mexico travel bug

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CDC cautions travelers to Mexico about Rocky Mountain spotted fever

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is warning people who are traveling to the Baja California region of Mexico to watch out for ticks that could spread Rocky Mountain spotted fever.

The travel advisory, issued Friday , comes after a person from San Diego died from the disease. The person had traveled to Baja California before becoming sick, according to San Diego County public health officials . No other information is known about the patient. The last time someone died in San Diego from the tick-borne disease was in 2014, officials said.

In its notice posted online, the CDC said it has received reports of Rocky Mountain spotted fever in travelers to the U.S. from Baja California, though it was unclear how many people have been sickened. The travel notice did not recommend that Americans avoid traveling to Mexico or reconsider plans to travel to the area.

While several types of ticks can spread Rocky Mountain spotted fever in different parts of the country, the brown dog tick is responsible for the illness in the southwestern U.S. and in Mexico and is found there year-round. Dogs often carry the infected ticks.

Other types of ticks around the nation may also be active during the winter because of warming global temperatures. Ticks can also spread Lyme disease and alpha-gal syndrome , which causes an allergy to red meat.

Symptoms of Rocky Mountain spotted fever include:

• Severe headache
• Muscle pain
• Nausea or vomiting
• Swelling around the eyes or on the back of hands
• Small, flat, reddish spots may pop up on the arms and legs before spreading to the trunk. The rash is not known to be itchy.

It is not spread from person to person.

Quick treatment is critical. The CDC said that the disease can kill within five days after the tick bite unless it’s treated with antibiotics.

Health officials in San Diego recommend using insect repellent and checking for ticks, including pets, after outdoor activities.

"If a person develops a rash or fever after being bitten, they should see a doctor, tell them about the tick bite, when they were bitten, and where they think it happened," the officials wrote online.

Erika Edwards is a health and medical news writer and reporter for NBC News and "TODAY."

• Patient Care & Health Information
• Diseases & Conditions
• Traveler's diarrhea

Gastrointestinal tract

Your digestive tract stretches from your mouth to your anus. It includes the organs necessary to digest food, absorb nutrients and process waste.

Traveler's diarrhea is a digestive tract disorder that commonly causes loose stools and stomach cramps. It's caused by eating contaminated food or drinking contaminated water. Fortunately, traveler's diarrhea usually isn't serious in most people — it's just unpleasant.

When you visit a place where the climate or sanitary practices are different from yours at home, you have an increased risk of developing traveler's diarrhea.

To reduce your risk of traveler's diarrhea, be careful about what you eat and drink while traveling. If you do develop traveler's diarrhea, chances are it will go away without treatment. However, it's a good idea to have doctor-approved medicines with you when you travel to high-risk areas. This way, you'll be prepared in case diarrhea gets severe or won't go away.

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Traveler's diarrhea may begin suddenly during your trip or shortly after you return home. Most people improve within 1 to 2 days without treatment and recover completely within a week. However, you can have multiple episodes of traveler's diarrhea during one trip.

The most common symptoms of traveler's diarrhea are:

• Suddenly passing three or more looser watery stools a day.
• An urgent need to pass stool.
• Stomach cramps.

Sometimes, people experience moderate to severe dehydration, ongoing vomiting, a high fever, bloody stools, or severe pain in the belly or rectum. If you or your child experiences any of these symptoms or if the diarrhea lasts longer than a few days, it's time to see a health care professional.

When to see a doctor

Traveler's diarrhea usually goes away on its own within several days. Symptoms may last longer and be more severe if it's caused by certain bacteria or parasites. In such cases, you may need prescription medicines to help you get better.

If you're an adult, see your doctor if:

• Your diarrhea lasts beyond two days.
• You become dehydrated.
• You have severe stomach or rectal pain.
• You have bloody or black stools.
• You have a fever above 102 F (39 C).

While traveling internationally, a local embassy or consulate may be able to help you find a well-regarded medical professional who speaks your language.

Be especially cautious with children because traveler's diarrhea can cause severe dehydration in a short time. Call a doctor if your child is sick and has any of the following symptoms:

• Ongoing vomiting.
• A fever of 102 F (39 C) or more.
• Bloody stools or severe diarrhea.
• Dry mouth or crying without tears.
• Signs of being unusually sleepy, drowsy or unresponsive.
• Decreased volume of urine, including fewer wet diapers in infants.

It's possible that traveler's diarrhea may stem from the stress of traveling or a change in diet. But usually infectious agents — such as bacteria, viruses or parasites — are to blame. You typically develop traveler's diarrhea after ingesting food or water contaminated with organisms from feces.

So why aren't natives of high-risk countries affected in the same way? Often their bodies have become used to the bacteria and have developed immunity to them.

Risk factors

Each year millions of international travelers experience traveler's diarrhea. High-risk destinations for traveler's diarrhea include areas of:

• Central America.
• South America.
• South Asia and Southeast Asia.

Traveling to Eastern Europe, South Africa, Central and East Asia, the Middle East, and a few Caribbean islands also poses some risk. However, your risk of traveler's diarrhea is generally low in Northern and Western Europe, Japan, Canada, Singapore, Australia, New Zealand, and the United States.

Your chances of getting traveler's diarrhea are mostly determined by your destination. But certain groups of people have a greater risk of developing the condition. These include:

• Young adults. The condition is slightly more common in young adult tourists. Though the reasons why aren't clear, it's possible that young adults lack acquired immunity. They may also be more adventurous than older people in their travels and dietary choices, or they may be less careful about avoiding contaminated foods.
• People with weakened immune systems. A weakened immune system due to an underlying illness or immune-suppressing medicines such as corticosteroids increases risk of infections.
• People with diabetes, inflammatory bowel disease, or severe kidney, liver or heart disease. These conditions can leave you more prone to infection or increase your risk of a more-severe infection.
• People who take acid blockers or antacids. Acid in the stomach tends to destroy organisms, so a reduction in stomach acid may leave more opportunity for bacterial survival.
• People who travel during certain seasons. The risk of traveler's diarrhea varies by season in certain parts of the world. For example, risk is highest in South Asia during the hot months just before the monsoons.

Complications

Because you lose vital fluids, salts and minerals during a bout with traveler's diarrhea, you may become dehydrated, especially during the summer months. Dehydration is especially dangerous for children, older adults and people with weakened immune systems.

Dehydration caused by diarrhea can cause serious complications, including organ damage, shock or coma. Symptoms of dehydration include a very dry mouth, intense thirst, little or no urination, dizziness, or extreme weakness.

Watch what you eat

The general rule of thumb when traveling to another country is this: Boil it, cook it, peel it or forget it. But it's still possible to get sick even if you follow these rules.

Other tips that may help decrease your risk of getting sick include:

• Don't consume food from street vendors.
• Don't consume unpasteurized milk and dairy products, including ice cream.
• Don't eat raw or undercooked meat, fish and shellfish.
• Don't eat moist food at room temperature, such as sauces and buffet offerings.
• Eat foods that are well cooked and served hot.
• Stick to fruits and vegetables that you can peel yourself, such as bananas, oranges and avocados. Stay away from salads and from fruits you can't peel, such as grapes and berries.
• Be aware that alcohol in a drink won't keep you safe from contaminated water or ice.

Don't drink the water

When visiting high-risk areas, keep the following tips in mind:

• Don't drink unsterilized water — from tap, well or stream. If you need to consume local water, boil it for three minutes. Let the water cool naturally and store it in a clean covered container.
• Don't use locally made ice cubes or drink mixed fruit juices made with tap water.
• Beware of sliced fruit that may have been washed in contaminated water.
• Use bottled or boiled water to mix baby formula.
• Order hot beverages, such as coffee or tea, and make sure they're steaming hot.
• Feel free to drink canned or bottled drinks in their original containers — including water, carbonated beverages, beer or wine — as long as you break the seals on the containers yourself. Wipe off any can or bottle before drinking or pouring.
• Use bottled water to brush your teeth.
• Don't swim in water that may be contaminated.
• Keep your mouth closed while showering.

If it's not possible to buy bottled water or boil your water, bring some means to purify water. Consider a water-filter pump with a microstrainer filter that can filter out small microorganisms.

You also can chemically disinfect water with iodine or chlorine. Iodine tends to be more effective, but is best reserved for short trips, as too much iodine can be harmful to your system. You can purchase water-disinfecting tablets containing chlorine, iodine tablets or crystals, or other disinfecting agents at camping stores and pharmacies. Be sure to follow the directions on the package.

Follow additional tips

Here are other ways to reduce your risk of traveler's diarrhea:

• Make sure dishes and utensils are clean and dry before using them.
• Wash your hands often and always before eating. If washing isn't possible, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol to clean your hands before eating.
• Seek out food items that require little handling in preparation.
• Keep children from putting things — including their dirty hands — in their mouths. If possible, keep infants from crawling on dirty floors.
• Tie a colored ribbon around the bathroom faucet to remind you not to drink — or brush your teeth with — tap water.

Other preventive measures

Public health experts generally don't recommend taking antibiotics to prevent traveler's diarrhea, because doing so can contribute to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

Antibiotics provide no protection against viruses and parasites, but they can give travelers a false sense of security about the risks of consuming local foods and beverages. They also can cause unpleasant side effects, such as skin rashes, skin reactions to the sun and vaginal yeast infections.

As a preventive measure, some doctors suggest taking bismuth subsalicylate, which has been shown to decrease the likelihood of diarrhea. However, don't take this medicine for longer than three weeks, and don't take it at all if you're pregnant or allergic to aspirin. Talk to your doctor before taking bismuth subsalicylate if you're taking certain medicines, such as anticoagulants.

Common harmless side effects of bismuth subsalicylate include a black-colored tongue and dark stools. In some cases, it can cause constipation, nausea and, rarely, ringing in your ears, called tinnitus.

• Feldman M, et al., eds. Infectious enteritis and proctocolitis. In: Sleisenger and Fordtran's Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease: Pathophysiology, Diagnosis, Management. 11th ed. Elsevier; 2021. https://www.clinicalkey.com. Accessed May 25, 2021.
• LaRocque R, et al. Travelers' diarrhea: Microbiology, epidemiology, and prevention. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed May 26, 2021.
• Ferri FF. Traveler diarrhea. In: Ferri's Clinical Advisor 2023. Elsevier; 2023. https://www.clinicalkey.com. Accessed April 28, 2023.
• Diarrhea. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/diarrhea. Accessed April 27, 2023.
• Travelers' diarrhea. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/yellowbook/2020/preparing-international-travelers/travelers-diarrhea. Accessed April 28, 2023.
• LaRocque R, et al. Travelers' diarrhea: Clinical manifestations, diagnosis, and treatment. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed May 26, 2021.
• Khanna S (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic. May 29, 2021.
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CDC warns travelers to Mexico's Baja California of exposure to deadly Rocky Mountain spotted fever

By Simrin Singh

December 8, 2023 / 10:09 PM EST / CBS News

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is warning travelers to Baja California, Mexico, about Rocky Mountain spotted fever, a potentially fatal bacterial disease that spreads through the bite of an infected brown dog tick, which can be carried by pets. 

The warning comes after a San Diego, California, resident who traveled to Baja California died last month after contracting the disease, San Diego County Public Health Services reported . 

In addition to Baja California, RMSF has been found in the Mexican states of Sonora, Chihuahua, Coahuila and Nuevo León.

In the level 1 travel advisory issued Friday, the CDC urged travelers who develop symptoms of RMSF during travel, or within two weeks of returning to the U.S., to seek medical attention.

Symptoms of RMSF include fever, headache, and rash, which can develop two to four days after the onset of symptoms, according to the CDC. 

The disease can progress quickly in infected patients and can become deadly if not treated early with the antibiotic doxycycline. Children under 10 years of age are five times more likely to die from RMSF, the CDC said.

San Diego County public health officials said the last time someone from San Diego died from RMSF was in 2014.

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• CDC Guidelines
• Travel Warning

Simrin Singh is a social media producer and trending content writer for CBS News.

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CDC Warns of Deadly Tick-Borne Illness in People Traveling to Mexico

By Dennis Thompson HealthDay Reporter

MONDAY, Dec. 11, 2023 (HealthDay News) -- An outbreak of deadly tick-borne disease is occurring among people who’ve recently been to Baja California in Mexico, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warns.

Three out of five patients have died from infection with Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF), the CDC said in a health advisory issued Friday. All were treated in southern California hospitals.

Worst States for Tick-Borne Diseases

All five patients had traveled to the Baja city of Tecate within two weeks of their illness, the CDC added. The cases have occurred since late July.

Spread by brown dog ticks, RMSF can be fatal within days unless an infected person is treated early with the antibiotic doxycycline, the CDC noted.

Half of all people who die from RMSF succumb within eight days of illness onset.

The CDC is urging doctors to start suspected RMSF patients on doxycycline as quickly as possible, particularly if a person develops early symptoms and has recently traveled to northern Mexico.

“If RMSF is suspected, initiate treatment with doxycycline immediately. Do not delay treatment pending laboratory confirmation. Early treatment saves lives,” the CDC stressed.

Symptoms can be relatively mild and nonspecific during the first four days of illness, and can include fever, headache, GI problems, abdominal pain, muscle pain, rash and swelling around the eyes and the back of the hands, the CDC says.

If left untreated, infection can quickly progress to brain damage, organ failure, breathing problems and coma. Infection can affect  the lungs, heart, kidneys and nervous system.

Four of the five patients were younger than 18, the CDC noted. Children are five times more likely than adults to die from the infection.

Three were U.S. residents, and two were Mexican citizens.

RMSF regularly occurs across northern Mexico and parts of the southwestern United States, the CDC said. Border Mexican states where RMSF is endemic include Baja California, Sonora, Chihuahua, Coahuila and Nuevo Leon.

People who travel to those regions should protect themselves against tick bites by wearing protective clothing, treating their dog for ticks and using insect repellant.

They also should regularly perform thorough tick checks on themselves and their children after any outdoor activities or when around dogs with ticks.

More information

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has more about Rocky Mountain spotted fever .

SOURCE: U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, news release, Dec. 8, 2023

Copyright © 2023 HealthDay . All rights reserved.

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The Bugs & Insects in Mexico and Cancun That You Could Meet On Vacation

W ith all of its glitz and glamor, traveling to a destination like Cancun or other Mexican resort destinations shouldn’t include worrying about bugs that might spoil your holiday. However expecting no bugs is a mistake, and you’ll definitely need insect repellent here.

Unfortunately, Cancun, Cab o, and Mexico as a whole has its fair share of bugs and insects, much like most places on the globe. There are a variety of insects that are drawn to the area because of the warm climate. Most of these insects aren’t dangerous, but they may still cause pain with their bites and stings.

Continue reading to prepare for the flying creatures, an potentially dangerous bugs, that you could come across while in Mexico. Here, we’ll go through some of the most common insects in Mexico, what circumstances can encourage their presence, and what you should do if you are stung or bitten. It’s all information that can help as you plan your dream Mexico vacation.

What Kinds of Insects and Bugs Can You Expect to Find in Cancun and other Mexican Res ort Areas?

1. mosquitoes.

Traveling to Mexico, you may be able to forget about everything else in life apart from these insects, unfortunately.

These pesky bugs are one of the most common insects in Mexico, and may leave you with a rash of itchy, red bites.

The Bite of a Mosquito :

A mosquito bite appears as a red, swollen lump on the skin. To relieve the itchiness you can take a spoon, heat it up, and then lay it over the bite for a few seconds or longer. You can also make a baking soda paste, then apply it directly on the bite.

Swelling may be reduced with antihistamines, ice, or a cold compress too. Calamine lotion or hydrocortisone cream might also help with itching.

A Tabano is a horsefly from the family Tabanidae that goes by the name of Tabano. Despite their enormous size, these giant flies have excellent flight abilities.

Horseflies, like mosquitoes, are blood-suckers and will feed off either humans or animals. The bite can be quite painful, itchy, and swell a lot.

Bites From Horseflies :

If you’ve been bitten by a tabano, it’s critical that you don’t scratch or itch. Scratching might lead to an infection and make it worse. Instead, use an ice pack or cold compress on the area where the bite occurred. If the bite is itchy, you can wash it with warm water and soap.

3. Chakistes

One of the most common bugs in Mexico are the native gnats which are referred to as chakistes. It’s possible to find far more aggressive chakistes in certain places in Mexico, where they bite and attack as much as mosquitoes do. They exist in Cancun and other resort areas, but tend n ot t o be a big pr ob lem.

However unfortunately, mosquito nets and screens are not effective when it comes to these insects as they can fly right through them due t o their tiny size.

Chakiste Bites :

Within the city limits of Cancun, a chakiste or gnat bite should have no effect on your vacation plans at all. You may have some itchiness at first, but this will subside quickly. A cold compress or water and soap will help relieve the itching. If you raise the bitten limb, you may see that symptoms lessen.

4. Agua Mala

The Portuguese man o’ war jellyfish, known as agua mala in Mexico, are found in the coastal waters ar ound Mexic o, including in places like Cancun, Cab o, and others.

This animal is a lm ost transparent but has venom that’s about 70% as potent as a c obra’s, and it’s sting can cause hours of burning pain. If y ou see one in the water, y ou sh ou ld try and stay far away! Their tentacles can be several feet long, so if you can see one of these jellyfish nearby you may still be close to its tentacles. The tentacles have special cells called nematocysts that are full of venom.

The Sting of Agua Mala :

If you were stung by an agua mala, get out of the water right away. The pain can be excruciating, and it’s best to go to a hospital. In severe cases the sting of a Portuguese man o’ war can be life threatening.

5. Africanized Bee

There isn’t much of a visible distinction between an Africanized Bee and the ones you’re used to seeing in the United States, but they are more aggressive in their attempts to reach you.

Africanized Bees, for example, have been known to follow a single individual for up to 400 meters and across the globe have killed around 1,000 people.

For this reason, if you meet an Africanized Bee in the Yucatan Peninsula (where Cancun is situated), you should leave the area immediately. This is definitely one of the bugs in Mexico you want to avoid!

Stings From Africanized Bees :

When the Africanized Bee stings you, sometimes they leave their stinger in your skin. If at all possible, have someone remove this for you, or if n o- one is ar ound d o this y ourse lf. After that, wash the affected place with warm water and soap to remove the venom.

The majority of your discomfort and itching can probably be relieved with the use of anti-itch medicines and cold packs.

Because African bees may sting hundreds of times at once, you should seek medical attention if you get stung more than once.

As we’ve written about before in a piece about spiders in Mexico , this country is home to roughly 2000 species of spiders! We’re afraid to say that tarantulas are the most common type of spider you will find in Mexico, with at least 66 different species.

Four spiders in Mexico are venomous enough to cause concern to humans: Black Widow, Brown Widow, Brown Recluse, and the Hobo Spider. Other notable spiders are the Mexican Wandering Spider, which has a body the size of a baseball!

Luckily though, hotels and resorts are very good at keeping spiders away so you’ve very unlikely to interact with any spiders on your trip. Except possibly the common house spider, or tiny jumping spiders.

What You Should do if You’re Bitten by a Spider?

No matter what spider you think you’ve been bitten by, you should consider seeking medical treatment to ensure you are safe. That’s because Mexico has a few spiders that can cause serious health issues.

At Home Treatment for a Spider Bite

• Wash the area with soap and water.
• Apply an antibiotic ointment, such as polysporin.
• Apply a cold compress to the affected area.
• Elevate the area if possible.
• Take OTC pain medication such as Advil if you have pain.
• Take OTC antihistamine if you have itching or swelling in the area.
• Immediately see a doctor if the bite starts to worsen or even turn into an open sore.

7. Scorpions

One group of bugs in Mexico that you could meet anywhere in the country are scorpions.

We’ve got good news and bad news for those who aren’t the biggest fans of these bugs. The bad news is that there are 281 species of scorpions in Mexico. The good news is that only eight of those species deliver deadly stings. (Recommended: Scorpions in Mexico ).

The light-yellow scorpions are the scorpions in Mexico that you need to be careful of as they are highly venomous. So if you see a light yellow scorpion, it could deliver a potentially dangerous sting.

You can find scorpions throughout most of Mexico, including in resort areas like Cancun and Cabo, however, there are some areas with higher risk than others. Certainly outside the resort areas of Cancun, Cabo, Tulum and others, you can find many scorpions.

The areas with the highest risk are the central and northern states along the Pacific Coast. States like Jalisco , Michoacan , Guerrero , Colima , and Nayarit are more likely to be home to the dangerous varieties of scorpions in Mexico.

Incidences of scorpion stings are more frequent during the hotter months, between April and June. This is when they are reproducing and more likely to be outside of their burrows.

What to Do If You Get Stung by a Scorpion

The first thing you should do is receive medical attention. This is especially important for children, elders, and highly allergic people or anyone who has been stung by a yellow scorpion.

Keep track of your symptoms so you can share this information with your doctor. Most people will experience mild symptoms such as pain, swelling, numbing, tingling, or burning. It’s possible to develop more serious symptoms ranging from muscle twitching to seizures to an irregular heartbeat. Severe symptoms are not very likely, however, if you notice them, make sure you’re seeking medical attention as quickly as possible.

If you make the decision to treat your scorpion sting at home, wash the area with soap and water and remove any jewelry nearby in case of swelling. You can apply a cold rag to the area to help with the sting. Take a pain reliever or antihistamine to help with the symptoms after consulting with your doctor. If symptoms begin to worsen, head to the hospital immediately.

While snakes don’t really come under the bugs in Mexico tag, they are worth quickly mentioning. There are 381 different species of snakes in Mexic o, and although the vast majority are harmless, a few are poisonous to humans.

Most of the deadly and ven om ous snakes in Mexico are pit vipers. The Fer-de-Lance is the most dangerous and typically this snake will inject 105 mg of venom in one bite, but 50 mg is enough to kill an average human!

Snakes tend to be found in rainforests and very rural areas so the chances of coming across one on holiday is very slim. However Mexico does get Yellow-Bellied Sea Snakes on its Pacific Coast, which sometimes – albeit rarely – come close to land. These snakes are venomous so keep a close eye out if staying in a resort on Mexico’s Pacific side. (Recommended: Snakes in Mexico ).

What Environmental Factors Influence the Activity of These Insects?

So now you know what kind of Mexic o bugs and insects to expect on your Cancun vacation!

While you may not meet many bugs on your vacation, you can start taking safeguards by being aware of the situations that may cause more insects and creatures to emerge. The following information could theref ore be useful.

Mosquitoes thrive in the surrounding forests which encircle Cancun. These blood-sucking insects can thrive in a wide range of habitats, but prefer moist areas such as wetlands and woodlands.

However, mosquitoes have a hard time surviving at really low temperatures. Cancun’s Caribbean coast seldom gets colder than 49 degrees Fahrenheit, therefore mosquitoes aren’t likely to die from the cold there. As a result, they’ll be around throughout the duration of the year.

An increased chance of interaction with a tabano may be found in areas that get a lot of sun, such as the beach.

As previously said, chakistes aren’t a big problem in Cancun. Some temperatures and seasons are better for them than others, but they dislike sun and wind movements.

You won’t find many African Bees in Quintana Roo (the state where Cancun is located) since they aren’t found here. But if you leave Cancun and go to other regions of the Yucatan Peninsula, you may come across an African bee. (Recommended: The Common, Rare & Dangerous Animals in Cancun You Might Meet! ).

How to Avoid Insects & Bugs in Cancun

If you want as bug-free a vacation in Cancun as possible, you can do a few things such as dress differently and perform different activities.

Here are a few recommendations to keep in mind.

1. Limit Your Travel to Urban Areas Only

When you go far from populated regions, your chance of getting bitten by mosquitoes and tabanos increases.

