The United States Department of State recently issued a Level 2 advisory for travel to Mexico. The advisory level is “exercise increased caution,” and spotlights crime and terrorism in the country. Travelers can take extra precautions in advance of visiting the country—keep reading to learn how.
Travelers to Mexico are being advised to take increased safety precautions.
The United States Department of State recently issued a travel advisory for Mexico on Aug. 12 at Level 2, which means “Exercise Increased Caution.” The alert warns travelers of “many violent crimes” occurring in Mexico, as well as terrorism and kidnapping.
While the countrywide Level 2 advisory may be alarming, it is below the Level 3 of “Reconsider Travel” and Level 4 of “Do Not Travel.” That said, travelers should be advised that several states within Mexico are at the Level 4 of “do not travel” including Colima, Guerrero, Michoacán, Sinaloa, Tamaulipas, and Zacatecas, according to a U.S. State Department map.
The advisory specifically calls out “homicide, kidnapping, carjacking, and robbery” within the country, in addition to the terror threats.
Travelers who visit areas of Mexico under the travel advisory should know that there may not be much assistance in the event something goes wrong. “The U.S. government has limited ability to help in many parts of Mexico,” the advisory shares.
For travelers planning to visit Mexico, the United States Embassy in Mexico provides helpful advice. Travelers are discouraged from bringing any e-cigarettes, weapons, swords, or fireworks into the country, unless a permit is issued by the government. Instead of hailing a random cab or ground transport, consider using rideshare apps or arrange ground transportation through a registered company. The government also recommends avoiding driving between cities or in rural areas after dark.
The U.S. government also urges travelers to cooperate if approached by officials. “When approaching any checkpoint, cooperate,” the advisory reads. “Avoid any behavior that appears aggressive. Fleeing can raise suspicion and lead to violence.”
Travelers can also sign up for the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). The free service provides travel information and emergency alerts for a traveler’s designated time period in a foreign country.
