Acapulco, Mexico, a city once synonymous with glamour and luxury, has faced challenges regarding safety and security in recent years. If you’re planning a trip and wondering, “Is it safe to travel to Acapulco, Mexico, right now?”, it’s crucial to have the latest information to make an informed decision. This guide provides an overview of the current safety situation, travel advisories, and tips for staying safe if you decide to visit.
Understanding the Current Travel Advisory for Guerrero State
The U.S. Department of State provides travel advisories for every country in the world, including Mexico. As of the latest update, Guerrero state, where Acapulco is located, carries a “Do Not Travel” advisory due to crime.
U.S. government employees are prohibited from traveling to any area in the state of Guerrero, including tourist areas in Acapulco, Zihuatanejo, Taxco, and Ixtapa.
This strong warning reflects the high levels of crime and violence prevalent in the region. Armed groups operate independently of the government in many areas, and roadblocks and violence towards travelers have been reported. Kidnapping is also a significant concern.
Why Is Acapulco Considered Unsafe?
Several factors contribute to the safety concerns in Acapulco:
- Organized Crime: Drug cartels and other criminal organizations have a strong presence in Guerrero, leading to turf wars and violent incidents.
- High Crime Rates: Homicide rates in Acapulco have been among the highest in Mexico.
- Limited Government Control: In some areas, the government’s control is limited, allowing criminal groups to operate with relative impunity.
- Kidnapping Risks: U.S. citizens and legal permanent residents have been victims of kidnapping in previous years.
Alternative Destinations in Mexico
If safety is a primary concern, consider alternative destinations in Mexico that have lower travel advisory levels. Some options include:
- Yucatán: Home to Chichen Itza, Mérida, Uxmal, and Valladolid, Yucatán state is generally considered safe for tourists.
Chichen Itza, a popular tourist destination in Yucatan, Mexico.
- Campeche: This state exercises normal precautions.
- Mexico City: While exercising increased caution is advised, Mexico City is generally safer than many other parts of the country.
- Puerto Vallarta: Located in Jalisco state, Puerto Vallarta is a popular tourist destination where increased caution is advised, but no travel restrictions are in place for U.S. government employees.
Safety Tips if You Decide to Travel to Acapulco
Despite the risks, some travelers may still choose to visit Acapulco. If you decide to go, it’s essential to take extra precautions:
- Stay Informed: Monitor the U.S. Department of State’s travel advisories and local news for updates on the security situation.
- Avoid Traveling at Night: Limit travel to daylight hours, especially on highways.
- Use Toll Roads: When possible, use toll roads as they are generally safer and better maintained than free roads.
- Be Discreet: Avoid displaying signs of wealth, such as expensive jewelry or watches.
- Exercise Caution at Nightlife Venues: Be extra vigilant when visiting local bars, nightclubs, and casinos.
- Use Reputable Transportation: Rely on dispatched vehicles, including app-based services like Uber or regulated taxi stands, instead of hailing taxis on the street.
- Enroll in STEP: Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts and make it easier for the U.S. Embassy to locate you in an emergency.
- Share Your Location: If separating from your travel group, send a friend your GPS location. If taking a taxi alone, take a photo of the taxi number and/or license plate and text it to a friend.
- Prepare a Contingency Plan: Have a contingency plan for emergency situations, including evacuation routes and contact information for local authorities and the U.S. Embassy.
- Be Vigilant at ATMs and Banks: Be extra vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs, as these can be targets for criminal activity.
- Avoid Remote Areas: U.S. government employees should avoid traveling alone, especially in remote areas.
Staying Updated on Travel Safety
It is important to note that the safety situation in Mexico can change rapidly. Before making any travel plans, consult the following resources:
- U.S. Department of State Travel Advisories: Check the latest travel advisory for Mexico and specific states at travel.state.gov.
- U.S. Embassy in Mexico: Follow the U.S. Embassy on Facebook and X/Twitter for updates and alerts.
- Country Security Report for Mexico: Review the Country Security Report for Mexico for detailed information on crime and security conditions.
- CDC Travel Health Information: Visit the CDC page for the latest travel health information related to your trip.
Conclusion
So, is it safe to travel to Acapulco, Mexico, right now? The U.S. Department of State’s “Do Not Travel” advisory for Guerrero state suggests that it is not. While some travelers may still choose to visit, it’s crucial to be aware of the risks and take appropriate safety precautions. Staying informed, being vigilant, and exercising caution can help minimize the potential dangers and ensure a safer trip. If you’re concerned about safety, consider exploring alternative destinations in Mexico that offer a more secure environment for tourists.
