Mexico Travel Engulfed In Unrest As US- Canada Issues Travel Warnings Amid Rising Protests And Political Tensions: New Findings You Need To Know

Published on November 24, 2025

Mexico travel is currently engulfed in unrest, prompting both the US and Canada to issue urgent travel warnings amid violent protests and escalating political tensions, these protests, primarily led by Gen Z, have erupted in response to the country’s deep-rooted issues of corruption, crime, and government inaction, with widespread demonstrations calling for significant reform. While Mexico remains a top tourist destination, these growing tensions, especially in major cities like Mexico City, have raised concerns about the safety of travelers, forcing many to reconsider their plans. As a result, travelers must weigh the appeal of Mexico’s rich culture and scenic beauty against the risks posed by the ongoing unrest.

Mexico, a popular vacation haven for millions of U.S. and Canadian travelers, is facing a wave of social unrest that has prompted both countries’ embassies to issue travel warnings. The latest round of protests, led by Mexico’s Gen Z, is a reaction to the country’s ongoing struggles with violent crime, corruption, and a government under President Claudia Sheinbaum. While Mexico remains a top destination for snowbirds and tourists, rising tensions in major cities like Mexico City have sparked serious concerns about the safety of international visitors.

The recent unrest is a result of a mounting frustration with government corruption, the unyielding presence of cartels, and the failure of law enforcement to protect citizens. For foreign travelers planning to visit Mexico this holiday season, these protests are an important development to consider. With US and Canadian governments warning of potential dangers, tourists must weigh the risks of visiting Mexico against the appeal of its sun-kissed beaches and rich culture.

Protests and Political Unrest Shake Mexico

The protests that have taken over the streets of Mexico’s major cities in recent weeks are a direct response to government policies and the country’s overwhelming security issues. The nation is reeling from the brutal assassination of Carlos Manzo, the mayor of Uruapan, on November 1. Manzo, known for his outspoken stance against the cartels and his refusal to back down on issues of law enforcement, was gunned down by individuals linked to the powerful Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG).

This assassination sparked a massive outcry and a series of protests, with the “Generación Z Mexico” (Gen Z Mexico) movement taking the lead. These young protesters, who have grown up amid violence and corruption, are demanding sweeping reforms, including greater accountability in government, police reform, and a crackdown on cartel violence. The protests have turned violent, with clashes between demonstrators and law enforcement. At least 120 people have been injured, including over 100 police officers.

The violence escalated on November 20, when a large protest march in Mexico City turned into a chaotic scene, with demonstrators clashing with police. The march, which started at the iconic Angel of Independence Monument and stretched all the way to the Zocalo in Mexico City’s Historic Downtown, brought traffic to a standstill and left dozens injured. As tensions rise, there’s no sign of these protests slowing down any time soon, making it a challenging time for anyone planning to visit Mexico.

US and Canada Respond with Travel Warnings

In response to the ongoing unrest, both the US and Canadian governments have issued travel warnings for Mexico. On November 19, the US Embassy in Mexico cautioned American citizens to “exercise increased caution” and warned of the potential for violent protests to disrupt daily life in the capital and other areas. While there is no outright ban on travel, the embassy urged travelers to stay updated on the situation and monitor local news.

Canada has issued a similar advisory, reminding Canadians of the potential risks associated with the protests and possible roadblocks. Canadian authorities have urged their citizens to “reconsider travel” to certain Mexican states, particularly those where violence and unrest are more widespread. Although the overall advisory remains at a Level 2 (“Exercise a high degree of caution”), some regions in Mexico have a Level 4 warning, where travel is strongly discouraged due to issues like terrorism, kidnapping, and organized crime.

The Anti-“Gringo” Sentiment: A Disturbing Twist

One of the most unsettling aspects of the protests earlier this year was the appearance of xenophobic graffiti in Mexico City, with messages like “get out of Mexico” and “kill a gringo” splattered on walls across the city. The graffiti targeted foreign nationals, particularly Americans and Canadians, amid rising frustrations over gentrification, mass tourism, and perceived economic inequality caused by foreign investment.

These messages were a chilling reminder of the simmering anti-immigrant sentiment that has surfaced in parts of the country. While President Sheinbaum condemned the graffiti as “xenophobic,” the sentiment underlying the protests is more complex. Many Mexicans feel that the influx of foreign tourists and investors, particularly from the US and Canada, is driving up costs and contributing to the displacement of local residents.