If you’re planning a trip to Cancun and want to see Koba or the Ruinas del Rey, keep in mind that they’re surrounded by rainforest. Yes, these ruins are located in clearings, but getting there involves navigating through a lot of undergrowth. Just ensure you keep yourself and others around you safe.

2. Insect Repellents

Insect repellant is always your best choice for warding off mosquitoes, biting insects, and other bothersome creatures who want nothing more than to spoil your vacation. Use an insect repellent on your skin, whether it’s sprayed on or applied in another way, and that should keep bugs in Mexic o away.

Reapply your insect repellent according to the label’s instructions as often as required, such as every two hours.

3. Don’t Expose Too Much of Your Skin

The more exposed skin you have, the more p otentia l food bugs in Mexico will have to feed on! If you’re going on a hike or exploring the jungle, make sure you have long sleeves, trousers, and socks if y ou want t o av oid being bitten.

Our Final Thoughts

When it comes to insects and bugs, Cancun is no stranger to them. Mexic o, and Cancun, is home to several, including the mosquito, horsefly, chakist, scorpions, many spiders and the Africanized bee. Even if you don’t encounter any of these pests, it’s still a good idea to pack insect repellent, long pants, and a cool head in case you do. Have fun!

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This article shares practical advice and tips for dealing effectively with mosquitoes when you're visiting or living in Mexico

Mosquitoes are present on every continent on Earth except Antarctica—and proliferate in warmer and humid climates which provide the ideal conditions for these midge-like flies to breed.

How mosquitoes feed and breed

Mosquitoes feed primarily on nectar, although females also need the nutrients from animal or human blood to produce eggs and, unlike male mosquitoes, their mouth parts can penetrate skin and draw blood from hosts.

Female mosquitoes find hosts by using their antennae which detect carbon dioxide and other organic compounds expelled when humans and animals breathe out and sweat.  Studies have revealed that mosquitoes prefer some hosts over others: blood type, the bacteria on your skin, and even genetics can influence your attractiveness to female mosquitoes.

While the quantity of blood mosquitoes extract is inconsequential to the host, the saliva in mosquitoes’ mouths can carry diseases which may be passed-on, including Malaria, Yellow Fever, Chikungunya, Dengue fever, and the Zika virus.  According to the US Center for Disease Control, the chances of contracting Malaria from mosquitoes in Mexico is very low, although it advises pregnant women and their partners to take special precautions due to the risk of Zika virus .

Mosquitoes by season and region in Mexico

Mosquitoes are most prevalent in Mexico between April and November, and their numbers swell during the rainy season (June to October).  Sub-tropical regions in the south including the states of Chiapas, Tabasco, and Yucatán experience a higher proliferation of mosquitoes than areas further north.  Mexico’s fertile coastal plains provide the ideal environment for mosquitoes to thrive, but you’ll find plenty of them in places situated at elevation too, albeit fewer the further north you are in the central highlands. Mosquito numbers decline significantly —but don’t vanish entirely— from late autumn and through the winter months and will begin to return around the middle to late half of the dry season .

Practical matters concerning mosquitoes in Mexico

Most mosquito bites in Mexico are an annoyance more than a threat: your risk of contracting a disease is very low.  However, mosquito bites are not pleasant so it’s good practice to defend against them—whether you’re just here on a visit and especially if you live in Mexico or spend an extended period of time here.

Active hours

Although mosquitoes tend to be more active after dusk, female mosquitoes will bite anytime of day, especially in warmer and more humid climates.

Mosquito nets on windows and doors

An excellent way to guard your home in Mexico against mosquitoes is to install mosquito net-screens on your windows and install swinging mosquito net-screens in front of outside doors.  These allow you to enjoy an air flow, keeping your indoor spaces cool and naturally refreshed, while preventing mosquitoes from entering; this is especially helpful overnight during the hotter months when a cool night breeze can help you to rest. If your windows and doors don’t have mosquito nets, close them just before sundown to prevent lots of mosquitoes from entering your home and disturbing you at night.

Even using window and door net-screens, some female mosquitoes will always sneak-in, hide and become active overnight in their search for blood hosts—especially during the peak summer breeding season.  Whether you have mosquito nets on your windows or not, a bed net is one of the best and most effective ways to prevent your night’s sleep from being interrupted.  They are especially useful over children’s beds and cots.  They’re inexpensive, easy to install (simply hang from a hook in the ceiling), and the net can be folded back during the day.  Bed nets are a superior solution to burning incense or using some other artificial repellents in the room while you sleep.

Prevent mosquitoes breeding around your home

Mosquitoes need water to breed and checking your home spaces for possible mosquito breeding habitats will prevent you from having to deal with a swarm in your immediate vicinity.

The most common mosquito-breeding habitats in homes are laundry and utility areas, garden ponds, unused fountains and swimming pools, and any other places on the property where water can accumulate in stagnant pools.

Make it a regular habit to overturn water buckets and bins after use (even small pools of water in the base of a bucket create a breeding opportunity); if you have an unused fountain or swimming pool , keep it clear of stagnant water; if you have a garden pond you can use certain natural plants, fish, and/or essential oils to dissuade or prevent mosquitoes from breeding there; check near drainage areas, and on any flat roofs as well as other nooks and crannies which may accumulate pools of water after it rains: mosquitoes can breed quickly, and preventing them from using your home to multiply is a good first line of defense.

Body lotion mosquito repellents

Wearing insect repellent on your skin is the most common way to prevent mosquitoes from biting you while you’re enjoying the outdoors.  There are two types: the traditional synthetic repellents (usually based on DEET as the active ingredient) and repellents made using natural oils.

Repelente de insectos is readily available from local pharmacies and supermarkets across Mexico: the most common synthetic big-brand repellent on sale here is called “Off” and the alternative natural formulas made using citrus and other oils are sold under various brand names but most often include the word “ Citronella ” on the label.  You can buy them in liquid form with a spray top, or as a lotion or cream.

Dressing against mosquitoes

It’s worth wearing long sleeve shirts, trousers and socks after dusk if you plan to spend time outside during an evening.  Biting mosquitoes tend to go for places on your body with the least amount of hair, e.g. feet, ankles, legs/knees, ears, and neck.

If you are visiting or traveling through densely-foraged areas in humid regions (which includes many archaeology sites ) it’s worth dressing using long sleeves and trousers as well as using a generous helping of insect repellent on exposed skin, regardless of the time of day.  If you’re traversing through rural areas which are densely-wooded, or through jungle, a hat with a sewn-in mosquito net is also recommended.

Candles, incense and coils, and bug sprays

‘ Citronela ’ candles are available for purchase locally although their efficacy seems doubtful.  Incense and coils which you light to emit smoke are also available; some claim they are suitable for indoor use, although these are probably best kept outside and used for evening garden parties, and other outdoor gatherings.

Big-brand mosquito insecticide sprays are readily available in stores and supermarkets across Mexico—they are effective, but the active ingredients are toxic to humans and other plant and wild life as well, so use them sparingly—or better, choose alternatives.

Electronic devices to deal with mosquitoes

There are three electric devices commonly used for deterring and eliminating mosquitoes.

Chemical diffuser and sound waves

Some people purchase devices which plug into an electricity socket on the wall: one type requires the continual purchase of an accompanying oil which is diffused into the room by the device; the other type emits a high-pitched frequency sound, inaudible to humans and supposedly unfriendly to mosquitoes and other insects. If you have pets, they might not appreciate these devices.

Ultra-violet light lamps

The other popular electric device is a ‘bug zapping’ lamp, that attracts flying insects using a UV lamp and electrocutes them.  The debris fall onto a tray that must be cleaned out.  A key issue with these is that they attract all flying insects, not just mosquitoes—and some flying insects are helpful to have around.

Simple alternative to electric devices

A hanging bed net —see above— is more effective and does not fill the room with artificial chemicals, high-frequency sound pitches which might affect sleep or hearing, and does not require you to continually clean out a tray of dead bugs (including ones that can be helpful and not just biting/stinging ones).

Marquees with mosquito screen-nets

Mexico’s agreeable climates provide ample opportunity for outdoor activities and events and if you often spend time in the garden or entertaining guests outside during the evening hours, you might consider buying a marquee and adding a mosquito netting to the sides; some marquees are sold with the mosquito netting already sewn-in; it can be rolled-up when it’s not needed.

Natural repellents and remedies

If you want to defend against mosquitoes without using a lot of synthetic/toxic chemicals, there is plenty of advice online about natural ways to deal with mosquitoes .

After-bite treatments

Most people will experience a mosquito bite and how your body reacts depends on a range of factors.  Most mosquito bites create a swollen area and cause an itch; in some people the reaction can be more severe, for example, large blisters may form.  If you are bitten, you can purchase Andotol gel from local pharmacies in Mexico which is an effective after-bite treatment; ask the pharmacist about other after-bite products they have in stock; some use bicarbonate of soda as the active ingredient.

Symptoms of possible disease

The odds of a disease being passed to you from a mosquito bite in Mexico are very low; notwithstanding this, if after being bitten by a mosquito you feel fever, unusually sweaty, experience back and body aches, a stiff neck, or begin vomiting seek medical advice .

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Peppermint oil is a deterrent scent also

I understand that mosquitos thrive in hot, moist and humid climates. However, when I spent a week in a pueblito in the mountains in Oaxaca, I was persecuted by mosquitos! I guess that they were mosquitos, but I did not see them. In the US, mosquitos are very obvious. One hears them at night, when one is trying to sleep, and they can be seen. They tell me that the mosquitos in Oaxaca are very small, and not easily seen. But some insect ate me alive.

I have found that washing the bitten area with soap and water works for me. It takes away the sting almost immediately.

I always seem to be a special dish to mosquitos. I’ve heard O+ blood is their favorite. My first spring and summer in Puerto Peñasco, Sonora was last year and at first I was suffering. I always eat a lot, I mean A LOT, of onions and garlic, but that wasn’t getting it. I always heard the scent of lavander worked. I dislike flowery smells. I prefer spicy ones like vanilla, cinnamon and such but I tried it. It worked! I bought lavander oil and put it at my pulse points and places I often get bit. Not only did mosquitos keep their distance but flies tended to also (another bug that bugs me!). So give it a go. It worked for me and that’s saying something!

Thank you! Will definitely try!

I read a study where products were tested to see which would work the best against being bitten by mosquitos and the best product was PALMER’S Cocoa Butter Formula Daily Skin Therapy Body Lotion. Give that a try.

Thank you so much for this! I’m so scared of being bit and I see so much mix talk. I’m also O+ and my husband is like a natural mosquito repellent hahaha he never gets bit… I get it all. I will definitely give the lavender a try!

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Mexico Travel Advisory

Travel advisory august 22, 2023, mexico - see state summaries.

Reissued after periodic review with general security updates, and the removal of obsolete COVID-19 page links.

Country Summary: Violent crime – such as homicide, kidnapping, carjacking, and robbery – is widespread and common in Mexico. The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in many areas of Mexico, as travel by U.S. government employees to certain areas is prohibited or restricted. In many states, local emergency services are limited outside the state capital or major cities.

U.S. citizens are advised to adhere to restrictions on U.S. government employee travel. State-specific restrictions are included in the individual state advisories below. U.S. government employees may not travel between cities after dark, may not hail taxis on the street, and must rely on dispatched vehicles, including app-based services like Uber, and regulated taxi stands. U.S. government employees should avoid traveling alone, especially in remote areas. U.S. government employees may not drive from the U.S.-Mexico border to or from the interior parts of Mexico, except daytime travel within Baja California and between Nogales and Hermosillo on Mexican Federal Highway 15D, and between Nuevo Laredo and Monterrey on Highway 85D.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Mexico.

Do Not Travel To:

• Colima state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Guerrero state  due to  crime .
• Michoacan state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Sinaloa state due to  crime  and  kidnapping
• Tamaulipas state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping.
• Zacatecas  state due to  crime  and  kidnapping .

Reconsider Travel To:

• Baja California  state due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Chihuahua state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Durango state  due to  crime .
• Guanajuato state  due to  crime and kidnapping .
• Jalisco state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Morelos state  due to  crime .
• Sonora state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .

Exercise Increased Caution When Traveling To:

• Aguascalientes  state due to  crime .
• Baja California Sur state  due to  crime .
• Chiapas state  due to  crime .
• Coahuila state  due to  crime .
• Hidalgo state  due to  crime .
• Mexico City  due to  crime .
• Mexico State  due to  crime .
• Nayarit state  due to  crime.
• Nuevo Leon  state due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Oaxaca state  due to  crime .
• Puebla state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Queretaro state  due to  crime .
• Quintana Roo state  due to  crime .
• San Luis Potosi state  due to  crime and kidnapping .
• Tabasco state  due to  crime .
• Tlaxcala state due to  crime .
• Veracruz state  due to  crime .

Exercise Normal Precautions When Traveling To:

• Campeche state
• Yucatan state

Visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas .

If you decide to travel to Mexico:

• Keep traveling companions and family back home informed of your travel plans. 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.
• Use toll roads when possible and avoid driving alone or at night. In many states, police presence and emergency services are extremely limited outside the state capital or major cities.
• Exercise increased caution when visiting local bars, nightclubs, and casinos.
• Do not display signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive watches or jewelry.
• Be extra vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Follow the U.S. Embassy on Facebook and Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Mexico.
• Mariners planning travel to Mexico should check for U.S. maritime  advisories  and  alerts , which include instructions on reporting suspicious activities and attacks to Mexican naval authorities.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .
• Visit the CDC page for the latest travel health information related to your travel. 

Aguascalientes state – Exercise Increased Caution

Exercise increased caution due to crime.

Criminal activity and violence may occur throughout the state.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Aguascalientes state.

Baja California state – Reconsider Travel

Reconsider travel due to crime and kidnapping.

Transnational criminal organizations compete in the border area to establish narco-trafficking and human smuggling routes. Violent crime and gang activity are common. Travelers should remain on main highways and avoid remote locations. Of particular concern is the high number of homicides in the non-tourist areas of Tijuana. Most homicides appeared to be targeted; however, criminal organization assassinations and territorial disputes can result in bystanders being injured or killed. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

U.S. government employees must adhere to the noted restrictions:

• Mexicali Valley:  U.S. government employees should avoid the Mexicali Valley due to the heightened possibility of violence between rival cartel factions.  The boundaries of the restricted area are: to the east, the Baja California/Arizona and Baja California/Sonora borders; to the south, from La Ventana (on Highway 5) due east to the Colorado River; to the west, Highway 5; and to the north, Boulevard Lazaro Cardenas/Highway 92/Highway 1 to Carretera Aeropuerto, from the intersection of Highway 1 and Carretera Aeropuerto due north to the Baja California/California border, and from that point eastward along the Baja California/California border.
• Travelers may use Highways 2 and 2D to transit between Mexicali, Los Algodones, and San Luis Rio Colorado during daylight hours. Travelers may also use Highways 1 and 8 to transit to and from the Mexicali Airport during daylight hours.  Travel on Highway 5 is permissible during daylight hours.

There are no other travel restrictions for U.S. government employees in Baja California state. These include high-traffic tourism areas of border and coastal communities, such as  Tijuana ,  Ensenada , and  Rosarito .

Baja California Sur state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Baja California Sur state.

Campeche state – Exercise Normal Precautions

Exercise normal precautions.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Campeche state.

Chiapas state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Chiapas state.

Chihuahua state – Reconsider Travel

Violent crime and gang activity are common. Most homicides are targeted assassinations against members of criminal organizations. Battles for territory between criminal groups have resulted in violent crime in areas frequented by U.S. citizens and U.S. government employees, including restaurants and malls during daylight hours. Bystanders have been injured or killed in shooting incidents. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

U.S. government employee travel is limited to the following areas with the noted restrictions:

• Ciudad Juarez:  U.S. government employees may travel to the area of Ciudad Juarez bounded to the east by Bulevar Independencia; to the south by De los Montes Urales/Avenida Manuel J Clouthier/Carretera de Juárez; to the west by Via Juan Gabriel/Avenida de los Insurgentes/Calle Miguel Ahumada/Francisco Javier Mina/Melchor Ocampo; and to the north by the U.S.-Mexico border.  Direct travel to the Ciudad Juarez airport (officially called the Abraham González International Airport) and the factories located along Bulevar Independencia and Las Torres is permitted.  Travel to San Jerónimo is permitted only through the United States via the Santa Teresa U.S. Port of Entry; travel via Anapra is prohibited.

U.S. government employees may only travel from Ciudad Juarez to the city of Chihuahua during daylight hours via Federal Highway 45, with stops permitted only at the Guardia Nacional División Caminos station, the Umbral del Milenio overlook area, the border inspection station at KM 35, and the shops and restaurants on Federal Highway 45 in the city of Ahumada.

• U.S. government employees may travel between Ciudad Juarez and Ascension via Highway 2.
• Nuevo Casas Grandes Area (including Nuevo Casas Grandes, Casas Grandes, Mata Ortiz, Colonia Juárez, Colonia LeBaron, Paquimé and San Buenaventura):  U.S. government employees may travel to the Nuevo Casas Grandes area during daylight hours via Mexico Federal Highway 2, and subsequently Federal Highway 10, to Nuevo Casas Grandes.  Employees are permitted to stay overnight in the cities of Nuevo Casas Grandes and Casas Grandes only.
• City of Chihuahua:  U.S. government employees may travel at any time to the area of the city of Chihuahua bounded to the north by Avenida Transformación; to the east by Avenida Tecnológico/Manuel Gómez Morín/Highway 16/Blvd.José Fuentes Mares; to the west by the city boundary; and to the south by Periférico Francisco R. Almada.
• U.S. government employees may travel on Highways 45, 16, and 45D through the city of Chihuahua and to the Chihuahua airport (officially called the General Roberto Fierro Villalobos International Airport). 
• U.S. government employees may travel to Santa Eulalia to the east of the city of Chihuahua, as well as to Juan Aldama via Highway 16 to the northeast.
• U.S. government employees may travel south of the city of Chihuahua on Highway 45 to the southern boundary of Parral, including each town directly connected to Highway 45, including Lázaro Cárdenas, Pedro Meoqui, Santa Cruz de Rosales, Delicias, Camargo, Ciudad Jiménez, and Parral itself.
• U.S. government employees may only travel on official business from the city of Chihuahua on Highway 16 to Ciudad Cuauhtémoc bounded by Highway 21 to the north and east, Highway 5 to the west, and Bulevar Jorge Castillo Cabrera to the south. 
• Ojinaga:  U.S. government employees must travel to Ojinaga via U.S. Highway 67 and enter through the U.S. Port of Entry in Presidio, Texas.
• Palomas:  U.S. government employees may travel to Palomas via U.S. highways through the U.S. Port of Entry in Columbus, New Mexico, or via Highway 2 in Mexico.

U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of Chihuahua, including  Copper Canyon .

Coahuila state – Exercise Increased Caution

Violent crime and gang activity occur in parts of Coahuila state. 

U.S. government employees must adhere to the following travel restrictions:

• Zaragoza, Morelos, Allende, Nava, Jimenez, Villa Union, Guerrero, and Hidalgo municipalities : U.S. government employees may not travel to these municipalities.
• Piedras Negras and Ciudad Acuña:  U.S. government employees must travel directly from the United States and observe a curfew from midnight to 6:00 a.m. in both cities.

There are no other restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Coahuila state.

Colima state – Do Not Travel

Do not travel due to crime and kidnapping.  

Violent crime and gang activity are widespread. Most homicides are targeted assassinations against members of criminal organizations. Shooting incidents between criminal groups have injured or killed bystanders. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.  

Travel for U.S. government employees is limited to the following areas with noted restrictions: 

• Manzanillo:   U.S. government employee travel is limited to the tourist and port areas of Manzanillo.  
• Employees traveling to Manzanillo from Guadalajara must use Federal Toll Road 54D during daylight hours.  

U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of Colima state. 

Durango state – Reconsider Travel

Reconsider travel due to crime.

Violent crime and gang activity are common in parts of Durango state.

• West and south of Federal Highway 45:  U.S. government employees may not travel to this region of Durango state.

There are no other restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Durango state.

Guanajuato state – Reconsider Travel

Gang violence, often associated with the theft of petroleum and natural gas from the state oil company and other suppliers, occurs in Guanajuato, primarily in the south and central areas of the state.  Of particular concern is the high number of murders in the southern region of the state associated with cartel-related violence. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

• Areas south of Federal Highway 45D:  U.S. government employees may not travel to the area south of and including Federal Highway 45D, Celaya, Salamanca, and Irapuato.

There are no other restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Guanajuato state, which includes tourist areas in:  San Miguel de Allende ,  Guanajuato City , and  surrounding areas.

Guerrero state – Do Not Travel

Do not travel due to crime.

Crime and violence are widespread. Armed groups operate independently of the government in many areas of Guerrero. Members of these groups frequently maintain roadblocks and may use violence towards travelers. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping in previous years.

Travel for U.S. government employees is limited to the following area with the noted restrictions:

• Taxco:  U.S. government employees must use Federal Highway 95D, which passes through Cuernavaca, Morelos, and stay within downtown tourist areas of Taxco. Employees may visit Grutas de Cacahuamilpa National Park during the day with a licensed tour operator.

U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of the state of Guerrero, including to tourist areas in  Acapulco ,  Zihuatanejo , and  Ixtapa .

Hidalgo state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Hidalgo state.

Jalisco state – Reconsider Travel

Violent crime and gang activity are common in parts of Jalisco state. In Guadalajara, territorial battles between criminal groups take place in tourist areas. Shooting incidents between criminal groups have injured or killed innocent bystanders. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

• Jalisco-Michoacan border and Federal Highway 110:  U.S. government employees may not travel to the area between Federal Highway 110 and the Jalisco-Michoacan border, nor travel on Federal Highway 110 between Tuxpan, Jalisco, and the Michoacan border.
• Federal Highway 80:  U.S. government employees may not travel on Federal Highway 80 south of Cocula.

There are no other restrictions on travel for U.S government employees in Jalisco state which includes tourist areas in:  Guadalajara Metropolitan Area ,  Puerto Vallarta (including neighboring Riviera Nayarit) ,  Chapala , and  Ajijic .

Mexico City (Ciudad de Mexico) – Exercise Increased Caution

Both violent and non-violent crime occur throughout Mexico City. Use additional caution, particularly at night, outside of the frequented tourist areas where police and security patrol more routinely. Petty crime occurs frequently in both tourist and non-tourist areas.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Mexico City.

Mexico State (Estado de Mexico) – Exercise Increased Caution

Both violent and non-violent crime occur throughout Mexico State. Use additional caution in areas outside of the frequented tourist areas, although petty crime occurs frequently in tourist areas as well.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Mexico State.

Michoacan state – Do Not Travel

Do not travel due to crime and kidnapping.

Crime and violence are widespread in Michoacan state. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

Travel for U.S. government employees is limited to the following areas with the noted restrictions:

• Federal Highway 15D:   U.S. government employees may travel on Federal Highway 15D to transit the state between Mexico City and Guadalajara.
• Morelia:  U.S. government employees may travel by air and by land using Federal Highways 43 or 48D from Federal Highway 15D.
• Lazaro Cardenas:  U.S. government employees must travel by air only and limit activities to the city center or port areas.

U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of the state of Michoacan, including the portions of the  Monarch Butterfly Reserve  located in Michoacan.

Morelos state – Reconsider Travel

Violent crime and gang activity are common in parts of Morelos state.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Morelos state.

Nayarit state – Exercise Increased Caution

Criminal activity and violence may occur throughout Nayarit state.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S government employees in Nayarit state.

Nuevo Leon state – Exercise Increased Caution

Exercise increased caution due to crime and kidnapping.

Criminal activity and violence may occur throughout the state. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Nuevo Leon state.

Oaxaca state – Exercise Increased Caution

Criminal activity and violence occur throughout the state.

