Mexico Register Travel insurance Destinations

Last updated: November 19, 2015 08:42 ET Still valid: December 1, 2015 13:58 ET Latest updates: An editorial change was made.

Advisories

Advisories

MEXICO - Exercise a high degree of caution

There is no nationwide advisory in effect for Mexico. However, you should exercise a high degree of caution due to violence, especially in those parts of the country experiencing a deteriorating security situation. High levels of criminal activity, as well as demonstrations, protests and occasional illegal roadblocks, remain a concern throughout the country.

We strongly recommend travel to Mexico by air in order to avoid land border crossings through potentially dangerous regions. You are advised to sign up with the Registration of Canadians Abroad service if travelling to or residing in Mexico.

The Yucatan Peninsula, which includes the tourist destinations of Cancun, Cozumel, Riviera Maya, Merida and Progreso, has not been significantly affected by violence or insecurity.

Some municipalities popular with Canadian tourists in the state of Jalisco are experiencing an increase in drug-related violence, as Mexican security forces battle organized criminal groups who have engaged in retaliatory actions such as arson attacks against businesses, gas stations and banks, and blockades using burning cars. Bystanders could be affected by this violence and should be aware of their surroundings at all times. Remain vigilant throughout the state and exercise extreme caution. Stay in tourist areas and follow local media closely. If you do venture outside urban areas, exercise extreme caution, including on major highways. Avoid travelling at night. Canadians are advised against non-essential travel to areas of Jalisco that border the states of Michoac n and Zacatecas as the security situation along these borders continues to be unstable (see Regional Advisory below).

Due to high levels of organized crime in rural areas, including on major highways, you should exercise extreme caution in the states of Baja California (North), Morelos, Nayarit, San Luis Potosi, Veracruz, and Zacatecas. Popular tourist areas, such as South Nayarit (from Nuevo Vallarta to La Pe ita de Jaltemba), and the cities of Tepoztlan, Guadalajara, San Luis Potosi, Xalapa, Veracruz, and Zacatecas remain relatively safe.

Regional Advisory for the northern states

Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada advises against non-essential travel to the northern states of Chihuahua, Coahuila, Durango, Nuevo Le n (except the city of Monterrey), Sinaloa (with the exception of Mazatl n), Sonora (except the cities of Hermosillo and Guaymas/San Carlos), and Tamaulipas due to continuously high levels of violence linked to organized crime. Consult the Security tab for more information.