In January 2026, travelers had to answer the question, “Is it safe to visit the Caribbean?”
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The question was especially prevalent for places like Aruba, which is a Dutch territory that’s part of the ABC Islands, lies only 15 miles from the coast of Venezuela. While Aruba didn’t face any fallout from the US’s invasion of Venezuela and its capture of President Nicolas Maduro, the short distance was a red flag for many.
Some airlines, like Canada Airlines, even offered flyers the chance to reschedule their trips.
Now, in February 2026, travelers are asking, “Is it safe to visit Mexico?”
On Sunday, February 22, the Mexican Army undertook a major operation to kill the leader, ‘El Mencho’, of a well-known and powerful drug cartel, the Jalisco New Generation Cartel. The ensuing chaos centered around Puerto Vallarta, where vehicles were burnt, small bombs were set off, and shooting could be heard from tourist-heavy areas as members of the cartel fought back.
Not only are Mexico and Pacific Coast destinations like Puerto Vallarta mainstays for American travelers, but the country is also joining the US and Canada to host the FIFA World Cup later this year. The primary concern is whether Mexico’s national crackdown on drug cartels could spur more unrest and violence.
So, should you be worried about ongoing incidents in Mexico? And, if so, where should you avoid? Let’s dig in.
Is it safe to visit Mexico? Arguments from multiple angles
Some airlines, including Southwest and Alaska, have canceled flights due to ongoing concerns about operations at Puerto Vallarta International Airport. The same is true for the nearby Guadalajara Airport. However, Mexican authorities insist that the airport (and airspace at large) remains safe.
Some airlines are slowly restoring service as of Tuesday, February 24. Others restarted as early as yesterday, Monday, February 23.
Currently, ground transportation remains disrupted—meaning travelers might experience blocks and severe delays while heading to the airport.
Overall, security experts are warning Americans to exercise high caution. Importantly, cartels do not target tourism, tourists, or tourist areas. However, as with the general public, it’s possible that anyone could be caught in the wrong place at the wrong time.
Additionally, some security experts with knowledge of Mexico’s cartel frameworks have pointed out that it’s unclear what effect El Mencho’s death will have on organized crime groups. His takedown has created a power vacuum. Some cartel experts believe ongoing infighting may generate more violence that spills over into the public sphere.
In other words, while travelers aren’t the target of cartel violence, no one wants to risk their life for a resort getaway.
So, should you still go to Mexico?
Here’s my favorite piece of advice from a former CIA officer turned author named Jason Hanson, who spoke with USA Today on the situation unfolding in Puerto Vallarta. He said, “A good friend of mine – also former CIA – he says, ‘You know what spying is? Spying is common sense on steroids. And same thing when you’re traveling: have common sense on steroids.”
In short, it’s probably not a good idea to visit Jalisco or Guadalajara, two Mexican states that sustained the heaviest violence this past Sunday. The further you head from these hot spots, the better.
However, cartels are present throughout Mexico, meaning you might want to exercise extra caution before committing to your upcoming vacation. One of the best ways to do so is to stay updated on local news at your destination and rely on security firms publishing advice on visiting Mexico.
The US embassy still has this piece of advice in place:
- Seek shelter and minimize unnecessary movements
- Monitor local media for updates
- Follow directions from local authorities
- Avoid crowds and areas of law enforcement activity
- Keep family and friends back home advised of your location and well-being