U.S. travelers are reminded that U.S. government employees must adhere to the following travel restrictions:

• Isthmus region:  U.S. government employees may not travel to the area of Oaxaca bounded by Federal Highway 185D to the west, Federal Highway 190 to the north, and the Oaxaca-Chiapas border to the east.  This includes the cities of Juchitan de Zaragoza, Salina Cruz, and San Blas Atempa.  
• Federal Highway 200 northwest of Pinotepa:  U.S. government employees may not use Federal Highway 200 between Pinotepa and the Oaxaca-Guerrero border.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees to other parts of Oaxaca state, which include tourist areas in:  Oaxaca City ,  Monte Alban ,  Puerto Escondido,  and  Huatulco .

Puebla state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Puebla state.

Queretaro state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Queretaro state.

Quintana Roo state – Exercise Increased Caution

Criminal activity and violence may occur in any location, at any time, including in popular tourist destinations.  Travelers should maintain a high level of situational awareness, avoid areas where illicit activities occur, and promptly depart from potentially dangerous situations. 

While not directed at tourists, shootings between rival gangs have injured innocent bystanders.  Additionally, U.S. citizens have been the victims of both non-violent and violent crimes in tourist and non-tourist areas.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Quintana Roo state. However, personnel are advised to exercise increased situational awareness after dark in downtown areas of Cancun, Tulum, and Playa del Carmen, and to remain in well-lit pedestrian streets and tourist zones.

San Luis Potosi state – Exercise Increased Caution

Criminal activity and violence may occur throughout the state.  U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in San Luis Potosi state.

Sinaloa state – Do Not Travel

Violent crime is widespread. Criminal organizations are based in and operating in Sinaloa. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

• Mazatlan:  U.S. government employees may travel to Mazatlan by air or sea only, are limited to the Zona Dorada and historic town center, and must travel via direct routes between these destinations and the airport and sea terminal.
• Los Mochis and Topolobampo:  U.S. government employees may travel to Los Mochis and Topolobampo by air or sea only, are restricted to the city and the port, and must travel via direct routes between these destinations and the airport.

U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of Sinaloa state.

Sonora state – Reconsider Travel

Sonora is a key location used by the international drug trade and human trafficking networks. Violent crime is widespread. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping. Travelers should maintain a heightened level of awareness of their surroundings in all their travels in Sonora.  Security incidents may occur in any area of Sonora.

• Travel between Hermosillo and Nogales:  U.S. government employees may travel between the U.S. Ports of Entry in Nogales and Hermosillo during daylight hours via Federal Highway 15 only. U.S. government employees may not use ANY taxi services, public buses, nor ride-share applications due to a lack of secure vetting and/or dispatching procedures. Travelers should exercise caution and avoid unnecessary stops as security incidents, including sporadic, armed carjackings, and shootings have been reported along this highway during daylight hours. Travelers should have a full tank of gas and inform friends or family members of their planned travel.
• Nogales:  U.S. government employees may not travel in the triangular area north of Avenida Tecnologico, west of Bulevar Luis Donaldo Colosio (Periferico), nor east of Federal Highway 15D (Corredor Fiscal). U.S. government employees also may not travel in the residential and business areas to east of the railroad tracks along Plutarco Elias Calle (HWY 15) and Calle Ruiz Cortino, including the business area around the Morley pedestrian gate port-of-entry. U.S. government employees may not use ANY taxi services, public buses, nor ride-share applications in Nogales due to a lack of secure vetting and/or dispatching procedures and the danger of kidnapping and other violent crimes.  
• Puerto Peñasco:  U.S. government employees may travel between Puerto Peñasco and the Lukeville-Sonoyta U.S. Port of Entry during daylight hours via Federal Highway 8 only. They may not travel on any other route to Puerto Peñasco. U.S. government employees may not use ANY taxi services, public buses, nor ride-share applications in Puerto Peñasco. due to a lack of secure vetting and/or dispatching procedures and the danger of kidnapping and other violent crimes.
• Triangular region near Mariposa U.S. Port of Entry:  U.S. government employees may not travel into or through the triangular region west of the Mariposa U.S. Port of Entry, east of Sonoyta, and north of Altar municipality.
• San Luis Rio Colorado, Cananea, and Agua Prieta : U.S. government employees may travel directly from the nearest U.S. Port of Entry to San Luis Rio Colorado, Cananea (via Douglas Port of Entry), and Agua Prieta, but may not go beyond the city limits. Travel is limited to daylight hours only. Travel between Nogales and Cananea via Imuris is not permitted. U.S. government employees may not use ANY taxi services, public buses, nor ride-share applications in these cities due to a lack of secure vetting and/or dispatching procedures and the danger of kidnapping and other violent crimes.
• Eastern and southern Sonora (including San Carlos Nuevo Guaymas and Alamos):  U.S. government employees may not travel to areas of Sonora east of Federal Highway 17, the road between Moctezuma and Sahuaripa, and State Highway 20 between Sahuaripa and the intersection with Federal Highway 16. U.S. government employees may travel to San Carlos Nuevo Guaymas and Alamos; travel to Alamos is only permitted by air and within city limits.  U.S. government employees may not travel to areas of Sonora south of Federal Highway 16 and east of Federal Highway 15 (south of Hermosillo), as well as all points south of Guaymas, including Empalme, Guaymas, Obregon, and Navojoa.  U.S. government employees may not use ANY taxi services, public buses, nor ride-share applications in these areas due to a lack of secure vetting and/or dispatching procedures and the danger of kidnapping and other violent crimes.

U.S. government employees may travel to other parts of Sonora state in compliance with the above restrictions, including tourist areas in: Hermosillo , Bahia de Kino , and Puerto Penasco .

Tabasco state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Tabasco state.

Tamaulipas state – Do Not Travel

Organized crime activity – including gun battles, murder, armed robbery, carjacking, kidnapping, forced disappearances, extortion, and sexual assault – is common along the northern border and in Ciudad Victoria. Criminal groups target public and private passenger buses, as well as private automobiles traveling through Tamaulipas, often taking passengers and demanding ransom payments.

Heavily armed members of criminal groups often patrol areas of the state and operate with impunity particularly along the border region from Reynosa to Nuevo Laredo.  In these areas, local law enforcement has limited capacity to respond to incidents of crime. Law enforcement capacity is greater in the tri-city area of Tampico, Ciudad Madero, and Altamira, which has a lower rate of violent criminal activity compared to the rest of the state.

U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

• Matamoros and Nuevo Laredo:  U.S. government employees may only travel within a limited radius around and between the U.S. Consulates in Nuevo Laredo and Matamoros, their homes, the respective U.S. Ports of Entry, and limited downtown sites, subject to an overnight curfew.
• Overland travel in Tamaulipas:  U.S. government employees may not travel between cities in Tamaulipas using interior Mexican highways. Travel between Nuevo Laredo and Monterrey is limited to Federal Highway 85D during daylight hours with prior authorization.

U.S. government employees may not travel to other parts of Tamaulipas state.

Tlaxcala state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Tlaxcala state.

Veracruz state – Exercise Increased Caution

Violent crime and gang activity occur with increasing frequency in Veracruz, particularly in the center and south near Cordoba and Coatzacoalcos. While most gang-related violence is targeted, violence perpetrated by criminal organizations can affect bystanders. Impromptu roadblocks requiring payment to pass are common.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Veracruz state.

Yucatan state – Exercise Normal Precautions

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Yucatan state, which include tourist areas in:  Chichen Itza ,  Merida ,  Uxmal , and  Valladolid .

Zacatecas state – Do Not Travel

Violent crime, extortion, and gang activity are widespread in Zacatecas state. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

• Zacatecas City : U.S. government employee travel is limited to Zacatecas City proper, and employees may not travel overland to Zacatecas City.
• U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of Zacatecas state.

Travel Advisory Levels

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Mexico travel advice

Latest updates: The Health section was updated - travel health information (Public Health Agency of Canada)

Last updated: April 15, 2024 13:01 ET

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Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, mexico - exercise a high degree of caution.

Exercise a high degree of caution in Mexico due to high levels of criminal activity and kidnapping.

Guerrero - Avoid all travel

This advisory excludes the cities of Ixtapa/Zihuatanejo, where you should exercise a high degree of caution.

Regional Advisory - Avoid non-essential travel

• all Chihuahua
• all Colima, except the city of Manzanillo
• all Coahuila, except the southern part of the state at and below the Saltillo-Torreón highway corridor
• all Durango, except Durango City
• Highway 45 between León and Irapuato
• the area south of and including Highway 45D between Irapuato and Celaya
• all Michoacán, except the cities of Morelia and Patzcuaro
• the Lagunas de Zempoala National Park
• the municipality of Xoxocotla
• the area within 20 km of the border with Sinaloa and Durango
• the city of Tepic
• all Nuevo León, except the city of Monterrey
• all Sinaloa, except the cities of Los Mochis and Mazatlán
• all Sonora, except the cities of Hermosillo and Guaymas/San Carlos and Puerto Peñasco
• all Tamaulipas
• all Zacatecas

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Deteriorating security situation in Guerrero State

Hurricane Otis struck Guerrero State on October 25, 2023. The security situation remains volatile and unpredictable after the storm. Damage to transportation and communications networks have left many towns and cities isolated, increasing the risk of criminal and gang activity.

Certain areas are particularly affected by banditry and violence, including:

• the highway between Acapulco and Zihuantanejo
• the highway between Acapulco to Chilpancingo

You should avoid all travel to Guerrero State. If you are in Guerrero despite the advisory, you should take necessary precautions to ensure your safety, including:

• avoid travelling alone or after dark
• exercise extreme vigilance
• monitor local media for the latest updates on the situation
• follow the instructions of local authorities

Levels of crime, particularly violent crime, are high throughout Mexico. Arrest and detention rates are low and don’t deter criminal activity.

Criminal groups, including drug cartels, are very active. ‎Clashes between cartels or gangs over territory, drugs and smuggling routes are common.

In some parts of the country, military, navy and federal police forces have been deployed to combat organized crime and improve security conditions. They maintain a visible presence by:

• patrolling the streets
• setting up roadblocks
• conducting random vehicle checks  

If you plan on travelling to Mexico:

• remain vigilant at all times
• stay in tourist areas
• be very cautious on major highways
• avoid travelling at night
• monitor local media closely

If you’re the victim of a crime, you must report it immediately to local authorities. No criminal investigation is possible without a formal complaint. Complaints must be made in person before leaving Mexico. You should hire a local lawyer to represent your interests and follow up on your case after you return to Canada. Failure to do may result in incomplete investigations or long delays in bringing cases to trial.

Violent crime

There are high rates of violent crime, such as homicides, kidnappings, carjacking and assaults, including in popular tourist destinations such as the Mayan Riviera (Cancún, Playa del Carmen, Puerto Morelos and Tulum), and Acapulco.

Criminal groups and drug cartels are present in tourist areas. Inter-gang and cartel fighting has taken place in restaurants, hotels and nightclubs frequented by tourists.

Innocent bystanders have been injured or killed. You may be in the wrong place at the wrong time and become a victim of violent crime.

Border areas often see higher criminal activity and violence, including in rural areas. Confrontations between organized criminal groups and Mexican authorities continue to pose a risk. Shootouts, attacks and illegal roadblocks may occur without warning.

You should travel to Mexico by air to avoid international land border crossings, particularly along the border with the United States, in the following cities:

• Ciudad Juárez
• Nuevo Laredo

If crossing an international land border:

• remain extremely vigilant
• use only official border crossings

Armed robbery

Armed robbery occurs. Foreigners have been targets of robberies that sometimes involve assault.

Robbers will follow a victim after they exchange or withdraw money at airports, currency exchange bureaus ( casas de cambio ) or ATMs.

• Stay in hotels and resorts with good security
• If you are threatened by robbers, stay calm and don’t resist
• Avoid withdrawing or exchanging money in public areas of the airport

Canadian travellers have been physically and sexually assaulted. In some cases, hotel employees, taxi drivers and security personnel at popular tourist destinations were involved. In some cases, hotel staff are not helpful and try to dissuade victims from pursuing the incident with police.

• Avoid walking after dark, especially alone
• Avoid isolated or deserted areas
• Avoid excessive alcohol consumption

Are you a victim of sexual violence? – Government of Canada and British Embassy Mexico City

Credit card and ATM fraud

Credit card and ATM fraud occurs in Mexico. When using debit or credit cards:

• pay careful attention when others are handling your cards
• use ATMs located in public areas or inside a bank or business
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Overcharging

Some bars and nightclubs may try to charge exorbitant prices. Discussions about overcharging may lead to threats of violence and security guards may force you to pay. Avoid running a tab or leaving your credit card with bar or restaurant staff.

Overseas fraud

Police officers

Legitimate police officers have extorted money from tourists or arrested tourists for minor offences such as :

• drinking alcohol on the street
• urinating on public roads
• traffic violations

They have requested immediate cash payment in exchange for their release. Travellers driving rental cars have been targeted.

If this occurs:

• don’t hand over your money or your passport
• ask for the officer’s name, badge and patrol car number
• ask for a copy of the written fine, which is payable at a later date, or insist on going to the nearest police station

Virtual kidnappings

Extortion, including virtual kidnappings, is the third most common crime in Mexico. Criminals use a variety of tactics to gather information about potential victims for extortion purposes, including using social media sites or eavesdropping on conversations

In a virtual kidnapping, criminals contact the victim’s hotel room landline and threaten the victim to stay in their room. The criminals then instruct the victim to provide information needed for the caller to use to contact family and friends, to demand the immediate payment of ransom for their release.

• Don't discuss travel plans, your room number or any other personal information around strangers
• Never leave your cellphone unattended
• Ensure your cellphone is password protected
• Don't divulge personal business details to strangers in person or over the phone or on social media, especially when using hotel phones
• If you're threatened on the phone or hear screams, hang up immediately
• When you answer the phone, wait for the caller to speak. If the caller asks who is speaking, hang up immediately.
• Don’t answer unrecognized or blocked phone numbers
• Don’t answer hotel landlines

Kidnappings

Mexico has one of the highest kidnapping rates in the world. Kidnapping, including virtual and express kidnapping, is a serious security risk throughout Mexico.

Kidnappers target all classes. Canadian citizens and contractors working for Canadian businesses have been kidnapped, mostly in areas that are not under the control of police and security forces.

If you're kidnapped:

• comply with the kidnappers’ requests
• don’t attempt to resist

Express kidnappings

Express kidnappings occur in large urban areas. This is a method of kidnapping where criminals ask for a small and immediate ransom.

Thieves most commonly work in cooperation with, or pose as, taxi drivers. They force victims to use their debit or credit card to withdraw money from ATMs in exchange for their release.

• Use only a reputable taxi company or a trusted ride-sharing app
• Book taxis through your hotel or an authorized taxi stand ( sitio )

Petty theft

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, is common in Mexico.

• Be aware of your surroundings at all times, even in areas normally considered safe
• Ensure that your belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
• Avoid showing signs of affluence, such as flashy jewellery, cell phones, headphones and designer bags
• Carry only small amounts of money
• Be cautious when withdrawing cash from ATMs

Home break-ins

Tourists staying in rental homes have been the victims of break-ins and burglaries. Whether you're staying in private or commercial accommodations, make sure you lock windows and doors securely.

Women’s safety

Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse.

Some incidents of assault, rape and sexual assault against Canadian women have occurred, including at beach resorts and on public buses. 

• Exercise caution when dealing with strangers or recent acquaintances
• Be wary of rides or other invitations

Advice for women travellers

Spiked food and drinks

Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances. These items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

Unregulated alcohol

Some bars, restaurants and resorts have served counterfeit alcohol. Some travellers have reported getting sick or blacking out after drinking alcohol.

• Be cautious if you choose to drink alcohol
• Seek medical assistance if you begin to feel sick

Alcohol, drugs and travel

Height standards for balcony railings in Mexico can be considerably lower than those in Canada. Falls have resulted in deaths and injuries.

• Exercise caution when standing close to balcony railings

Demonstrations

Demonstrations take place regularly throughout the country. Protests and roadblocks are common in:

• Mexico City, including to and from the airport
• the states of Chiapas, Guerrero, Michoacán and Oaxaca

Such incidents may last a long time, leading to shortages of fresh food, medicine and gasoline.

Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Water activities

Coastal waters can be dangerous. Riptides are common. Several drownings occur each year.

Many beaches don’t offer warnings of dangerous conditions and they don’t always have lifeguards on duty.

Rescue services may not be consistent with international standards.

• Consult local residents and tour operators for information on possible hazards and safe swimming areas
• Always obey warning flags at beaches
• Follow the instructions and warnings of local authorities

Water sports

Tour operators may not adhere to international standards. Many operators don’t conduct regular safety checks on their sporting and aquatic equipment.

Also, Canadians have been involved in accidents where operators of recreational vehicles, such as watercraft, have demanded compensation exceeding the value of the damage caused to the vehicle or equipment.

If you undertake water sports, such as diving:

• choose a well-established and reputable company that has insurance
• ensure that your travel insurance covers the recreational activities you choose
• wear the appropriate safety equipment, such as helmets and life jackets
• ensure that equipment is available and in good condition
• don’t consume alcohol before the activity

If in doubt concerning the safety of the facilities or equipment, don’t use them.

Water safety abroad

Adventure tourism  

Outdoor activities, such as white water rafting, kayaking, scuba diving, snorkelling, bungee, zip lining, paragliding, hiking, mountain biking, etc and other adventure activities can be dangerous if unprepared. Trails are not always marked, and weather conditions can change rapidly, even during summer.  

Tour operators may not always adhere to international safety standards. 

If you intend to practice adventure tourism: 

• consider hiring an experienced guide from a reputable company 
• obtain detailed information on your activity and on the environment in which you will be setting out  
• buy travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation   
• know the symptoms of acute altitude sickness, which can be fatal  
• pay attention to the symptoms of dehydration and heatstroke, both of which can be fatal  
• avoid venturing off marked trails  
• ensure that you’re adequately equipped and bring sufficient water   
• stay informed about weather and other conditions that may pose a hazard  
• refrain from using facilities or equipment if you have doubts on their safety  
• inform a family member or friend of your itinerary  

Road travel

Road conditions and road safety.

Road conditions and road safety can vary greatly throughout the country.

Road conditions can be dangerous due to:

• sharp curves
• poorly marked or hidden road signs
• construction sites
• roaming livestock
• slow-moving or abandoned vehicles

Toll highways are typically safer and better maintained than secondary highways.

Mexican driving styles are very different from those in Canada. Many drivers don’t respect traffic laws, and police don’t strictly enforce these laws. Drivers often drive at excessive speeds and may be aggressive or reckless. Drinking and driving laws are not strictly enforced. Accidents causing fatalities are common. Police don’t regularly patrol the highways.

Roadblocks and checkpoints

Illegal roadblocks and demonstrations are common. Heavily armed gangs have attacked travellers on intercity highways. Criminals especially target sport utility vehicles and full-size pickup trucks for theft and carjacking.

The military searches for drugs and firearms at military checkpoints throughout the country.

• Avoid road travel at night between cities throughout the country
• Ensure that you only stop in major centres, at reputable hotels or at secure campsites
• Keep your car doors locked and the windows closed, especially at traffic lights
• Avoid hitchhiking which is not a common practice in Mexico
• Don’t leave valuables in the vehicle
• Rent cars that don’t have stickers or other advertisements for the rental company on them, as rental cars have been targets for robbery, sometimes using force
• Ensure operators provide insurance and helmets if renting scooters
• Travel on toll roads to lower the risk of targeted roadblocks and robberies
• Never attempt to cross roadblocks, even if they appear unattended

Public transportation

Remain vigilant in airports, at bus stations, on buses and on the metro.

The Mexico City metro is often very crowded and a popular place for pickpocketing. There are metro cars dedicated to women and children during rush hours. They are located at the front of the trains.

The Metrobus in Mexico City, which has dedicated lanes and stops, is relatively safe. There are sections dedicated to women and children at the front of the buses.

The “colectivos” and “pesero” mini-buses that stop when hailed are frequently targeted for robbery.

When travelling to other cities, use bus companies that offer VIP or executive class transportation. These buses only travel on toll roads, which lower the risks of targeted roadblocks and robberies, and follow a speed limit.

Taxis and ridesharing services

Disputes between taxi and ridesharing application drivers may occur, especially in Quintana Roo. They may result in:

• altercations

Although tourists have not been targeted, you may be caught up in these incidents and harassed or injured. 

In Mexico City, all government-authorized taxis have licence plates starting with “A” or “B.” Taxis from designated stands have both the logo of their company and the plate number stamped on the side of the car. Official taxis in Mexico City are pink and white. Users can validate the pink and white taxis on the CDMX app.

• Avoid hailing taxis on the street
• Don't share taxis with strangers

When arriving at an airport in Mexico, pre-pay the taxi fare at the airport (inside or outside the terminal) and ask to see the driver’s official identification. You can also use a ridesharing app to arrange for a pickup at certain airports. Not all airports in Mexico allow ridesharing service pickups.

If you use a trusted ridesharing app, confirm the driver’s identity and the licence plate before getting in the car.

Mi Taxi  – CDMX app (in Spanish)

Cruise ship travel

Plan carefully if you plan to take a cruise departing from or stopping in Mexico.

Advice for cruise travellers

Pirate attacks and armed robbery against ships occur in coastal waters of the Bay of Campeche. Mariners should take appropriate precautions.

Live piracy report  - International Maritime Bureau

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Mexican authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for the expected duration of your stay in Mexico.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: not required Business visa: required Work visa: required Student visa: required

Required documents

To enter Mexico, you must present a valid passport and a duly completed tourist card (Multiple Immigration Form). Carry documents to prove the purpose of trip, such as hotel or tour booking confirmations, as immigration officers may request them.

Tourist card

You must obtain a tourist card to enter the country unless you stay in Mexico for less than 72 hours within the northern border zone. 

If you don’t obtain a tourist card upon arrival, you may face:

It is highly recommended to keep your digital tourist card, or tourist card if entered by land, with you at all times as proof of your legal stay in Mexico. You may be asked to show it to Mexican officials when exiting the country or if you are stopped on an immigration check point.

If you are stopped at an immigration check point and you are unable to prove your legal stay, you may be fined, detained or expelled from the country.

Entering by land

If entering Mexico by land, you must stop at the immigration office located at the border to obtain a tourist card, even if not explicitly directed by Mexican officials. Immigration officials will write down on your tourist card the number of days you are allowed to stay in Mexico.  

You may complete the tourist card form online before your arrival. However, you must print the form and present it to the migration official at the port of entry.

Multiple Immigration Form  - Government of Mexico

Entering by air

If entering Mexico by air, you are advised to download your tourist card issued by Mexican officials upon entry.

Depending on your airport of entry:

• the immigration official will stamp your passport and note the number of days you are allowed to spend in Mexico or
• you will go through an E-gate kiosk where you will scan your passport and self-register your entry in the country. Only use this option if you are entering Mexico as a tourist.

Once in the country, whether you entered via a E-gate or not, you will be able to access the digital tourist card online. You have 60 days to download it.

If you are unable to show your tourist card or digital tourist card upon departure, you will have to pay for a replacement at the immigration office of any international airport before boarding.

Make sure to plan sufficient time at the airport to obtain a new card in time for your flight.

Portal access for digital tourist card  - Government of Mexico

Length of stay

An immigration official will determine the number of days you can remain in Mexico and note it on your tourist card. The maximum length granted for a tourism-related trip is 180 days; the maximum number of days is not granted by default.

If you're seeking the maximum number of days, you may be required to:

• explain the purpose of your trip to the immigration official
• provide details about your trip (accommodations, funds, return flight, etc.)

You won’t be able to request an extension or change the condition of your stay from inside the country.

Canadians travelling to the northern border zone (within 21 kilometres of the U.S. border) for work don’t require a visa for stays of 72 hours or less.

