Is it safe to travel to Mexico right now? What Arizonans need to know

Published in Travel and Leisure on Wednesday, August 13th 2025 at 16:05 GMT by AZ Central
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The U.S. Department of State issued a new travel advisory covering travel to Mexico. Here's the safest part of Mexico for tourists.

Mexico Travel Warning 2025: What Travelers Need to Know Before Planning a Trip

As the new year approaches, many Americans are eyeing Mexico as a prime vacation destination, drawn by its stunning beaches, rich cultural heritage, vibrant cuisine, and proximity to the United States. However, the U.S. Department of State has issued updated travel advisories for 2025, highlighting ongoing concerns about crime, violence, and safety in various regions of the country. These warnings emphasize the need for travelers to exercise caution, stay informed, and make informed decisions to minimize risks. While Mexico remains a popular spot for millions of visitors annually, understanding the advisory levels and regional specifics is crucial for a safe and enjoyable trip.

The State Department's travel advisory system categorizes destinations into four levels based on assessed risks. For Mexico in 2025, the advisories reflect a complex landscape where tourist hotspots often coexist with areas plagued by organized crime, drug-related violence, and other security issues. At the highest level, Level 4: Do Not Travel, several states are flagged due to extreme dangers from crime and kidnapping. These include Colima, Guerrero, Michoacán, Sinaloa, Tamaulipas, and Zacatecas. In these regions, criminal organizations engage in turf wars, leading to high rates of homicide, extortion, and kidnappings that can affect bystanders, including tourists. The advisory strongly urges against all travel to these areas, noting that U.S. government employees are prohibited from visiting most parts of them, and emergency assistance may be limited or unavailable.

Moving to Level 3: Reconsider Travel, states like Chihuahua, Durango, Morelos, Nayarit (except certain tourist zones), Sonora (with exceptions for popular routes), and parts of Jalisco fall into this category. Here, the risks are significant but not as uniformly severe as in Level 4 areas. Travelers are advised to weigh the necessity of their trip against potential dangers, such as violent crimes targeting public spaces or highways. For instance, in Chihuahua, cartel activities have led to sporadic shootouts, while in Durango, remote areas pose risks of robbery and assault. The advisory recommends avoiding non-essential travel and staying vigilant if proceeding.

A broader swath of Mexico is under Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution, which applies to popular destinations like Baja California Sur (including Los Cabos), Quintana Roo (home to Cancun, Tulum, and Playa del Carmen), Mexico City, and states such as Guanajuato, Nuevo León, and Puebla. In these areas, crime rates are elevated compared to the U.S., with issues like petty theft, armed robbery, and sexual assault being common concerns. Tourist zones in Quintana Roo, for example, have seen incidents of violence spilling over from drug trafficking, including occasional shootings at resorts or beaches. The advisory notes that while these events are rare for visitors, they underscore the importance of staying within well-patrolled areas, avoiding nighttime outings alone, and using authorized transportation. Baja California Sur, a favorite for whale watching and luxury getaways, has lower crime in resort enclaves but higher risks in less touristy spots like La Paz's outskirts.

Finally, a few regions receive the lowest advisory, Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions, such as Campeche and Yucatán states. These areas, including Mérida and the Mayan ruins of Chichén Itzá, are considered relatively safe with standard risks similar to those in many U.S. cities. Travelers here can generally proceed with routine safety measures, like safeguarding valuables and being aware of surroundings.

Beyond the state-by-state breakdowns, the 2025 advisory provides practical tips for all visitors to Mexico. It stresses the importance of enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts and facilitate emergency contact. Travelers should avoid displaying signs of wealth, such as expensive jewelry or large amounts of cash, and stick to main roads during daylight hours. The use of rideshare apps like Uber is recommended over street taxis to reduce the risk of express kidnappings, where victims are forced to withdraw money from ATMs. Additionally, the advisory warns against purchasing counterfeit goods or engaging in any activities that could inadvertently involve one with criminal elements.

Health and environmental factors also play a role in the 2025 warnings. With ongoing concerns about water quality, travelers are advised to drink bottled water and avoid raw foods that could lead to illnesses like traveler's diarrhea. Mosquito-borne diseases such as Zika, dengue, and chikungunya remain risks in tropical areas, prompting recommendations for insect repellent and vaccinations. In light of recent natural events, including hurricanes in the Yucatán Peninsula and Pacific coast, the advisory encourages checking weather forecasts and having contingency plans.

For those planning trips to high-risk areas for business, family visits, or adventure travel, the State Department suggests consulting local contacts, hiring security services if necessary, and maintaining a low profile. It also highlights that U.S. citizens have been victims of crime in Mexico, with limited recourse due to jurisdictional challenges. In 2024, incidents like the kidnapping of American tourists in border regions underscored these dangers, leading to the reinforced advisories for 2025.

Despite these warnings, Mexico's tourism industry continues to thrive, with officials emphasizing that the vast majority of visitors experience no issues. Popular all-inclusive resorts in Cancun and Riviera Maya, for example, invest heavily in security, including private guards and surveillance, making them safer bubbles within higher-risk states. Cultural festivals, eco-tourism in places like Chiapas (under Level 2), and culinary tours in Oaxaca (also Level 2) attract adventurers who follow precautions diligently.

Ultimately, the 2025 Mexico travel warning serves as a reminder that while the country offers unparalleled experiences—from the ancient pyramids of Teotihuacan to the turquoise waters of Cozumel—safety should never be an afterthought. Travelers are encouraged to research their specific itinerary, monitor updates via the State Department's website, and consider travel insurance that covers trip cancellations due to security concerns. By staying informed and proactive, visitors can navigate Mexico's diverse landscapes responsibly, ensuring their journey is memorable for the right reasons. Whether lounging on Isla Mujeres or exploring colonial towns in San Miguel de Allende, a balanced approach to risk can make all the difference in enjoying one of North America's most dynamic destinations. (Word count: 928)

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