How Civil Unrest in Mexico is Impacting Travelers in Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara

Condé Nast Traveler

by Jessica Puckett

February 23, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Civil unrest in Mexico has caused significant disruptions for travelers in popular destinations like Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara. The chaos followed the Mexican military’s operation to kill Nemesio “El Mencho” Oseguera Cervantes, a top drug cartel leader from the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, which sparked widespread violence across western Mexico. As a result, the US Embassy has advised travelers in regions including Guadalajara, Puerto Vallarta, Cancun, and Tijuana to shelter in place through Monday, February 23. Flights to and from Jalisco’s airports were largely suspended on February 22, leaving many international tourists stranded. While some flights resumed on Monday afternoon, major airlines have canceled service through at least Tuesday, February 24. The situation has created travel chaos in western Mexico, with roads blocked, buses set on fire, and conflicts between organized crime groups and the military. Despite assurances from airport officials that facilities like Puerto Vallarta International Airport remain safe, many airlines have suspended flights due to road closures and operational challenges. For example, Air Canada canceled all service to Puerto Vallarta on February 23, with flights scheduled to resume only on Tuesday. Similarly, other major carriers in the US, Canada, and Mexico have halted flights to the region. Travelers in affected areas are facing significant disruptions, including canceled flights, closed roads, and suspended ride-sharing services. Many businesses in the impacted regions have also closed their doors temporarily. While safety measures are in place at airports, the broader instability has made travel difficult and dangerous for tourists. The US Embassy continues to monitor the situation closely and advises travelers to stay informed through official channels. This situation highlights the unpredictable nature of travel, especially in areas affected by political or criminal instability. For those planning trips to Mexico, it’s crucial to stay updated on local advisories

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Originally published on Condé Nast Traveler on 2/23/2026