If you require a business or work visa, you should take care of the process yourself. If a prospective employer is processing your visa for you:

• obtain copies of all correspondence between the employer and Mexican immigration authorities
• verify that these copies are stamped by the immigration authorities as proof that your papers are being processed
• request a receipt from your employer for any document that you provide for purposes of obtaining the visa
• avoid surrendering your passport to your employer

Volunteer, religious, research and eco-tourism activities

You may not be able to undertake volunteer, religious/missionary, research or certain forms of eco-tourism activities while visiting as a tourist. Contact the Mexican Embassy or closest Mexican consulate for information the type of visa required for these activities.

Tourism tax

Most visitors to Mexico must pay a tourism tax.

This fee is normally included in airline ticket prices. Visitors arriving by road or sea will have to pay this fee at any bank in Mexico. There is a bank representative at every port of entry. The bank receipt must be attached to the tourist card for submission at departure.

You don't have to pay this tax if:

• you're entering by land for tourism purposes, and your stay will not exceed 7 days
• you're travelling to the northern border zone for less than 72 hours
• you're travelling to Mexico on a cruise ship

Dual citizenship

If entering and leaving Mexico as a dual citizen, you must identify yourself as a Mexican citizen. You must carry valid passports for both countries.

Laws about dual citizenship

Criminal records

Canadians with a criminal record or a warrant for arrest may be refused entry and returned to Canada or to a third country on the next available flight.

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• Zika virus: Advice for travellers - 31 August, 2023
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024
• Dengue: Advice for travellers - 8 April, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.

* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

Malaria  is a serious and sometimes fatal disease that is caused by parasites spread through the bites of mosquitoes.   There is a risk of malaria in certain areas and/or during a certain time of year in this destination. 

Antimalarial medication may be recommended depending on your itinerary and the time of year you are travelling. Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic before travelling to discuss your options. It is recommended to do this 6 weeks before travel, however, it is still a good idea any time before leaving.    Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times:  • Cover your skin and use an approved insect repellent on uncovered skin.  • Exclude mosquitoes from your living area with screening and/or closed, well-sealed doors and windows. • Use insecticide-treated bed nets if mosquitoes cannot be excluded from your living area.  • Wear permethrin-treated clothing.    If you develop symptoms similar to malaria when you are travelling or up to a year after you return home, see a health care professional immediately. Tell them where you have been travelling or living. 

In this destination, rabies is carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions , including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. Rabies treatment is often available in this destination. 

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals). 

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Typhoid   is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

Salmonellosis is a common illness among travellers to this country. It can be spread through contaminated food or beverages, such as raw or undercooked poultry and eggs, as well as fruits or vegetables.

Practice safe food and water precautions . This includes only eating food that is properly cooked and still hot when served.

Pregnant women, children under 5 years of age, those over 60 years of age, and those with weakened immune systems are at greater risk of becoming seriously ill.

Cases of multidrug-resistant (MDR) Salmonella have been reported among Canadian travellers returning from Mexico. These strains of Salmonella do not respond to some of the recommended antibiotics if treatment is needed.

Most people recover on their own without medical treatment and from proper rehydration (drinking lots of fluids).

• Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Travellers with severe symptoms should consult a health care professional as soon as possible.

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

There is a risk of chikungunya in this country.  The risk may vary between regions of a country.  Chikungunya is a virus spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Chikungunya can cause a viral disease that typically causes fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times. There is no vaccine available for chikungunya.

• In this country,   dengue  is a risk to travellers. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
• Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
• The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region.
• Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites . There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue.

Zika virus is a risk in this country. 

Zika virus is primarily spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can also be sexually transmitted. Zika virus can cause serious birth defects.

During your trip:

• Prevent mosquito bites at all times.
• Use condoms correctly or avoid sexual contact, particularly if you are pregnant.

If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, you should discuss the potential risks of travelling to this destination with your health care provider. You may choose to avoid or postpone travel. 

For more information, see Zika virus: Pregnant or planning a pregnancy.

American trypanosomiasis (Chagas disease)   is a risk in this country. It is caused by a parasite spread by infected triatomine bugs. The infection can be inactive for decades, but humans can eventually develop complications causing disability and even death.

Risk is generally low for most travellers. Protect yourself from triatomine bugs, which are active at night, by using mosquito nets if staying in poorly-constructed housing. There is no vaccine available for Chagas disease.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Medical services and facilities

The quality of care varies greatly throughout the country.

Good health care is available in private hospitals and clinics, but it’s generally expensive. Most private facilities won’t agree to deal directly with medical insurance companies and will require payment with a credit card in advance or a bank transfer/direct deposit.

Mental health services are extremely limited in Mexico, particularly outside of Mexico City. Services and treatment standards may differ substantially from those in Canada.

Medical evacuation can be very expensive and you may need it in case of serious illness or injury.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Medical tourism

Medical tourism is common in Mexico. Canadian travellers have had serious health complications following cosmetic or other elective surgeries abroad.

Before leaving for medical travel, you should do your research, especially on:

• the health and financial risks
• the medical facility where the procedure will be performed
• language barriers, which can lead to misunderstandings about your medical care and conditions
• travel insurance that includes coverage for the type of medical procedure you will be undergoing

You should discuss your medical plans with your primary healthcare provider in Canada before travelling. Most provincial and territorial health care programs are extremely limited in their coverage offered abroad.

• Make sure that the healthcare providers you choose are authorized by the Mexican health authorities
• Ask to see the credentials of the healthcare providers
• Obtain a written agreement detailing the proposed treatment or procedure
• Receiving medical care outside Canada
• If you become sick or injured while travelling outside Canada or after your return
• Medical tourism – Government of Mexico (in Spanish)

If you take prescription medication, you’re responsible for determining their legality in Mexico. 

• Bring sufficient quantities of your medication with you
• Always keep your medication in the original container
• Pack your medication in your carry-on luggage
• Carry a copy of your prescriptions

Medication cannot be sent to Mexico from Canada via courier services.

Many types of medication—both over-the-counter and prescription—are readily available with little oversight. Counterfeit medication is common in certain parts of Mexico. If you need to purchase medication while in Mexico, make sure to get it from a reputable location.

Federal Commission for protection against sanitary risk  (in Spanish)

Air quality in Mexico City

In Mexico City, you may experience health problems caused by high altitude or by air pollution, which is at its peak during the winter months.

Consult your doctor before booking your trip if you have lung, heart or respiratory problems.

Death in Mexico

If you plan to retire or spend long periods of time in Mexico, or travel there for medical procedures, you should:

• share your plans or wishes with relatives
• make sure important documents can easily be located
• make arrangements in case of your death while in the country
• What if I Die in Mexico? – Fact sheet
• Death Abroad Factsheet

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Penalties for breaking the law in Mexico can be more severe than in Canada, even for similar offences.

Foreign nationals are often held in pre-trial detention and there can be lengthy delays before a trial.

Many petty crimes (such as public urination, failure to pay a bill or disorderly behaviour) can result in a 72-hour detention by police. Paying a fine can secure an early release from detention.

Detention conditions are below the standards of Canadian prisons.

• Overview of the criminal law system in Mexico
• Arrest and detention

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect lengthy prison sentences.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Smoking is prohibited in all public places except for clearly marked designated smoking areas. This includes but is not limited to:

• restaurants

You may be fined if you’re caught smoking in public.

Electronic cigarettes

It’s illegal to bring electronic cigarettes/vaping devices and solutions into Mexico.

You could have these items confiscated by customs officials if you have them in your possession. You could also be fined or detained.

It is strictly prohibited to sell or distribute these devices and solutions in Mexico.

Imports and exports

The Mexican government strictly enforces its laws concerning possession, importation and trafficking of firearms.

Anyone entering Mexico with a firearm or ammunition without prior written authorization from Mexican authorities is subject to imprisonment.

It is also illegal to enter the country with certain types of knives.

Importing vehicles and boats

Mexico has very strict rules regarding the importation of foreign vehicles and boats.

You must enter Mexico with the proper import permit and insurance, since it cannot be obtained once you are in Mexico. You may face a fine and have your vehicle seized if you enter Mexico without the proper permit.

You must present a paper document of your vehicle registration to obtain a vehicle importation permit from the Mexican authorities. If you present a digital document of your vehicle registration, your vehicle may be refused entry into Mexico.   

• Vehicle importation  – Government of Mexico (in Spanish)
• Temporary vehicle import application system  – Banjército
• Travelling to Mexico by land  – Mexican Embassy in Canada

Cigarettes and alcohol

If you are older than 18, you are allowed to bring into Mexico up to:

• 10 cigarette packs
• 25 cigars or
• 200 grams of tobacco
• 3 litres of alcohol and
• 6 litres of wine

If you bring more alcohol and cigarettes into Mexico than allowed, even if you declare your imported items, you will be subject to a high import fee. You will still be subject to a significant fee if you decide to relinquish your imported items

It’s illegal to possess archaeological artefacts or to export such items from Mexico.

• Goods you can bring to Mexico as part of your personal luggage  – Government of Mexico
• Goods you cannot bring into Mexico  – Government of Mexico
• Agricultural product restrictions  – Government of Mexico (in Spanish)

Political activity

It’s illegal for foreigners to conduct political activity in Mexico, including participating in demonstrations.

2SLGBTQI+ travellers

Mexican law does not prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex. However, homosexuality is not widely accepted in Mexican society, particularly in rural areas.

2SLGBTQI+ travellers could be discriminated against based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression or sex characteristics. Transgender and gender non-conforming individuals are disproportionately targeted for violence and can face discrimination.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Mexico.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Mexico, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

Travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and Mexico.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Mexico, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Mexican court.

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Mexico to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

• List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
• Travelling with children
• The Hague Convention - Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Emergency Watch and Response Centre

There are no clear procedures or regulations about surrogacy in Mexico.

If you're considering surrogacy, seek advice from legal professionals knowledgeable in Canadian and Mexican laws and citizenship procedures.

Identity documents

The names on your identity documents must be identical to those on your birth certificate to obtain official Mexican documents, such as marriage certificates, immigration documents or passports.

Middle names are often left off Canadian identity documents. This has caused significant difficulties for many Canadians. If you plan on residing in Mexico or dealing with the Mexican Civil Registry, obtain a Canadian passport that will meet Mexican requirements.

Identification

You should carry photo identification.

Authorities can ask you to show identification and a proof of your legal status in Mexico. They can demand to see your tourist card at any time. You must carry the original at all times. You must carry the original at all times, and should also carry a photocopy of the identification page of your passport.

Investments

If you plan on buying property, or making other investments in Mexico, seek legal advice in Canada and in Mexico. Do so before making commitments. Related disputes could take time and be costly to resolve.

Mexican real estate agents are not licensed or regulated.

• Choose your own lawyer
• Avoid hiring a lawyer recommended by a seller

Problems with timeshare arrangements occur.

Timeshare representatives may be very persistent. They use pressure tactics and offer free tours, meals, gifts or alcoholic beverages.

It's illegal for timeshare companies to ask you to sign a waiver that prevents you from cancelling a contract. You're legally entitled to cancel a timeshare contract without penalty within 5 working days. Contracts must be cancelled in writing directly with the timeshare company.

Before purchasing a timeshare:

• gather as much information as possible
• review carefully the contract; anything not included in the contract will not be honoured
• provide your credit card only if you are sure you want to make the purchase
• keep copies of all correspondence

If you suspect a fraud in the real estate procedures, contact the Federal Attorney’s Office of Consumer immediately.

• Federal Attorney’s Office of Consumer (PROFECO)  – Mexican Government (in Spanish)
• Should I buy a timeshare in Mexico? - Embassy of Mexico in Canada
• Should I sell my timeshare in Mexico? - Embassy of Mexico in Canada

Rental accommodations

Rental agreements between two individuals in Mexico are considered a private matter and are not regulated by the government.

If you encounter difficulties with a rental agreement, you must obtain the services of a Mexican lawyer.

You should carry an international driving permit.

International Driving Permit

Auto insurance

Mexican liability insurance is mandatory. Canadian automobile insurance is not valid in Mexico.

You can obtain insurance at the Mexican border. You should obtain full coverage, including coverage for legal assistance.

Automobile insurance is much more expensive in Mexico than in Canada. Many local drivers don’t have any form of car insurance.

If you’re involved in an accident, and you don’t have Mexican liability insurance, you could be prevented from leaving the country until all parties agree that adequate financial satisfaction has been received. If you’re found to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs at the time of an accident, or if you don’t have a valid driver’s licence, your insurance will be considered invalid.

If you’re involved in a traffic accident, you may face serious legal problems, including imprisonment. You could be taken into custody until responsibility for the accident is determined and all fines are paid. You must report any accident you’re involved in to the police.

Driving restrictions in Mexico City

The Hoy No Circula (No Driving Today) program restricts some cars from driving in Mexico City and in some municipalities of the State of Mexico, from Monday to Saturday, from 5 am to 10 pm.

You will face driving restrictions depending on:

• your car’s emission sticker
• the last digit of your license plate
• where your license plate was issued

Hoy No Circula program is strictly enforced. You may face heavy fines and temporary confiscation of your vehicle if you don’t comply. Consult the Hoy No Circula calendar before driving.

Electric and hybrid cars are exempted from these restrictions. Gas-fueled cars of a 2008 model or later may obtain a tourist pass valid for selected drive days.

• Hoy no circula – Government of Mexico (in Spanish)
• Tourist pass  – Government of Mexico (in Spanish)
• Ministry of Environment  – Government of (in Spanish)

Buying/selling a vehicle

You must be either a temporary or a permanent resident if you wish to buy a car in Mexico.

It’s illegal to sell your imported vehicle in Mexico. If you do, your vehicle may be seized and you may be subject to a fine and deportation.

The currency of Mexico is the Mexican peso.

In some parts of Mexico, particularly tourist destinations, hotels and other service providers may advertise prices in USD.

There is a limit to the amount of U.S. dollars that residents and foreigners can exchange in Mexico, depending on your immigration status. The rule doesn’t apply to Canadian dollars but some financial institutions, hotels and currency exchange bureaus don’t make the distinction.

When carrying more than US$10,000 or the equivalent in other currencies, cash, cheques, money orders or any other monetary instrument, you must declare the amount exceeding US$10,000. Failure to make this declaration is against Mexican law and often results in detention.

Mexico is subject to various natural disasters, such as:

• earthquakes
• volcanic eruptions
• torrential rains, floods and mudslides
• forest fires

In the event of a natural disaster:

• monitor local news to stay informed on the evolving situation
• follow the instructions of local authorities, including evacuation orders
• Secretary of Integrated Risk Management and Civil Protection  – Government of Mexico City (in Spanish)
• National Center for Disaster Prevention  (CENAPRED) – Government of Mexico (in Spanish)
• Get prepared

Hurricane season

Hurricanes usually occur from mid-May to the end of November. During this period, even small tropical storms can quickly develop into major hurricanes.

These severe storms can put you at risk and hamper the provision of essential services.

If you decide to travel to a coastal area during the hurricane season:

• know that you expose yourself to serious safety risks
• be prepared to change your travel plans on short notice, including cutting short or cancelling your trip
• stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
• carry emergency contact information for your airline or tour operator
• follow the advice and instructions of local authorities
• Tornadoes, cyclones, hurricanes, typhoons and monsoons
• Large-scale emergencies abroad
• Active storm tracking and hurricane watches and warnings  - United States’ National Hurricane Center

Flooding and landslides

Heavy rains can cause flooding and landslides. Roads may become impassable and infrastructure damaged.

Earthquakes and tsunamis

Mexico is located in an active seismic zone. Earthquakes, tsunamis and volcanic eruptions can occur.

A tsunami can occur within minutes of a nearby earthquake. However, the risk of tsunami can remain for several hours following the first tremor. If you’re staying on the coast, familiarize yourself with the region’s evacuation plans in the event of a tsunami warning.

Useful links:

• National Seismological Institute  – Government of Mexico (in Spanish)
• Latest earthquakes  - U.S. Geological Survey
• Tsunami alerts  - U.S. Tsunami Warning System
• Centre for Studies and Research of Volcanology  - University of Colima (in Spanish)

Forest fires

Forest fires may occur, particularly during the dry season from:

• January to June in the centre, north, northeast, south and southeast
• May to September in the northwest

The air quality in areas near active fires may deteriorate due to heavy smoke.

In case of a major fire:

• stay away from the affected area, particularly if you suffer from respiratory ailments
• always follow the instructions of local emergency services personnel, including any evacuation order
• monitor local media for up-to-date information on the situation

Daily report on wildfires – Government of Mexico (in Spanish)

Local services

In case of an emergency, dial 911.

Roadside assistance

The Angeles Verdes is a highway patrol service that provides free assistance on all major toll highways from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

You can download the App on your mobile device.

In case of an emergency, you can also dial 078 or 800 006 8839 (toll-free in Mexico) to reach them.

Consular assistance

Aguascalientes, Chiapas, Chihuahua, Coahuila, Durango, Estado de Mexico, Guanajuato, Hidalgo, Michoacán, Morelos, Mexico City, Oaxaca, Puebla, Querétaro, San Luís Potosí, Tabasco, Tamaulipas, Tlaxcala, Veracruz, Zacatecas.

Campeche, Yucatán, and Quintana Roo north of the municipality of Solidaridad, including Puerto Morelos, Isla Mujeres and Holbox

Baja California, Sonora

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada to Mexico, in Mexico City, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

Dealing with Mosquitoes in Mexico: A Handy Guide from a Local

Dealing with mosquitoes in Mexico can be a bit of a nightmare and if you are considering traveling here for the first time or moving here, you might be curious about what the mosquito situation is like, what diseases the mosquitoes here carry and how you can protect yourself from bites. 

You’re in good hands because I live in a humid, tropical part of Mexico (in the city of Merida in the Yucatan) and have plenty of experience in battling with these vampiric pests. 

In this post, we will look at everything you need to know before you travel here to help you try and minimize the number of bites you experience during your trip. 

Table of Contents

Mosquitoes in Mexico 

Mosquitoes are prevalent across Mexico. They are definitely more of an issue in some parts of the country compared to others (especially in the tropics and the southeastern states) and the “worst” mosquito season runs between April and November during the rainy season. 

In the Yucatan, and hot, sticky sub-tropical areas like Puerto Vallarta and coastal Jalisco, mosquitoes are an incessant nightmare all year round. Even during the winter months when it rains less and it’s not quite so humid, I am often eaten alive in the Yucatan.

I can run to the Oxxo convenience store, come home and find I have gotten six new bites in a 20 minute period. They are so stealthy that you often don’t even notice that you have been bitten until you are walking and see blood dripping down your leg. (Pardon the visuals!) 

When I first arrived, it was so bad, to the extent that there weretimes when my arms and legs were basically been a dot-to-dot of bites and scars! 

In cities at higher altitudes or with cooler climates such as Santiago de Queretaro, Mexico City and Gunajuato City, the mosquito situation eases up a bit from October onwards, but they are definitely a bother in the summer months. 

Mosquito born viruses in Mexico

Unfortunately, mosquitoes in Mexico are known to carry a number of different viruses and diseases. Dengue fever, the Zika virus, Chikungunya, and Yellow Fever have been detected here as has malaria, to a lesser extent. 

Many sources claim that the risk of contracting a serious illness or disease in Mexico are very slim. And if I use myself as a test puppet example, I am sure that there is plenty of truth in that as I have fallen victim to an obscene amount of bites over the last couple of years and I have (*knocks on wood*) never fallen sick. 

Dengue Fever can cause flu-like symptoms (headache, joint pain, muscle pain, nausea, conjestion) and while many people recover from it, if you get it a second or third time, you will become more sick with each reinfection. Health authorities recorded 59,918 cases of dengue fever in Mexico in 2022 and 36,742 cases in 2021 which, while increasing, is a very small % given the population of Mexico and the tens of millions of tourists that visit the country each year. 

If you are pregnant or are trying to conceive, you should take additional precautions against mosquitoes in Mexico because of the complications that can come with zika virus.   

Precautions to take against mosquitoes in Mexico

The levels of precautions that you need to take against mosquitoes in Mexico depend on when and where you are traveling and to an extent, your level of susceptibility towards bites. 

There is definitely some truth in mosquitoes being more drawn to some types of people more than others based on their body odor, sweat, diet, blood type, etc. I seem to be among the demographic of people that is irresistible to them since there have been times where I have woken up with a dozen bites and my Mexican partner sleeping beside me has had a grand total of 0. 

If you find that you are particularly susceptible, I would highly recommend purchasing some plug-in mosquito repellants and carrying them with you, especially if you are going to be spending a relative amont of time in areas like the Yucatan, Chiapas state, or tropical coastal areas. For a regular itinerary, you should at least pack repellant sprays and lotions in your case. 

Mosquito plug-in repellants 

I cannot speak highly enough about mosquito repellant plug-ins and I swear by them. I was really struggling with bites when I first moved to the Yucatan to such an insane degree, that when I finally found something that worked (the plug-ins), it felt like some kind of magic/voodoo. 

There are different types you can get – the liquid repellant that lasts 30 nights, or the repellant “strips” which need to be changed every 24 hours. In my experience, both work very well but I prefer the liquid repellant purely because I don’t have to change them every day. (Otherwise I forget then berate myself when I wake up with 5 more bites). 

You can find different types/brands of liquid and strip plug-in repellants online on places like Amazon, or in supermarkets like Walmart, Bodega Aurrera, etc. I usually pick them up from Walmart during my grocery shop. 

If I am being honest, they are a little pricy but worth it. One plug in is approximately 130MXN pesos (circa $7.54 USD) and I buy them for every room in my house. 

They seem to last a little less than the advertised 30 days but I can enjoy a virtually bite-free existence during that time. I immediately know when its time to change the refills when I start getting bitten again! 

Citronella candles and incense 

People in Mexico are big on using citronella candles and oil to repel mosquitoes but their usefulness is debatable. Maybe you can give them a try in conjunction with the plug-ins or the sprays but they do not really seem very effective alone. 

I have also tried the coils which generally just give out a horrible, nauseating smell, don’t burn all that well, and are simply not as effective as the plug-ins. If you prefer similar “natural” ways to repel mosquitoes, some people claim that certain oils like lavender, eucalyptus and peppermint help to repel them too. 

If you decide to buy a house in Mexico or move here longer term, planting certain plants like mint, lemongrass and sage may deter mosquitoes. 

Mosquito sprays and repellant creams 

Mosquito repellant sprays and creams remain one of the most effective ways to deter bites when you are out and about sightseeing, etc. Many of these products contain active ingredients such as DEET or picaridin which can have a strong and somewhat offensive chemical smell but they are generally pretty effective in keeping the bugs at bay. 

(You can also browse for other more natural options). 

Long-sleeved clothing 

The mosquitoes in some parts of the country are so savage and incessant that they can gnash their way through long sleeves and layers of fabric. (No, really!) 

Since it is so hot in most vacation areas of Mexico a lot of the time, it really isn’t practical to recommend long pants or long sleeves since you will probably be sweltering. However, if you go out in the evenings to bars/restaurants where you are likely to be sitting next to bodies of water, long sleeves can help ward away the mosquitoes. 

(Mosquitoes love bodies of water and often lay their eggs on still water like swimming pools, etc).  

Mosquito nets 

You will find that there are mosquito nets on the windows in a lot of hotels and rentals in tropical parts of Mexico. (I have them on all of the windows on my house). 

While they are intended to stop mosquitoes getting in, they are not completely foolproof, since I always find these blood-sucking demons flying around my living room, living rent-free in my bathrooms, etc. So while nets on windows and around beds can be useful, don’t depend on this doing the trick entirely. 

I would still strongly recommend buying a plug-in or spraying yourself with a repellant spray. 

