Mexico
Safety And Security
Areas in Red at Dangerous states for travelers. Acapuloo is in the safer state of Guerrero (yellow area)
Violence
Drug-related violence in Mexico is concentrated in specific areas, and some regions are almost completely spared.
North and West
Many fatalities are suspected gang members killed in turf wars between the different organisations that compete for control of trafficking routes into the US. Drug-related violence is a particular problem in the northern states of Sonora, Chihuahua, Coahuila, Nuevo Leon, Tamaulipas, Sinaloa and Durango (areas in Red on the above map). Armed clashes between security forces and drug groups can occur at any time without warning. You should take extreme care outside tourist areas in all of these states.
You should take extra care in the state of Baja California, including Tijuana.
You should take care when travelling to Ciudad Juarez or other cities in Northern States. Travel during daylight, inform relatives or friends of your travel plans and use reputable hotels only.
East
There have been reports of increased security incidents in the states of Tabasco and Veracruz. You should take extra care.
West and South
Illegal roadblocks have been reported more frequently, particularly in the states of Guerrero and Chiapas. If you’re driving in these states, travel during daylight hours and use toll roads where possible, although you may still encounter disruptions.
Main tourist destinations
The Mexican government makes efforts to protect major tourist destinations like Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Cozumel, Los Cabos, Acapulco, Puerto Vallarta and Nuevo Vallarta and these areas haven’t seen the levels of drug-related violence and crime experienced elsewhere.
Crime
Crime and violence are serious problems everywhere, and so it is in Mexico and the security situation can pose a risk for foreigners. Many Mexican and foreign businesses choose to hire private security. You should travel during daylight hours. Monitor local media and inform trusted contacts of your travel plans.
Driving
When driving, avoid isolated roads and use toll roads (‘cuotas’) whenever possible. Keep car doors locked and windows closed, especially at traffic lights. There have been a number of violent car-jackings and robberies along the Pacific Highway and you should be careful when travelling on this route. Those travelling in large camper vans or sports utility vehicles (SUVs) have been targeted in the past. If you suspect you’re being followed or watched, drive to a police station or other safe place.
Your safest option is to fly directly to Acapulco, or connect via Mexico City. Use only authorized pre-paid airport taxi services, or preferrably your host(s) (hotel, villa, condo) can include ground transportation that will take you directly to where you are staying.
Misc
As in any major tourist location, don’t leave food and drinks unattended in bars and restaurants. Travelers have been robbed or assaulted after being drugged.
Dress down and avoid wearing expensive jewelry or watches. Limit the amount of cash or credit/debit cards you carry with you. Keep a close watch on briefcases and luggage, even in apparently secure places like the lobby of your hotel. Don't flash large amounts of cash or large bills. Treat everyone you deal with respect and if you can, tip them (10% is considered 'ok').
Take care when withdrawing money from ATMs or exchanging money at Exchange houses. It’s generally safer to use ATMs during daylight hours and inside shops or malls, where security personnel are visible.
Scams
Foreign visitors and residents may be targeted by scam artists. Be wary of strangers approaching you or contacting you by phone asking for personal information or financial help. If you or your relatives or friends are asked to transfer money to Mexico make absolutely sure that it is not part of a scam and that you have properly checked with the person receiving the money that they are requesting it.
Road travel
You can drive in Mexico using a UK, USA, Canadian licence or an International Driving Permit. Roads can be deep-pot-holed, and villages have unmarked speed bumps (topez) at both ends of town.
There is an additional driving restriction in Mexico City, where vehicles without registration plates from the State of Mexico (Estado de Mexico) or Mexico City are not allowed to enter Mexico City from Monday to Friday between 5:00am and 11:00am.
Hotel safety
In some hotels, balcony balustrades may not be as high as you expect and there could be a risk of falling.
Buying property
Foreign nationals have been caught up in property scams. Before making financial commitments and buying property in Mexico, you should seek independent qualified legal advice. In general, only Mexicans citizens can own property in Mexico. Foreigners may be able to buy property if they are partnered with one or more Mexican citizen.
Political situation
Mexico has an established multiparty democracy. Political demonstrations are common in Mexico City and can occur across the country.
The Mexican constitution prohibits political activities by foreigners. Participation in demonstrations may result in detention and deportation.