you?

What about Italy? Would its Level 2 advisory scare you away from all that scrumptious pizza and pasta in Italy?

Cabo San Lucas crime

Thousands upon thousands of visitors flock to Cabo each month to soak up the sun, watch whales , golf, party at rockin’ beach clubs and generally have an epic time.

According to the Ministry of Tourism of the Government of Mexico (SECTUR), an average of 350,000 tourists visited Cabo each month between January and July, 2022.

Most visitors to Cabo are American. (A whopping 98% of all visitors to Cabo between January and July, 2022, came from the United States.)

Pretty well everyone who visits Cabo enjoys their vacation without incident (except maybe for the occasional sunburn and hangover from the wickedly good Mexican margaritas).

Sure, you’ll hear reports of petty crime – pickpocketing, credit card fraud and the like. But these types of incidents aren’t unique to Cabo and can happen anywhere you travel.

Your chances of being robbed or mugged in Cabo are actually miniscule. Any violent crime that does occur is usually related to drug trafficking.

Not only that, but exit surveys reveal that tourists feel safe too when visiting Cabo .

We’ve never felt unsafe in Cabo.

Mind you, we don’t really do anything outside of the tourist areas.

Avoid dodgy areas. (See our post on the best areas to stay in Los Cabos .)

Keep to downtown Cabo San Lucas (including the Cabo San Lucas Marina), Medano Beach, the resort areas on the Pacific Side of Cabo San Lucas, Pedregal, the Tourist Corridor and San Jose del Cabo, and you’re not likely to run into any problems.

If you’d like more information, the U.S. Department of State’s Overseas Security Advisory Council is a good source for keeping tabs on criminal activity in Mexico and specific regions.

Is Los Cabos safe from drug cartels?

No doubt you’re aware of Mexico’s drug cartel problems.

Bear in mind, however, that most of the drug violence occurs in towns close to the Mexican/U.S. border, like Ciudad Juarez (just south of El Paso, Texas) and Tijuana. Mazatlan in Sinaloa state was also affected in early January, 2023.

Ciudad Juarez is in the state of Chihuahua. It’s more than 600 miles away from Cabo, as the crow flies.

Tijuana is in the state of Baja California (the northern half of the Baja California Peninsula).

Cabo is in the state of Baja California Sur (the southern half of the peninsula).

As a tourist, the risk of encountering drug-related violence in Baja California Sur is very low.

Cabo San Lucas murders

If you were to Google the Cabo San Lucas murder rate, you might choke on your tequila. You’ll find reports saying that Los Cabos has one of the highest murder rates per capita in the world.

However, these are older reports from more than a couple of years ago.

Overall, the state of Baja California Sur had the second fewest number of murders of any state in Mexico in 2021.

And Los Cabos is no longer on the 2022 list of most dangerous cities in the world by murder rate per capita.

What you will find on that top 50 list, however, are some cities in the U.S. For example, St. Louis shows up, with 60.59 murders per population of 100,000. Baltimore is also on the list, with 50.52 murders per 100,000 people.

Of course, you need to do your own risk assessment about Mexican safety and whether travel to Cabo San Lucas is safe crime-wise.

But when it comes to the question “Is Los Cabos dangerous for tourists?” we wouldn’t be surprised if you came to the same conclusion as us – Cabo is very safe for tourists who visit tourist areas.

Is Cabo San Lucas safe at night?

Generally speaking, Cabo is safe at night. That is, as long as you use common sense like not wandering down dark alleys or taking drinks from strangers. 

But you should exercise a few safety precautions at all times, particularly if you’re having two or more cocktails while enjoying the nightlife.

Be aware of how much you’re drinking. Never leave your drink (alcoholic or otherwise) unattended. And if you have to walk outside of the main tourist areas to get back to your hotel, take a taxi. 

As for getting around in Los Cabos , we don’t like to drive on the main highways outside of Cabo at night. If we’ve rented a car for a day trip to Todos Santos or La Paz, we like to return before it’s dark.

The reason is not because we’re afraid of getting car-jacked or kidnapped.

We’re more afraid of the cows! They’re known to wander out on the roads at night. And they’re a serious car accident hazard.

We also don’t like driving after dark during Christmas and on New Year’s Eve. There are too many partiers out on the roads, and drinking and driving spells trouble.

The same is true for driving early in the morning on New Year’s Day. Both locals and visitors are known to still have alcohol in their bloodstream – and to still be inebriated.

Is Cabo safe re: Covid and diseases?

Cabo no longer has any travel restrictions like it did during the pandemic.

You don’t have to be vaccinated against Covid-19 or provide a negative test to enter Mexico. If you feel like you’re coming down with something, Covid tests are readily available at most hotels and are typically free for you to take.

Depending on your age and circumstances, you’ll want to be up-to-date on all your routine vaccines (including Flu, Hepatitis A and Covid) when traveling to Cabo or anywhere else in the world.

See the CDC’s recommended vaccines, guidelines and safety notices for travel health in Mexico . 

Food safety in Cabo San Lucas

Is it safe to drink the water in Cabo?

The safest answer here would be “no.” 

Not all the water is bad, but it’s impossible to know for sure if the water you’re drinking is safe. 

The water supply in Cabo is provided mainly by aquifers in the Sierra de La Laguna mountain range and by desalination plants. It’s mostly pure and clean. 

The problem comes from the pipes that the water runs through.

Many of the pipes are old or in disrepair. Pollutants can easily contaminate the water before it reaches the tap in your hotel or condo. 

The good news is that filtered water is readily available throughout Cabo.

Restaurants and resorts generally use purified water for making ice for your drinks.

They may offer purified water for drinking, but you can also opt for bottled water or sparkling water to pair with your meal.

Is it safe to eat raw fruit and salads in Cabo?

Diving into the local cuisine – like trying the delicious shrimp and fish tacos in Cabo – is part of the fun! This includes eating the local fresh fruits and vegetables. 

Eating fruits in Mexico is an amazing way to try some local exotic fruits that are as fresh as can be.

Fruits that have a thick peel (like bananas) or rind (like oranges) that you remove are absolutely safe to eat. But we’ve also had no tummy issues eating fresh apples or grapes that we’ve bought at the grocery store.

As well, we’ve never had a problem ordering fresh salads when eating out.

When cooking or eating in, we wash our purchased produce with boiled (then cooled) water or bottled water.

If you have stomach sensitivities or want to play it totally safe, you could stick to eating just cooked vegetables (no salad) when dining in restaurants.

Beach safety in Los Cabos

Los Cabos is known for its beautiful beaches. But not all of them are safe and swimmable. 

You can’t swim on many of the beaches due to dangerous rip tides and rogue waves. Be sure you know which are the safe swimming beaches in Cabo before you put your toes in!

(And if you want to swim in the sea at your resort, be sure to book Cabo accommodation on a swimmable beach .)

Here are some steps you can take to make your beach time as safe as possible. 

Learn the colored flag system

Many beaches use a colored flag system to update beach-goers on how the current conditions are for swimming safety.

Flag colors range from black, red, yellow and green.

Black is the most dangerous and green is safe.

Blue flags may also be used to indicate safe swimming conditions and really clean water

Look for a lifeguard on duty

Not all beaches have a lifeguard on duty, but some will for an extra layer of safety. 

Watch the waves

Rogue waves sometimes wash up on the beach and have been known to sweep people out to sea.

Be sure to look for any posted warning signs on the beach to alert for these. And when walking along the beach, always keep an eye on the waves.

Protect against sunburn

Don’t be a lobster!

The sun burns hotter in Mexico than it does in more northern climates. Be sure to wear sunscreen (and re-apply often) and wear protective clothing like rash guards, hats and sunglasses. 

Stay hydrated

It’s easy to get caught up in the fun of being out in the sun and surf – and to forget about drinking some water.

Make sure you’re taking plenty of water breaks to prevent dehydration. 

The same goes for your four-legged friend. If traveling with your dog , make sure they also drink water when playing on the beach.

Other Cabo San Lucas safety tips

1) get travel insurance.

Whether you’re an adventurous traveler or a more chill and relaxed visitor, travel insurance coverage is a must-have whenever you’re traveling.

Insurance is available not only for canceled flights and lost luggage, but also for your medical expenses if you end up getting sick on your trip. 

See what insurance your credit card offers.

Also check out SafetyWing . If you travel often to Cabo, it may work for you, as their insurance is designed for frequent travelers (as well as digital nomads).

2) Leave valuables at home

As to the risk of getting mugged, you really don’t have to worry too much about flashing your new diamond engagement ring around at most resorts and tourist restaurants.

But like anywhere else you may travel, things happen. And valuables can be accidentally lost or stolen if left unattended.

So if not’s on your person all the time, why not leave the expensive bling at home?

If you have heirloom jewelry that’s impossible to replace, save yourself the headache of worrying about it and keep it safe at home.

We leave things like laptops, iPads, GoPros, cameras and the like out and about in our rooms when we go to the pool (or out of the resort).

Nothing has been stolen yet.

But we should be more conscious about putting them away out of obvious view. (Just a sensible precaution wherever you travel.)

3) Take group tours

Exploring what there is to do is part of the fun!

Traveling with a group adds strength in numbers and will make it harder to be the victim of a crime.

Try some of our favorite group tours, like:

• This kayaking tour to Lover’s Beach and the Arch
• One of Cabo’s best sunset cruises
• This taco tasting tour
• This tequila tasting tour

4) Keep a copy of your passport separate from the originals

Your passport is your ticket back home, quite literally.

It’s best to put it in your room safe (along with your other valuables like jewelry).

Make sure to keep a copy in a separate safe place, so that if something happens to the original, you’ll still have access to the copy. It can help when it comes time to getting a replacement passport.

5) Don’t walk alone at night

While the tourist areas of Cabo are safe, it’s still important to exercise caution and use your noggin.

Walking alone at night in any city can make you more susceptible to crime. It’s preferable to travel with at least one other person at night. Take a taxi if you need to get somewhere by yourself. 

6) Be extra careful when drinking

Alcohol lowers your inhibitions and decreases your awareness of your surroundings.

Enjoy that margarita and Mexican beer, but do so with caution, especially if you’re outside your resort.

Know your limits and never accept a drink from a stranger.

Avoid setting your drink down for long, and if you’re worried someone could have tampered with your drink, ask for a new one. 

7) Use bug spray to prevent mosquito bites and tropical diseases

We rarely have a problem with mosquitoes in Cabo.

When it comes to Cabo safety measures, we confess that we don’t use bug spray, except when going out for things like ziplining or hiking in the countryside.

But be aware there’s a remote possibility of contracting the Zika virus or Dengue fever from mosquitoes in the area. 

Last words on “Is it safe to travel to Cabo San Lucas?”

We love traveling to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, and have always felt safe in the resort and tourist areas of this region.

Sure, there are some potential safety concerns regarding crime (although much lower than in other parts of the country), driving and the overall health and safety of visiting, eating and exploring the area.

But if you use common sense, chances are you’ll have a safe and wonderful vacation. We even bet you’ll be hankering to return to this beautiful region of Mexico as soon as you can!

Discover more of Los Cabos!

• What’s an ideal itinerary for visiting Cabo ? (For 3 days? 5 days? A week?)
• What’s it like to visit Los Cabos in February ?
• Check out the top things to do in Cabo on a cruise !

Planning your trip to Cabo?

Here are our favorite travel resources:

• Resorts: Booking.com is great for scoring a “wow” hotel in Cabo – or at least a decent one. (We especially like their flexible cancellation policy!)
• Vacation homes, condos and rentals: We prefer and use Vrbo (Vacation Rentals by Owner).
• Tours: For the best local guided tours in Cabo, see Viator and GetYourGuide .
• Car rental: Renting a car in Los Cabos is one of the best ways to explore. Discover Cars searches car rental companies so you get the best rates.
• Travel insurance: SafetyWing is designed for frequent travelers, long-term adventurers and digital nomads. It covers medical expenses, lost checked luggage, trip interruption and more. We also have and recommend Medjet for global air medical transportation and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip?

• See our Start here page. It lists everything we’ve written on Cabo.
• Also check our Ultimate Cabo travel guide and our article on Planning a trip to Cabo: Essential tips .

Pssst! If you make a booking or purchase through our site, we may earn a small commission (at no cost to you). Thanks!

Photos:  2 to 5, 15 © Janice and George Mucalov, Cabo Visitor

About the authors

Award-winning travel writers Janice and George Mucalov are frequent visitors to Los Cabos. Here on Cabo Visitor , they share their essential tips for discovering the best of Cabo!

U.S. State Department Says Cabo is a Safe Destination

Posted by Trademark Productions on May 5, 2023 under Cabo News

Cabo is Deemed a Safe Travel Destination

Los Cabos, Mexico has been deemed a safe travel destination for Americans by the U.S. State Department.

The popular tourist destination located on the southern tip of the Baja California peninsula was previously on the travel advisory list due to incidents of violence, but the latest report indicates a decreased crime rate.

The local government and tourism industry have taken steps to improve safety in the area, including increased police presence and surveillance, as well as a focus on crime prevention and public safety initiatives. The efforts have resulted in a significant decrease in violent crime in recent years.