Fumigation trucks 

Fumigation trucks will do a circuit around most Mexican cities during the summer months and will spray insecticide into the streets to repel mosquitoes and other pests. (Pro tip: be very careful when walking along the street if you have seen one of these trucks approaching as I have definitely been fumigated in the face before!) 

Again, unfortunately, this doesnt prevent mosquitoes completely (or anywhere near). Maybe it lessens the amount of mosquitoes in the area from one billion to half a billion?   

UV lamps 

UV (ultraviolet) lamps can kill mosquitoes and other flies/pests in a certain room or area. However, they dont actually repel them, they just kill them when they come too close so this isn’t an effective repellant on its own and is best used in conjunction with other methods. (Have I hyped up the plug-ins enough yet?) 

Treating mosquito bites in Mexico 

When drawing up your packing list for Mexico , make sure that you include a soothing cream for mosquito bites as well as some anti-histamines for your medical kit. If you find yourself with a lot of bites, it can make you feel quite run down and ill or at the very least, it will make you extremely itchy and uncomfortable. 

Washing the bite with warm water and soap can often give some quick respite but since the itching/irritation is likely to flare up again, you should also apply a topical cream or take over-the-counter anti-histamines.

Anti-histamines and after bites 

You can buy Benadryl and other anti-histamines like loratadina/claritin over the counter in pharmacies and supermarkets in Mexico. Personally, I find that they do a lot more to stop the itching faster than having to keep applying tons of topical cream that just sweats away in the heat. 

Antihistamines in Spanish are “antihistamínicos”. So when you approach the pharmacist, you can say “yo quiero antihistamínicos por favor”. (Or show them a photo of the packaging on your phone). 

If you prefer a topical after-bite cream, andotol is a popular and effective option sold locally. If you should be so unfortunate enough to fall ill in Mexico and you suspect it is something to do with a mosquito bite, see a doctor. 

You will see many walk in clinics close to “Farmacia Similares” stores and you can visit a doctor for as little as $2.50. 

Final thoughts on dealing with mosquitoes in Mexico

Mosquitoes in Mexico are more of a nuisance than anything else, but as long as you are aware of the situation and take precautions, you can minimize bites and irritation. Some mosquito-borne diseases do exist in Mexico but the chances of you falling sick are still very slim. 

This isnt a country where you have to worry about taking malaria meds or the probability of contracting something are high. Invest in repellant measures but try and concentrate your energy on enjoying your time in Mexico. 

Do you have any further questions? As I mentioned, I have been living in Merida for several years now. 

I am always happy to help out where I can so if you need something, please feel free to connect with me via email/social media or drop me a comment below. 

Safe travels and enjoy your time in Mexico! Melissa xo 

Melissa Douglas

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Tourists coming down with severe sickness bug after travelling to Mexico

A link has been made with a severe sickness bug known as cyclospora, and travelling to Mexico.

PHE (Public Health England) and HPS (Health Protection Scotland) are investigating the sudden increase of the bug, after British health authorities said that 73% of British cases have been connected with travel to Mexico.

The sickness, which is usually caught from food or water that has previously been contaminated by human faeces, is only a threat to people travelling to more tropical locations including Mexico, The Caribbean, and The Far East.

Around 500,000 Brits travel to Mexico each year.

One family from Sheffield claimed that their family holiday to Riviera Maya in Mexico was ruined because of the bug. The Barracloughs, who returned from their family trip in June, continued to suffer from the symptoms after returning.

Mother, Sarah Barraclough said: “The fact the kids also got ill just added to injury and we want to know what caused our illness.

“We have real concerns about the standards of the hotel in general, as well as the food hygiene practices in place there.”

Mrs Barraclough continued: “We are still not 100 per cent and simply wish we’d never gone on this holiday as it was a complete nightmare and we’d never knowingly put the health of our children at risk.”

As some families have decided to take legal action on their tour operators used for the holidays where they caught the bug, a spokeswoman for Thomson commented: “TUI UK and Ireland has been advised a number of sickness cases associated with an issue called cyclospora in the Riviera Maya region of Mexico.

“There is not a particular hotel, hotel chain or tour operator implicated and the source of the infection is still being investigated.

“We are working with relevant partners and authorities both in Mexico and the UK to ensure customer well-being and to investigate the matter.

“While the cases that we are aware of involve several different hotels suggesting the source is likely to be a foodstuff that has been distributed to hotels within the region, we always encourage customers to follow guidance from official health bodies such as the NHS and NaTHNaC, which have up-to-date advice on staying safe and healthy abroad.”

The main symptom of the sickness is Diarrhoea, however other symptoms the NHS suggest can include:

• - Loss of weight
• - Tiredness
• - Stomach cramps or pains
• - An increase in flatulence
• - Loss of appetite

If you have recently returned from Mexico and are suffering from some of these symptoms, then it is strongly advised that you see your GP.

Further updated information on cyclospora can be found on the NHS’ Fit For Travel Page here: http://www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk/news/

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• Packing Lists

Mexico Packing List: What to Take South of The Border

Published September 2, 2023

Written by:

Jessie Beck

Jessie is a writer, editor, and content marketer who covers travel gear and adventure travel. She’s called many places home...

Fred Perrotta

Co-founder, tortuga.

Fred Perrotta is the co-founder and CEO of Tortuga. His first backpacking trip to Europe inspired him to start the...

The Tortuga Promise

At Tortuga, our mission is to make travel easier. Our advice and recommendations are based on years of travel experience. We only recommend products that we use on our own travels.

Table of Contents

When I traveled to Mexico, it was my first attempt packing for an international trip in just a daypack . Although that’s pretty extreme, not having a ton of luggage made travel around Mexico much easier. My partner and I were able to walk from the bus station to our hotel in Oaxaca City, skip baggage check lines at the Mexico City airport, and generally felt less like tourists. Although, yes, such minimalism is unusual, packing light on our trip to Mexico saved us a lot of hassle.

If you’re wondering what to pack for Mexico—whether it’s to Cabo San Lucas or San Cristobal—below is a Mexico packing list based on ours. We traveled through Mexico City, Oaxaca, and the coast so we needed to be just as prepared to battle mosquitos by the beach as we were for Oaxaca City’s cooler nights.

This Mexico packing list can be adapted to any destination in the country. Whether you’re headed to Punta Cana or Mexico City, Cancun, or Oaxaca, here’s what to pack in your backpack for Mexico.

Mexico Packing List

Travel backpack.

You don’t need to travel with just a daypack like I did, but it is much easier to navigate Mexico without dragging a suitcase behind you. Choose a carry on-sized travel backpack . You’re going to be on and off buses, wandering streets, and hopping in and out of Ubers, so make it easy on yourself. A carry on backpack helps you avoid checked bag fees, waiting at the carousels, and lost or damaged luggage. Plus, you’ll get around the city faster carrying something light that you can handle easily.

You shouldn’t be thinking about cumbersome luggage on your vacation—pack the right bag so you can enjoy your trip.

Pack for trips of one week or more without checking a bag.

• Thick comfortable straps
• Easy to organize
• Durable, waterproof fabric
• Backed by our Worldwide Warranty

The  Tortuga Travel Backpack , outfitted with obsessive organization and premium ergonomics, is perfect for a trip to Mexico. The Travel Backpack opens like a suitcase so you can see what you packed easily. The fully-adjustable harness allows for a perfect fit for your body.

Shorts or Skirt

For women , shorts aren’t commonly worn in Mexico but are nice to have at the beach. I’d recommend bringing a skirt and a pair of athletic shorts (for outdoor activities or as a beach cover-up).  A maxi skirt is my preference since I can wear it in cool weather or tie a knot in it to turn it into a midi or mini skirt in warm weather.

For men, two pairs of shorts (my partner brought one that doubled as a swimsuit, and one to wear) should be enough, especially if you don’t plan on being on the beach your entire trip.

Shoes: Sandals and Sneakers

Our trip was in October when there wasn’t a lot of rain, so I brought one pair of strappy, comfy sandals that I could wear to nice restaurants, the beach, and walking around town. If it had been rainy, I would have opted for a pair of breathable, plastic jelly flats that don’t slip off my feet the way flip-flops do. You can find them in just about any market across Asia, Africa, and Latin America for less than $5.

In addition to that, bring one pair of sneakers. Either trail runners for hikes or comfortable sneakers for walking around cities work best.

Tank Tops or T-Shirts

For our trip, I packed two basic tank tops, one basic t-shirt , and one nice tank top for going out. Like any trip, make sure you can mix and match these with the bottoms you choose.

Bathing Suit

If you’re going to Mexico, there’s a good chance you’ll visit a beach. And for every resort-filled destination like Cancun or Cabo there’s a laid-back, smaller beach town that’s just as beautiful. We stayed in San Agustín (near Mazunte) at a beach-side cabaña called  Un Sueño . If you’re packing for Cancun, Punta Cana, or any other beach, be sure to bring your bathing suit.

Bug Spray and Sunscreen

Forgetting the bug spray at home ended up costing me $10 for a tiny bottle in Mazunte. In smaller towns, sunscreen is also overpriced. Make sure you pack both or pick some up in a bigger city—like Mexico City—before heading to the coast.

If you’re traveling carry-on-only, remember that they must be less than 3.4 oz to accommodate  TSA regulations.

• Medications

Anything you’d need or forget can be picked up in Mexico (sometimes for less), but some medications that are nice to have on hand include:

• Ibuprofen (for headaches, aches, etc.)
• Imodium (for serious stomach issues)
• Pepto-Bismol (for minor stomach issues… or for when you eat too much cheese)
• Dramamine (for if you get motion sick easily and plan on taking a bus anywhere)

Most of Mexico has low-to-no risk for malaria , and most travelers will have no need for anti-malarial medications.

Sarong or Quick-Dry Towel

Bring a towel if you plan on staying in a hostel (and don’t want to rent one), Couchsurfing, or going to the beach.

I carry a sarong that doubles as a towel, especially when I know I’ll be more likely to use it as a scarf, beach blanket, or cover-up than as a post-shower towel.

A daypack is a must-have for on-the-ground adventures. Choose one based on how you’re going to use it.

If you’re just carrying a few things for a day of sightseeing, the  Outbreaker Packable Daypack  will be perfect, with padded mesh straps and breathable back panel to keep you feeling comfortable and cool. Best of all, the daypacks packs flat in your luggage when not in use.

Extra Change Purse

In countries like Mexico—where cash is king and haggling is common—I like to carry two wallets.

One is my main wallet with credit cards, ID, and U.S. dollars.

In the other, I’ll keep about $20 or so in small change. This is the one I’ll pull out in marketplaces or restaurants so as to make myself less of a target. If you’re haggling for something, it’s handy, since flashing a lot of cash in front of a vendor definitely won’t get you a lower price.

What (Else) to Pack for Mexico

Like anywhere, don’t forget the usual  travel essentials , like:

• Passport and copy of your passport (kept separate)
• Toiletries  (shampoo, conditioner, toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, razor)
• Socks (if you’re bringing sneakers)
• Electronics and chargers
• Book or Kindle

Water Bottle

Tap water isn’t safe to drink in much of Mexico , but you can help cut down on plastic bottle waste by buying 5-gallon jugs of water and refilling a reusable water bottle during your trip.

Another option is to carry a filtering water bottle, like  the GRAYL , and never worry about water quality when you’re traveling again.

Unlocked Phone or International Plan

My partner tested an  international extension of his data plan with AT&T  while we were in Mexico. The extension was $30, and we went through it in about 2 days.

We got by without a phone after that, but it was nice to have for calling Ubers, directions, and calling up the guest house owner of Un Sueño when we arrived after dark. Next time, I’d skip the international plan and instead get a local SIM card to put in my unlocked iPhone.

At Tortuga, we favor the  T-Mobile International  plan for its ease of use and coverage in 140+ countries. In Mexico, your plan will even allow you to tether your phone, just like in the USA, to provide wifi to your computer or other devices.

Mexico Travel Apps

Putting the right stuff on your phone is almost as important as putting the right stuff in your bag. A few travel apps that are helpful in Mexico include:

• Uber  ( iOS  |  Android ) – Yes, there’s Uber in Mexico City and yes, it’s safe.
• Restorando  ( Android ) – In Mexico City, you can use Restorando to make restaurant bookings. Please note that The Fork has bought Restorando, so it’s no longer independent.
• Duolingo  ( iOS  |  Android ) – Are you still learning Spanish? Duolingo gamifies language learning to help you nail new vocabulary and grammar.
• Google Translate  ( iOS  | Android ) – Use Google Translate to help decipher signs, menus, and conversations you can’t understand. Before you go, download the Spanish pack so you can translate without WiFi or data.

Inland Mexico Packing List

While most travelers will flock to the beaches of Mexico, the center of the country has some of the best food, cultural sites, and local experiences. If you venture off the coast, add these items to your packing list:

Sweater or Sweatshirt

Similar to California, the area around Mexico City and Oaxaca is warm during the day but chilly at night. Bring a sweater or a sweatshirt to throw over your daytime outfits once the sun goes down. You’ll also want one on AC-heavy bus or plane rides, too.

If you’re like me and get cold easily, a small beanie and/or a scarf can also go a long way, and neither take up too much room in your bag.

Rain Jacket

A breathable rain jacket shell is ideal. Bring it with you to keep dry during rain showers or as an additional layer on top of your sweater (it can drop into the low 40s at night during some parts of the year).

Seriously. Bring pants. One or two pairs of pants (or in my case, 1 pair of yoga pants and 1 pair of jeans ) should be enough. You’ll want them in the colder areas of Mexico but also to look nicer. Exercising and beach aside, shorts are kind of a touristy thing.

What Not to Pack for Mexico

• Adaptor  – Mexico uses the same outlets as the U.S. and Canada. If you’re from Australia, Europe, or elsewhere, you will need to bring an adaptor.
• Flashy jewelry  – Make yourself less of a target and pick some up in Mexico instead.

Bullet Point Packing List for Mexico

• 1 sweater or sweatshirt
• 1 rain jacket
• 1-2 pairs of pants
• 1 skirt and/or 1-2 pairs of shorts
• 3-4 tank tops or t-shirts
• Bathing suit
• Unlocked phone and apps
• Bug spray and sunscreen
• Sarong or quick-dry towel
• Extra change purse
• Water bottle
• Travel backpack  and  daypack

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Tortuga travel backpack pro $350.

Max Carry On Size

Jessie is a writer, editor, and content marketer who covers travel gear and adventure travel. She’s called many places home and traveled to 45+ countries.

She now lives in San Francisco with her husband where she splits her time between traveling, adventuring outdoors, and cooking (okay, eating).

Read more from Jessie

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Dealing with Mosquito Bites in Mexico: Precautions & Treatments

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Wondering how to deal with mosquito bites in Mexico?

I hear you. I live in Mexico and mosquitoes are my main nightmare.

In this post, I’ll tell you everything I know to avoid mosquito bites in Mexico.

And if you do get bitten, I will mention ways to deal with mosquito bites as well and also answer some common questions regarding it. So let’s get started.

How to Avoid Mosquito Bites in Mexico

Avoiding mosquito bites in Mexico is not easy but there are a few things you can do to help them stay away from you.

Some of them may seem obvious but it’s a good reminder.

👉🏽 Mosquito Repellent Lotion

Mosquito-repellent lotions are one of the easiest and most effective ways to avoid mosquito bites in Mexico.

These lotions contain ingredients like DEET or picaridin – which work as a barrier between your skin or make the mosquitoes steer clear of you, making repellent lotions highly effective when it comes to protecting you from mosquito bites.

When packing for your trip , make sure to bring lots of mosquito-repellent lotion. But if you forget it, worry not, because you can find a lot of those here.

You can carry it along wherever you go and apply it to the exposed parts of your to stay safe from mosquito bites.

However keep in mind that in some protected areas, like cenotes and natural parks mosquito repellents are prohibited.

In this case, I recommend covering your skin as much as you can, even if it’s hot. This way you can protect yourself from the sun and mosquito bites.

👉🏽 Mosquito Nets on Doors and Windows

Mosquito nets are an effective way of keeping these pesky insects out of your living spaces, which is why it’s a really good idea to put them on doors and windows.

This way, you won’t have to worry about mosquito bites in Mexico when you’re indoors.

👉🏽 Mosquito Nets for Beds

Mosquitoes are on the lookout for you to fall asleep so they can get to work without being disturbed.

Luckily, mosquito nets for beds are also a thing – and one of the best protective measures against mosquitoes at that!

Make sure you get one for your bed as well in order to avoid mosquito bites in Mexico.

👉🏽 Don’t Expose Too Much Skin

Covering as much of your skin as possible will prevent mosquito bites.

Full sleeves, long pants, and a hat can serve as effective barriers to prevent bites.

To further reduce the chance of getting bitten, you can tuck your shirt into your pants and your pants into your socks.

By doing so, you will maximize your protection against mosquitoes.

When I was kayaking in the lagoon in Sisal, Yucatan, there were swarms of fierce mosquitoes, so much so that the repellent only wasn’t good enough. I had to wear long sleeves, long pants, and boots, to protect myself from the bites.

👉🏽 Candles and Incense

Candles and incense are often used as natural ways to repel mosquitoes.

Citronella candles and incense are the most commonly used and may help keep mosquitoes at bay to some extent.

Other candles and incense that can repel mosquitoes contain essential oils such as lavender, eucalyptus, or peppermint.

Just keep in mind that candles and incense may provide some level of protection against mosquitoes, but they are generally not as effective as synthetic repellents containing DEET or picaridin and may not be suitable for all situations.

👉🏽 Mosquito Coils

Mosquito coils are a type of mosquito repellent made from a dried paste of plant-based materials and insecticides.

When the coil is lit, it smolders slowly and releases smoke that repels mosquitoes.

These can be an effective way to protect yourself from mosquito bites in Mexico, but they also produce smoke, which can be irritating to some people so it’s important to use them in a well-ventilated area.

👉🏽 Bug Sprays

Bug sprays, also known as insect repellents , are a common and effective way to avoid mosquito bites in Mexico.

They work by creating a barrier between the skin and mosquitoes, making it less likely that the mosquitoes will bite.

There are several types of insect repellents available, including those containing synthetic ingredients like DEET or picaridin and ones with natural ingredients like IR3535 and natural oils such as lemon eucalyptus.

👉🏽 Electronic Mosquito Repellents

✔️ chemical diffuser and sound waves.

Chemical diffusers use specific oils to release a scent that repels mosquitoes, while sound wave devices emit high-frequency sounds that are irritating to mosquitoes.

You can use either of these to prevent mosquito bites.

However, it’s worth mentioning here that these types of mosquito repellents may be effective in some situations, but it’s important to follow additional mosquito prevention measures as well.

✔️ Ultra-violet light lamps

Bug zappers are a kind of lamp used to prevent mosquito bites.

These lamps emit UV light, which is said to attract mosquitoes and other flying insects, and then kill them with an electric charge.

While UV light lamps may be effective in killing mosquitoes, they don’t actually repel them.

In fact, they may even attract more mosquitoes to the area.

Therefore, it’s important to use other mosquito prevention measures in addition to UV light lamps, such as wearing long sleeves and pants and using insect repellent.

👉🏽 Natural Mosquito Repellents

Apart from synthetic repellent ingredients like DEET and picaridin, there are also some natural alternatives that work just as well. These include:

👍🏼 Citronella oil: This oil, which is derived from the leaves of the citronella plant, is a popular natural mosquito repellent. It can be applied directly to the skin or used in candles or diffusers.

👍🏼 Oil of lemon eucalyptus: Lemon eucalyptus oil is extracted from the leaves of the lemon eucalyptus tree and is an effective ingredient for repelling mosquitoes.

👍🏼 Lavender oil: The oil extracted from the flowers of the lavender plant has a calming scent that can also repel mosquitoes.

It’s important to note that natural mosquito repellents may not be as effective as chemical repellents, and they may need to be reapplied more frequently.

How to Treat Mosquito Bites in Mexico

Mosquito bites can be itchy and uncomfortable, but they usually go away on their own within a few days.

However, if you’re experiencing a lot of discomforts, there are some things you can do to relieve the symptoms:

💡 Wash the bite with soap and water.

💡 Wash with very hot water or put the bitten portion of the skin on a hot surface! It should eliminate the source of the itching. I did it and it worked. BEWARE: You don’t have to burn yourself!

💡 Avoid scratching the bite, as this can lead to further irritation or infection. If you do scratch, use some antiseptic (or alcohol) to avoid infection.

💡 Apply a topical anti-itch cream or lotion, such as calamine or hydrocortisone cream, to the bite to reduce itching and inflammation. (if you are not allergic to it)

If you develop severe symptoms from a mosquito bite, such as soreness, swelling, or redness with pain and itching, seek medical attention immediately.

These symptoms could indicate an allergic reaction, which requires prompt treatment.

Keep in mind that you can find all the above-mentioned items in Mexico.

Mexico Mosquito Season

The mosquito season in Mexico runs from April to November, when the weather is hotter and more humid, making it possible for mosquitoes to roam around outdoors without having to worry about their body temperature dropping too much.

📆 Best Month to Avoid Mosquitoes in Mexico

Mosquitoes are the least active in Mexico during the winter months of December through March, so this is when you can best avoid these annoying insects and their bites.

⏰ Mosquito Active Hours

While mosquitoes prefer a warmer and moist environment, they also can’t risk getting out in the sunlight and becoming dehydrated.

This is why mosquitoes tend to be the most active during the cooler times of the day; in other words, mosquitoes are most active during the early mornings, evenings, and nights.

What Diseases Can You Get from Mosquitoes in Mexico

Mosquitoes are known to transmit a variety of diseases to humans, some of which can be serious or even life-threatening.

The specific mosquito bite disease in Mexico will depend on the species of mosquito – but two diseases are on the top of the list: dengue and malaria.

Here is a detailed overview of those.

👉🏽 What is Dengue Fever?

Dengue fever is a viral illness caused by bites from infected yellow fever mosquitoes (Aedes).

The virus is found in tropical and subtropical areas of the world, including parts of Central and South America, the Caribbean, and Southeast Asia.

👉🏽 Symptoms of Dengue Fever

Patients with dengue fever present a variety of symptoms.

The virus can cause high fever, abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, lethargy or restlessness, headache (or other kinds of aches and pains in the body), and a rash.

👉🏽 Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever

Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever is a severe form of dengue that can occur in some patients after getting infected with the dengue virus – typically 3-7 days after symptoms of dengue fever first appear.

Symptoms of Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever may include abdominal pain, vomiting, intense body temperature changes, bleeding from the nose or gums or blood in the urine or stool, and mood swings such as irritability or confusion.

The fever can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention, and patients with warning signs should seek prompt care.

Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever can be prevented by avoiding mosquito bites and seeking medical care early.

👉🏽 Dengue Fever Treatment

There is no specific treatment for dengue fever, so supportive care is the best course of action.

This may include resting a lot, drinking plenty of fluids, and seeing a doctor. But in severe cases, hospitalization may be required.

You should also avoid further mosquito bites during the illness to prevent the spread of the virus.

In some cases, dengue fever can progress to a life-threatening condition called Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever, which requires prompt medical attention.

👉🏽 How to Avoid Dengue Fever

The best way to avoid dengue fever is to prevent mosquito bites.

Measures like wearing specific clothing to minimize skin exposure, remaining in mosquito-free areas, and using mosquito repellents as well as bed nets can help reduce the risk of getting infected with dengue fever.

👉🏽 What is Malaria?

Malaria is one of the most common febrile diseases transmitted through mosquito bites.

It’s caused by a parasite that infects a specific species of mosquitoes called Marsh Mosquitoes (Anopheles).

Once a female mosquito feeds on blood infected with malaria parasites, the disease gets transmitted to other humans when they’re bitten by it.

