Guatemala Joins Colombia, Italy, Brazil, Mexico, Turks And Caicos Islands, Jamaica And More As Canada Issues New Travel Advisory Amid Rising Tensions, Widespread Demonstrations, And Growing Safety And Security Concerns Across Several Destinations

Published on February 19, 2026

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Canada has released a new travel advisory, advising Canadians visiting Guatemala, Colombia, Italy, Brazil, Mexico, the Turks and Caicos Islands, Jamaica, and other places to exercise extra caution. In certain areas, particularly Guatemala, where civil unrest is still raging, there are growing tensions and mass protests at the time of this advisory. Additionally, a number of important areas—especially urban centers and border regions—are being impacted by the growing safety and security concerns associated with violent crime, gang activity, and political instability. Canadian authorities have issued a warning to travelers about the growing dangers in these countries as a result of these developments. They advise them to stay alert, stay away from high-risk areas, and heed local guidance to stay safe.

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Canada‘s latest travel advisory update paints a concerning picture for several key tourist destinations. The advisory warns Canadian travelers to exercise heightened caution due to rising security risks, ongoing demonstrations, and concerns related to criminal activity in major regions. Here’s a closer look at the travel advisories for each country involved, and the specific risks Canadians should be aware of.

Guatemala: Ongoing Demonstrations and Heightened Security Risks

Guatemala remains a destination where Canadians are advised to exercise a high degree of caution. This is due to the increased demonstrations and roadblocks that have been disrupting the country, with widespread civil unrest affecting both urban and rural regions. The advisory particularly highlights Guatemala City, including Zones 1, 3, and 18, as well as other municipalities such as San Pedro Ayampuc and Villa Canales, where violent crime is more prevalent.

A nationwide state of prevention is in effect until March 2026, granting authorities special powers to regulate and limit public gatherings, dissolve demonstrations, and control movement within the country. While this measure is intended to ensure public order, it also means that Canadian travelers must remain alert and avoid areas where large gatherings are taking place.

Other concerns in Guatemala include violent crime such as carjackings, armed robberies, and kidnappings, including the occasional express kidnapping where individuals are abducted and forced to withdraw funds from ATMs. Border areas near Mexico, El Salvador, and Belize are especially prone to criminal activity, and travel through these regions should be done only during daylight hours and at official border crossings.

Colombia: Increased Safety Risks in Border Regions

In Colombia, the Government of Canada also issues a high degree of caution warning. Violent crime remains a significant risk throughout the country, particularly in rural and border regions. Criminal groups, including armed factions involved in drug trafficking, continue to operate in various areas. Regions along the borders with Venezuela, Panama, and Ecuador are highlighted as high-risk zones, especially due to the risk of kidnapping and armed violence.

While urban centers like Bogotá and Medellín see significant government presence, travelers are encouraged to avoid the Amazonas department and other areas known for gang-related activity. Additionally, terrorist groups and militant factions in areas like Cauca and Chocó also pose a risk of attack.

Travelers planning to visit Colombia should remain alert to potential dangers, especially in popular areas like Cartagena or Medellín, where crimes such as muggings, assaults, and robberies are common, often targeting unsuspecting tourists. Monitoring local media for updates and avoiding night-time travel are crucial.

Italy: Safety Risks in a High-Traffic Tourist Season

Italy, one of Europe’s most visited destinations, is also included in Canada’s travel advisory list, urging travelers to exercise a high degree of caution. The main concern in Italy revolves around terrorism threats, particularly in larger cities like Rome and Milan, where attacks have occurred in the past.

The 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Olympics is also on the horizon, which brings with it increased security measures throughout northern Italy. The event could lead to large crowds, major traffic disruptions, and potential security risks. Demonstrations and protests are common during such high-profile events, and travelers should avoid areas where these are happening to reduce the risk of getting caught in potentially volatile situations.

Beyond terrorism threats, petty crime such as pickpocketing and bag snatching is rampant in crowded tourist areas, including Rome’s Colosseum, Vatican City, and popular shopping districts. It’s essential for travelers to secure their personal belongings and stay alert in busy areas.