Is Los Cabos Safe?

Travelers should still exercise caution and take basic safety precautions, such as staying in well-lit areas, avoiding unmarked taxis, and being aware of their surroundings. It is also important to check the latest travel advisories before booking a trip and to purchase travel insurance.

The U.S. State Department’s decision to classify Los Cabos as a safe travel destination is a testament to the efforts made by the local government and tourism industry to improve safety in the area. It is also a reminder that travel advisories can change over time, and it is important to stay informed about the latest developments.

Overall, Los Cabos is now a safe travel destination for Americans, and visitors can enjoy all that this beautiful region has to offer with peace of mind.

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Is Cabo San Lucas Safe? Swimming Dangers, Drinking Water, and More

The Editors

We are the editors of SmarterTravel! Together we have appeared in countless travel publications including ABC News, Huffington Post, Travel + Leisure, USA Today, and more. We dedicate our days to creating and producing expert travel content, including packing tips, general travel advice, destination inspiration, and helpful videos. Follow us across social media on YouTube , Pinterest , Facebook , Instagram , and Twitter or drop us a line to say hi at [email protected]!

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Cabo San Lucas is one of the world’s prime vacation spots for good reason. Accommodations range from ultra-luxury retreats to down-to-earth glamping getaways, with levels of hospitality to match. There’s a rich, uplifting culture to enjoy; adventures galore, whether organized or not; that unbeatable Cabo San Lucas weather; and, of course, the main attraction: the vast, inviting sea, alongside the region’s other iconic natural wonders.

Still, if you’re planning a trip here, you might wonder: Is Cabo San Lucas safe? That’s a valid thing to ask, especially considering that in recent years, the city has experienced the highest crime rate in Baja California Sur.

The U.S. government recommends “ increased caution ” when traveling to the state of Baja California Sur , where Cabo San Lucas is located. It should be noted, however, that most forms of violence in Baja California—homicides, kidnappings, extortions, and so on—are related to the drug war , so travelers have mostly been spared.

While that’s reassuring to know, it’ll behoove you, before landing in Cabo, Mexico, to be informed about what not to do in Cabo, whether you can drink the water in Cabo San Lucas, what you need to know about swimming in Cabo, plus key information about wildlife like snakes and scorpions in Cabo San Lucas.

Tips for Safety in Cabo San Lucas

• When making your way around Cabo San Lucas, limit your explorations to daytime hours, beware of pickpockets and other thieves, don’t hail taxis off the street, and—as with any destination—if you get into an Uber, share your ride’s progress with a friend or loved one.
• Drinking water in Cabo San Lucas should be restricted only to bottled water and glasses of water poured at reputable hotels, resorts, and restaurants where your server has reassured you that what they’re serving is agua purificada— purified water . And skip the ice.
• In Cabo San Lucas, swimming in the ocean can be a risky proposition. The riptides are fierce, the jellyfish are plenty, and the lifeguards are all but nonexistent. Stick to swimming only at your hotel’s swimming pool, or at a beach that’s known to be safe, most of which are on the eastern side of the Baja Peninsula. Never enter a closed beach, and heed all posted signs and flags.
• Some of Cabo’s wildlife species are forces to be reckoned with. Snakes and scorpions in Cabo San Lucas can cause serious injuries and medical emergencies—especially rattlesnakes, yellow-bellied sea snakes, and the bark scorpion. Know how to identify and avoid these species, but if you get bitten, seek immediate medical attention. Worried about bug bites in Cabo San Lucas? The key ones to avoid include the Baja brown recluse and mosquitoes, so wear DEET and pack antihistamines
• Topping the list of what should you not do in Cabo San Lucas: drugs. Not only do they incapacitate you, making you more likely to be targeted as a victim, but if you’re caught using drugs in Cabo San Lucas, the punishment will be severe—Americans charged with drug possession can be kept in a Mexican prison for months before their cases finally go to court..

What Is the Safest Hotel Floor to Stay On?

How to Get Around Safely in Cabo San Lucas

Yes, there are larger security issues going on throughout Baja California, as well as in adjacent parts of Mexico. But in Cabo San Lucas, crimes that affect tourists are mostly relegated to pickpocketing and other petty forms of theft —so hide your valuables, lock your doors, and use common sense when it comes to exploring anywhere off the beaten path or going out after dark. If you get mugged or forced to access an ATM, don’t resist—your physical safety is always more important than your money.

In terms of what to avoid in Cabo San Lucas, the U.S. Department of State recommends that travelers not hail taxis directly off the street anywhere in Mexico. Instead, use hotel transportation services or taxis that have been officially dispatched; unlicensed cab drivers have been known to scam travelers . Taxis are not metered in Cabo San Lucas, so always negotiate the price before getting in, and don’t pay until you arrive at your destination. Taking public transportation in Cabo San Lucas is not recommended either, since buses have been hijacked and theft is commonplace.

Uber runs in Cabo as well, though tensions between taxi and Uber drivers have sparked protests at times. If you decide to use a ridesharing app in Cabo San Lucas, take all the usual precautions: Share the progress of your ride with a friend or family member so that someone always knows where you are. When waiting for your ride, choose a busy, well-lit area. And when your driver arrives, confirm that his or her face and license plate match what comes up on your phone. Then sit in the back seat—never the front.

The American government also recommends that travelers in Mexico “avoid driving alone or at night” and to use toll roads when possible. If you must drive, keep your gas tank as full as possible, carry a spare tire, and charge your phone.

10 Travel Safety Mishaps and How to Avoid Them

Natural Disasters in Cabo San Lucas

How dangerous is Cabo San Lucas in terms of natural disasters? The region is prone to hurricanes from roughly July through September; if one should hit while you’re there, take cover and follow authorities’ instructions. Baja California Sur is also subject to earthquakes and volcano eruptions, so read up on what to do in case either of those happens while you’re visiting, follow official advice, and pay attention to any and all warnings.

Drinking Water in Cabo San Lucas

Can you drink the tap water in Cabo San Lucas? The short answer: It’s not recommended . The pipes here can contaminate the Cabo San Lucas water, which often causes digestive issues for anyone not used to drinking water in Cabo right out of the faucet.

Instead, stick to bottled water, or ask your restaurant server for purified water— agua purificada— with no ice. (Speaking of drinking in Los Cabos—or anywhere you may travel—never leave your beverage or meal unattended, since spikings are not unheard of.)

Other hygienic factors to keep in mind while traveling in Los Cabos: be judicious with the street food you buy and avoid raw vegetables—similarly to the tap water, these items may be prepared in a way that your digestive system is unused to.

The Ultimate Solution for Nervous Flyers

Swimming in Cabo San Lucas

The expansive sea, of course, is the main draw in this part (and many other parts) of Mexico. But is swimming in Cabo San Lucas safe? Not always. There’s much to know before submerging yourself in the Cabo ocean. The fiercest danger is riptides , which make many Cabo beaches unswimmable. Along with rogue waves, they regularly drown strong swimmers, tragically sweeping them out to sea. They can even knock over adults who are standing in water that’s only ankle-deep.

If you do find yourself getting pulled out by a riptide, try to stay calm and swim parallel to the beach into the breaking waves. Should you need saving, try to float, raise one arm up in the air, wave, and call for help.

Most beaches in Cabo San Lucas don’t have lifeguards, unfortunately, but officials often put out colored flags to let beach-goers know where and when swimming in the Cabo San Lucas ocean is safe—and where and when it’s not. It’s critical to obey all posted signs, never enter a closed beach, and know that this isn’t the place to rent or play around in water vehicles, since many aren’t maintained to standard . Instead, swim at your resort’s swimming pool or at a beach that’s well-known to be safe, including several on the eastern side of the Baja Peninsula.

One other danger to be alert for if you’re planning on swimming in Cabo San Lucas: jellyfish . You can wear a Lycra skin for protection, or just consider this just one more reason why you shouldn’t swim in Cabo seas.

Tiny Travel Products That Will Save Your Health

Snakes, Scorpions, and Insects: Wildlife Dangers in Cabo San Lucas

Besides jellyfish, there are other animals to be wary of in Baja California. There are 35 species of snakes in Cabo San Lucas, about half of which are venomous. Most people never encounter one, but it’s still good to know what the poisonous snakes in Cabo San Lucas look like: The yellow-bellied sea snake looks like a floating stick in the water, while the area’s 18 species of rattlesnake are identifiable by their signature noisemakers.

Cabo’s snakes tend to hide in rock piles, brush, or trash piles , so avoid those. It helps to wear closed-toe shoes, stay on the beaten path, and carry a travel first-aid kit . If you get bitten, keep the wound below your heart and don’t cut open the wound or try to suck the venom out. Most importantly, get to a doctor or hospital as soon as possible.

Bugs in Cabo San Lucas are also worth knowing about. The Baja brown recluse spider , in particular, can cause extremely damaging bites. Identify it by its tan to brown color; long, fuzzy legs; and the “violin” pattern on its back.

Cabo has plenty of mosquitoes, too, so wear DEET repellent and pack antihistamines . There haven’t been many cases of Zika in Mexico recently, but the CDC reminds travelers that a risk of the mosquito-borne illness may still remain.

Mexico has upwards of 200 scorpion species, though only eight of those are dangerous to humans. The scorpions in Baja, Mexico, that travelers need to know about include the venomous bark scorpion , which is yellow and about three inches long. You definitely don’t want it to sting you, especially if you’re older or a child. If you do get stung, apply ice and seek medical help immediately.

Scorpions are more active in summer and at night. To keep your life free of them, tap and shake out your shoes before putting them on, shut your bags tightly so they can’t crawl in, and leave them alone if you see them. You can also carry a scorpion toxin antidote, available at some Mexican pharmacies .

—original reporting by Avital Andrews

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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 Times reporter based in London, covering breaking news and other trends. 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 .

San Diego:  Dripping with flowers, adorned in murals and fronted by gorgeous beaches, the city is almost too pretty to be taken seriously. It excels at being underrated and overlooked .

Switzerland:  Nostalgic for a time before ubiquitous connectivity, a writer ditched his phone and relied instead on serendipity — and hand-drawn maps made by people he met along the way .

Paris:  These six Parisian boulangeries will satisfy your cravings  for the crustiest baguettes, the airiest brioches and the flakiest viennoiseries.

Athens and Crete:  On a family tour of Greece, a writer followed the small footsteps  of some of ancient mythology’s biggest fans.

Izmir, Turkey:  The vibrant, 8,500-year-old “Pearl of the Aegean” has again redefined itself as a hub for international explorers , with a 2,400-year-old bazaar and the ancient Agora as chief attractions.

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U.S. Issues Travel Warning for Mexico Ahead of Spring Break

The warning is asking travelers to “travel smart” and “be informed."

marako85/Getty Images

The United States is warning travelers heading to Mexico to be aware of their surroundings ahead of the spring break holiday season.

The warning , which was issued this week by the U.S. Embassy and Consulates in Mexico, reminds travelers to “travel smart” and “be informed” as “thousands of U.S. citizens visit Mexico during spring break” each year. The embassy continued that “while the vast majority travel safely,” visitors should be aware of issues with crime, drugs, unregulated alcohol, drownings, and more. 

“Crime, including violent crime, can occur anywhere in Mexico, including in popular tourist destinations. Travelers should maintain a high level of situational awareness, avoid areas where illicit activities occur, and promptly depart from potentially dangerous situations,” the embassy warned. “U.S. citizens should exercise increased caution in the downtown areas of popular spring break locations including Cancun, Playa Del Carmen, and Tulum, especially after dark.”

The warning also reminded American travelers that drug possession and use is illegal in Mexico, including medical marijuana. It also advised that unregulated alcohol may be contaminated, that counterfeit medication is common, and that guns are illegal in Mexico.

When it comes to the country’s popular beaches, the embassy reminded travelers some beaches may have strong rip tides and “may lack lifeguards, warnings, or signs of unsafe conditions.”

The U.S. Embassy and Consulates in Mexico issued a similar spring break warning last year .

The U.S. Department of State classifies different states in Mexico under different warning levels. While travelers can “exercise normal precautions” when traveling to the Campeche and Yucatan states, the State Department warns them to “exercise increased caution” when heading to places like Baja California Sur (where Los Cabos is), Mexico City, and Quintana Roo (where Cancun is) due to crime.

The State Department also asks American travelers to “reconsider” going to the state of Jalisco, which is home to popular destination Puerto Vallarta , due to the danger of crime and kidnapping.

The State Department recommends Americans who do travel to Mexico keep people at home informed of their travel plans and enroll in the department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to both receive alerts and make it easier to locate them if an emergency occurs.

Travelers heading to international destinations can view all current travel advisories on the State Department's website at  travel.state.gov .

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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

• Global Dengue July 23, 2024 Dengue is a year-round risk in many parts of the world, with outbreaks commonly occurring every 2–5 years. Travelers to risk areas should prevent mosquito bites. Destination List: Afghanistan, Brazil, Burkina Faso, Cape Verde, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Ecuador, including the Galápagos Islands, Ethiopia, French Guiana (France), Ghana, Guadeloupe, Guatemala, Guyana, Honduras, Laos, Mali, Mauritius, Mexico, Panama, Paraguay, Samoa, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Uruguay
• Salmonella Newport in Mexico May 30, 2024 Some travelers who have spent time in Mexico have been infected with multidrug-resistant (MDR) Salmonella Newport.
• 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.

