Mexico Violence: FCDO Urges Caution for Tourists Amid Cartel Clashes and Riots in Jalisco

Published on February 26, 2026

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The UK Foreign Office has issued an urgent travel warning for holidaymakers planning to visit Mexico, advising against all but essential travel to certain states, particularly Jalisco. This comes after a violent eruption following the death of a notorious cartel leader, El Mencho, in a military operation on February 22, 2026. The country is now facing widespread unrest, with rioting and violence escalating in several regions, particularly in the western state of Jalisco, home to popular tourist destinations such as Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta.

Impact on Tourism and Business Travel to Mexico

The Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office (FCDO) has raised serious concerns about the ongoing security incidents across Mexico. While certain tourist hotspots outside Jalisco, like Cancun and Mexico City, remain unaffected, travelers are urged to stay alert and follow local security advice, particularly in regions like Quintana Roo and Oaxaca, where isolated incidents of violence have also been reported.

For business travelers, this situation could impact meetings, events, and conferences in the affected areas. It is recommended that those with business obligations in Mexico stay in constant communication with their companies and event organizers for any updates regarding the situation. Travelers are advised to adjust their plans accordingly, ensuring their safety and minimizing disruptions.

States Affected by the FCDO’s Travel Warning

The FCDO has provided specific guidance on the states where travel should be avoided, or at the very least, minimized to essential purposes only. These states include:

• Jalisco: The entire state has been flagged for travel risks, with the cities of Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta heavily impacted by recent violence. The death of El Mencho, the cartel boss, has sparked a wave of riots and looting, making it essential for visitors to follow local shelter-in-place instructions.
• Baja California: Although Tijuana’s airport remains operational, the state’s roads connecting Tijuana to Tecate are no longer safe for general travel. Federal toll roads are also deemed unsafe.
• Chihuahua: Outside the city of Chihuahua and the Copper Canyon rail route, the state has been marked as dangerous due to gang activity.
• Sinaloa: Los Mochis and Mazatlán are still considered safe, but other areas, including major roads and towns within the state, should be avoided due to cartel activity.
• Tamaulipas: Only the border crossing at Nuevo Laredo is exempted; the rest of the state, including several key highways, remains a hotbed of violent activity.

What Should Tourists and Business Travelers Do?

If you’re currently in Mexico or planning to travel there, here are some essential guidelines to follow:

1. Monitor Local News: Stay updated on the latest developments from the Mexican government, local authorities, and the UK Foreign Office. Follow trusted sources such as social media accounts and news outlets for real-time updates.
2. Minimize Movement in Affected Areas: If you’re in a state under travel warning, minimize your movements. Only venture out if absolutely necessary, and ensure you have a clear exit plan in case of escalation.
3. Register with Your Embassy: Make sure you’re registered with the UK Embassy in Mexico so they can contact you in case of an emergency.
4. Be Cautious in Crowded Areas: Avoid large gatherings, protests, and demonstrations. These can escalate quickly and pose significant risks, especially in areas with heightened cartel activity.
5. Follow Local Authorities’ Instructions: Whether in Jalisco or other impacted states, adhere strictly to any “shelter-in-place” orders and listen to local police and government instructions. In case of a medical or security emergency, call the local emergency services or your embassy.
6. Consider Alternative Destinations: If you’re planning a vacation or business trip to Mexico, reconsider traveling to the most affected regions. Instead, opt for destinations less impacted by the unrest, such as Mexico City, Playa del Carmen, or Merida.

Travel Tips for Visitors Heading to Mexico

For those whose travel plans are unaffected by the violence or those who choose to travel outside the affected areas, here are some key tips to ensure a safe journey:

• Secure Your Documents: Always have a copy of your passport and travel documents stored separately from the originals. Consider digital backups of these documents as well.
• Travel Insurance: Ensure that your travel insurance covers incidents related to security threats, including evacuation if necessary. Check that your policy offers comprehensive coverage for unforeseen situations such as civil unrest.
• Transportation Safety: Use registered taxis or trusted rideshare services rather than hailing cabs off the street. If you’re traveling by road, avoid isolated routes, particularly after dark.
• Know the Emergency Numbers: In Mexico, the national emergency number is 911. Keep it handy for any security or medical emergencies.
• Avoid Remote Areas: Especially in regions marked by the FCDO’s warning, avoid remote areas that may be prone to violence or unregulated activities.

Conclusion: Stay Safe and Stay Informed

While Mexico continues to be a popular destination for tourists and business travelers alike, the recent spike in violence calls for heightened caution. The UK Foreign Office’s advice to avoid non-essential travel to specific regions of the country is based on serious security risks, with cartel-related violence posing a threat to both locals and visitors.

Tourists should heed the advice to stay updated, avoid affected regions, and take steps to ensure their safety while in the country. By following official travel advisories, staying informed, and exercising caution, travelers can navigate these challenging circumstances and enjoy a safer visit to Mexico.