Is It Safe to Visit Mexico City Right Now?

With beautiful tree-lined streets, delicious food, and stunning architecture, it’s easy to see why travelers flock to Mexico City.

However, due to the recent cartel violence that’s impacted portions of Mexico, anyone heading to the destination may understandably be wary of an upcoming trip. 

According to the U.S. State Department, Mexico City is categorized as a Level 2 advisory, which encourages travelers to “exercise increased caution.” For everyday visitors, this means the government is not restricting or prohibiting travel and isn’t discouraging travelers from visiting. But even with a lower-tier travel advisory, as the warnings could go up to a Level 4, travelers should navigate the city carefully when enjoying the sights and culture.

“There is a risk of violence in the state from terrorist groups, cartels, gangs and criminal organizations,” the State Department states. “Both violent and non-violent crimes occur throughout Mexico City.”

Travelers can also take additional steps by staying vigilant for petty crime, and moving throughout the city with extra awareness.

Currently several states within Mexico, such as Colima, Guerrero, and Michoacan, are listed under the Level 4 advisory, which advises Americans to “not travel.”

The State Department also provides additional safety tips, and recommends travelers sign-up for the free Smart Traveller Enrollment Program (STEP), and register their trip and dates to Mexico. In return, the State Department will send automatic security updates and emergency information, if needed.

The agency also recommends visiting the CDC website for any immunizations needed in advance of travel, and also encourages travel insurance.

“We highly recommend that you buy travel insurance before you travel,” the State Department shares. “Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancellation coverage.”

Keeping current precautions in mind, it’s worth noting that Mexico City ranked as the 34th of 39 safest cities around the world this year by insurance travel firm Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection Outlook.

While the company is also providing real-time safety updates, it emphasized the fact that visiting Mexico City, locally known as CDMX, is safer than other parts of Mexico as “almost half the country” has higher travel advisory levels. 

Still, the company encourages travelers to stay alert and consult the U.S. embassy and consulate, which has a location directly in the city.

Its additional safety tips include using registered ride-share apps instead of random taxis, choosing accommodations in “reputable areas,” and always communicating your movements to a friend or family member.

Overall, tourism to Mexico City has been on the rise, with over 47.8 million people visiting the region in 2025, which was a six percent increase from the previous year according to recent government data.