⇧ 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

Chikungunya

There has been evidence of chikungunya virus transmission in Mexico within the last 5 years. Chikungunya vaccination may be considered for the following travelers:

• People aged 65 years or older, especially those with underlying medical conditions, who may spend at least 2 weeks (cumulative time) in indoor or outdoor areas where mosquitoes are present in Mexico, OR
• People planning to stay in Mexico for a cumulative period of 6 months or more

Chikungunya - CDC Yellow Book

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

Dogs infected with rabies are sometimes found in Mexico.

Rabies is also commonly found in some terrestrial wildlife species.

If rabies exposures occur while in Mexico, rabies vaccines are typically available throughout most of the country.

Rabies pre-exposure vaccination considerations include whether travelers 1) will be performing occupational or recreational activities that increase risk for exposure to potentially rabid animals and 2) might have difficulty getting prompt access to safe post-exposure prophylaxis.

Please consult with a healthcare provider to determine whether you should receive pre-exposure vaccination before travel.

For more information, see country rabies status assessments .

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
• Avoid floodwater

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 (WASH)
• 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 .

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Cabo San Lucas Safety 2024: How Safe is Cabo San Lucas for Travel?

Welcome to our safety guide for the gorgeous Mexican paradise, Cabo San Lucas!

Cabo is a stunning location on the southernmost tip of the Baja California Peninsula, where the waves of the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Cortez mix upon its golden dunes.

When it comes to safety, the U.S. State Department has given the go-ahead to visit Cabo San Lucas . Crime is present, but exercising extreme caution goes a long way in Cabo!

In this guide, we’ll teach you precisely how cautious you need to be. We’ll talk about Cabo’s crime statistics, COVID-19 precautions, potential natural disasters, carbon monoxide awareness and prevention, beach safety, Cabo’s weather, and some advice for solo or family travelers. Let’s begin.

Unveiling the Reality: A Comprehensive Look at Cabo San Lucas Crime Rates

Cabo San Lucas sits in Baja California Sur, which, according to the U.S. State Department, is a state where travelers should “Exercise Extreme Caution” when visiting .

This warning shouldn’t worry you, as being super cautious in a foreign country goes without saying. Still, there’s a reason why exercising “extreme” caution is advised when visiting Cabo.

Let’s discuss the reason behind this by examining crime rates and news reports in the area.

Cabo San Lucas Crime Rates

Cabo San Lucas has a crime rating of 44.50—very low compared to other popular destinations in Mexico.

For example, the state’s capital, Mexico City , has a crime rating of 67.95, and the magical Cancun 56.16. The border town of Tijuana is one of the most dangerous cities in Mexico , with a staggering crime rating of 72.8%.

So why should travelers be extra cautious while visiting Cabo?

To give you a more detailed answer, we’ll share the crime reports that happened during the first four months of 2023 in Cabo, issued by the Baja California Sur state police :

• Extortion: 8
• Drug deals: 35
• Vehicle theft: 31
• Home break-ins: 38
• Assault: 79
• Family violence: 143

You never know when danger will strike you, so it’s good to be cautious even in the safest cities in Mexico .

What Are the Police Doing to Protect Cabo San Lucas?

Cabo San Lucas has a strong police presence, with local, federal, and national officials working to ensure tourist safety.

The Cabo mayor noted that by 2023, they are expecting to enlist 150 additional officials to protect the safety and serenity of the city.

Furthermore, Cabo San Lucas has made efforts to improve the coverage of security cameras and has installed around 300 new cameras throughout the area.

Cabo has also announced the installation of strategically placed panic buttons that immediately trigger the police command center in case of an emergency.

The powerful military is another force that guards the city in addition to the police. The government declared that Cabo will continue to be protected by the army at least until 2028.

All in all, Cabo is in good hands. Thanks to the effectiveness of the police and military, this beautiful destination receives over 2.8 million tourists each year !

Navigating the New Normal: Ensuring COVID-19 Safety in Cabo San Lucas

Baja California Sur doesn’t require tourists to have COVID-19 vaccines or tests to enter Cabo San Lucas.

Since COVID-19 is still present in Mexico, travelers may be tested for body temperature upon arrival to Cabo, and those who exhibit symptoms may be further examined or placed into quarantine.

If you think you may be experiencing symptoms of coronavirus while in Cabo San Lucas, go to any hospital, clinic, or laboratory to be tested. Private testing will cost between 950 and 4500 MXN ($53 and $250) for PCR tests and between 200 and 1000 MXN ($11 and $55) for viral antigen tests.

To avoid the spread of COVID-19, practice social distancing and wash your hands frequently. To learn more about how to keep safe and prevent the virus from spreading, go to the American Red Cross website .

Perils of Nature: The Risk of Natural Disasters in Cabo San Lucas

When you look at photographs of Cabo San Lucas’ sunny skies and stunning beaches, it’s difficult to imagine a natural disaster ever occurring. Nevertheless, Cabo is at risk from storms and earthquakes.

Hurricane Information and Precautions

The hurricane season at Cabo San Lucas lasts from mid-May to November, with storm activity peaking from August through October.

The last big Cabo storm was Hurricane Odile , a category 3 hurricane with winds of 125 mph that happened in September 2014. From that point on, there haven’t been hurricanes that made landfall in Cabo.

If you visit Cabo during hurricane season, you may face restrictions on seafaring and water activities owing to severe winds and waves. There are no guarantees — you could also have nothing but beautiful weather and blue skies!

Still, it’s best to monitor approaching storms on the National Hurricane Service and rearrange your vacation if necessary. If you are already in Cabo during a hurricane, stock up on supplies such as water, food, clothes, and flashlights.

If you’re staying at a Los Cabos resort, the personnel will have a security strategy in place.. Many of these resorts also have additional locations where guests can be evacuated if the weather worsens.

Check the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency for more safety tips regarding hurricanes.

Earthquake Information and Precautions

Earthquakes are prevalent in Los Cabos, but they rarely cause damage. The quakes are typically between 4.0 and 5.0 in magnitude and are categorized as light to moderate.

One semi-powerful earthquake hit Cabo in November 2022 , with a magnitude of 4.9, and another in December 2022 , with a magnitude of 5.2. Like many others, these earthquakes caused no damage or loss of life.

Authorities regularly notify residents and visitors of recorded tremors and provide advice on what to do if a major earthquake hits the area. You can track earthquake activity by visiting an online tracker or installing the 911 CDMX app on your smartphone to receive an earthquake warning 60 seconds before it occurs.

Does Cabo San Lucas Suffer From Volcanic Eruptions?

No, there are no active volcanoes in Cabo San Lucas. The center and southern regions of Mexico are where most of the country’s volcanic activity is focused. Visitors may enjoy Cabo San Lucas without worrying about volcanic activity unless they can’t resist the urge to order a “hot and spicy” dish at a local restaurant!

Breathing Safely in Cabo San Lucas: Carbon Monoxide Awareness and Prevention

The incomplete burning of carbon-based fuels, such as gas, oil, wood, and coal, produces carbon monoxide (CO) — a colorless, tasteless, odorless, and deadly gas.

When inhaled, carbon monoxide keeps the blood from carrying oxygen to the cells, tissues, and organs, and prolonged exposure to CO may result in paralysis, brain damage, or loss of life.

There have been no known reports of carbon monoxide poisoning in Cabo. However, there was a fatal tragedy in an Airbnb in Mexico City.

A CO detector is the sole tool we have to detect the presence of carbon monoxide around us. Most hotels and rental properties have them, but not all of them. As a result, the authorities are advising travelers to bring their carbon monoxide detectors .

If exposed to carbon monoxide, you must get some fresh air and seek medical attention. If someone is in a CO coma, call 911 for police and 066 for ambulances immediately.

Serenity by the Shore: The Safety of Cabo San Lucas Beaches

Cabo’s glistening, clean waters are breathtaking. However, many of them aren’t suitable for swimming.

Cabo’s beaches are home to very powerful rip currents. These currents near the shallows transport the water like an invisible undersea river. They’re capable of endangering even the best swimmer.

Strong waves are another reason why several beaches in Cabo are deemed dangerous. The waves that crash into the shore are enormous, making for poor swimming conditions. If they hit you, they could easily knock you out and drown you.

Cabo beaches have lifeguards, but not all of them. If you swim on a beach without a lifeguard, you’re at your own risk and the ocean’s mercy.

Every Cabo beach has a warning flag of six colors (black, red, yellow, white, green, and blue), indicating whether swimming is safe.

The most dangerous beaches have the black flag. This means that the area is prone to storms and hurricanes, so you are not permitted to be on the beach or in the water.

The red flag indicates great danger from strong tides and powerful waves. Tourists can stay on the beach but shouldn’t swim in the water.

The yellow flag means medium hazard regarding powerful currents and waves. It’s best if you stick in the shallows.

The white flag means there may be dangerous marine life, including sharks and jellyfish. You may swim here, but you’re at risk of a dangerous encounter.

The flag that you need to seek is the green one! These are the safest and most beautiful beaches to swim in. Some beaches with green flags include Medano Beach, Lover’s Beach, and Cannery Beach.

The blue flag is focused on health rather than safety. There are many dangerous bacteria in the water and shores that, if they enter our bodies, may cause illnesses like vomiting, skin infections, respiratory problems, etc.

Government experts regularly test Mexico’s beaches for bacterial contamination, and luckily, Cabo has passed the test. If you see a blue flag, the water is bacteria-free, and the beach is clean.

Cabo San Lucas Weather Patterns: What to Expect?

Cabo San Lucas has a wet and dry season.

The wet season lasts from May to October. This time of year is hot, humid, and rainy. The rain, however, typically falls in the form of brief showers or thunderstorms rather than lengthy showers that last for days. Temperatures range from 90 to 86°F (32 to 34°C).

The dry season lasts from November to April. The region enjoys warm and pleasant weather with little rain during this period. The temperature is between 69 and 86°F (20 and 29°C).

Weather Overview in Cabo San Lucas

The summer season in Cabo San Lucas lasts from June to September. The average temperature during the day reaches up to 86°F (30°C) and 77°F (24°C) during the night. The hottest month is July, with temperatures reaching up to 93°F (34°C).

Cabo’s fall season begins in October and wraps up in November. The average daily temperature may reach up to 81°F (27°C), and the maximum it can reach is 91°F (31°C). The autumn nights are also enjoyable, with a minimum temperature of 67°F (19°C).

The winter season spans from December to February. Cooling breezes from the United States enter Cabo San Lucas in the winter, bringing a hint of coolness. Temperatures may dip to 46/50 °F (8/10 °C) at night. The daytime temperature, however, stays over 68 °F (20 °C), perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the city.

Cabo San Lucas’ spring season lasts from March until May. Temperatures progressively rise in the spring, with a daily average reaching up to 80°F (26°C) and a maximum of 90°F (32°C). Spring nights have an average temperature of 66°F (18°C).

When Is the Best Time to Visit Cabo San Lucas?

Cabo San Lucas weather will satisfy everyone’s travel tastes. 

If you enjoy hot weather, July is the warmest month in Cabo. If you desire cooler temperatures, plan your trip around January.

Cabo has the driest weather in March, April, May, and June, whereas the most rainy days happen in September.

Cabo San Lucas’ peak tourist season lasts from November to April — the perfect season for those who don’t mind the crowds!

The shoulder season is between May and October. During this period, Cabo has fewer tourists, but there’s plenty of sunshine and fun activities!

June through September is considered the off-peak period. This time of year is ideal if you enjoy quiet beaches and sparsely populated hotels, restaurants, and bars. In addition, hotel and rental prices drop, with venues frequently offering discounts.

If you are a nature and marine life enthusiast, you must visit Cabo during the whale-watching season, particularly from December to April. During this time, whales migrate and swim along the Baja California coast.

Each season in Cabo San Lucas has its distinct charm. So regardless of whether you want to book your trip in the sunny peak season, the quieter shoulder season, the more inexpensive low season, or the breathtaking whale-watching season, you’ll be in for a treat!

Exploring Cabo San Lucas Solo or With a Family: Is It a Good Idea?

Yes, Cabo is a safe place to visit alone or with family. However, crime does occur there, so being extra cautious will help you avoid harmful situations.

Below are some tips and tricks to help you experience Cabo in the safest possible way.

