Traveling to Mexico

Mexico does not require visitors to take a COVID test before boarding flights to Mexico or when crossing the border by land or sea.  While there may health screening in place at airports, ports of entry, and even at local restaurants and stores, there are no Mexico COVID restrictions. At the beginning of the pandemic, the Mexican government created a stoplight system to determine risk and dictate Mexico COVID restrictions. Currently, the country has a green light, which means nationals and foreigners are free to move about the country.  For up to date information, click here.

This is easily one of the questions I get asked most often. And after the recent cartel violence and the tragic deaths of a few women that received significant media attention, I'm getting more questions than ever. The reality is that Puerto Vallarta is considered one of the safest tourist destinations in Mexico. According to Numbeo, one of the world's largest crime and safety databases, Puerto Vallarta currently has a Crime Index of approximately 34 and a Safety Index of approximately 66, placing it favorably against many well-known tourist destinations in North America. You can view the current statistics here:

That doesn't mean nothing ever happens. In February 2026, following the death of a major cartel leader, there were coordinated retaliatory attacks across parts of Jalisco, including road blockages, vehicle fires, and disruptions that affected Puerto Vallarta. It was real. It was concerning. And for those of us who were there, it was definitely a scary couple of days. However, much of the national and international media coverage made it seem as though Puerto Vallarta had descended into chaos, and that simply wasn't the experience many residents, visitors, and property owners witnessed on the ground. While there were legitimate disruptions and temporary shelter-in-place recommendations, the city proved incredibly resilient. Flights resumed, businesses reopened, beaches remained beautiful, and within less than 48 hours life was largely back to normal for most visitors.

More recently, there has been significant media attention surrounding the tragic murders of three women whose bodies were discovered in Puerto Vallarta during May 2026. The deaths are heartbreaking and understandably raised concerns among both residents and visitors. Initial reports sparked rumors that a serial killer might be operating in the area. However, the Jalisco State Attorney General's Office later stated that investigators had found no objective or scientific evidence linking the cases together at this time. The investigations remain ongoing.

It's important to acknowledge both realities. These women lost their lives, and that should never be minimized. At the same time, violent crimes unfortunately occur every day in cities across Mexico, the United States, and Canada. Most never become international headlines because they don't happen in a major vacation destination. When something tragic happens in a place millions of tourists visit each year, it understandably receives much more attention and scrutiny than a similar crime in a city most people have never heard of.

One thing I always tell people is that Puerto Vallarta isn't magically crime-free—no city is. The best thing you can do is use the same common sense you would use anywhere else. Keep track of your belongings, don't leave drinks unattended, stick with friends if you're out late, and be aware of your surroundings. I was actually drugged once while out with friends years ago, so that's a precaution I take seriously no matter where I travel. The reality is that these types of incidents can happen in Puerto Vallarta, Seattle, Vancouver, Las Vegas, Miami, or just about any city that attracts large numbers of visitors. Being aware without being fearful is usually the best approach.

One thing visitors often notice is the visible police and security presence throughout the city, particularly in tourist areas, along the Malecón, in Zona Romántica, Marina Vallarta, and the hotel zones. Tourism is the lifeblood of Puerto Vallarta, and local authorities work hard to maintain a safe and welcoming environment for both residents and visitors.

After more than 20 years of visiting Puerto Vallarta—and now owning a home there—I still feel comfortable walking the Malecón, riding the bus, exploring local neighborhoods, dining out at night, and recommending the area to friends and family. No destination is perfect, but Puerto Vallarta has repeatedly shown that it is a strong, resilient community that bounces back quickly when challenges arise. I wouldn't hesitate to bring my family there, and I continue to feel safer in Puerto Vallarta than I do in many cities throughout North America.

Puerto Vallarta is defined by the natural charm of its beaches embraced by the Sierra Madre mountains; the essence of its culture, gastronomy and traditions; and the warmth and hospitality of being welcomed like a friend. This magical destination has an authentic Mexican taste and spirit.  If you want more reasons to visit Puerto Vallarta click here!