Travel Experts Advise Caution for Trips to Mexico Amid Cartel Unrest

Some travelers are postponing or altering plans, while others are still planning vacations to the country.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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Chaos erupted in Mexico days after the government captured the country's most-wanted cartel boss, leaving American tourists scrambling to return home. Despite the unrest, some travelers from the United States, including those from local areas, are still planning vacations to Mexico. Travel expert Susan Essert, co-owner and agent of Susan's Getaway, shared insights on the situation, noting that travel agents have been inundated with calls and questions about trips to Mexico.

Why it matters

The situation in Mexico highlights the ongoing challenges and risks associated with travel to the country, especially in the aftermath of high-profile cartel-related incidents. Travelers must carefully weigh their options and consider the potential impact on their safety and travel plans.

The details

While no one has canceled their plans entirely, some clients are considering postponing their trips by a few months. Additionally, Essert mentioned a group opting for a cruise to avoid being on the roads amidst the chaos. Essert emphasized the importance of travel insurance, stating that it "just gives you flexibility for these unknowns." She noted that having options to change travel dates, switch destinations, or cancel altogether is crucial for travelers' peace of mind.

  • Days after the Mexican government captured the country's most-wanted cartel boss, chaos erupted in Mexico.

The players

Susan Essert

Co-owner and agent of Susan's Getaway, a travel agency that has been inundated with calls and questions about trips to Mexico.

U.S. State Department

Advised American nationals to continue "sheltering in place" in certain areas of Mexico, while other parts of the country can resume "normal" activities.

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What they’re saying

“People are concerned. They're, you know, wondering what they should do as far as upcoming travel to that specific area or even other parts of Mexico.”

— Susan Essert, Co-owner and agent, Susan's Getaway (wlwt.com)

“So that they're not leaving, they're not out on the roads and out. You know, among everything that's going on, they're giving kind of like a distress rate, if you will, a discounted rate for people that need and want to stay longer because maybe their flights have canceled. I know some of the airlines are starting to come back in, doing their flights.”

— Susan Essert, Co-owner and agent, Susan's Getaway (wlwt.com)

“It just gives you flexibility for these unknowns.”

— Susan Essert, Co-owner and agent, Susan's Getaway (wlwt.com)

What’s next

The U.S. State Department will continue to monitor the situation in Mexico and provide updated travel advisories as necessary.

The takeaway

Travelers to Mexico must exercise caution and carefully consider their options, including travel insurance, in the wake of the recent cartel-related unrest. Travel agents can provide valuable guidance to help navigate the evolving situation and ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.