Essential tips for staying safe:

• Learn some fundamental Spanish words and phrases
• Walk around well-lit central streets and tourist zones
• Don’t take street taxis to avoid getting scammed
• Uber is a great taxi option. However, it’s only available in the center and doesn’t pick up tourists from resorts
• Purchase a Mexican SIM card
• In case of an emergency, the number for calling the police is 911; for ambulances, it’s 066; and for fire services — 080
• Check the reputation of the hotel or rental unit you want to book beforehand
• Don’t drink tap water
• Don’t draw money from public ATMs. Instead, go to the mall, supermarket, or bank
• Have some pesos on hand in case someone doesn’t accept other currencies or card payments

Tips for traveling alone:

• Inform a friend or family member back home of your travel plans and share what you’re planning to do throughout the day
• Don’t walk alone at night
• Don’t wear shiny jewelry
• Don’t bring too much cash
• Drink responsibly and be aware of what’s going on around you
• Keep an eye on your drink to be sure no narcotics are in it
• Never offer a total stranger or someone you just met your phone number or the address of your hotel
• Ignore catcallers
• If someone offers you narcotics, kindly refuse them

Tips for traveling with your family:

• Since you’ll be traveling in a large group, renting a car is safer, more dependable, and more affordable than taking a taxi or a bus
• Be careful when drinking, especially if you’re driving
• Always explore the city together and never apart
• Assemble a first-aid kit
• Always keep an eye out for your children
• For the sake of your children’s safety, avoid staying out too late in bars or restaurants

Are you ready to pack your bags and let Cabo San Lucas enchant you? The US State Department gives you the green light, so it’s time to arrange your vacation !

Remember to be extremely cautious while out and about. Follow the flag warnings on the beach, and don’t overestimate your swimming abilities. Travel safely, adventurers!

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Is Cabo San Lucas Safe in 2024? Here’s What You Need to Know

Wondering, Is Cabo San Lucas Safe right now?

You’re in the right place! I’ve lived in Mexico since 2018 , and have traveled to 23 states in the country (most as a solo female traveler). In this article, I’m sharing my Mexico safety pro tips with you so you can enjoy safe Cabo travel.

By the end of this article, you’re no longer going to be wondering Is Cabo San Lucas safe? — You’re going to feel confident in knowing the answer.

When planning your trip to Cabo San Lucas, of course safety is the #1 issue that’s likely top of mind. With the way Mexico is portrayed in the mainstream media, you might be thinking the worst.

However, MILLIONS of people visit Cabo each year, and it’s generally regarded as one of the best Mexico beach towns — So what’s the truth about Cabo travel safety?

Don’t worry; this article explains it all, so let’s dive in! We’ll start out by addressing the #1 question I get asked most by my readers — Is Cabo safe right now for travel?

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

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

This site is the best way to stay up-to-date with the most accurate information possible, so always head to the source to get your answer.

On their site, you’ll see they evaluate Mexico travel safety on a state-by-state basis. Cabo San Lucas, San Jose del Cabo , Los Cabos, La Paz and Todos Santos are all in the state of Baja California Sur.

⚠️ Important: Make sure to check the info for Baja California Sur (with the “Sur”) — and not Baja California state.

Though they have the same name, Baja California state (without the “Sur”) is another state entirely, and located about 12 hours north of Cabo.

As you might imagine, it doesn’t make much sense to read about Baja Mexico travel warnings for an entirely different state!

Also, Baja California state (AKA Baja California Norte) is usually deemed less safe than Baja California Sur state.

Is cabo san lucas safe to visit?

Cabo san lucas mexico travel warnings.

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

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

Remember to check for Baja California Sur state (with the “Sur”), and not Baja California state. Baja California Sur, where Cabo is located, is generally at Level 2.

For perspective, some other Level 2 travel destinations include the UK, Belgium, Italy and Belize.

Now ask yourself:  Would I be scared to travel to Italy?  How about Belgium? Or the UK?

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

So what’s the verdict on Cabo San Lucas Mexico travel safety?

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

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

What are the Cabo San Lucas crime rates?

You may have noticed Los Cabos Mexico doesn’t rank as 100% safe — and that’s because it’s not.

In truth, no place on Earth is 100% safe; not Iceland nor New Zealand (two of the world’s safest countries according to the Global Peace Index), not your hometown, and not even your own home.

Millions of Americans go to Mexico on vacation every year, so if we play the numbers game, the number of incidents is very small. When I’m asked if Mexico is a safe place to go travel on vacation, my response is yes . Carlos Barren, 25-year FBI veteran (source: Forbes )

As one of the top Mexico destinations, Cabo is both safe and also plagued by the same types of petty crimes common in any major tourism destination like London, Paris or Rome.

These mostly include pickpocketing, cell phone theft and purse snatching.

Not that being the victim of any crime isn’t terrible, but the point here is that the risk of violent crime in Cabo is pretty low.

While it’s safe overall, that’s not to say bad things don’t happen in Cabo; they do.

However, if you remain aware of yourself and surroundings, Cabo should be safe for you just as it is for millions of visitors each year.

Is Cabo San Lucas safe for travelers right now?

As a general rule, Mexico tourist cities are safe to visit — so for the most part, yes , Cabo is considered safe for travelers at this time.

As tourism is the #1 driving force in Mexico’s economy, the top Mexico travel destinations are generally safe for visitors.

The Mexican government is invested in keeping them this way, so visitors return year after year.

⚠️ For a deep dive into this topic, head to Is Mexico Safe to Visit? 25 Mexico Travel Safety Tips .

Statistically speaking, travelers are safe in Cabo San Lucas, and most of Mexico, despite media sensationalism.

Of course, you need to stick to the safe areas in order to remain safe (more info on safe Cabo neighborhoods to come).

Also, if there was any recent crime in Cabo San Lucas, exercise additional precautions.

Is cabo san lucas safe for tourists?

Is cabo san lucas safe for solo travelers.

For the most part, yes , Cabo is considered safe for solo travelers. For a deep dive into this topic, check out my Cabo Solo Travel Guide .

As a solo female traveler, I got a lot of pushback from friends and family when I came to Mexico alone in 2018.

Fast forward a few years, and I found Mexico so safe and amazing that I moved to Mexico permanently (but that’s another story for another article).

⚠️ For a deep dive into this topic, head to Is Mexico Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Statistically speaking, solo travelers are safe in Cabo San Lucas, and most of Mexico, despite media sensationalism.

Though EVERYONE will warn you about solo travel in Mexico, make sure to consider the source.

Are these other solo female travelers who understand what you’re about to do? Have these people even been to Mexico?

Most likely, they haven’t — but if they have, Was this trip in the 1990s?

Personally, I’ve found most people who make blanket statements like “Mexico is dangerous” have never even been to Mexico 🤷‍♀️ Go figure!

In the end, my answer to Is Cabo good for solo travel? — is absolutely!

It’s also safe for the vast majority of visitors so long as you follow the Cabo San Lucas safety for tourists tips in this article.

Is Cabo San Lucas safe for families?

For the most part, yes , Cabo San Lucas is safe for family travel (even for families with young children).

With so many unique things to do in Cabo San Lucas , it attracts EVERYONE — from multi-generational families and couples on their honeymoon, to singles ready to mingle, divers, bachelorette parties, fishermen , and golfers.

The most popular tourist destination on Mexico’s West Coast, Cabo sees countless families each year.

The vast majority of them simply have a nice time, and don’t encounter a single problem.

Of course, there’s always the option to stay at one of these best all-inclusive resorts in Cabo .

Here, you can enjoy a worry-free trip, and book some guided tours to go off-resort, like this family-friendly Cabo Pirate Ship Cruise .

Located right on the ocean, there are plenty of other Cabo boat tours too.

Is Cabo San Lucas safe at night?

For the most part, yes , Cabo is safe at night for the majority of travelers.

Of course, safety levels go down when there’s alcohol involved, so be mindful of overconsumption, and never accept drinks from a stranger.

Other than that, walk only in well-lit areas, avoid people and situations that feel “off” to you (your intuition is always right), and take an Uber or taxi back to your hotel instead of walking.

With these safety measures, you should be fine outside of daylight hours.

Is Cabo San Lucas safe for expats?

With about 300 days of sunshine each year, gorgeous beaches, amazing surf , snorkeling and driving, and real Mexican tacos , Cabo is attractive for Mexico expats — and safe.

The same as for tourists, Cabo is generally considered safe for expats in Mexico — but you can join the Cabo Expats Facebook Group to get current info from people who live there.

However, they’re likely to say it’s a safe destination because they probably wouldn’t have moved to Cabo if it wasn’t 😜

What you’ll usually find in the group is American tourists (often from cities like San Diego and San Francisco) who visited Cabo, and loved it so much that they moved there.

Unsurprisingly, many say it’s one of the safest places in Mexico.

Crime in Cabo San Lucas Mexico

Mexico’s second biggest tourist destination behind Cancun, Cabo is getting more and more popular each year. Sadly, with tourism, comes increased levels of tourist-related crimes (ie. petty crime ).

As tourism is such a huge part of the Mexican economy, the federal and local government in Cabo is always on the offensive.

During peak travel times like the Cabo busy season in winter and Spring Break , local authorities usually initiate an increased police presence , especially on the beautiful beaches and public places.

As safety is such a big topic, let’s continue to explore Cabo crime so you know the safety measures to take in order to best avoid it.

Is cabo san lucas safe?

What are the cabo neighborhoods to avoid.

Wondering, Is Cabo San Lucas dangerous? The answer depends A LOT on where you are, as different areas have very different levels of safety (the same as with everywhere else).

Just as you’d avoid the unsafe areas in your own city, state or country, so too should you avoid unsafe areas in Cabo.

These include Los Cangrejos and Las Palmas , widely considered the most dangerous neighborhoods in Cabo San Lucas.

However, there’s not much visitors would want to do in either, so you’d likely avoid both of these anyway.

In short: When you stick to the safe areas of Cabo San Lucas, you’ll lessen the need for safety concerns.

In safer areas, you’ll still want to use the same “travel common sense” you’d use anywhere else in the world.

What are some common scams in Cabo?

There are four scams you need to be aware of when traveling to Cabo San Lucas: 1) Taxis overcharging, 2) Bars overcharging, 3) the Broken Camera Scam, and 4) the Street Game Scam.

While Cabo San Lucas is home to many honest, hard-working and wonderful people, this wouldn’t be the Ultimate Guide to Safety in Cabo if we didn’t talk about scams.

While I’ll still argue that Cabo San Lucas is safe to visit, you do need to know about these four scams — and how to avoid them.

🚕 The Cabo Taxi Scam & Taxi Overcharges

If the taxi has a meter, the driver will take the long way to run up the cost, and if it doesn’t have a meter, they will simply quote you a price above the standard rate.

How to Avoid This Scam: The easiest way is to use Uber in Cabo San Lucas. You can also GPS your route on Waze to see that they’re taking the fastest route.

🍻 The Cabo Bar Scam (AKA Bar Friends Scam)

With this, friendly scammers will approach you and convince you to come with them to another bar (where they likely work). There, you’ll be “marked,” and the bartenders and servers will know to over-charge you.

How to Avoid This Scam: If someone approaches you and suggests going to another bar, don’t go. You can also ask for a menu and/or prices before ordering anything, no matter where you go.

📸 The cabo Broken Camera Scam 

With this one, a scammer stops an unsuspecting tourist and asks them to take a photo with their phone or camera. When you hand it back, they purposefully drop it and accuse you of damaging it. 

How to Avoid This Scam: The easiest way is not to take anyone’s photo. Of course, 99.9% of these photo requests are just other tourists wanting a photo.

As a general rule, if the person making the request doesn’t look like a tourist, you might want to politely decline their request.

🎲 The Cabo Street Games Scam

Mexican street markets are a cultural mainstay, but some are nefarious. With this scam, people invite you to their stall to play (un-winnable) games, and ultimately, scam you out of your money.

They might also use the game to distract you while their accomplices swoop in and steal your valuables.

How to Avoid This Scam: First, don’t participate in street gambling. Second, carry as few valuables as possible, and always make sure they’re properly secured (ie. not in your back pocket). 

In the end, the best way to avoid scams in Cabo or anywhere is to know what they are. With this info, you now have a much lower chance of being a victim of the biggest scams in Cabo San Lucas Mexico.

Drug Cartels in Cabo San Lucas

If you’ve been wondering, Why is Cabo San Lucas so dangerous? — there’s a clear link to most crime in Cabo.

As with much of Mexico, the drug cartels are a problem in the areas around Cabo.

One of the main reasons for this? Tourists who go to Cabo and buy drugs. If you want to do your part to keep crime down in Cabo, don’t buy drugs from the Cabo cartels.

Most crime and violence in Cabo, Baja California Sur State, and ALL Mexico, has a direct connection to the Mexico cartels and criminal organizations.

⚠️ The Overseas Security Advisory Council (OSAC) is a great place to find Mexico Crime and Safety Reports . It has current articles about crime in Cabo and Mexico travel warnings.

As tourists are the drug cartels’ best customers, they largely keep their violence away from the Cabo tourist areas — so tourists keep coming traveling to Cabo San Lucas, and keep buying drugs off them.

🚨 Avoid Los Cabos Municipality Entirely

Wondering, What are the worst areas in Cabo to avoid? The Municipality of Los Cabos isn’t known to be the safest place, largely due to cartel violence that has nothing to do with tourists (nor locals, for that matter).

However, Cabo San Lucas is located within the Municipality of Los Cabos Mexico — so what do you do?

While I in no way suggest you “just stay at the resort,” I also recommend avoiding places with notoriously unsafe reputations, especially Los Cabos Municipality, where there’s not much you’d want to do anyway.

However, innocent locals and visitors can be negatively affected, so please avoid this area because it’s not a side of Cabo San Lucas you want to see.