👉🏽 Symptoms of Malaria

The most common symptoms of malaria include high fever, chills, sweating, nausea and vomiting, aches and pain in the body, headache, and feelings of discomfort and restlessness.

In severe cases, fluid buildup in the lungs, abnormal behavior, seizures, and anemia are some of the additional symptoms caused by malaria.

👉🏽 Malaria Zones in Mexico

Mexico’s malaria zones include the states of Chiapas, southern Chihuahua, Durango, Nayarit, Oaxaca, Quintana Roo, Sinaloa, and Tabasco.

While malaria risk is very low and present intermittently throughout the year, these states have reported cases of the disease in recent years.

👉🏽 Risk of Malaria in Mexico

Thankfully, Mexico’s malaria risk is very low.

Only Chiapas and the southern part of Chihuahua have reported some cases of the disease, with rare reports in Durango, Nayarit , Oaxaca , Quintana Roo, Sinaloa, and Tabasco.

However, you should take precautions to avoid mosquito bites to reduce the risk of contracting malaria when visiting Mexico .

👉🏽 How to Avoid Malaria

To avoid malaria in Mexico, it is important to prevent mosquito bites – especially in Mexico’s malaria zones.

Mosquitoes that transmit malaria tend to bite between dusk and dawn, so it’s recommended to stay indoors during this time if possible.

If you need to be outdoors, wear protective clothing such as a full-sleeved shirt, long pants, and a hat to reduce the amount of exposed skin.

You can also use insect repellents containing DEET or other recommended ingredients, and sleep under a mosquito net in areas where malaria is a concern.

It’s important to follow these measures consistently to reduce the risk of being bitten by a malaria-carrying mosquito.

📌 Other Mosquito-Borne Illnesses

In addition to dengue and malaria, there are several other mosquito-related illnesses that can be found in Mexico. These include:

💉 Zika virus: Zika is a viral infection that is primarily transmitted by the Aedes mosquito. Symptoms can include fever, rash, joint and muscle pain, and red eyes. It’s more dangerous for pregnant women.

💉 Chikungunya fever: Chikungunya is a viral infection that is spread by the Aedes mosquito. Symptoms include fever, joint pain, muscle pain, headache, and rash.

Other Common Bug Bites in Mexico

🪳 bed bug bites.

Bed bug bites are common throughout the world, and Mexico is no exception.

These bugs feed on human blood, so we’re always at risk of being bitten by them.

Their bites can turn into itchy welts and inflammation.

If you get bitten by a bed bug in Mexico, it’s best to wash the bite with soap and water and apply over-the-counter medicine like corticosteroid cream to help with itching and inflammation.

🐜 Ant bites

Ants often bite humans when they feel threatened by us.

The sting causes burning pain and leaves small, red marks like pimples on the skin.

Usually, these spots go away after a few days and there is no need for treatment, but it’s extremely painful.

Usually, the red ants are the most dangerous but I was bitten by a specific type of black ant and it was not fun, believe me.

This is the reason why when I go in the jungle I always wear hiking boots or tennis shoes, to prevent these types of bite.

Even worse, if you develop an allergic reaction to the sting, causing swelling or itching, it’s best to consult a doctor.

🪲 Flea bites

Fleas are bugs that mainly bite humans around the ankles. On the surface, flea bites look similar to bed bug bites.

However, one distinction can be the tiny spots of red in the center of the bites.

These bites first turn into lumps, and then into a blister or wound – and can even get infected as a result of scratching.

Usually, you won’t need any treatment for flea bites as they go away on their own.

An anti-itch cream and antihistamines can be used as over-the-counter medicines to manage itchiness and discomfort.

Just don’t scratch it and make sure to see a doctor if the symptoms start getting severe.

🕷️ Spider bites

Spiders are seldom aggressive and try to stay away from humans, so bites from them are rare.

However, even if you do get bitten, you won’t notice any symptoms other than a small, itchy bump on the skin with redness/inflammation.

The majority of these bites usually heal on their own.

As a first-aid treatment, you can wash them with soap and water, apply cold compresses, and take pain relief medicine.

But if a larger patch of your skin gets red and swollen and you experience intense pain for more than an hour, seek prompt medical attention.

🪳 Tick bites

Tick bites can be a concern in certain areas of Mexico.

They’re usually harmless, but can sometimes cause Lyme disease, which is a major tick-borne illness.

It can cause fever, headache, fatigue, and a rash called erythema migrans. If left untreated, severe symptoms and complications can occur.

To avoid tick bites in Mexico, it’s important to take precautions when spending time in wooded or grassy areas.

Follow the safety precautions highlighted above, and check your skin and clothing frequently for ticks.

If you experience symptoms after a tick bite, seek medical attention right away.

🦂 Scorpion bites

Scorpions are common in Mexico, and their bites can be painful and dangerous, especially for young children and older adults.

The venom of some species of scorpions found in Mexico can cause serious symptoms, including sweating, tingling, muscle twitching, high blood pressure, and difficulty breathing.

It’s important to take precautions such as shaking out shoes and clothing before putting them on, and wearing protective footwear when walking outside to avoid getting bitten.

It is usually more common if you are sleeping in lush tropical areas close to nature, rather than the beach or cities, but it can happen everywhere.

But if you do get bitten by a scorpion, seek medical attention immediately.

🪰 Horsefly bite

The horsefly bite is extremely itchy and can last up to a week, but it’s not dangerous unless you have developed an allergy to it. The area of the skin around the bite usually gets warmer and swollen.

Horseflies are around all year round but especially in the summer, with hotter weather, and are more common in lush tropical areas, like near cenotes or rivers but sometimes even on the beach.

Frequently Asked Questions about Mosquitoes in Mexico

What is the best mosquito repellent in mexico.

There is no single best mosquito repellent for Mexico, but the ones with synthetic ingredients like DEET and picaridin have been shown to perform better than any other methods.

Ideally, you should use a combination of preventive measures like a mosquito repellent lotion/spray containing at least 20% DEET or picaridin along with mosquito nets and clothes that cover most of your skin.

Does Mexico have a mosquito problem?

Yes, mosquitoes are a problem in Mexico.

However, they’re commonly found only during the mosquito season of April-November, and that too mostly in areas like Durango, Chiapas, southern Chihuahua, Nayarit, Sinaloa, and Tabasco.

Why do I get so many mosquito bites in Mexico?

The reason you are getting mosquito bites in Mexico might be due to improper preventive measures.

Mosquito magnetism may also be at play here, but there is no cure for it, so only taking thorough steps to prevent bites can protect you against mosquitoes in Mexico.

I have highlighted the best methods above, so you can take advantage of those.

Are malaria cases high in Mexico?

Malaria cases have been declining in Mexico, and the risk of this disease is low these days.

What’s more, even the low risk of malaria is present in Mexico only during the mosquito season and only in certain parts of the country, so you can rest assured if you’re visiting here any other time.

Final Thoughts – What to Do with Mosquito Bites in Mexico

Mosquitoes are a common nuisance in Mexico, and their bites can lead to a variety of illnesses.

However, by taking simple precautions such as wearing protective clothing, using mosquito repellents, and avoiding outdoor activities during peak biting hours, you can greatly reduce the risk of mosquito bites.

In the event that you do get bitten, there are several treatments available to alleviate the symptoms and prevent complications.

Whether you prefer natural remedies or over-the-counter treatments, it’s important to stay vigilant and protect yourself from these pesky insects to fully enjoy your time in Mexico.

Disclaimer : Please keep in mind that this post doesn’t provide medical advice but general information on mosquitos in Mexico. For any further and more in-depth information, you should consult your doctor.

Isabella is traveler and animal lover, a former tourism professional with an multinational background that lead her to Mexico, that she can proudly call home. After seven years in Cancun where she's still a resident, she took a bold leap, leaving her fancy job to embrace a nomadic lifestyle. She traveled all over Mexico, from Baja California to Ciudad Juarez, Oaxaca, Chiapas Hidalgo exploring and living like a local. Isabella founded Let's Travel to Mexico to help travelers plan their own trip on and off the beaten path in this beautiful land that she loves so dearly.

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🦋 How to See the Mexico Butterflies Migration in 2024

Want to see the butterflies in mexico.

You’re in the right place, as this Ultimate Mexico Butterflies Migration Guide covers everything you need to know about the monarch butterflies of Mexico!

I’ve lived in Mexico since 2018 and have had the amazing opportunity to see this migration a few times — and trust me, it’s a once in a lifetime experience.

Ready to learn more about the migration of butterflies to Mexico?

From which Mexico butterfly sanctuary is the best, to the best Mexico butterfly tours and what to pack for your visit — it’s all in this article, so let’s get to it!

What is the monarch butterfly migration in Mexico?

The Mexican butterfly migration is an annual journey where millions of monarchs travel more than 3,000 miles from Canada to Mexico, and back, in about two months .

Arriving in Mexico by November , these butterflies spend the winter months in the Oyamel fir forests of Central Mexico. This is known as overwintering.

As these butterflies migrate, they rely on the sap from the milkweed plant to assist them in laying eggs.

This flowering plant serves as a crucial food source for the larvae, and a breeding ground for the next generation.

In March , the monarchs start their return northward to Canada. Upon arrival, their lifecycle will be complete.

Monarch Butterfly Migration Cycle

Remarkably, the migratory generation of monarchs responsible for this epic journey has an extended lifespan of up to 8-9 months .

The average lifespan of most monarch butterflies is significantly shorter, ranging from 2-6 weeks for adults. 

These non-migratory generations hatch, mature, mate, and die within these few weeks, completing several generations within a year.

The migratory generation, born in late summer and early fall, benefits from an extended lifespan.

This adaptation allows them to reach Mexico and survive the winter, mate, and start their journey back north, where they lay the next generation’s eggs.

This cycle is crucial for their survival and serves as an indicator of environmental health and biodiversity. 

Monarch Butterfly Migration Map

🦋 mexico butterflies fun facts.

One of the most unique Mexican animals , the majority of butterflies you see in Mexico are monarchs. However, Mexico has 2,045 species of butterflies!

These include endemic butterflies like the White-tipped ghost-skipper and Mexican Kite-Swallowtail, as well as the Nabokov’s Satyr and Carousing Jewelmark.

What is the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve in Mexico?

Mexico’s Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve is a critical conservation area in Central Mexico that spans more than 56,259 hectares (about 140,000 acres).

Established to protect the Mexican butterfly migration , it’s a key wintering site and breeding ground location for the millions of monarch butterflies Mexico has. 

The Mexico Monarch Butterfly Reserve is located in various regions across Michoacán State and the State of Mexico, and includes several butterfly sanctuaries.

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008, this reserve is known for its biodiversity. It is also vital for the study of monarch butterfly conservation.

The UNESCO Monarch Butterfly Reserve in Mexico showcases the importance of habitat preservation in the face of climate change and deforestation.

Through local and international efforts, the reserve aims to ensure the sustainability of the monarch migration for future generations.

Where do the monarch butterflies go in Mexico?

In Mexico, the monarch butterflies gather in the Oyamel fir forests located within the Transvolcanic Belt of Central Mexico .

Monarch butterflies migrate to the forested mountains in the Mexican states of Michoacán and the State of Mexico.

Oyamel fir trees , which only grow at high altitudes of 7,800-11,800 feet above sea level (2,400-3,600 m), offer the ideal microclimate for monarchs to survive the winter.

The cool temperatures at these high altitudes slow the butterflies’ metabolism, allowing them to conserve energy. 

This unique habitat provides the necessary conditions for monarchs to cluster together on the branches of the Oyamel trees (Abies religiosa), creating a spectacular sight. 

What is the best time to see monarchs in Mexico?

Wondering, When do butterflies migrate? The best time to visit Mexico to see the monarch migration is between late November and March . 

The peak viewing season, when the butterflies are most active and the forests are dense with monarchs, is usually from late January to early March.

This timing aligns with the warmer days of late winter when the monarchs cluster less and fly more, making them easier to observe. 

I recommend planning your trip around these months for the most incredible views of the monarchs in their winter habitat.

Where is the best place to see monarch butterflies in Mexico?

You can explore four primary Mexican Monarch butterfly sanctuaries to experience the migration of monarch butterflies in Mexico.

1. El Rosario Butterfly Sanctuary in Michoacán State

💰Price: 80 pesos (about $5 USD) | ⏰ Hours : Daily 8am to 5pm | 🥾 Guides available but not needed

While each sanctuary offers a unique vantage point of this natural wonder, El Rosario Sanctuary near Ocampo is the most popular monarch butterfly sanctuary Mexico has. 

Seeing these Michoacan monarchs involves a steep hour-long trek, although many visitors are greeted by butterflies much closer to the entrance.

Given its popularity, visitors are typically given about 20 minutes at each viewing area to accommodate the large numbers, especially during peak times. 

For a less crowded experience, I recommend going during the weekdays, although you should be mindful of potential school groups. 

This Michoacan butterfly sanctuary has one of the most substantial roosts of monarch butterflies, making it a top pick for anyone who only has time for one sanctuary visit. 

🚘 HOW TO GET TO EL ROSARIO SANCTUARY

Getting there can be as simple as hiring a taxi from Angangueo, a nearby town.

If you are coming from Zitácuaro, options range from rental cars for convenience to colectivos (local mini buses) for a more budget-friendly approach.

The latter involves a change in the town of Ocampo Michoacan, and then a short ride to El Rosario.

Minibuses are available for the return trip to Zitácuaro, with the last one departing at around 6pm for a fare of 50 pesos (about $3 USD).

Although there are many tours to this particular sanctuary, this is one of the easiest sanctuaries to get to if you want to do it independently. 

2. Sierra Chincua Butterfly Sanctuary in Michoacán  State

💰 Price: 80 pesos (about $5 USD)  | ⏰ Hours : Daily, 8am to 5pm | 🥾 Note: Guide needed 

Sierra Chincua Sanctuary offers a more intimate experience with the monarch butterflies near Angangueo.

Entrance fees are set at 80 pesos for foreigners, and unlike El Rosario, hiring a guide here is recommended.

Travelers can take an hour-long guided walk uphill through the park, or hop on a horse if you prefer not to walk.

Like El Rosario, time at the butterfly viewing areas is about 20 minutes so that all visitors get a chance to spend some time in the forest.

Although less visited and quieter, there is no shortage of monarch Mexico butterflies here. The trail is also less difficult as it is mostly flat for most of the hike.  

Why come to Sierra Chincua? It has a lot of monarch butterflies — but receives fewer visitors than El Rosario, and has one of the easiest hikes of any sanctuary. 

🚘 HOW TO GET TO SIERRA CHINCUA SANCTUARY

⚠️ Fair Warning: Getting here can be an adventure in itself!

Taxis from Angangueo can take you, and if you’re coming from Zitácuaro, you have a few options, but be prepared for a bit of a journey. 

While it might cost more to travel from Zitácuaro because of the distance, once you’re there, the challenge of arriving will feel like it was all part of the adventure. 

Just remember, there’s no easy way back to town waiting for you, so getting the phone number of your taxi driver is smart. 

A much more convenient option is booking this tour to Sierra Chincua Butterfly Sanctuary with a local guide.

Hiring a guide enriches the experience and solves the transport issue, as some guides also offer rides back to your accommodation. 

3. Piedra Herrada Butterfly Sanctuary in México State

💰 Price: 100 pesos (about $7 USD)  | ⏰ Hours : Daily, 9am to 4pm | 🥾 Note: Guide needed

Piedra Herrada is popular due to its proximity to major cities like Mexico City and Valle de Bravo. 

From the entrance, the path leads you on a hike through the forest, lasting 45 minutes to an hour.

You’ll then reach the summit of the trail, where most butterflies gather.

Upon reaching the top, visitors are allowed a 15-minute stay to experience the butterflies before making their way back down.

What makes Piedra Herrada special is the road you take before you ascend.

On a sunny February and March afternoon, you might see thousands of monarchs descending from the mountain searching for water. 

🦋 Pro Tips: This sanctuary is one of the closest sanctuaries to Mexico City , and is full of bus tours during the weekend, so try to avoid weekends if possible.

Also, avoid Wednesdays and Thursdays, the busiest days for school trips.

🚘 HOW TO GET TO PIEDRA HERRADA SANCTUARY

The Piedra Herrada Sanctuary is about two hours from Mexico City, and can be easily visited. In fact, it makes for a great Mexico City day trip option.

Another option is an overnight stay at Valle de Bravo , about 19 miles (30 km) away. 

Whether coming from Mexico City or Valle de Bravo, you can rent a car , take a guided trip, book a tour, or arrange a taxi.

Always arrange a pick-up with your taxi driver, and never assume that taxis will be waiting for you when you finish your experience unless you plan this in advance.

4. Cerro Pelón Butterfly Sanctuary in México State

💰 Price: 80 pesos (about $5 USD)  | ⏰ Hours : Daily, 8am to 5pm | 🥾 Note: Guide needed, and many go via horse

Cerro Pelón, straddling Michoacán State and Estado de Mexico (Mexico State), is one of the least visited and untouched sanctuaries out of the four.

However, this particular flying monarch butterfly sanctuary is not for the faint of heart!

It requires physical fitness and a lot of preparation — so bring plenty of water and snacks, as no vendors are on-site.

Its challenging terrain, filled with steep, rocky paths, makes horseback rides a recommended way to explore.

It takes about two hours to get up and two hours to go down, so if you want to visit other sanctuaries, make this the last one on your list.

🚘 HOW TO GET TO CERRO PELÓN SANCTUARY

One unique option is to go to Macheros and stay at the Cerro Pelón Butterfly B&B .

Located about five minutes from the sanctuary’s entrance, it is one of the only places in Mexico where you can stay in the butterfly sanctuary.

Other options are renting a car , booking this guided tour , and trying to get there independently from Zitácuaro via public transportation.

To do this, you’ll use a combination of minibus and taxi. Of course, this can be a bit tricky, especially if you don’t speak at least some Spanish.

5 Top-Rated Mexico Butterfly Tours

If you’re looking for a Mexico Butterfly tour, there are many to choose from — whether you want a day trip or something longer.

Below, you’ll find a list of a couple of my favorite tours to check out, which are all well-rated so you know you’ll have a great time.

1. Seven Day Monarch Butterfly Tour in Mexico

⭐️ Rating : 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length : 7 days | 🦋 Check Rates and Availability

Want to book one of the top monarch butterfly tours from Mexico City? This 7-Day Tour checks all the prime boxes.

( Note: If a weeklong tour is too much, opt for this 1-Day Mexico City Butterfly Tour instead.)

On the 7-Day Tour, you’ll get to see the monarchs in two different sanctuaries, and enjoy several other great stops.

You’ll learn about the Mexican colonial era, Aztec history, Mexican wildlife and so much more.

You’ll also get one free day on this tour to explore the area around Valle de Bravo .

Never heard of Valle de Bravo? This posh lakeside pueblo magico (magic town) is known as “the Hamptons of Mexico City.”

Let your guide take the lead by having him arrange boat tours and farm tours or ask him to set up something specific. One traveler raved about parasailing at Monte Alto.

One thing’s for sure, the monarchs were the highlight for most of the travelers on this tour. They called the experience “spectacular” and “absolutely amazing.”

They also loved their knowledgeable and attentive guide, who made the trip out-and-out incredible.

2. Best Mexico City Butterfly Tour with Pueblo Magico Visit

⭐️ Rating : 4.5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length : 12 hours | 🦋 Check Rates and Availability

Head to Sierra Chincua Monarch Butterfly in Mexico Sanctuary on one of the best Mexico City monarch butterfly tours available .

This day trip will take you directly from your hotel to the mountains. Once there, you’ll hike for about 5.25 miles (8.5 km) until you reach the butterflies.

All the sweat will be worth it because nothing compares to the slight of millions of monarchs swishing through the trees. Wow!

After hiking back down, enjoy a fun visit to the magical town of El Oro. Re-fuel with a delicious lunch before making the three hour drive back to your hotel.

This tour includes a local guide, transport in a private vehicle, lunch, and hotel pickup and drop-off from Reforma Avenue, Polanco and the Mexico City Zocalo in Downtown Mexico City .

3. Mexico City to Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary Sierra Chincua

⭐️ Rating : 4.78 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length : 14 hours | 🦋 Check Rates and Availability

If you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, check out this Sierra Chincua Butterfly Sanctuary Mexico Excursion .

With a super-storytelling host, several great stops, and delicious food included, this is definitely one of the best monarch butterfly tours Mexico City has on offer.

Start off with convenient hotel pickup, followed by a yummy breakfast, and comfortable transportation.

Next, spend a magical time in Sierra Chincua Monarch Sanctuary. Hike for an hour, then watch the butterflies fluttering and coating the trees with their brilliant orange wings.

After enjoying the top monarch butterfly sanctuary Mexico City has available, you’ll visit the Valle de Bravo magic town . Eat a yummy lunch, check out a waterfall, the pier, and the picturesque town center.

Although this tour makes for a long day, travelers loved their guide and driver, the delicious food, and the amazing butterflies.

4. Mexico City Monarch Butterflies Sanctuary Tour

⭐️ Rating : 4.82 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length : 13 hours | 🦋 Check Rates and Availability

If you’re looking for the top monarch butterfly day tours Mexico City has to offer, this Mexico City Monarch Butterfly Tour is it!

The adventure begins with pickup from your CDMX hotel or Airbnb, a quick Mexican breakfast, and then transport to the butterfly sanctuary.

Wear good shoes, because you’ll have to hike for a while! But don’t worry, seeing the monarch butterfly Mexico migration is absolutely worth the effort.

Nothing compares to standing among millions and millions of flying butterflies. Trust us; pictures and videos can’t capture it.

Hike back down, then eat a delicious lunch of traditional Mexican fare . The tour ends with a drop off back at your hotel in Mexico City .

5. Mexico City to Butterfly Sanctuary Cerro Pelon Tour

⭐️ Rating : 4 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length : 7-12 hours | 🦋 Check Rates and Availability

Looking for something unique? If so, you’ll want to book this incredible Monarch Butterfly Day Trip from Mexico City .

What sets this sanctuary of monarch butterfly in Mexico tour apart is that it takes you to Cerro Pelón Sanctuary, one of the lesser-known Mexican butterfly sanctuaries.

Not many tourists come to this area, but your guide will have everything worked out and running smoothly.

Relax during the drive, then ride a horse for two hours up to a stand-out monarch butterfly forest in Mexico.

Spend time at the top drinking in the awe-inspiring sight and learning fascinating data points from a forest ranger.

Finish off the tour with a visit to the town of Zitácuaro for a bit of sightseeing, and a yummy lunch in the market.

Travelers called this experience “memorable,” “unforgettable,” and “authentic.”

7 Things to Bring For Mexico Monarch Butterfly Watching

1. hiking shoes.

Durable hiking shoes are essential for you visit to any monarch butterfly reserve Mexico has.

The terrain varies from flat paths to steep, rocky trails, so quality hiking shoes provide the support and grip needed for a comfortable trek through the forests.

2. Warm Clothes

Despite Mexico’s generally warm climate, the microclimate in the monarch butterfly reserves can be quite cool, especially at higher elevations.

Warm, layered clothing is advisable to adjust comfortably to the changing temperatures throughout the day.

3. Reusable Water Bottle

Staying hydrated is key during your hike to the Mexico butterfly forests.

Bring a reusable water bottle to refill as needed. Many sanctuaries have refill stations, making it easier to keep water on hand without carrying excessive weight.

🏆 My recommendation is this Water-To-Go Bottle , which I own and use myself! Get 15% OFF your purchase with code SOLO15 .

As many know, Mexican water is not potable — meaning you can’t safely drink Mexican tap water.

This Water-To-Go Bottle has a three-stage built-in filter that ensures you’re always drinking clean water wherever you are. 

Energy-boosting snacks like these are great for keeping your stamina up during the hike.

Nuts, energy bars, and fruit are lightweight, nutritious options that fit easily into your backpack.

