Official travel warning: Canada flags violence and roadblocks in parts of Mexico including Puerto Vallarta, urges “shelter in place”

By Tahani Elghazaly
Published February 23, 2026

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The Government of Canada updated its Mexico travel advisory on February 22, 2026, adding new safety information about violent incidents across several states. The advisory cites roadblocks involving burning vehicles, shootouts with security forces, and explosions, including on roads and highways linking affected areas to Mexico City.

Canada’s advisory highlights incidents especially in Jalisco (including Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta), as well as Guerrero, Michoacán, Sinaloa, Quintana Roo, Baja California, and Nayarit. It warns conditions could deteriorate quickly. It also says shelter in place orders are in effect in Jalisco and Nayarit, and similar instructions such as curfews may be issued on short notice elsewhere.

The advisory notes significant travel disruption, including flight delays and cancellations. Canadians in Mexico are urged to avoid affected areas, keep a low profile, limit movement, follow local authorities (including shelter in place orders), monitor local and international media, and check with airlines before heading to airports.

Quick context

Reuters reported a surge of retaliatory violence, road blockages, and vehicle fires in multiple areas, with calls for people to shelter in place, including in the Puerto Vallarta region.

Emergency help

In Mexico: dial 911 for emergency assistance.
24/7 Canadian consular help (Emergency Watch and Response Centre): +1 613 996 8885 (call collect where available), plus SMS and WhatsApp options.