If you want to venture off the beaten path in Cabo and outside of the main Cabo tourist area, consider a day trip to San José del Cabo , Todos Santos or La Paz . These are some of the best Cabo day trips.

Cabo San Lucas Murders

If you look up the Cabo San Lucas murder rate — you’re in for a shock . You’ll see reports saying Cabo has the highest murder rate per capita.

However, that statistic is for the Los Cabos Municipality, not Cabo San Lucas. (Keep reading to clear up any confusion over Cabo vs Los Cabos).

The Municipality of Los Cabos is notoriously dangerous. For this reason, you want to exercise a lot of caution when venturing off the beaten path from the city of Cabo San Lucas.

In reality, most tourists weren’t adding the Los Cabos Municipality to their Cabo itinerary.

Also, Cabo is only a small part of the municipality, and largely exempt from violent crimes.

For a direct comparison: Washington Park and Edison Park are two neighborhoods in Chicago.

If you know anything about Chicago, you know one is considered VERY safe, and the other is considered VERY unsafe — but they’re in the same city.

Cabo San Lucas vs Cancun: What’s better for travelers?

These Mexico resort towns , both famous for Spring Break and beyond, are pretty similar.

Usually, I just tell people to go to the one you can get a direct flight to because direct flights make destination better ✈️

They are both party towns, with all inclusive resorts and an established tourism infrastructure, so you can just show up and enjoy.

In the Cancun vs Cabo debate — there’s no clear winner as to the safest destination nor best destination.

Rather, each traveler would like one place over the other, but solely based on their travel preferences.

With big waves on most Cabo beaches, swimming isn’t easy. However, you can swim anywhere in crystal-clear Caribbean Sea waters off Cancun .

They both have great golf courses, water sports, diving and snorkeling, but Cabo wins for surfing . Cancun has nearby cenotes and Mayan Ruins , while Cabo doesn’t.

Located on the ocean, both are susceptible to hurricanes, tropical storms and thunderstorms — so make sure you stay up-to-date on the latest news before your trip.

You can also sign up for emergency weather alerts to warn you about inclement weather, especially if you’re traveling during Cabo hurricane season.

The season runs June 1-November 30 each year.

Is Cabo San Lucas safer than Cancun?

They usually rank about the same in terms of warnings from the U.S. State Department, with them both at Level 2 out of 4.

A Level 2 warning signifies a higher risk of petty crime; unsurprising in any town with a lot of tourists.

While big cities, like Cancun and Mexico City , have the worst reputation for criminal activity and crime, the reality is there’s crime in all Mexico tourist towns (including Cabo), and all of the world’s biggest tourist destinations.

As you’ve seen above, some areas in Cabo, like Los Cangrejos and Las Palmas , and several parts of the Los Cabos Municipality , where Cabo is located, aren’t generally considered very safe.

The Los Cabos area ranked as the least safe part of the country in 2020, though that statistic encompasses a huge area, of which Cabo San Lucas is only one small part.

To make a comparison, New Orleans, Memphis and Baltimore rank as three of the least-safe cities in the United States , though they all have plenty of safe areas.

Cabo Safety vs. U.S. Safety in Major Cities

Before we close out this section on Cabo travel safety, I wanted to offer you some perspective on U.S. vs Mexico crime statistics.

While I’m not knocking the U.S., I am saying that if you live in the U.S. (or some parts of Canada), you likely live with the same levels of crime as Cabo has — and you also likely aren’t scared of your hometown.

Like any country, Mexico has both safe places and unsafe places travelers should avoid.

When looking at the world’s most violent cities , there are several in Mexico, as many might have expected. (⚠️ Note: Cabo isn’t on that list).

What you might not have expected is that there are four cities in the U.S. that also make the list (St. Louis, Baltimore, Detroit and New Orleans).

Despite being the least-safe cities in America, ALL four of those places continue to welcome travelers, and even host large-scale events with hundreds of thousands of visitors.

Is it safe to rent a car in Cabo San Lucas?

For the majority of travelers, yes , it’s safe to rent a car in Cabo, and it’s also safe to drive in Cabo San Lucas and the Baja California Peninsula.

⚠️ For more info, head to Renting a Car in Cabo: Everything You Need to Know .

This part of Mexico is a hotspot for Mexico road trips all up and down the peninsula, and renting a car is common for visitors because public transportation isn’t the best.

Also, Los Cabos attracts a lot of van lifers and RV retirees, so make sure to download the FREE iOverlander app so you can communicate with other drivers easily.

The one thing most people will tell you about driving in Mexico — is that you’ll want to avoid driving at night.

This is especially true on the Baja California roads just outside of Cabo. As many aren’t well lit, make sure you’re about to see so you can spot large potholes and even cows on the road.

How to Get Around in Cabo San Lucas

Cabo San Lucas is easy to navigate, and everything is located within a short walk or drive.

In fact, I don’t recommend renting a car if you’re just staying in town because it’s usually easier to get around without one.

If you prefer to walk, choose a hotel near the Amelia Wilkes Square (Cabo Main Square) or the Cabo Marina.

These are the most walkable parts of Cabo so if you’re wondering Is it safe to walk around Cabo San Lucas? — it is in these parts.

Is there Uber in Cabo San Lucas?

Yes — There is a Cabo San Lucas Uber service, but you can’t use it in all places of Los Cabos, including the Cabo Airport.

While Uber is legal in Cabo, there’s no Uber at Cabo Airport, and it’s actually illegal for drivers to pick you up at the Cabo Airport.

Instead, you’ll have to use the official Los Cabos International Airport taxis, or book this private shuttle .

With all the airport taxi surcharges, the prices are comparable, but the shuttle is MUCH more conformable.

Is there Lyft in Cabo San Lucas?

No — There’s no Lyft in Mexico. Besides Uber, you can use DiDi for ride-shares in Cabo.

Are taxis safe in Cabo San Lucas?

Yes — The vast majority of visitors and locals who use taxis are completely safe.

Keep in mind you will need cash to pay (pesos are best; but some will accept USD).

As taxi drivers hate making change, and sometimes just won’t even do it, always keep small bills and coins.

Also, remember to tip at the standard Mexico tipping rate of 15-20%. This is what you’ll follow when tipping in Cabo, no matter if it’s a restaurant, bar, tour or taxi.

What should I actually be careful of in Cabo?

While you must stay aware of your surroundings, your belongings, yourself and whomever else you’re traveling with while in Cabo — the chances of you being the victim of a crime are low.

However, there are things you might not be thinking about that can impact your overall Cabo vacation.

When it comes to Cabo San Lucas tourist safety, here are the 5 things you need to be aware of:

1. Drinking Water Safety in Cabo

Can you drink the water in Cabo San Lucas Mexico?

No — It is not safe to drink the water! In fact, if there’s one Mexico travel tip you must remember, it’s don’t drink the water in Mexico or you can get sick .

Tap water in Mexico isn’t considered safe for human consumption — not for locals, and not for visitors so please don’t drink tap water in Cabo San Lucas (or any other city in Mexico for that matter).

You will have to boil tap water to make purified water, constantly keep buying bottled water, or come prepared with a Water-To-Go Bottle that has a built-in filter, so you don’t get sick in Mexico .

As someone who lives in Mexico and travels often, I own and use Water-To-Go bottles — and have partnered with the company to get you 15% OFF your purchase.

Head to the Water-To-Go shop and use code SOLO15 at checkout to get the discounted rate .

2. Dehydration

They say the daytime weather in Cabo San Lucas ranges from hot to really hot.

From about May to October, you can expect average temperatures of 93°F (34°C) during the day, so be mindful of sunburns and of staying hydrated.

Sunburns can ruin a vacation, so wear eco-friendly sunscreen , and a sun hat all day (even if it’s not a super sunny day). Also, this sun after-care lotion is great to put on at night.

Of course, you’ll want to also make sure to drink plenty of filtered water from this Water-To-Go bottle — Use code SOLO15 for 15% OFF your entire purchase.

🍹 Drinking too much

As you probably already know, the combo of booze + sun only makes things worse.

If you’re planning to party hardy in Cabo, I recommend Liquid IV . This “hydration multiplier” is an Amazon best seller that replenishes your electrolytes — and has 167,000+ positive reviews.

3. Critters that Bite

As Cabo is half beach, half desert, there are SEVERAL things you need to be mindful of when it comes to nature and wildlife safety in Cabo San Lucas.

When you venture off-beach for outdoor activities, pay attention to posted signs about dangerous critters native to Mexico in the area.

These include poisonous snakes (esp. rattlesnakes), 🦂 scorpions (esp. the Bark Scorpion), 🕷️ poisonous spiders (esp. the Baja Brown Recluse), mountain lions, and other common wildlife dangers in Cabo San Lucas.

4. Strong Currents on Cabo Beaches

Planning on swimming in Cabo San Lucas?

While most travelers are more concerned with not getting their phone taken (understandable, btw) they forget other things that can cause serious harm — like the ocean. 

In fact, there are many beaches in Cabo you can’t swim at because of the huge ocean waves and rip currents, so pay attention to posted warning signs.

5. Cows on the Road

Yes, you read that right! If you’re renting a car in Cabo , it’s not uncommon to have to slow down or even fully stop as you wait for a cow to cross the road.

You might also see other animals, both large and small.

Pay extra attention when getting on the Cabo Airport toll road, but really, always keep your eyes on the road for approaching animals — especially in places outside of Cabo San Lucas city.

10 Quick Cabo San Lucas Safety Tips

Want to know the secret to staying safe on vacation in Cabo? The secret is that there is no secret. Want even more good news? Safe travel is 100% possible in Cabo.

Travel safety generally comes down to taking common sense protections so you’re as safe traveling in Cabo and Baja California Sur as you are anywhere else in the world.

1. Get Travel Insurance for Mexico

If 2020 taught us anything, it’s that life (and travel plans) can change in an instant. For all the unexpected things that come up in travel, you’ll want travel insurance.

From canceled flights, to lost luggage and getting sick — you’ll regret not having it should something go awry.

I use SafetyWing Travel Insurance for myself. They offer great coverage and AMAZING rates, with plans that start at about $35 per month for everything listed above, and then some! 

While most travelers don’t need a full month of coverage, they’re still cheaper than nearly every other insurance provider (including World Nomads).

2. Get a Mexico SIM Card

• 3GB Cellular Data (at full 4G/LTE speeds) valid for 30 days starting at your arrival in Mexico
• Unlimited Calls and SMS (only text) in Mexico, USA or Canada
• Can also be used in USA and Canada for Data, Calls and SMS
• Unlimited Social Networks (Facebook, Twitter, WhatsApp, Instagram, Snapchat)
• LTE capable (LTE Coverage is available in most cities and touristic areas)

With a local SIM, you’ll be able to check in with loved ones back home, post to social media, make travel plans, have access to apps like Google Translate and Google Maps when you need them, and much more.

Also, make sure your phone is charged and carry a portable charger .

When traveling to Cabo, you’ll use your phone for SO MUCH — ie. calling an Uber, the translator app, accessing your bank, and of course, emergencies.

3. Take group tours in Cabo San Lucas

Cabo tours like these are a great way to meet people and enjoy activities that are much more fun in groups.

Some of the most popular and best tours in Cabo San Lucas include this boat tour to the Cabo Arch and this Cabo taco tour . With these, you’re in the safety of a group, and with a local tour leader who knows Cabo well.

4. Leave your valuables at home

Want to make sure your valuables are still with you after you’re done traveling?

The best way to do this is to leave them at home, so they’ll be right there waiting for you when you get back.

While Cabo is a great place for a beach vacation, Sun + Fun + Margaritas = Lost things.

Also, expensive laptops, DSLR cameras , and designer clothes and sunglasses often draw the wrong type of attention.

🧳 Need suggestions on what to wear in Cabo San Lucas? Head to this article for Cabo outfits inspiration .

5. Listen to your intuition

If your inner voice (AKA intuition ) is telling you NO about a person or a place — please listen!

If someone is giving you the creeps, get away from them ASAP. Personally, I don’t even worry about making a polite exit, I just get from them as fast as possible.

6. Be careful after dark

Although I’m not saying you must return to your Cabo hotel before dark, be sure you have a plan of how you’ll get back to your hotel at night.

With both Uber in Cabo and taxis in Cabo, this isn’t hard.

One last tip is to choose a well-lit, busy location to wait for your ride, such as a restaurant lobby or storefront.

Finally, avoid driving at night as there’s basically no street lights outside of the city once you’re outside of the tourist corridor.

In fact, Cabo is known as one of the best places for stargazing because it has such low levels of light pollution.

Seeing millions of stars in the sky is one of the many charms of visiting Cabo.

7. Keep personal info private

Just because someone asks you a question, doesn’t mean you have to answer them in a way that divulges too much.

While most people mean well, you don’t need to tell a stranger where you’re staying and your full Cabo itinerary simply because they ask for it.

In this case, you might say “I’m not sure what my plans are yet,” and leave it at that.

8. Never accept a drink from a stranger

I repeat: Never take drinks from strangers, even if they seem nice (and/or are really really cute).

Beyond this, never leave your drink unattended with a stranger either.

These may be the most important of all What should you not do in Cabo San Lucas? things on this list — so please take heed.

