Canada has updated its Mexico travel advisory in April 2024. Here's what travellers departing from the YVR airport in Vancouver need to know.Photo: Jonathan Ross/iStock/Getty Images Plus
Canada has issued a travel advisory regarding visits to Mexico, urging caution due to safety concerns. Despite being a popular destination for Canadians, Mexico is not considered low-risk for travelers. The Canadian government advises exercising a high degree of caution while visiting Mexico due to elevated levels of criminal activity, including kidnapping.
In November 2023, the United Nations reported over 100,000 missing persons in Mexico, describing the situation as alarming. The Mexican government released findings from its Disappeared Persons Search Strategy in December 2023, revealing the extent of the issue. However, approximately 80,000 individuals were ambiguously categorized due to insufficient data, according to Amnesty International.
Violent crimes, such as armed burglaries, physical assaults, and sexual assaults, are prevalent in many areas, with airports, currency exchange bureaus, and ATMs being common targets for robberies. Petty theft, including purse snatching, is also frequent, particularly in tourist areas and during crowded events.
Canadians traveling to Mexico do not require a visa but must ensure their passport remains valid for the duration of their stay. It's advisable to have a buffer period of six months beyond the planned return date to mitigate any issues arising from illness or injury.
In 2022, Canada and neighboring countries issued updated advisories for certain parts of Mexico due to high levels of violent crime, including homicide, kidnapping, carjacking, and robbery. Popular tourist destinations like the Mayan Riviera and Acapulco are among areas with significant crime rates. Criminal organizations and drug cartels operate in tourist areas, posing risks to bystanders.
Disputes between taxi and rideshare drivers can escalate in tourist destinations, potentially leading to harassment or injury. Visitors to Mexico City should use government-authorized taxis identifiable by license plates starting with "A" or "B" or official pink and white taxis. Buses are relatively safe in the capital, but VIP or executive class transportation is recommended for intercity travel.
The travel advisory advises against all travel to the Guerrero State due to increased criminal and gang activity following Hurricane Otis. However, the cities of Ixtapa/Zihuatanejo and Taxco are excluded from this advisory. Non-essential travel is also discouraged to certain areas in Mexico due to high levels of violence and organized crime.
Penalties for committing crimes in Mexico can be severe, and even minor infractions like smoking in public places can result in detention. Pre-trial detention may last up to 72 hours, and fines do not guarantee early release. Smoking is prohibited in public areas, and violators may face fines.
In case of emergencies, travelers should dial 911 or contact roadside assistance through the Angeles Verdes highway patrol service. Canadians requiring consular assistance can reach Global Affairs Canada's Emergency Watch and Response Centre. It's essential to visit a travel medical clinic before departure to ensure necessary vaccinations and obtain comprehensive travel insurance.
Registering trips online before departure allows the government to contact travelers in emergencies. Overall, Canadians planning trips to Mexico should stay informed about the latest government advisories and take necessary precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.
