The US State Department updated its Mexico travel advisory on June 18, moving Colima, Guerrero, Michoacán, Sinaloa and Tamaulipas to Level 3. The advisory highlights homicide rates above 25 per 100,000 residents and documented kidnapping incidents involving US citizens in 2025. Mexico City and Quintana Roo remain at Level 2.
Consular officials reported 47 incidents involving US citizens in the five states during the first five months of 2026. The advisory recommends enrolling in the STEP program and purchasing travel insurance that covers medical evacuation.
Commercial flights to these states continue without restriction. The department advises against travel on secondary roads after dark and recommends using only pre-booked hotel transfers.
What this means for you
Reconsider road trips through rural areas of Michoacán and Sinaloa and instead fly directly into major airports. Purchase comprehensive travel insurance before departure that includes kidnapping and ransom coverage. Register your trip with the STEP program at travel.state.gov for real-time alerts.
Monitor the department's website for any further changes before booking accommodations in coastal areas of Guerrero.