U.S. Updates Travel Advisory for Popular Summer Destination- Should You Still Go There?
The United States has updated its travel advisory for citizens traveling to Mexico. Reissued on May 29, the advisory includes new guidance for Americans heading to the country for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Regions in the country are designated on a risk scale from Level 1, "exercise normal precautions," to Level 4, "do not travel." While the country overall remains at a Level 2 status, with the U.S. Department of State urging travelers to "exercise increased caution due to terrorism, crime, and kidnapping," six Mexican states are labeled as Level 4 risks.
According to the State Department, safety threats are widely varied throughout the U.S.'s southern neighbor. The advisory warns against all travel to Level 4 states Colima, Guerrero, Michoacán, Sinaloa, Tamaulipas, and Zacatecas. The six states all pose a risk of crime and terrorism, while Guerrero, Colima, and Tamaulipas are additionally flagged for threats of kidnapping. "U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents have been victims of kidnapping," the advisory reads.
Related: U.S. Re-Issues Travel Advisory for Popular Tourist Destination
Jalisco, home to popular tourist destinations Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara, is among the Level 3 states. The advisory urges citizens to reconsider travel to the state due to "terrorism, crime, and kidnapping threats." It notes that some violence related to terrorist groups, cartels, gangs, and criminal organizations has affected travel hotspots. "In Guadalajara, battles between criminal groups have happened in tourist areas," the advisory reads.
The majority of states and cities remain at Level 2, including major tourist destinations such as Baja California Sur, Quintana Roo, and Nayarit. At this level, the State Department tells citizens to "exercise increased caution" but does not recommend skipping travel entirely.
Only two states are labeled as Level 1, "exercise normal precaution," areas: Yucatan and Campeche.
What World Cup Travelers Should Know
The latest advisory includes the U.S. Embassy and Consulates in Mexico's guide for visitors attending the FIFA World Cup in June and July. Over 5.5 million visitors are expected to descend on the country's three host cities for the tournament, which takes place every four years. According to the guide, all transportation, lodging, and tickets should be booked well in advance of arrival in Mexico. "Expect big crowds, heavy traffic, and longer travel times," it reads.
Those driving to World Cup matches are advised to "do your research to avoid dangerous pitfalls that Americans have faced on Mexican roads" and to carefully study the specific warnings for every state on their route.
The embassy instructs soccer fans to remain vigilant upon arrival, writing, "Stay alert and aware of your surroundings. Beware of pickpockets and other scam artists!"
"Do not hail taxis on the street. Use trusted ride-sharing apps or book taxis through your hotel or at an authorized taxi stand," the guide adds.
Kicking off on June 11, the highly anticipated World Cup will take place in 16 cities across Mexico, the U.S., and Canada.
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This story was originally published June 2, 2026 at 10:25 AM.