Remember that necessities like water and food might not be available during your experience, so bring everything you need. 

5. Bug Spray

Though the focus may be watching butterflies, other insects can be a nuisance while you experience the butterfly migration to Mexico.

A good bug spray like this one helps keep mosquitoes and other insects at bay, making your experience with the Mexican butterflies more enjoyable.

6. Sun Protection

Sun exposure can occur even in cooler forested areas, especially on clearer days. A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are important to protect against UV rays.

7. Travel Insurance

Considering the nature of the activity and its location, travel insurance that covers outdoor activities is highly recommended.

🏆My recommendation? I love AND use SafetyWing Travel Insurance . 

It provides peace of mind, covering everything from medical emergencies to trip cancellations, and more.

The Legend of the Monarch Butterflies of Mexico

In Mexico, many stories surround the monarch butterfly migration, showing how special these butterflies are to the people.

Some believe the butterflies are souls of family members who have died, and are coming back to visit. 

Others think of them as spirits of the forest or as messengers from the Aztec and Mayan gods , connecting the heavens and the earth.

There’s also a belief that these butterflies help guide the souls of the deceased, helping them in the afterlife.

No matter the story, everyone agrees that monarch butterflies are very important and are treated with great respect.

They are often considered sacred, representing ancestors and loved ones who have passed away. 

This deep respect makes the butterflies’ return every year meaningful, especially during Mexico Day of the Dead celebrations , adding a rich layer to Mexico’s cultural heritage.

Mexico Butterflies Migration: Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the monarch butterfly migration to mexico.

4 months — Mexico’s migration season runs from November to March.

The best places to see monarch butterflies in Mexico are the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve Sanctuaries in Michoacán and Estado de México.

El Rosario and Sierra Chincua in Michoacán State are the most popular and accessible, offering significant sightings of monarchs in Mexico.

However, Piedra Herrada in Estado de México (Mexico State) is popular because it’s the closest butterfly sanctuary to Mexico City .

When can you see butterfly migration in Mexico?

You can see the monarch butterfly migration in Mexico from November to March , with the peak population usually observed from January through February. 

While January and February are known as the best months to see the Mexico monarch butterflies, December is a popular time as many are in town for the Mexican Christmas celebrations.

What season do monarch butterflies migrate to Mexico?

Winter — To escape the freezing cold winters in the U.S. and Canada, monarch butterflies migrate to Mexico in winter because it’s much warmer.

When do monarch butterflies migrate to Mexico?

They usually arrive in Mexico in early-November, and stay until March — but the best time to see them is January and February.

How do you see the monarch butterfly migration in Mexico?

To see the monarch butterfly migration, you can visit the sanctuaries during their open hours, which are generally between 8am-6pm .

Hiring a guide can enhance your experience, and considering the terrain, horse rentals are also an option for easier access on the difficult hikes.

How many butterfly sanctuaries are there in Mexico?

Mexico has four official sanctuaries dedicated to the monarch butterfly migration across Michoacán and Estado de México states.

These sanctuaries are El Rosario and Sierra Chincua Reserve in Michoacán state, and Cerro Pelón and Piedra Herrada in Estado de México state​​​​.

Each sanctuary offers visitors a unique opportunity to witness the awe-inspiring migration and congregation of monarch butterflies in their natural habitat.

Is the butterflies in Mexico migration worth it?

Yes — As one of the largest insect migrations on Earth, don’t pass up the chance to see the Mexico butterflies.

During the annual Mexico monarch butterfly migration, you’ll be surrounded by THOUSANDS of orange and black monarchs fluttering all around you.

A sight like no other, the migrating butterflies to Mexico gather in clusters on tree branches that get so heavy they reach the ground.

When you visit on monarch butterflies Mexico tours or independently, you’ll see them flutter around you, and many will land right on you as well.

How much time do you need at each sanctuary?

While specific times may vary, giving yourself at least 2-3 days in the area allows for a comprehensive visit to multiple sanctuaries.

This also ensures a better chance of witnessing the butterflies, considering weather variability and butterfly activity.

Is there a Monarch Butterfly Festival in Mexico?

Yes — The Municipality of Angangueo hosts the annual Festival de la Mariposa Monarca (Monarch Butterfly Festival Mexico) in February or March of each year.

The small mining town of Mineral de Angangueo, Michoacan , is located near the Mexico butterfly sanctuaries of El Rosario and Sierra Chincua.

Where do the butterflies go when they leave Mexico?

After wintering in Mexico, the monarch butterflies return north to the United States and Canada in the spring to breed, completing their migratory cycle.

What are the butterflies that migrate to Mexico?

Though there are many different types of butterflies from Mexico, monarchs are the famous Mexico butterflies from the annual migration.

Why do monarch butterflies migrate to Mexico?

They migrate to escape the cold weather and find suitable breeding grounds.

Where do monarch butterflies migrate to in Mexico?

The butterflies “ overwinter ” (or, spend the winter) in the Oyamel fir forests of Central Mexico.

This is a giant area located a few hour’s drive from Mexico City. The most-visited places include the sanctuaries in Mexico State and Michoacan State.

• The best place to see monarch butterflies in Michoacan Mexico is El Rosario Butterfly Sanctuary
• The best place to see monarch butterflies in Mexico State is the Piedra Herrada Butterfly Sanctuary

Are there any Mexico City monarch butterflies sanctuaries?

No — The closest monarch butterflies Mexico City has are located in the Piedra Herrada Sanctuary.

It is located in Estado de México (Mexico State), and about three hours away from Mexico City by rental car .

How many butterfly and moth species are there in the world?

There are approximately 17,500 species of butterflies, and 160,000 species of moths identified worldwide.

Final Thoughts: Mexico Butterflies Migration Guide

Witnessing the monarch migration Mexico has is a travel experience often listed on many a bucket list.

The monarchs’ journey from the Rocky Mountains to the fir-covered tree trunks of Michoacán and Estado de México is a testament to the remarkable migration of monarchs.

These delicate creatures travel across continents from North America to South America, where they overwinter before returning home.

This incredible journey underscores our ecosystems’ interconnectedness and the natural world’s enduring wonder, inviting travelers to participate in one of the most magical travel experiences. 

Mexico Travel Planning Guide

Should i buy mexico travel insurance.

YES — With basic coverage averaging just $5-10 USD per day, enjoy peace of mind with a plan from Travel Insurance Master , one of the biggest names in travel insurance. ( Read more )

Can you drink the water in Mexico?

No — You’ll want to buy this Water-To-Go Bottle , which filters your drinking water so you don’t get sick from drinking water in Mexico.

Also, it helps keep you hydrated while traveling Mexico. ( Read more )

Is it safe to rent a car in Mexico?

Yes — Renting a car in Mexico is one of the best ways to see the country! I always rent with Discover Cars , which checks international companies and local Mexican companies, so you get the best rates. ( Read more )

Will my phone work in Mexico?

Maybe — It depends on your company, so check with your provider. If you don’t have free Mexico service, buy a Telcel SIM Card . As Mexico’s largest carrier, Telcel has the best coverage of any Mexico SIM Cards. ( Read more )

What’s the best way to book my Mexico accommodations?

For Mexico hotels, Booking.com is the best site , but for hostels, use Hostel World . If you’re considering a Mexico Airbnb, don’t forget to check VRBO , which is often cheaper than Airbnb.

What do I pack for Mexico?

Head to the Ultimate Mexico Packing List + FREE Checklist Download to get all the info you need on packing for Mexico.

What’s the best site to buy Mexico flights?

For finding cheap Mexico flights, I recommend using Skyscanner .

Do I need a visa for Mexico?

Likely Not — U.S., Canadian and European Passport holders don’t need a visa for Mexico; but check here to see if you need a Mexico travel visa. Most travelers will get a 180-Day FMM Tourist Visa passport stamp a upon arrival.

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• Section 11 - Persistent Diarrhea in Returned Travelers
• Section 11 - Perspectives : Delusional Parasitosis

Dermatologic Conditions

Cdc yellow book 2024.

Author(s): Karolyn Wanat, Scott Norton

Fever & Rash

Skin lesion morphology, miscellaneous skin infections.

Skin and soft tissue problems, including rashes, are among the most frequent medical concerns of returned travelers. Several large reviews of dermatologic conditions in returned travelers have shown that cutaneous larva migrans, insect bite reactions, and bacterial infections (often superimposed on insect bites) represent the most common skin problems identified during posttravel medical visits ( Table 11-12 ).

Clinicians can use several approaches to diagnose and manage skin conditions in returned travelers. One useful approach is to consider whether the condition is accompanied by an elevated temperature. Few travelers’ dermatoses are accompanied by fever, which could indicate a systemic infection, usually viral or bacterial, that requires prompt attention. A second consideration is the geographic and exposure elements of the travel history. A third consideration is the morphology of the lesions noted on physical examination. The most successful approach combines all 3 considerations supported by laboratory confirmation from cultures, serology, skin biopsy, or microscopy if required or indicated. Box 11-02 includes essential elements of the assessment of returned travelers presenting with skin problems.

Many dermatologic problems in returned travelers represent a flare of an existing condition, perhaps because of interruption in the usual treatment regimen while away from home. Other skin disorders might coincide with travel or appear shortly thereafter but are unrelated to travel itself.

Table 11-12 Most common causes of skin lesions in returned travelers

Source: Modified from Lederman ER, Weld LH, Elyazar IR, von Sonnenburg F, Loutan L, Schwartz E, et al. GeoSentinel Surveillance Network. Dermatologic conditions of the ill returned traveler: an analysis from the GeoSentinel Surveillance Network. Int J Infect Dis. 2008;12(6):593–602.

Box 11-02 Assessing returned travelers presenting with skin problems: essential elements

Pertinent past medical history.

• Systemic diseases and chronic conditions, including preexisting skin conditions
• Current medications and allergies

HISTORY OF THE PRESENT ILLNESS

• Time of onset of lesions (during or after travel)
• Associated symptoms: fever, pain, pruritus

TRAVEL HISTORY

• Location and duration of travel
• Exposure history: freshwater, marine water, insects, animals, plants, occupational and recreational exposures, sexual and other human contact exposures
• Companion travelers with similar findings
• Vaccination status
• Adherence to standard travel precautions (e.g., safe food and water precautions, insect bite precautions)
• Medications taken during travel (could provide adequate prophylaxis for certain conditions or might have cutaneous side effects)

PHYSICAL EXAMINATION

• Shape of skin lesions (e.g., macules, nodules, papules, plaques, ulcers)
• Number, pattern, and distribution of lesions
• Location of lesions: exposed versus unexposed skin surfaces

Many illnesses fall into the category of fever with a rash. Consider the following infections in the differential diagnosis of febrile travelers with rashes: cytomegalovirus, enteroviruses (e.g., coxsackievirus, echovirus), Epstein-Barr virus, hepatitis B virus, histoplasmosis, leptospirosis, measles, syphilis, and typhus. Fever and rash in returned travelers are most often, though not exclusively, due to viral infections.

Systemic Viral Infections & Illnesses

Chikungunya.

A virus transmitted by Aedes spp. mosquitoes, chikungunya has caused major outbreaks of illness in southeast Africa, the Americas and the Caribbean, and South Asia (see Sec. 5, Part 2, Ch. 2, Chikungunya ). The rash associated with chikungunya resembles that of dengue (discussed next), but hemorrhage, shock, and death are rare with chikungunya. A major distinguishing feature of chikungunya is its associated arthritis, arthralgia, or tenosynovitis that can persist for months, particularly in older adults. As with dengue, serologic testing is available for diagnosis. After ruling out dengue, treat arthritis with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Dengue is caused by 1 of 4 strains of dengue viruses (see Sec. 5, Part 2, Ch. 4, Dengue ). The disease is transmitted by Aedes spp. mosquitoes often found in urban areas, and its incidence continues to increase. Disease is characterized by abrupt onset of high fever, frontal headache (often accompanied by retro-orbital pain), and myalgia. A widespread but faint macular rash interrupted by islands of uninvolved pallid skin commonly becomes evident 2–4 days after illness onset. A petechial rash might be found in classic and severe dengue.

Diagnostic methods include antigen and antibody detection tests, and PCR assays. A positive IgM serology helps support the diagnosis. Treatment is supportive; avoid NSAIDs, which can increase the risk of bleeding in patients with dengue.

Acute retroviral syndrome can present as a flulike syndrome including fever, generalized lymphadenopathy, malaise, and a generalized skin eruption. Acute HIV infection–associated skin findings are often nonspecific and present as pink to deeply red macules or papules or as a morbilliform eruption, but urticarial and pustular lesions also have been described. Oral ulcers might be present.

Zika is a flavivirus transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes. It caused major outbreaks in the Western Hemisphere beginning in 2015 (see Sec. 5, Part 2, Ch. 27, Zika ). Sexual transmission has been documented for months after infection. The course of the illness is generally subclinical or mild, characterized by arthralgia, conjunctivitis, fever, lymphadenopathy, and a morbilliform (“maculopapular”) rash. In pregnant people, Zika infection can cause fetal loss or fetal microcephaly and neurological damage. Zika-associated Guillain-Barré syndrome also has been reported after infection. Infection is usually diagnosed by using molecular diagnostics and serologic testing. Treatment involves supportive care.

Systemic Bacterial Infections & Illnesses

Meningococcemia.

Invasive Neisseria meningitidis disease occurs worldwide and often is associated with outbreaks, especially in the meningitis belt of sub-Saharan Africa (see Sec. 5, Part 1, Ch. 13, Meningococcal Disease ). Meningococcemia is characterized by acute onset of fever and petechiae that often expand into purpuric macules and patches, commonly accompanied by hypotension and multiorgan failure. Rapid diagnosis and immediate treatment can be lifesaving.

Rickettsioses

African tick-bite fever.

Rickettsia africae , the bacteria responsible for African tick-bite fever (South African tick typhus), is transmitted by the bite of a hard tick ( Hyalomma spp.). Travelers who hike and camp outdoors or who are on safari are particularly at risk for this disease, a frequent cause of fever and rash in southern Africa (see Sec. 5, Part 1, Ch. 18, Rickettsial Diseases ).

Disease is characterized by fever and an eschar at the site of the tick bite. The eschar, or tache noire, is a mildly painful black necrotic lesion with a red rim. Several lesions might be present because people often suffer multiple tick bites. Within a few days, patients develop a fine petechial or papular rash, associated with localized lymphadenopathy. Diagnosis is usually made through clinical recognition and is confirmed by serologic testing. Treatment is doxycycline.

Other rickettsial infections (e.g., Mediterranean spotted fever, rickettsialpox, scrub typhus) might present with eschars or maculopapular, vesicular, or petechial rashes. Each has distinctive geographic or epidemiologic exposure risks.

Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever

Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF) is a tickborne rickettsial disease that is more severe than the other spotted fevers. RMSF occurs in North America (the United States and Mexico) and parts of Central and South America, but it is uncommon in travelers. Nevertheless, because of its potential severity and the need for early treatment, consider RMSF when evaluating patients with fever and rash.

Most patients with RMSF develop a rash 3–5 days after illness onset. The typical rash of RMSF begins on the ankles and wrists and spreads centrally and to the palms and soles. The rash commonly starts as a blanching maculopapular eruption that becomes petechial, although in some patients it begins with petechiae. Doxycycline is the treatment of choice.

Bacterial Skin Infections

Bacterial skin infections occur most frequently when the skin’s surface has been interrupted, often by abrasions, bites, or minor scratches, particularly when maintaining good hygiene is difficult. Common organisms responsible are Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes . Resulting infections are collectively called pyodermas (Greek for “pus skin”) and can present as cellulitis and erysipelas, ecthyma (ulcers or open sores), folliculitis, furuncles (also called abscesses or boils), impetigo, and lymphangitis.

Cellulitis & Erysipelas

Cellulitis and erysipelas manifest as red, warm, edematous areas that might start at the site of a minor injury or opening in the skin, or without an obvious underlying suppurative focus. Unlike cellulitis, erysipelas tends to be raised, with a clear line of demarcation at the edge of the lesion due to involvement of superficial lymphatics, and is more likely to be associated with fever. Cellulitis, erysipelas, and lymphangitis are usually caused by β-hemolytic streptococci. S. aureus (including methicillin-resistant strains), and gram-negative aerobic bacteria also can cause cellulitis.

Furunculosis

People whose skin or nasal mucosa is colonized with S. aureus are at risk for recurrent folliculitis or furunculosis. Boils can continue to occur weeks or months after a traveler returns; if associated with S. aureus , treatment usually involves a decolonization regimen with nasal mupirocin and a skin wash with an antimicrobial skin cleanser. Some decolonization protocols advise similar treatment for household members and close contacts.

Many travelers who develop boils when abroad mistakenly attribute the tender lesions to spider bites. Outside a few endemic areas, however, necrotizing spider bites are extremely rare. The lesions in these cases are far more likely to be abscesses caused by methicillin-resistant S. aureus and should be treated accordingly.

Impetigo is another common bacterial skin infection, especially in children in the tropics, and is caused by S. aureus or S. pyogenes . Impetigo is a highly contagious superficial skin infection that generally appears on the arms, legs, or face as golden or “honey-colored” crusting formed from dried serum. Streptococcal impetigo is usually what causes the classic crust seen in the mid-face of children. Staphylococcal impetigo often appears in body folds, especially the axillae, and might present as delicate pustules.

Use soap and water for local cleansing of bacterial skin infections. A topical antibiotic, preferably mupirocin, also can be used; bacitracin zinc and polymyxin sulfate (often in combination) are an alternative. Topical antibiotic ointments widely available in other countries contain neomycin (a known, common cause of acute allergic contact dermatitis) or gentamicin. Other “triple cream” type products available for purchase in low- and middle-income countries often contain ultra-potent steroids that can interfere with the healing of common infections and have their own side effects. In many low- and middle-income countries, an application of gentian violet or potassium permanganate is the treatment of choice for impetigo.

Minor skin abscesses often respond to incision and drainage without the need for antibiotics. Oral or parenteral antibiotics might be required if the skin infection is deep, expanding, extensive, painful, or associated with systemic symptoms (e.g., fever). Consider antibiotic resistance if the condition does not respond to empiric therapy. Bites and scratches from animals (both domestic and wild) can be the source of unusual gram-negative organisms and anaerobic bacteria; appropriate treatment might require care from specialists who can obtain bacterial cultures, prescribe focused antibiotic therapy, and perform surgical debridement, as needed (see Sec. 4, Ch. 7, Zoonotic Exposures: Bites, Stings, Scratches & Other Hazards ).

Linear Lesions

Cutaneous larva migrans.

Cutaneous larva migrans, a condition in which the skin is infested with the larval stage of cat or dog hookworm ( Ancylostoma spp.), manifests as an extremely pruritic, serpiginous, linear lesion (see Sec. 5, Part 3, Ch. 4, Cutaneous Larva Migrans). The migrating larvae advance relatively slowly in the skin’s uppermost layers. A deeper lesion that resembles urticarial patches and that progresses rapidly might be due to larva currens (running larva), caused by cutaneous migration of filariform larva of Strongyloides stercoralis (see Sec. 5, Part 3, Ch. 21, Strongyloidiasis).

Lymphocutaneous or Sporotrichoid Spread of Infection

Lymphocutaneous or sporotrichoid spread of infection occurs when organisms ascend proximally along superficial cutaneous lymphatics, producing raised, cordlike, linear lesions. Alternatively, this condition can present as an ascending chain of discontinuous, sometimes ulcerated nodules (termed nodular lymphangitis) that occur after primary percutaneous inoculation of certain pathogens. Causative pathogens can be bacterial (e.g., Francisella tularensis ; atypical Mycobacterium spp. [such as M. marinum after exposure to brackish water or rapidly growing Mycobacteria after pedicure footbaths]; Nocardia spp.), parasitic (e.g., Leishmania spp., particularly those responsible for causing Western Hemisphere leishmaniasis), or fungal (e.g., Coccidioides spp., Sporothrix ).

Phytophotodermatitis & Other Noninfectious Exposures

Phytophotodermatitis is a noninfectious condition resulting from the interaction of natural psoralens, most common in the juice of limes, and ultraviolet A radiation from the sun. The result is the equivalent of an exaggerated sunburn that creates a painful line of blisters, after which asymptomatic hyperpigmented lines appear that can take weeks or months to resolve.

Long linear lesions caused by cnidarian envenomation (e.g., stings from the tentacles of jellyfish and the Portuguese man o’ war [ Physalia physalis ]), often resemble phytophotodermatitis. Another common, but self-evident, cause of an itchy, often blistering eruption, is acute contact dermatitis due to black henna. In places where temporary tattooing is practiced, paraphenylenediamine is added to red or brown henna to make a longer-lasting pigment, black henna. Travelers who receive temporary tattoos using black henna (rather than the red or brown), are at risk for developing a cutaneous reaction to paraphenylenediamine.

Macular Lesions

Macules and patches (flat lesions) are common, often nonspecific, and frequently due to drug reactions or viral exanthems. Purpura are typically macular, and any purpuric lesion associated with fever could indicate a life-threatening emergency (e.g., meningococcemia).

Coronavirus Disease 2019

Some patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), particularly young children and young adults, develop a condition known as COVID toes. The condition is characterized by the sudden onset of painful, dusky red macules and patches, typically on the plantar aspect of the distal phalanges of ≥1 toes. Clinically and histologically, COVID toes resembles conditions known as chilblains (a cold weather injury) or lupus pernio (a skin finding in some patients with systemic lupus erythematosus). Although an epidemiologic link with the COVID-19 pandemic seems apparent, viral, molecular, and serologic studies have not confirmed a causal relationship. Nevertheless, young travelers who develop this medical condition warrant further evaluation for COVID-19.

Leprosy / Hansen’s Disease

Leprosy frequently presents with hypopigmented or erythematous patches that are hypoesthetic to pin prick and associated with peripheral nerve enlargement. Newly diagnosed leprosy cases occur almost exclusively in immigrants arriving from low- or middle-income countries where the disease is endemic. Diagnosis is made by skin lesion biopsies. The National Hansen’s Disease Clinical Center in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, provides consultations ([email protected]; 800-642-2477).

Lyme Disease

Lyme disease is caused by the spirochete Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato (see Sec. 5, Part 1, Ch. 11, Lyme Disease ). Endemic to temperate latitudes in North America, Asia, and Europe, the bacteria that causes Lyme disease is transmitted through the bite of infected hard ticks, genus Ixodes .

Infected travelers present with ≥1 large erythematous patch (erythema migrans). If ≥1 lesion is present, the first lesion to appear is where the tick bite occurred; subsequent lesions are due to secondary, probably hematogenous, spread of Borrelia , not multiple tick bites. Erythema migrans often is described as targetoid, but central clearing or red-and-white bands do not occur with every case. The lesions generally are asymptomatic. Pruritus, if present, is usually intermittent and very mild. Lesions that are severely or persistently pruritic are unlikely to be erythema migrans.

Tinea (ringworm) is caused by a variety of superficial fungi (e.g., Microsporum , Trichophyton ). Typical lesions appear as expanding, red, raised rings, with an area of central clearing. Diagnostic methods include fungal culture, microscopy (prepare skin scraping samples using a 10% solution of potassium hydroxide [KOH]), and PCR. Treatment usually involves several weeks’ application of a topical antifungal (e.g., clotrimazole, ketoconazole, miconazole, terbinafine) or a course of an oral antifungal (e.g., fluconazole, griseofulvin, terbinafine). Nystatin-based topical agents are ineffective.

For recalcitrant tinea infections associated with international travel, consider obtaining culture for species identification. Prolonged courses of higher dose oral antifungals might be needed to treat severe or recurrent infections caused by emerging resistant Trichophyton species.

