Mexico is a popular tourist spot, where millions of travellers from around the world go to experience the country’s rich culture and natural beauty. However, tourists are discouraged from exploring certain places in Mexico where the crime rates are high. Some places pose significant safety concerns, and the U.S. State Department issued a Level 4 Travel Advisory, warning travellers to avoid these locations.
These regions are plagued by homicide, kidnapping, carjacking, and armed robbery. The majority of travellers who visit Mexico do not experience these crimes, but there is a heightened risk in the Level 4 areas. Here, we outline the areas tourists should avoid based on the advisory.
1. Colima
The U.S. State Department flagged Colima as Level 4 due to the high levels of violent crimes and kidnapping in the state. The state is plagued by cartel activity that is continuously increasing, and there are frequent criminal roadblocks and armed confrontations. Colima is a dangerous area for even locals, so tourists are strongly advised to avoid this state.
2. Guerrero
Guerrero is well-known for its popular destination, Acapulco. However, Guerrero is one of the most dangerous states in Mexico, and the State Department flagged it as Level 4. This is due to the high crime rate in homicides, extortion, and armed robberies. The country is also plagued with organised crime groups, which contributes to the frequent violence. Acapulco has attracted many tourists from around the world for years, but it is now overshadowed by safety concerns.
3. Michoacán
While Michoacán has stunning landscapes, it is also a dangerous area for tourists. This area has violent crimes that range from cartel activities to kidnapping and carjacking. There is also frequent gang violence between rival groups. There are also reports of the highways and rural areas being hazardous. The U.S. State Department issued a Level 4 travel advisory for this state, warning travellers to stay away.
4. Sinaloa
One of the most powerful drug cartels lives in Sinaloa. There is major cartel activity in cities such as Culiacán and Mazatlán. This state is plagued by criminal activities that include drug trafficking, kidnappings, and gang violence. Travellers are therefore urged by the U.S. State Department to avoid this area by all means.
5. Tamaulipas
Close to the U.S. border is the state of Tamaulipas. This state has recorded high levels of criminal activities that include kidnapping. There are also high levels of gang-related activities, and these gangs have targeted both locals and tourists. In cities such as Reynosa and Matamoros, there are frequent altercations between rival gangs and the police.
6. Zacatecas
In Zacatecas, there are frequent incidents of armed confrontations and organised crime operations. The state has an alarming increase in criminal activities. Two of the major crimes that have surged in the area are kidnappings and homicides. While the state’s colonial architecture and cultural heritage might attract visitors, the risks outweigh the rewards.
How to Stay Safe in Mexico
If you have added Mexico to your bucket list and intend to explore the country, there are several things that you can do to ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable trip. Firstly, travellers need to do thorough research into the places that are dangerous and safe. It is best to stick to states that are marked as Level 1 or Level 2, such as Yucatán or Quintana Roo, where you can find Cancun and Playa del Carmen.
Secondly, it is best to avoid hailing taxis on the street and utilise app-based services like Uber or authorised taxi stands. Travellers should also avoid travelling at night, especially in lonely areas, and also refrain from travelling on the highways at night. Travellers should also stick to well-known tourist areas.