9. Don’t keep all your money in one place

Keep some money in your pocket, or even a side pocket in your purse or backpack, so you don’t have to take out your entire wallet each time you need to buy something.

⚠️ Need somewhere to hide a bit of money? Check out this cool bra pocket and this money belt with a hidden compartment.

Also, don’t carry too much cash on you at any given day. For most people, having $1,000-2,000 pesos per day (about $55-120 USD) will suffice.

When storing extra cash, your passport, jewelry, a credit card you won’t be using, make sure to utilize the safe in your hotel room.

After all, this stuff is much better off in a safe where it’s, you know, safe!

10. Ask friendly locals for advice

No one knows their town like a local — and no one can tell you how safe it is to visit certain areas of town like a local can.

They’re tapped into the current situation, and can offer invaluable insights.

If you’re unsure about a Cabo activity or part of town, chat up a friendly barista, bartender, server, hotel staff, tour operators, or neighbor at the coffee shop, and see if they can offer insights.

If talking to strangers isn’t your thing, consider joining the Cabo Expats Facebook Group to get current safety tips and info from expats in Cabo (of which, most are U.S. citizens).

Of course, you can also go to an expert source like the US State Department (or the equivalent in your home country) for travel restrictions and safety precautions you should take.

Cabo Travel Guide & FAQ

Where is Cabo San Lucas located?

Wondering, What state is Cabo San Lucas in? Cabo San Lucas is located in Baja California Sur State , on the west coast of Mexico.

Baja California State and Baja California Sur State make up Mexico’s Baja Peninsula, a long strip of land that connects to California. Cabo San Lucas sits at the southern tip of the peninsula.

For reference, check out this map of Cabo San Lucas above. You’ll see it’s located between the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Cortez (AKA Bay of California) — which diver Jacques Cousteau famously called “the aquarium of the world.”

Is Los Cabos the same as Cabo San Lucas?

No — The area known as Los Cabos Mexico is a municipality. Within the Los Cabos Municipality, there are several cities, including Cabo San Lucas and the town of San Jose del Cabo .

As some travelers visit both places on the same trip, you may hear “Los Cabos” when someone’s referring to these two cities of Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo, and not the whole municipality.

As Los Cabos just means “The Cabos,” (really, it’s “The Capes”) the colloquial terms Los Cabos can refer to these two cities, or the Los Cabos Municipality. ⚠️ Fun Fact: The Spanish word cabo means “cape.”

🤔 In case you’re wondering, Is Los Cabos safe? Yes — Both Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo are safe for the vast majority of visitors.

I hope this cleared up the Is it Cabo or Los Cabos? debate once and for all — as it’s a question so many have.

Cabo San Lucas vs San Jose del Cabo: What’s better?

San Jose del Cabo is still a bit up-and-coming for travel, though it’s gaining in popularity each year.

For now, it’s still seen as Cabo San Lucas Jr., but has embraced a lot more of the historic and artistic side of Baja. For this reason, San Jose del Cabo appeals more to culture travelers than Cabo San Lucas.

As far as San Jose del Cabo safety and Los Cabos safety, you’ll be fine using all the same Cabo San Lucas travel safety tips you’ve already read in this article.

Is there an airport in Cabo San Lucas Mexico?

No — There’s no airport in Cabo San Lucas! The closest airport for Cabo San Lucas is located in San Jose del Cabo, Mexico.

From San Jose del Cabo International Airport (code: SJD, and also called Los Cabos Airport), you’ll then need to book transportation for the drive to Cabo San Lucas. 

How far is Cabo San Lucas from the Airport?

The distance from Cabo San Lucas to San Jose del Cabo Airport is about 27 miles (43 km) . The drive takes about 45 minutes by private shuttle , rental car or taxi.

If you go via shared shuttle or on the bus, the trip can take up to double that amount of time because these usually make additional stops that private transportation options don’t have to make.

What Airlines Fly to Cabo?

Most U.S. airlines do, including American, Delta, Southwest, United and Spirit, as well as Mexican carriers like Volaris and AeroMexico.

In fact, as one of the busier airports in Mexico, there are numerous daily, nonstop flights to the Cabo Airport from many cities in the United States and Canada.

What’s the best way to get to Cabo San Lucas from San Jose del Cabo?

The easiest, safest, most hassle-free, stress-free way and overall best way to get to Cabo from the airport is by booking this private airport shuttle .

🏆 Cabo Private Shuttle

As just mentioned, this Best Cabo Airport Shuttle is my pick. Cabo’s not too far from the airport, the private shuttle is economical — even more so if you split the cost with a group.

They pick you up right as you exit the airport and pack up your luggage into the shuttle, so you start your Cabo vacation on the right foot!

🚙 Cabo rental cars

You can also rent a car in San Jose del Cabo Airport, but keep in mind there are tolls on the main highways so you’ll need to take out cash at the airport before you hit the road. With numerous Cabo Airport ATMs, this is easy.

If you need more info on the Mexico rental process, head to Renting a Car in Cabo: Everything You Need to Know .

🚌 Cabo shared Shuttle

The Cabo San Lucas shared shuttle is a more economical option than the private shuttle, especially for Cabo solo travelers who aren’t splitting the cost.

🚐 Ruta del Desierto Bus in Cabo

Besides rental cars and shuttle, there’s the Ruta del Desierto Bus . Keep in mind this public transport bus only departs from Terminal 1, though international flights usually arrive at Terminal 2.f

🚕 Cabo Airport Taxi

The final option is to take a taxi, but with the airport taxi surcharge, they can cost just as much as the Cabo Airport shuttle — which is A LOT nicer!

Keep in mind that while there is Cabo Uber service, there’s no Cabo Airport Uber service because it’s illegal for them to do airport picks-ups (drop-offs are allowed).

What are the best places to stay in Cabo San Lucas Mexico?

If this will be your first visit, you’ll want to stay right on the beach, near the Cabo Marina, or close to Amelia Wilkes’ Square in downtown.

These are the most walkable parts of town, with plenty of restaurants and shops, so it’s the ideal way to get to know Cabo.

For those who want to stay at a Mexico all inclusive resort, the Cabo resorts are known as some of the best in the country. After all, Cabo is one of the best resort towns in Mexico , along with Puerto Vallarta and Playa del Carmen.

Below, you’ll find a list of great Cabo San Lucas hotels and resorts, as well as the best hostel in Cabo Mexico.

Best Cabo Resorts & Hotels

• Book the Garza Blanca Resort

Did you know that one of the best resorts in Mexico is located in Cabo? Yes, you read that “best resort in Mexico” part right. The Grand Velas Los Cabos is a AAA 5 Diamond Award winner — but it’s just one of many options:

• Best Cabo San Lucas All Inclusive Resort ($$$$): Riu Palace Cabo San Lucas
• Best Cabo Hotel ($$$): Garza Blanca Resort & Spa
• Best Cheap Cabo Hotel ($$-$$$):  Hotel Quinta del Sol by Solmar
• Best Cabo Hostel ($-$$): Sofia Hostel Cabo San Lucas

Should I get Mexico travel insurance?

Legally, you don’t need travel insurance for Mexico. However, the answer to the question Should I buy travel insurance for Mexico? — is a resounding YES .

If 2020 taught us anything, it’s that nothing is certain, and life can change completely from one moment to the next.

Even before the You-Know-What in 2020, if there’s one certainty with travel, it’s that something will always go wrong .

Just as you insure your home, car and possessions, so too can you insure your health, luggage and belongings while traveling to Mexico. For peace of mind, travel insurance is a must.

What are the best Mexico travel insurance companies?

There are two; both great for different reasons. I personally use SafetyWing Insurance , and have since 2022.

SafetyWing is perfect for Mexico digital nomads doing long-term travel, but it’s also the cheapest Mexico travel insurance I know of. The second is World Nomads , one of the biggest names in travel insurance.

What are the best things to do in Cabo San Lucas?

As a beach town, you’ll want to hit the beaches in Cabo, like Playa el Medano and Playa del Amor . However, no trip is complete without a boat ride to the Cabo San Lucas Arch .

Below, you’ll find the top things to do in Cabo San Lucas — some with Cabo tour options so you can join in with a group. After all, when it comes to safe Cabo travel, group tours are the way to go.

• Cabo Arch Boat Tour (El Arco de Cabo)
• Go snorkeling in Cabo San Lucas
• Ride a Camel in Cabo
• Swim with Whale Sharks in Cabo (Seasonal from about November to April)
• Cabo Whale Watching Tour (Seasonal from about December to March)
• Visit the Best Beaches in Cabo San Lucas — Playa de los Amantes (Lovers Beach), Playa Chileno Beach, Playa del Divorcio (Divorce Beach) and Playa Cerritos Beach

For a complete list of all the can’t miss Cabo attractions, head to 21 Unique Things to Do in Cabo San Lucas .

What’s the best time to visit Cabo San Lucas?

It depends who you ask — Personally, I love the Cabo shoulder season months (May, June, October and November). In these months you get great weather, smaller crowds, and cheaper prices.

However, it also depends on what to do in Cabo San Lucas that appeals to you.

For whale watching in Cabo , you’ll have to visit from mid-December to March. If you want to swim with the whale sharks in Cabo , their season is from October to February.

Cabo Weather: Average High/Low Temperatures

Cabo San Lucas is one of the sunniest places on Earth. Depending on who you ask, sources say Cabo has 300 to 350 sunny days per year ☀️

This makes Cabo a year-round destination, though you may want to avoid the Cabo rainy season in August and September because it can actually rain a lot.

For the best weather, many recommend the late-spring and late-fall as the best time to travel to Cabo. These months offer warm (not hot) days, and cool (not cold) nights.

Final Thoughts: Is Cabo San Lucas safe to travel to?

Still wondering, Is it safe to travel to Cabo San Lucas? , Is Cabo dangerous for tourists? , or even, Is Cabo San Lucas safe from drug cartels?

While there’s no definitive answers, I’ll do my best to answer the questions as someone who’s lived in Mexico since 2018, and traveled all over the country.

Is Cabo Mexico safe? Yes and No — I say yes and no because safety is never a guarantee anywhere on Earth; not in your own hometown, nor own home, nor Cabo San Lucas Mexico.

I can’t say for certain that Cabo is safe for everyone, nor that Cabo San Lucas is unsafe. What I can say for certain is that it is safe for the VAST majority of visitors — and that I never hesitate to travel to Cabo San Lucas 🏝️☀️🏄‍♀️

Also, if you make travel safety a priority for yourself in Cabo, your chances of having a safe Cabo trip increase dramatically. For travelers using good “travel common sense,” yes, Cabo is safe.

That’s not to say bad things don’t happen in Cabo; they do. However, if you remain aware of yourself and surroundings, you should have an amazing trip to Cabo, just like millions do each and every year.

Cabo Safety Tips: Register for the STEP Program

If you’re from the U.S., make sure you enroll in the FREE STEP Program  before your trip. (🇨🇦 Canadians can check out Registration of Canadians Abroad here for a similar program).

After registering for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), you’ll be put in touch with the U.S. Consulate in Los Cabos , which can provide any assistance you might need while traveling to Cabo San Lucas.

In addition, STEP can put you in touch with your family and friends back home, in the event of an emergency while abroad. They can also shed light on general Mexico travel safety tips and safety protocols, if you’re still in doubt.

⚠️ Cabo entry requirements

As of 2021-2022, there are no travel warnings from the World Health Organization ( WHO ) nor Centers for Disease Control ( CDC ). Still, if you need specific information about travel health, it’s a good idea to check their sites.

Also, you don’t need to show proof of a negative Covid test to have a great time in any parts of Mexico. If you do feel sick in Cabo, seek medical attention ASAP and follow any health protocols your doctor recommends.

Mexico Travel Planning Guide

Should i buy mexico travel insurance.

YES — With basic coverage averaging just $5-10 USD per day, enjoy peace of mind with a plan from Travel Insurance Master , one of the biggest names in travel insurance. ( Read more )

Can you drink the water in Mexico?

No — You’ll want to buy this Water-To-Go Bottle , which filters your drinking water so you don’t get sick from drinking water in Mexico.

Also, it helps keep you hydrated while traveling Mexico. ( Read more )

Is it safe to rent a car in Mexico?

Yes — Renting a car in Mexico is one of the best ways to see the country! I always rent with Discover Cars , which checks international companies and local Mexican companies, so you get the best rates. ( Read more )

Will my phone work in Mexico?

Maybe — It depends on your company, so check with your provider. If you don’t have free Mexico service, buy a Telcel SIM Card . As Mexico’s largest carrier, Telcel has the best coverage of any Mexico SIM Cards. ( Read more )

What’s the best way to book my Mexico accommodations?

For Mexico hotels, Booking.com is the best site , but for hostels, use Hostel World . If you’re considering a Mexico Airbnb, don’t forget to check VRBO , which is often cheaper than Airbnb.

What do I pack for Mexico?

Head to the Ultimate Mexico Packing List + FREE Checklist Download to get all the info you need on packing for Mexico.

What’s the best site to buy Mexico flights?

For finding cheap Mexico flights, I recommend using Skyscanner .

Do I need a visa for Mexico?