Topical medications that combine an antifungal agent with a potent corticosteroid (e.g., betamethasone, clobetasol) are available in many countries; caution travelers against their use. Adverse events associated with steroid-containing antifungal preparations include longer-lasting infections; more extensive spread of the infection over large areas of the body; invasion of the fungal pathogen into the deeper skin layers; unusual presentation of infection (making diagnosis more challenging); and severe redness and burning.

Tinea Versicolor

Caused by several species of the fungus Malassezia (e.g., M. furfur [previously Pityrosporum ovale ], M. globosa ), tinea versicolor is characterized by abundant, asymptomatic, round to oval skin patches. Lesions are often 1–3 cm in diameter, but dozens of lesions can coalesce to form a “map-like” appearance on the upper chest and back. Affected skin typically has a dry or dusty surface. Lesions can be skin-colored, slightly hypopigmented, or slightly hyperpigmented ( versicolor means “changed color”), but all lesions on a person have a uniform color.

Tinea versicolor can be diagnosed in various ways. A clinical diagnosis often is based on the appearance of the lesions. Under the light of a Wood ultraviolet lamp, the lesion produces a subtle yellowish-green hue, corroborating the diagnosis. Microscopic examination using a KOH preparation can be confirmatory.

Topical azoles (e.g., clotrimazole cream, ketoconazole shampoo used as a body wash), selenium sulfide shampoo, or topical zinc pyrithione are recommended treatments. Systemic azoles (e.g., fluconazole) can be used for infections that are severe, relapsing, or recalcitrant to first-line therapies. In many countries, the most common treatment is Whitfield ointment (salicylic acid 3% and benzoic acid 6%, mixed in a vehicle such as petrolatum). Oral griseofulvin and oral terbinafine are ineffective against Malassezia .

Nodular & Subcutaneous Lesions

Gnathostomiasis.

Gnathostomiasis is a nematode infection primarily occurring in equatorial Africa, along the Pacific coast of Ecuador and Peru, in parts of Mexico, and in Southeast Asia. Infection results from eating raw or undercooked freshwater fish, amphibians, or reptiles. Infected travelers experience transient, migratory, subcutaneous, pruritic, and painful nodules that can occur weeks or even years after exposure. Symptoms are due to migration of the nematode through the body; central nervous system involvement is possible. Eosinophilia is common, and serologic tests are available for diagnosis. Treat cutaneous gnathostomiasis with albendazole or ivermectin.

Caused by Loa loa , a deerfly-transmitted nematode, loiasis occasionally occurs in long-term travelers living in rural equatorial Africa. Infected travelers present with transient, migratory, subcutaneous, painful, or pruritic nodules (called Calabar swellings) produced by adult nematode migration through the skin. Rarely, the worm can be observed crossing the conjunctiva or eyelid. Peripheral eosinophilia is common.

Loiasis can be diagnosed by finding microfilariae in blood collected during daytime; because microfilaremia might be indetectable, however, serologic testing is useful. Treatment is complicated, and consultation with an expert is required for nearly all cases. Two medications are required to control both the larval microfilariae and the adult filariae; the most common regimen includes use of both albendazole and diethylcarbamazine (DEC).

Due to relative contraindications for DEC use in patients with onchocerciasis, special management considerations are warranted for travelers who visited areas endemic for both loiasis and onchocerciasis. Treating loiasis with ivermectin can cause adverse neurological side effects. For additional details regarding contraindications to use of DEC and ivermectin (and a recommendation to consult a specialist in tropical diseases for management advice and support), see Sec. 5, Part 3, Ch. 9, Lymphatic Filariasis , and Sec. 5, Part 3, Ch. 17, Onchocerciasis / River Blindness ).

In sub-Saharan Africa, myiasis is caused by a skin infestation with the larva of the tumbu fly, also known as the mputsi fly ( Cordylobia anthropophaga and related species). In the Western Hemisphere, larva of the botfly ( Dermatobia hominis ) cause furuncular myiasis; the botfly’s range extends from central Mexico to the northern half of South America. Solitary or multiple painful nodules resembling a furuncle might be present; each lesion holds only a single larva. The center of the lesion has a small punctum through which the larva both breathes and expels waste.

More mature larvae sometimes exit on their own to pupate, or can be gently squeezed out of nodules. Extracting larva can be difficult; obstructing the breathing punctum as a first step can be helpful and is easily achieved by applying an occlusive dressing or covering (e.g., a bottle cap filled with petroleum jelly), for several hours. Removal might require minor incision, carefully performed to avoid puncturing the larval body, after which newly vacant cavity should be flushed with sterile water. Treatment for secondary infection and appropriate prophylaxis for tetanus also could be required.

Tungiasis is a skin infestation caused by adult female sand fleas ( Tunga penetrans ). Gestating females burrow into the usually thick skin on the sole of the foot or around the toes. Most people with tungiasis have multiple lesions. Individual lesions have a strikingly uniform appearance with a round, 5 mm diameter, white, slightly elevated surface. In the center of the lesion, a minute, frequently black, opening is present, through which the embedded flea breathes, eliminates waste, and eventually extrudes eggs. Clustered lesions can appear as crusty, dirty, or draining plaques, which are typically itchy, painful, and continue to expand as the uterus of the sand flea fills with eggs.

Treatment includes extracting the burrowed fleas, empirical antibiotics for secondary bacterial infection, and appropriate prophylaxis for tetanus, if required. In many countries, extraction is performed at home using a heat-sterilized needle to pluck out the mature flea with eggs.

Papular Lesions

Arthropod bites.

Arthropod bites are probably the most common cause of papular lesions. Biting arthropods include bed bugs, fleas, headlice, midges, mosquitoes, and sandflies. Itching associated with arthropod bites is due to hypersensitivity reactions to proteins and other components in arthropod saliva.

Individual bites usually appear as small (4–10 mm diameter) edematous, pink to red papules with a gentle “watch-glass” profile. The center of many bites will have a small, subtle break in the epidermis where the arthropod’s mouth parts entered the surface of the skin. The pink to red color generally does not extend beyond the elevated part of the lesion, and often a subtle pale hypovascular surrounding halo is apparent.

Lesions are almost invariably quite pruritic; scratching will often excoriate or erode the skin’s surface. Such bites are vulnerable to secondary bacterial infections, usually with Staphylococcus spp. or Streptococcus spp. Many types of arthropods produce bite reactions with characteristic shapes, patterns, and distributions. For example, bites from bed bugs and fleas often appear as scattered clusters of discrete red papules on unclothed surfaces of the body.

Scabies infestation usually manifests as a generalized or regional pruritic papular rash with erythema, abundant excoriations, and secondarily infected pustules (see Sec. 5, Part 3, Ch. 19, Scabies ). Scabies generally has regional symmetry and most commonly involves the volar wrists and finger web spaces. Most boys and men with scabies will have nodular lesions on the scrotum and penis. Scabies burrows are short, delicate, linear lesions involving just the most superficial part of the epidermis; they are pathognomonic but can be difficult to detect.

Other Papular Lesions

Many other conditions present as widespread, extremely pruritic eruptions, often with numerous fine, slightly elevated, somewhat indistinct papules. Examples include acute allergic contact dermatitis (perhaps due to plants) and photosensitive dermatitis (often associated with photosensitizing medications, e.g., doxycycline). Onchocerciasis (specifically onchocercal dermatitis due to microfilaria migrating through the skin) can occur in expatriates living in endemic areas in sub-Saharan Africa and manifests as a generalized pruritic, papular dermatitis (see Sec. 5, Part 3, Ch. 17, Onchocerciasis / River Blindness ). Swimmer’s itch (cercarial dermatitis) and hookworm folliculitis are extremely itchy eruptions composed of papules on skin surfaces exposed to fresh water and fecally contaminated soils, respectively.

Ulcerative Lesions

Skin ulcers form when a destructive process damages or erodes the epidermis, the skin’s superficial layer, and then enters the dermis, the skin’s deeper, more leathery layer. The most frequent causes of acute (duration <1 month) cutaneous ulcers are the common pyogenic bacteria, staphylococci and streptococci. These create well-demarcated, shallow ulcers with sharp borders and are known as bacterial or common ecthyma; treatment is described earlier in this chapter.

Cutaneous anthrax produces a large, surprisingly painless edematous swelling. The surface develops a shallow ulcer that progresses into a necrotic black eschar. Nearly all cases of travel-associated anthrax are cutaneous and result from exposure to live cattle, goats, or sheep, or from handling unprocessed products made from animal hides or wool (see Sec. 5, Part 1, Ch. 1, Anthrax ).

Buruli Ulcer

Buruli ulcer is a rare infection in travelers caused by Mycobacterium ulcerans , a freshwater bacterium found most commonly in equatorial Africa (especially Ghana and Nigeria) and in the Australian state of Victoria. Buruli ulcers typically start as edematous nodules that arise at sites of minor skin injury. The nodules ultimately break down into expanding invasive wounds. Tropical ulcer has a similar clinical presentation but is exceptionally painful. Unlike Buruli ulcer, tropical ulcer likely represents a polymicrobial bacterial infection, including some mycobacteria.

Cutaneous Leishmaniasis

The main areas of risk for cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) are Africa’s northeastern quadrant, Latin America, south and central Asia, the Mediterranean coastal areas, and the Middle East (see Sec. 5, Part 3, Ch. 14, Cutaneous Leishmaniasis ). The Leishmania parasite is transmitted by the bite of an infected sandfly, and CL lesions start as localized, typical insect bite reactions. Lesions then evolve slowly over several weeks into shallow ulcers with raised margins, resembling a broad, shallow, volcanic caldera; the ulcer’s surface can be covered by a dried crust or a raw, fibrinous coat. In the absence of secondary bacterial infection, ulcers are generally painless.

Special techniques are necessary to confirm CL diagnosis. In travelers, pathogen speciation often is necessary to determine whether the lesion is strictly cutaneous and self-healing or will require treatment with medication (oral, topical, or intravenous) or possibly cryotherapy or heat therapy. Refer to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) webpage or call or email the CDC for recommendations on diagnosis and treatment (404-718-4745; [email protected]).

Spider Bites

Necrotizing spider bites are usually caused by recluse spiders, the most common culprit being Loxosceles reclusa , the brown recluse, found in the south-central United States. The Mediterranean recluse spider ( Loxosceles rufescens ), native to regions around the Mediterranean Sea and the Near East, resembles the brown recluse. L. rufescens has become a widespread “tramp” species giving it a large, nearly worldwide distribution; it bites only rarely and has venom of low toxicity. Many studies have shown that outside a few endemic areas, most alleged spider bites are, in fact, methicillin-resistant S. aureus infections and should be treated accordingly.

Uncommon Causes

A less common cause of skin ulcers is cutaneous diphtheria ( Corynebacterium diphtheriae ). On several island groups in the southwestern Pacific, Haemophilus ducreyi causes nonvenereal cutaneous ulcers. Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense , the causative agent of African trypanosomiasis, can produce a chancre at the bite site of the transmitting tsetse fly ( Glossina spp.). Several sexually transmitted infections (e.g., syphilis [ Treponema pallidum ], chancroid [ H. ducreyi ]), also can ulcerate the skin.

Bite-Associated

Wound infections after cat and dog bites are caused by a variety of microorganisms including S. aureus , α-, β-, and γ-hemolytic streptococci, several genera of gram-negative organisms, and several anaerobes. Pasteurella multocida infection classically occurs after cat bites but also can occur after dog bites. Patients lacking spleens are at particular risk for severe cellulitis and sepsis due to Capnocytophaga canimorsus after dog bites. Management of cat and dog bites includes consideration of rabies postexposure prophylaxis (see Sec. 5, Part 2, Ch. 18, Rabies ), as well as tetanus immunization and antibiotic prophylaxis. Avoid primary closure of puncture wounds and dog bites to the hand.

Antibiotic prophylaxis after dog bites is controversial, although most experts treat patients lacking spleens prophylactically with amoxicillin-clavulanate. Consider antibiotic prophylaxis of cat bites (P. multocida) with amoxicillin-clavulanate or a fluoroquinolone for 3–5 days.

Monkey bite management includes wound care, tetanus immunization, rabies postexposure prophylaxis, and consideration of antimicrobial prophylaxis. Bites and scratches from Old World macaque monkeys showing no signs of illness have been associated with fatal encephalomyelitis due to B virus infection in humans (see Sec. 5, Part 2, Ch. 1, B Virus ); valacyclovir is the recommended postexposure prophylaxis for high-risk macaque exposure.

Water-Associated

Skin and soft tissue infections (SSTI) can occur after exposure to fresh, brackish, or salt water, particularly if the skin’s surface is compromised. Skin trauma (e.g., abrasions or lacerations sustained during swimming or wading, bites or stings from marine or aquatic creatures, puncture wounds from fishhooks) can result in waterborne infections.

The most virulent SSTIs associated with marine and estuarine exposures are due to Vibrio vulnificus and related non-cholera Vibrio. For freshwater exposures, Aeromonas hydrophila is the most dangerous pathogen. A variety of skin and soft tissue manifestations can occur in association with these infections, including abscess formation, cellulitis, ecthyma gangrenosum, and necrotizing fasciitis.

Pending identification of a specific organism, treat acute infections related to aquatic injury with an antibiotic that provides both gram-positive and gram-negative coverage (e.g., fluoroquinolone or third-generation cephalosporin).

Mycobacterium marinum

M. marinum lives in brackish water. Infection can occur on skin surfaces injured by minor abrasions or shallow puncture wounds; typical locations include knees, shins, and the dorsal surfaces of hands and feet where water-associated minor trauma occurs most commonly.

Patients often describe divergent healing patterns after minor water-associated injury—areas that were injured but not infected heal quickly, whereas areas that were injured and infected with M. marinum go on to develop the irregularly bordered, expanding, multinodular violaceous plaques characteristic of this infection. Treatment with antimycobacterial agents for weeks to months is required because lesions do not resolve spontaneously. Occasionally, lymphocutaneous or sporotrichoid spread of infection (see the discussion earlier in this chapter) can occur, resulting in proximal movement of lesions along superficial lymphatics.

Pseudomonas aeruginosa

So-called “hot tub folliculitis” can occur after using inadequately disinfected swimming pools or hot tubs. Folliculitis (tender or pruritic folliculocentric red papules, papulopustules, or nodules) typically develops 8–48 hours after exposure to water contaminated with Pseudomonas aeruginosa . Usually, several dozen discrete lesions occur on skin surfaces submerged in the infectious water. Most patients have malaise, some have low-grade fever. The condition is self-limited to 2–12 days; typically, no antibiotic therapy is required.

Shewanella , a genus of motile gram-negative bacilli found in warm marine waters worldwide, causes SSTIs that clinically and epidemiologically resemble V. vulnificus infections. Patients, often those with chronic liver disease, can develop sepsis and multiple organ failure. Migrants crossing the Mediterranean with prolonged exposure of their feet and legs to contaminated seawater have developed Shewanella infection.

Necrotizing Vibrio vulnificus skin infections can occur when contaminated brackish or saltwater, or the juices or drippings from contaminated raw or undercooked seafood, contact open wounds. Infections also happen from consuming Vibrio -contaminated shellfish. The illness is especially severe in people with underlying liver disease and can manifest as a dramatic cellulitis with hemorrhagic bullae and severe sepsis. In general, infections caused by these organisms can be more severe in immunosuppressed people.

The following authors contributed to the previous version of this chapter: Karolyn A. Wanat, Scott A. Norton

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The real migrant bus king of North America isn't the Texas governor. It's Mexico's president.

PIEDRAS NEGRAS, Mexico – It took Ana Elizabeth Melgar four tries to reach the U.S. border.

Each time she made her way north, Mexican immigration authorities caught her and bused her south – not to her home country of El Salvador but to a city in southern Mexico .

"If you catch me and I am a migrant, send me back to my country," she said, while resting in a Catholic shelter in this Mexican border town across from Eagle Pass, Texas . "I get it: I don't belong here. But what is this nonsense that you're sending me south in Mexico? It's illogical."

The Biden administration and Texas are taking credit for an unusual springtime lull in illegal border crossings, with the White House touting its legal pathways and Gov. Greg Abbott championing his troops and concertina wire. But analysts, immigrant advocates and migrants themselves say it's Mexico blocking the path north.

Mexico President Andrés Manuel López Obrador's immigration agency has intensified a busing program that aims to hurt migrants' chances of reaching the U.S. border – or at least delay their arrival – by apprehending them on highways, train routes and airports and shipping them to the southernmost part of his country.

López Obrador is likely motivated by economic interests. Last fall, a surge of hundreds of thousands of migrants flooding the U.S. Southwest created a hurdle to trade between Mexico and the U.S., its largest trading partner by far.

Immigrant advocates say the policy drives vulnerable people into the arms of smugglers. Migrants report being extorted on routes north only to be intercepted at checkpoints and returned to southern Mexico to do it all again.

"The Mexican government is busing people in circles," said Andrew Selee, executive director of the Washington, D.C.-based Migration Policy Institute.

"The numbers aren't down because of busing in Texas," he said. "The numbers are down because of busing in Mexico."

U.S. Customs and Border Protection reported fewer than 189,372 migrant encounters in March, down slightly from 189,914 in February, during a time when migration typically starts to spike. Encounters were lower than normal through the first 10 days of April, too, according to congressional testimony .

The drop bucked historical, seasonal trends and was "only the second time this century that encounters declined from February to March," said Adam Isacson, director of defense oversight for the Washington Office on Latin America.

Mexico cracks down on migrants: 'more checkpoints, more buses'

The busing program is a response, analysts say, to the surge in migrants arriving from Venezuela and other countries where Mexico, like the U.S., can't easily return people. Mexico's foreign ministry, interior ministry and immigration agency, the Instituto Nacional de Migración, didn't respond to requests for comment.

Mexico's crackdown is evident in the number of migrant encounters resulting in a person being detained or placed in a shelter – but not deported.

These encounters ballooned to more than 726,000 in 2023, according to Mexico's interior ministry, from fewer than 179,000 in 2021. In January and February alone, Mexico reported more than 230,000 encounters with migrants who were placed in detention or shelters and then released.

Melgar was among them.

On a recent Tuesday in April, while migrants milled about the shelter or ate breakfast, she sat alone on a courtyard bench and smiled. After more than four months of trying, she had made it to the U.S. border.

While Melgar rested, the nun in charge, Sister Isabel Turcios, led a group of American women on a tour. Medical volunteers set up an outdoor clinic in the courtyard. There were 108 migrants sheltered that day – hardly any compared with last year, Turcios said.

In December, thousands had arrived daily in Piedras Negras and other points just south of the border. That month, on the U.S. side, U.S. Customs and Border Protection reported its highest-ever one-month tally of migrant encounters: 301,981.

That same month, presidents Biden and López Obrador had a phone call in which they discussed " additional enforcement actions ," and Biden dispatched a high-level team of negotiators to Mexico City.

By mid-April, the checkpoints had multiplied.

Mexican authorities had set up at least six immigration checkpoints between Monterrey and the border at Piedras Negras , according to Turcios' conversations with migrants. It had become onerous even for her, a nun from El Salvador, to travel overland.

"The authorities got together and decided: more checkpoints, more buses to take the migrants south," she said. "The numbers started to go down for that reason and because they were rounding them up.

Texas' numbers haven't been going down "because of the barbed wire," she said. The migrants who make it through Mexico's checkpoints "keep passing under the wire."

Texas border czar says 'tactical infrastructure' deters crossings

That same day, across the Rio Grande in Eagle Pass, Texas, the state's first "border czar" Mike Banks climbed up the sloped river bank to address his troops in Shelby Park, the city park that has become ground zero in the state's public battle with the Biden administration over border enforcement.

Banks shouldered past reams of concertina wire and got nicked on the way.

The three tiny cuts on his upper forearm were evidence, he said, of the difference between "concertina" wire that grabs the skin and "razor" wire that slices through it. It was a lesson in the "tactical infrastructure" that he says is deterring illegal border crossings in Texas.

"I will tell you that, right now, if it wasn't for what we are doing in the state of Texas, you wouldn't see our numbers the way they are," Banks told USA TODAY.

Texas is taking credit for the dip in migration along the state's 1,254-mile border with Mexico. Banks, a former Border Patrol agent, and his boss, Gov. Greg Abbott, say the state's $11 billion Operation Lone Star is working, and the numbers prove it.

Texas registered a sharper drop in migrant crossings in the first three months of the year than the border did as a whole, according to CBP statistics, while California saw crossings increase .

"This entire sector is averaging a couple of hundred (migrants) a day versus 4,000 to 6,000 just in this park" last year, Banks said, referring to Border Patrol's Del Rio Sector. "So the deterrence is working and, look, Texas is going to protect Texas."

Other Republican-led states are pitching in: 16 states have sent troops or law enforcement officers to support Operation Lone Star, according to a spokesman for the governor's office.

The state has also aimed to export the border crisis across the country : Abbott's Operation Lone Star has bused more than 112,700 migrants to Democrat-led cities nationwide.

In Texas, migrants are offered the bus rides and go voluntarily. In Mexico, authorities give them no choice.

During his recent visit to Eagle Pass, Banks, who advises the governor, addressed a circle of camouflage-clad agents of Florida's Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. He joked with a group of Texas highway patrolmen as they took a break from the heat in a shade tent where two stray dogs napped.

The river was quiet but for two Honduran men who had been at Turcios' shelter earlier that day. They waded along the U.S. bank looking for a spot to clamber up through the concertina wire.

'Cold, heat, hunger, thirst'

Melgar, a mother of three, worked as a seamstress in Costa Rica for years, making money she couldn't earn in El Salvador.

But she returned to her country when work dried up. In December, under pressure to pay for her now-teenage children's education, she left for Mexico with her sights set on the U.S.

Mexican immigration agents clad in brown uniforms first picked up Melgar in the colonial city of Puebla, in southern Mexico, she said.

The second time, they intercepted her in the northern factory town of Torreon.

The third time, they caught her in Monterrey, a wealthy business hub south of Texas.

Each time, she was bused back to a migrant detention center in southern Mexico, held for a few days and then released, she said.

On her fourth attempt, she skirted multiple Mexican checkpoints by riding atop a cargo train and walking for miles through arid desert. She spent "days and days and nights of cold, heat, hunger and thirst," she said.

Melgar said she applied for an appointment to cross the border lawfully, via the CBP One app, but she hasn't received one yet.

"I'm waiting," she said in a WhatsApp message last week, while still at the shelter. "God willing, it will come soon."

How long will Mexican enforcement last?

Mexico's immigration crackdowns rarely last as long as they have this time.

"The reality is that Mexico has made it harder for people to get to south Texas," said Aaron Reichlin-Melnick, policy director at the American Immigration Council. "It’s this broad shift as a result of Mexican enforcement – one we might see breaking down."

Already there are signs of a breakdown along the U.S.-Mexico border, nearly 500 miles northwest of the Eagle Pass-Piedras Negras crossing.

Migrants have been reaching Ciudad Juárez, across from El Paso, Texas, in larger numbers in recent days, and tension at this border crossing has grown.

The El Paso Border Patrol Sector has seen average daily migrant encounters tick up slightly from 940 earlier this month to 1,025 as of Friday.

Earlier this month, more than 140 migrants breached reams of concertina wire on the El Paso side of the Rio Grande and confronted Texas troops. A local grand jury indicted the migrants on misdemeanor riot participation charges, according to the district attorney.

Then, last week, a cargo train hailing from the outskirts of Mexico City rumbled into Ciudad Juárez with hundreds of men, women and children atop its boxcars. If the train stopped at the military and immigration checkpoint outside the city at all, the authorities let it go.

Adults held fast to the children or shaded them under blankets until the train slowed, and the migrants climbed down, blocks from the U.S. border, to decide their next move.

Contributing: Omar Ornelas, El Paso Times

Lauren Villagran can be reached at [email protected].