Despite these troubling signs, Mexico continues to be a top destination for international travelers, especially snowbirds from the US and Canada looking to escape colder climates. In fact, the number of international visitors to Mexico saw a sharp increase in July 2025, up by 12.3% compared to the same period the previous year, with over 8.4 million visitors, the majority of whom were from the US.

However, the rising protests and political unrest have forced many potential visitors to reconsider their plans. The combination of anti-immigrant sentiment, the ongoing protests, and the rising risks associated with travel to certain areas has prompted some travelers to seek alternative destinations.

How Safe Is It to Visit Mexico Now?

Despite the ongoing unrest and the protests, the US and Canadian governments have not issued blanket travel bans for Mexico. Both governments still list Mexico under a Level 2 advisory, meaning travelers should “exercise increased caution.” However, the warnings for certain regions are much more severe. Some states in Mexico, particularly those affected by cartel violence, kidnapping, and terrorism, have a Level 4 “Avoid All Travel” warning.

For travelers considering a visit to Mexico, it’s important to keep in mind the dynamic nature of the situation. While the protests have been concentrated in certain areas, primarily in Mexico City and other urban centers, regions popular with tourists, such as Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Puerto Vallarta, have largely remained unaffected by the protests. These areas are still considered relatively safe, although visitors should remain vigilant and stay updated on the latest developments.

Before booking any travel to Mexico, it’s recommended to:

• Monitor government advisories: Check the latest updates from both the US and Canadian embassies, as travel warnings can change rapidly.
• Stay informed: Follow local news in Mexico to get real-time updates on the locations and intensities of protests.
• Be cautious in urban areas: Protests have been more intense in Mexico City and other major cities. If you are visiting these areas, plan your travel routes carefully and avoid protest hotspots.
• Stay in tourist-friendly regions: Stick to established tourist zones, where the likelihood of being caught up in the protests is lower. Popular beach destinations and resort towns are still seeing high levels of tourism.

The Ongoing Draw of Mexico

Despite the political turmoil and the warnings from the US and Canada, Mexico remains a beloved destination for millions of Americans and Canadians. The country’s beaches, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant cities continue to draw travelers year after year. For snowbirds escaping the cold winters of North America, places like Puerto Vallarta, Cabo San Lucas, and the Yucatan Peninsula offer an appealing mix of relaxation, luxury, and cultural experiences.

Mexico’s diverse offerings make it a unique destination, from exploring ancient Mayan ruins to enjoying world-class cuisine and pristine beaches. However, the ongoing political climate means that travelers must be more cautious and prepared than ever before.

Will Snowbirds Still Flock to Mexico?

As the protests continue, it remains to be seen whether Mexico will maintain its status as the go-to destination for US and Canadian snowbirds. While some may reconsider their travel plans due to safety concerns, others may continue their visits, drawn by the country’s allure and lower cost of living.

For those planning to visit Mexico this winter, the key will be staying updated on the latest travel advisories and adjusting plans as needed. Keeping in touch with airlines and hotels is also a good idea in case protests cause travel disruptions or cancellations.

Ultimately, while the rising tensions in Mexico are cause for concern, they do not completely overshadow the country’s appeal as a top tourist destination. With careful planning and awareness, US and Canadian travelers can still enjoy Mexico’s many wonders, though they must do so with caution and vigilance in mind.

The political unrest in Mexico serves as a stark reminder that even the most beloved vacation spots can be affected by internal strife. With ongoing protests, rising tensions, and an uncertain future, the safety of US and Canadian travelers in Mexico is in question. However, Mexico remains a popular destination, and for many, it continues to offer incredible experiences.

Mexico travel is currently in crisis, with the US and Canada issuing urgent warnings due to violent protests and rising political tensions. These demonstrations, sparked by frustrations over corruption and crime, have raised safety concerns for tourists in key cities.

As Mexico grapples with its political and social challenges, both foreign governments and travelers must stay informed to ensure their safety. With the right precautions, many travelers will still be able to enjoy Mexico’s beautiful landscapes and rich culture—but they must do so with a heightened awareness of the risks involved.