Likely Not — U.S., Canadian and European Passport holders don’t need a visa for Mexico; but check here to see if you need a Mexico travel visa. Most travelers will get a 180-Day FMM Tourist Visa passport stamp a upon arrival.

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Mexico travel advice

Latest updates: The Health section was updated - travel health information (Public Health Agency of Canada)

Last updated: July 15, 2024 12:32 ET

On this page

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

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

Regional Advisory - Avoid non-essential travel

• Chiapas, excluding the cities of Palenque via highway 186 from Villahermosa, San Cristobal de las Casas and Tuxtla Gutiérrez
• Chihuahua, excluding Chihuahua City
• Colima, excluding the city of Manzanillo if accessed by air
• Guerrero, excluding the cities of Ixtapa/Zihuatanejo if accessed by air
• Jalisco, within 50 km of the border with Michoacán state
• the Lagunas de Zempoala National Park in Morelos
• Michoacán, excluding the cities of Morelia and Patzcuaro
• in Nayarit, within 20 km of the border with the states of Sinaloa and Durango
• Nuevo León, excluding the city of Monterrey
• Sinaloa, excluding the cities of Los Mochis and Mazatlán
• Sonora, excluding the cities of Hermosillo, Guaymas/San Carlos and Puerto Peñasco
• Tamaulipas, excluding the cities of Tampico and Recce
• all Zacatecas, excluding Zacatecas City

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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 - 2 July, 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.

Human cases of avian influenza have been reported in this destination. Avian influenza   is a viral infection that can spread quickly and easily among birds and in rare cases it can infect mammals, including people. The risk is low for most travellers.

Avoid contact with birds, including wild, farm, and backyard birds (alive or dead) and surfaces that may have bird droppings on them. Ensure all poultry dishes, including eggs and wild game, are properly cooked.

Travellers with a higher risk of exposure include those: 

• visiting live bird/animal markets or poultry farms
• working with poultry (such as chickens, turkeys, domestic ducks)
• hunting, de-feathering, field dressing and butchering wild birds and wild mammals
• working with wild birds for activities such as research, conservation, or rehabilitation
• working with wild mammals, especially those that eat wild birds (e.g., foxes)

All eligible people are encouraged to get the seasonal influenza shot, which will protect them against human influenza viruses. While the seasonal influenza shot does not prevent infection with avian influenza, it can reduce the chance of getting sick with human and avian influenza viruses at the same time.

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 Abductions: A guide for affected parents
• The Hague Convention – Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Request emergency assistance

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.

Climate change

Climate change is affecting Mexico. Extreme and unusual weather events are becoming more frequent and may affect your travel plans. Monitor local news to stay informed on the current situation.  

Mexico is subject to various natural disasters such as:

• earthquakes  
• extreme heat
• floods  
• forest fires 
• hurricanes  
• torrential rains  
• tsunamis 
• volcanic eruptions  
• 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. You could face serious safety risks during a hurricane.

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

• 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 – U.S. National Hurricane Center

Heat may be most severe during the hot season, from April and May in the south, and July to September along the Pacific Coast.

Know the symptoms of dehydration and heatstroke, which can both be fatal.

Sun and heat safety tips for travellers  

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

Temporary closure of the Consular Agency of Canada to Mexico, in Acapulco

The Consular Agency of Canada to Mexico, in Acapulco, will close temporarily to the public until September 2, 2024.

Consular services may be limited. Contact the Embassy of Canada to Mexico, in Mexico City, if you require consular assistance.

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.

• Mexico Travel News
• Seaweed Updates
• Hidden Travel Gems

Is Los Cabos Safe To Visit? Travel Advisory 2024

Travelers who exercise caution and use common sense can feel secure when visiting Los Cabos . It is recommended to stay within the tourist areas and choose reputable accommodations.

Los Cabos International Airport serves approximately 5 million travelers annually, offering over 1,300 flight routes connecting more than 100 cities in seven countries.

Being well-prepared and knowledgeable will allow you to relax and fully enjoy your time in one of Mexico’s most renowned destinations.

Table of contents

March 5 – crime rises in los cabos – visitors are still safe, u.s. travel advisory, canada travel advisory, areas to avoid, common scams, safety tips for los cabos, latest news from los cabos:.

Of the 11 crimes that were tracked in January, six were “red-lighted.” This indicates that they have to do with drug sales, vehicle theft, house burglaries, personal injuries, domestic abuse, and femicide.

The other five were “green-lighted,” which meant that they involved rape, business robbery, extortion, kidnapping, and murder.

The crime that mostly appears in Los Cabos is drug dealing, which is a crime tourists can easily avoid and is typically nonviolent.

Official Travel Advisories

The State Department acknowledges that “ criminal activity and violence may occur throughout the state ,” but there are no travel restrictions specifically for Los Cabos.

However, the State Department advises travelers to exercise increased caution in Baja California Sur due to concerns about crime.

Note: The recent warning from the U.S. embassy in Mexico about Spring Break Travel doesn’t include Los Cabos .

The Canadian government advises its citizens to exercise a high degree of caution when traveling to Mexico due to high levels of criminal activity and kidnapping.

However, Baja California Sur (the state where Los Cabos are located) does not appear on its list of Do Not Travel destinations.

Authorities have observed a rise in crime rates in the following locations:

• Santa Rosa Neighborhood in San Jose del Cabo: Incidents primarily consist of armed robberies, vehicle thefts, and general assault crimes.
• Los Cangrejos and Las Palmas in Cabo San Lucas: The majority of reported cases involve vehicle theft and general assault.

Fortunately for tourists, the majority of these neighborhoods are not situated within the main tourist hubs or the hotel zone.

Despite being considered one of Mexico’s safest cities, Los Cabos still harbors individuals intent on defrauding both residents and visitors through various scams:

Restaurant Musicians: Some musicians may approach you at restaurants and perform without your consent, expecting payment afterward. Avoid this by politely declining their services.

Exotic Animal Photos: Locals may offer you the opportunity to take a photo with exotic animals, but it’s not free. Agree on the price beforehand to avoid any misunderstandings.

Jetski Rentals: Before renting a jetski, ensure it’s in good condition and free of damage. Insist on a thorough inspection to avoid being charged for pre-existing damage later on.

Tour Scams: Watch out for tour companies that may charge extra for activities advertised as included in the price. Clarify the total cost before booking the tour.

Fake Police: Beware of fake police officers who demand fines for alleged infractions. Politely request to settle any fines at the nearest police station.

ATM Skimming Scams: Criminals may install skimming devices on ATMs to steal credit card details. Use ATMs located inside banks or shopping malls to minimize the risk of falling victim to such scams.

Airport Taxi Overcharging: Exercise caution with taxi drivers at the airport who may overcharge you for their services. To avoid this, consider using reputable taxi apps or calling an Uber instead.

Here are some safety recommendations to ensure a fantastic journey to Los Cabos, Mexico:

• Avoid bringing valuable items with you.
• Opt for group tours over solo excursions.
• Keep a duplicate of your passport in a separate location from the original.
• Refrain from walking alone after dark.
• Exercise extra caution when consuming alcoholic beverages.
• Apply insect repellent to prevent mosquito bites and potential tropical diseases.
• Obtain travel insurance that includes coverage for Los Cabos.

Every item on this page was chosen by an ELLE editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

ELLE Escapes: Los Cabos

Los Cabos is a vacationer’s nirvana. The resort city on the tip of Mexico’s Baja Peninsula has some of the best vacation weather any beach-loving traveler could ask for, along with its seemingly endless variety of land and sea adventures, and, of course, head-spinning nightlife. However, for those looking for a serene haven, there is a quiet luxury that makes it the perfect getaway to...get away.

What to See

Todos santos.

The Waldorf Astoria Spa

At The Waldorf Astoria Spa you’ll enjoy luxurious amenities while feeling like you’ve escaped to a hidden grotto. The extensive service menu offers something for everyone, with treatments executed by highly skilled therapists. Each offering begins with an aromatic foot bath that sets the soothing tone for a transporting experience. A reservation grants you an all-day pass to take in the sauna, steam room, and ice room and bask in the secluded private pool.

Pelican Cabo Boat Charters

You can’t go to Los Cabos and not set sail on the pristine waters of the Sea of Cortez. For a next-level excursion, pass on the party barge and board the Pelican Cabo , a luxury 55-foot private charter. You can curate your sailing tour to experience everything from whale watching to a private wedding reception. Or just relax and enjoy a personal chef and all the amenities of a five-star resort.

Poncho Outdoors The Roaring Fork

Outdoor Voices SolarCool 5” Beach Shorts

Olukai Ohana Water-Friendly Beach Sandals

Where to eat, el farallon.

Perched between the Pedregal cliffs and the Pacific Ocean, you will feel like you are dining on the edge of the world. With a sea-to-table selection that’s so fresh your waiter presents the menu on a chalkboard, El Farallon offers the best of the local catch. Splurge for the colossal lobster tail and champagne tasting, and you are in for a truly unforgettable experience.

Ardea Steakhouse

If you find yourself vacationing during your favorite sports playoffs season, you won’t miss a second of the action at Ardea Steakhouse . The restaurant at Nobu Hotel Los Cabos, which now offers exclusive luxury “home away from home” residences, provides the perfect spot to catch the big game. With offerings like a 40-ounce, 15-day dry-aged Prime Tomahawk, game day menus just got an opulent upgrade.

Flora’s Field Kitchen

Nestled among flower beds, palm trees, and cacti and boasting a stunning view of the ​​Sierra de la Laguna mountains, Flora’s Field Kitchen defines the essence of hand-crafted cuisine in the loveliest setting. Be sure to check out its cooking classes, farm tours, and grocery store to get the true farm-to-table dining experience. And don’t miss the “Farmarita” and Bloody Mary, cocktails featuring just about one of everything from the farm.

Banana Republic Linen Resort Shirt

Cos Wide-Leg Elasticated Pants

Castaner Pablo Espadrilles

Where to drink, the office on the beach.

What started as a simple thatched-roof palapa that rented surf gear has transformed into a can’t-miss beach cantina. “The Office” serves breakfast, lunch, dinner, and margaritas the size of your head, all from the beautiful sandy shore of Médano Beach.

The Rooftop at The Cape, A Thompson Hotel

Skip the booze cruise and take in the magnificent sunset and jaw-dropping views of the iconic El Arco from this inviting open-air rooftop bar at The Cape . The views, live music, casual yet ultra-hip vibe, and maybe a Hot & Spicy Margarita will touch all your senses.

La Botica Speakeasy

You’ll need a secret code to enter La Botica , a hidden speakeasy, but once inside, you are transported to a stylishly retro era. With live jazz and Afro-Cuban and Latin music from Rosalia de Cuba and her exquisite band, combined with killer signature cocktails like the Gin Monkey 47, you will certainly have a night to remember.

Todd Snyder Linen Mesh Full-Placket Polo

J.Crew 7” Stretch Chino Short

New Balance Aimé Leon Dore 996 Suede and Rubber-Trimmed Leather Sneakers

Where to stay, waldorf astoria los cabos pedregal.

When a resort is accessible only via a private tunnel under Pedregal Mountain, you know your destination will be exceptional. Carved into the side of the cliffs and with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, the Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal was recently named the “most Instagrammable resort” by Forbes. Every room, suite, and casita has its own private infinity pool, ocean view, and even personal concierge. Dining options not only feature the freshest ingredients from farm (and ocean) to table, but also daily events like agave tastings. But do yourself a favor and schedule your visit around one of the resort’s Festival of Flavors weekends, where you will be treated to a Michelin-starred guest chef takeover.

Four Seasons Resort and Residences Cabo San Lucas at Cabo Del Sol

Embracing the modern hacienda lifestyle, the newly opened Four Seasons , now offering 61 residences, is a contemporary combination of local craftsmanship, art, music, and food. Located in the heart of the luxurious Los Cabos Golden Corridor, the resort offers pristine beaches, three pools, three restaurants, and five bar options. You truly experience la buena vida— the good life—from the moment you arrive.

Acre Resort Los Cabos

If a luxury beach vacation is not on your radar, Acre offers authentic and casually chic villas, haciendas, and, yes, 12 treehouses set within the lush mountains outside San Jose del Cabo. However, the heart and soul of this resort is the consistently top-rated Acre Restaurant & Cocktail Bar, with evolving menus crafted around produce grown on the property’s 25-acre farm and sourced from local ranchers and fishermen. Put me down for their private label and award-winning Mezcal and the Wednesday night House Smoked Ribs!

Patagonia Tropic Comfort Natural Hoody

Away Travel The Carry-On

Free Fly Spoonbill 5-Panel Hat

Beauty picks.

Kiehl’s Better Screen UV Serum

A sunny vacation without sunscreen is a disaster waiting to happen. With a high SPF, this moisturizing sunscreen protects against harmful UVB and UVA rays, all while coating the skin with skin-loving collagen peptides to ward off aging signs and correct dullness.

Fulton and Roark Calle Ocho Solid Fragrance

Skip the grating TSA bag search process and opt for this compact solid fragrance, which radiates with a smokey, woody scent that will tempt you to order another dark and stormy (or maybe two).