Brazil: High Crime in Urban Centers and Border Areas

Brazil continues to be a popular tourist destination, but the high level of crime in both major urban centers and rural areas has led the Canadian government to issue a high degree of caution advisory. Violent crime, including armed robberies, carjackings, and mugging incidents, continues to plague cities like Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, and Salvador.

Special caution is needed in Brazil’s favelas, such as Complexo da Maré and Complexo do Alemão, where gang violence and armed confrontations are common. Even travelers who are not directly involved in such incidents have been injured or killed in the crossfire of gang-related clashes. Canadian travelers are advised to stay away from these areas and seek local advice to avoid inadvertently entering high-risk zones.

At the borders with Argentina, Bolivia, Colombia, and Venezuela, criminal activity is rampant. Drug trafficking and arms smuggling contribute to violence and armed robberies in these border regions. Canadian travelers are strongly advised to avoid these areas, especially after dark.

Mexico: Widespread Kidnapping and Criminal Violence

Mexico also carries a high degree of caution advisory from the Canadian government. Crime and violence, particularly linked to drug cartels, remain serious concerns. Major tourist destinations like Cancun, Mexico City, and Puerto Vallarta have experienced incidents involving kidnappings, armed robberies, and express kidnappings.

In particular, Sinaloa and other northern states are noted for their violent confrontations between criminal organizations. Travelers are urged to be cautious in these areas, especially when traveling on highways, as armed groups sometimes stop vehicles for extortion or robbery. It’s important to travel during daylight hours, and preferably, by air when crossing into affected regions.

Mexico’s border regions with the United States and Guatemala are also dangerous due to the presence of armed groups and the risk of drug violence. Travelers should avoid non-essential travel to these areas and follow local security advice at all times.

Turks and Caicos Islands: Rising Crime Amidst Tourist Attractions

The Turks and Caicos Islands, though a popular Caribbean getaway, are currently under Canada’s advisory for high crime levels. Travelers are encouraged to exercise a high degree of caution, especially in Providenciales, the most populous island.

Petty crime such as pickpocketing, bag snatching, and theft from vehicles is common, particularly in areas frequented by tourists. The advisory also warns of armed robberies and sexual assaults, which have occasionally been reported in isolated areas or in connection with illegal taxis, known locally as “jitneys.” Travelers are advised to avoid unmarked taxis and always use reputable transportation services.

Jamaica: Violent Crime and Safety Risks in High-Risk Areas

Jamaica is also listed under Canada’s high degree of caution advisory, with the focus being on violent crime. Although tourist resorts are generally safer, gang violence and armed robberies remain prevalent in areas like Kingston, Montego Bay, and St. Catherine. Visitors are advised to stay in secure accommodations and to avoid traveling to isolated areas after dark.

Petty crime such as pickpocketing, bag snatching, and theft occurs frequently in major tourist spots. Terrorism-related threats are not a significant concern in Jamaica, but crime related to drug trafficking and gang activity continues to impact overall safety in certain neighborhoods. Canadians should follow the advice of local authorities, stay in groups, and avoid displaying wealth in public.

Canada’s new travel advisory update brings heightened warnings for travelers heading to Guatemala, Colombia, Italy, Brazil, Mexico, Turks and Caicos Islands, and Jamaica. Each of these destinations presents unique safety risks, ranging from violent crime and demonstrations to gang activity and regional instability.

Guatemala, Colombia, Italy, Brazil, Mexico, Turks and Caicos Islands, and Jamaica have been added to Canada’s list of places that require extra caution in a recent travel advisory. The warning comes as major tourist destinations in these countries are being severely impacted by escalating tensions, mass protests, and growing safety concerns, such as violent crime, gang activity, and political instability.

Travelers should take extra precautions, such as staying informed through local news outlets, avoiding high-risk areas, and traveling with caution, especially at night. Keeping personal belongings secure, using reputable transport options, and following the advice of local authorities can help minimize risk while traveling to these popular yet cautionary destinations. Always ensure you’re aware of the evolving security situation, and plan your travel accordingly.