Jack Black Pit Boss Antiperspirant & Deodorant

This formula, comprised of soothing aloe and vitamin E, coats your pits in ultimate nourishment and protects against odor and perspiration without leaving your skin irritated or burnt.

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Los Cabos Remains At Level 2 Travel Advisory Headed Into The Fall

By: Author Mario Perez

Posted on Published: August 19, 2022

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Last Updated 2 years ago

The US State Department released an extensive document in which it details why American tourists are urged to reconsider traveling to certain parts of Mexico. As we’ve mentioned recently, there are no travel restrictions imposed on Baja California Sur, the state where Los Cabos is located. Still, US authorities recommend that tourists “exercise increased caution” when traveling to Los Cabos. 

Los Cabos is located in what is essentially the second tier travel warning level. This tier includes the largest number of Mexican states. In the travel advisory document published by the US State Department Mexican states are divided into 4 tiers. The “Do Not Travel” tier, the name describes exactly what the US government thinks of that particular Mexican state. From there, the third most dangerous level is labeled as the “Reconsider travel to” tier. The second level, from safest to most dangerous, where Baja California Sur was placed is the aforementioned, exercise increased caution when traveling to, level. Finally, only two states are included in the safest level where tourists are advised to take normal precautions. 

Why Los Cabos Isn’t In The Safest Travel Advisory Tier     

According to US authorities Baja California Sur finds itself as a level 2 travel advisory state because, “criminal activity and violence may occur throughout the state.” The document, though, clearly points out that there are currently no travel restrictions imposed on US residents that may want to travel to the popular destinations of Los Cabos, and La Paz. Most of the main tourist destinations in Mexico find their state in this second warning level. 

Mexico City is also labeled as a more or less safe city where tourists need to be on the lookout for potential crime related incidents. In the case of Quintana Roo, where Cancun, Tulum, and the entire Riviera Maya region is located, the state is also in this same level. However, this state features an added kidnapping warning. 

The most compelling case may be that of Puerto Vallarta. The resort town is literally on the border of Nayarit, and Jalisco. Jalisco is in the third level where US authorities urge tourists to reconsider their travel plans. Nayarit, on the other hand, shares Baja California Sur’s travel advisory level. It may be safer to stay in the Nuevo Vallarta side of the resort town which is located in Nayarit as opposed to Puerto Vallarta which is on the Jalisco side.

US Authorities Warn Against Traveling To Cabo By Car From San Diego       

US authorities do recommend that people that want to come down to Cabo from the US do so by plane or cruise ship. Traveling by car from Tijuana or the Mexicali region is strongly discouraged. That’s not only because Baja California Norte, the top half of the Baja peninsula, is featured in a riskier travel advisory level. The US state department sent out a special warning for travelers going down the 1 highway that goes from Tijuana all the way down to Los Cabos. US authorities made the following official statement recommending that travelers refrain from taking these roads at night, 

“Travelers may also use Highways 1 and 8 to transit to and from the Mexicali Airport during daylight hours. Travel on Highway 5 is permissible during daylight hours.” 

Authorities mostly warn travelers to stay out of the Mexicali Valley region, as well as other areas of the country that are located to the east of the Tijuana border. It’s important to clear up that the 1 federal highway is the same road that connects San Jose del Cabo, and Cabo San Lucas. Travel on this particular part of the highway is not necessarily discouraged. Although, it’s a good idea to be on the lookout for local traffic incidents, as accidents have become a common occurrence.

Cruise or vacation to Caribbean or Mexico ahead? These travel advisories may change your mind

Heading to a level 4 destination write a will and leave a dna sample.

There's nothing like a vacation to get away from work or just the normal day-to-day grind.

There is plenty to do in Florida — after all, tourists flock here for once-in-a-lifetime getaways. And for Florida residents, there are hidden gems , plenty of road trip opportunities, and places for a romantic weekend when we get tired of the main attractions.

But sometimes even Florida residents just have to leave the state. What's nice is that some prime vacation spots are just a hop, skip and jump away. Or should we say boat ride, flight and cruise stop away?

Yes, we're talking about a vacation to the Bahamas, one or more of the Caribbean islands, or even the eastern coast of Mexico.

But nothing spoils a vacation like being a victim of a crime or feeling unsafe. Here's the current list of travel advisories issued for several popular vacation spots close to Florida that have been issued by the U.S. Department of State.

But first, here's what the levels of travel advisories mean.

What are the travel advisory alert levels and what do they mean for your vacation?

The U.S. Department of State has four levels of alerts when it comes to travel. The alerts tell U.S. citizens about specific safety concerns in a country, which include demonstrations, crime, and weather. Here is how the State Department defines each level:

• This is the lowest advisory level for safety and security risk. There is some risk in any international travel. Conditions in other countries may differ from those in the United States and may change at any time.      
• Be aware of heightened risks to safety and security. The Department of State provides more advice for travelers to these areas in the travel advisory. Conditions in any country may change at any time.
• Reconsider travel due to serious risks to safety and security. The Department of State provides additional advice for travelers in these areas in the travel advisory. Conditions in any country may change at any time.
• This is the highest advisory level due to greater likelihood of life-threatening risks. The U.S. government may have very limited ability to provide assistance, including during an emergency. The Department of State advises that U.S. citizens not travel to the country or to leave as soon as it is safe to do so. The State Department advises travelers heading to those countries despite the alert level write a will prior to traveling and leave DNA samples in case of worst-case scenarios.

Interactive map: See latest travel advisories at a glance

➤ View the interactive map.

The Bahamas under Level 2 travel advisory, use increased caution

• Alert level: Level 2, exercise increased caution.
• Date issued: Jan. 26, 2024.
• Reason: Exercise increased caution in The Bahamas due to crime.   Violent crime, such as burglaries, armed robberies, and sexual assaults, occur in both tourist and non-tourist areas.
• More details can be found here.

Cuba under Level 2 travel advisory, use increased caution

• Date issued: Jan. 5, 2024.
• Reason: Exercise increased caution in Cuba due to crime.  Petty crime is a threat for tourists in Cuba. Also, violent crime, including armed robbery and homicide, sometimes occurs in Cuba.

Turks and Caicos Islands under Level 2 travel advisory, use increased caution

• Date issued: July 17, 2023.
• Reason: Exercise increased caution in the Turks and Caicos Islands due to crime. Local medical care and criminal investigative capabilities are limited.

Cayman Islands under Level 1 travel advisory, use normal precautions

• Alert level: Level 1, exercise normal precautions.
• Reason: Exercise normal precautions in the Cayman Islands.

Jamaica under Level 3 travel advisory, reconsider travel

• Alert level: Level 3, reconsider travel
• Date issued: Jan. 23, 2024 (even before Hurricane Beryl brushed by the island)
• Reason: Reconsider travel to Jamaica due to crime and medical services.  Violent crimes, such as home invasions, armed robberies, sexual assaults, and homicides, are common. Sexual assaults occur frequently, including at all-inclusive resorts.

Haiti under Level 4 travel advisory, do not travel

• Alert level: Level 4, do not travel
• Date issued: July 27, 2023
• Reason: Do not travel to Haiti due to kidnapping, crime, civil unrest, and poor health care infrastructure.  Kidnapping is widespread, and victims regularly include U.S. citizens. Even convoys have been attacked. Kidnapping cases often involve ransom negotiations and U.S. citizen victims have been physically harmed during kidnappings. Violent crime, including armed robbery, carjackings, and kidnappings for ransom that include U.S. citizens are common. Protests, demonstrations, tire burning, and roadblocks are frequent, unpredictable, and can turn violent. The U.S. government is extremely limited in its ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Haiti.

Dominican Republic under Level 2 travel advisory, use increased caution

• Date issued: June 18, 2024
• Reason: Exercise increased caution in the Dominican Republic due to crime. Violent crime, including armed robbery, homicide, and sexual assault, is a concern throughout the Dominican Republic. The development of a professional tourist police corps, institution of a 911 system in many parts of the country, and a concentration of resources in resort areas means these tend to be better policed than urban areas like Santo Domingo. 

Grenada under Level 1 travel advisory, use normal precautions

• Alert level: Level 1, exercise normal precautions (well before Hurricane Beryl made landfall as a Category 4 hurricane)
• Date issued: July 17, 2023
• Reason: Exercise normal precautions in Grenada.

Trinidad and Tobago under Level 3 travel advisory, reconsider travel

• Date issued: July 2, 2024
• Reason: Reconsider travel to Trinidad and Tobago due to crime. Exercise increased caution in Trinidad and Tobago due to terrorism and kidnapping. Violent crime, such as murder, robbery, assault, sexual assault, home invasion, and kidnapping is common. Gang activity, such as narcotics trafficking, is common. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, and other public areas.

Popular Mexico locations travel advisories range from Level 1 to Level 4

• Alert level: Level 2, exercise increased caution
• Date issued: Aug. 22, 2023
• Reason : Exercise increased caution due to crime. Criminal activity and violence may occur in any location, at any time, including in popular tourist destinations.
• Reason : Exercise increased caution due to crime. Violent crime and gang activity occur with increasing frequency in Veracruz, particularly in the center and south near Cordoba and Coatzacoalcos. While most gang-related violence is targeted, violence perpetrated by criminal organizations can affect bystanders. Impromptu roadblocks requiring payment to pass are common.
• Reason : Do not travel due to crime. Crime and violence are widespread. Armed groups frequently maintain roadblocks and may use violence towards travelers. U.S. government employees may not travel to even to tourist areas in Acapulco, Zihuatanejo, and Ixtapa.

Alaska Airlines expands winter travel options with 18 exciting new sun and ski routes

• July 10, 2024
• Destinations
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This expansion offers our guests warm-weather escapes and a range of dream winter getaways, including our first-ever service to Vail, Colorado

Alaska Airlines is reinforcing its commitment to enhancing the travel experience this winter with 18 new nonstop routes to sun-soaked international destinations and winter wonderland retreats that will offer our guests a blend of adventure and relaxation. Tickets are available starting the evening of July 10, 2024 on alaskaair.com .

Click to download route map

We’re thrilled to offer convenient connection for guests across our network with this expansion—whether checking destinations off their bucket lists or setting off to their favorite winter getaways, we’ve put together an exciting range of options from tropical destinations across Mexico to the most popular ski slopes in North America,” said Kirsten Amrine, vice president of network planning and revenue management at Alaska Airlines.

📍Vail | 📍Kelowna | 📍Reno

We’re delighted to offer guests more access to some of the world’s best ski destinations this winter, including our first-ever service to majestic Vail, Colorado from San Diego and Seattle.

Snow sports enthusiasts can also look forward to new nonstop service from Los Angeles to Kelowna for central British Columbia’s popular ski resorts; and nonstop service from San Diego to Reno for easy access to Lake Tahoe ski resorts.

📍Bozeman | 📍Santa Ana | 📍Orlando

For our guests who love adventure and exploration, we’re adding new winter-seasonal service between Boise and Bozeman, a gateway to Yellowstone National Park; and adding year-round service between Boise and Santa Ana, which is located near California’s most-loved theme park.

We’ll also start flying to Orlando from Boise and Sacramento for those who want to escape the winter blues and bask in Florida’s warmer weather while amusement park hopping.

📍Liberia, Costa Rica

We know our guests love sun-soaked destinations too, especially during the colder months. This winter, we’re thrilled to reaffirm our position as the largest U.S. carrier between the West Coast and Latin America with new nonstop service to Liberia, Costa Rica from San Francisco and Seattle—making this our 104th nonstop route out of Seattle. We began flying to Liberia in 2015 and are excited to connect even more West Coast guests with Costa Rica’s Gold Coast.

📍Guadalajara | 📍Los Cabos | 📍Puerto Vallarta

To cater to increased leisure demand to warm weather destinations during winter, we’re also adding new service to our most popular vacation spots in Mexico: we’ll become the first U.S. carrier to connect Fresno and Guadalajara with daily flights on our mainline aircraft; we’ll expand our presence in Los Cabos with five weekly nonstop flights from Sacramento; we will offer the only nonstop service between New York state and Puerto Vallarta; and more!

📍La Paz, Mexico | 📍Monterrey, Mexico

Just last week, we announced we’ll become the only U.S. airline to offer La Paz, Mexico service and the only U.S. airline to fly between Monterrey, Mexico and Los Angeles.

New Winter Routes in Order of Start Date:

Click table to enlarge

New Winter Routes in Order of Start Date: 

*Frequency varies—see AlaskaAir.com for the latest schedule information

Whether traveling for pleasure or business, our guests can take advantage of a premium travel experience on any Alaska flight with no change fees, the most legroom in First Class* and Premium Class, the most generous Mileage Plan with the fastest path to elite status, high-quality West Coast-inspired food and a premium selection of beverages. Our guests can also buy tickets and earn Mileage Plan miles with our domestic and Global Partners directly at alaskaair.com .

*Out of any U.S. legacy airline excluding lie-flat seats

Alaska Airlines is making it easier for you to plan your next trip while saving money and earning Mileage Plan™ miles.

Bundle flights, hotels, car rentals and experiences at Alaska Vacations , find deals on car rentals through Alaska Car Rentals and book your next adventure while earning 4 miles for every $1 spent on GetYourGuide .

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