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

Condé Nast Traveler

by Jessica Puckett

February 24, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Civil unrest in Mexico caused by cartel violence has disrupted travel plans for visitors to Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara, though conditions have improved following recent military operations. On February 22, the Mexican military killed Nemesio "El Mencho" Oseguera Cervantes, a top leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, sparking widespread violence and road blockages in the western states of Jalisco and Nayarit. This chaos led to shelter-in-place orders for US citizens in these areas, with ongoing concerns about criminal activity and blocked roads. Despite the lifting of shelter-in-place orders in many other regions, including Baja California, Quintana Roo, and several others, Jalisco and Nayarit remain tense. Air travel has largely resumed normal operations at Guadalajara International Airport (GDL) and Puerto Vallarta International Airport (PVR), with airlines restoring most flights after two days of delays and cancellations. However, some minor disruptions, particularly involving Canadian Flair Airlines, are still being addressed. The situation highlights the unpredictable nature of travel in regions affected by cartel activity, even as Mexico works to stabilize its security environment. Travelers should stay informed about local conditions, especially if planning trips to Jalisco or Nayarit, and consider alternative routes if flights are canceled or delayed. The US Embassy has advised travelers with disrupted plans to explore connecting flights through other Mexican cities. For those planning travel to Mexico, understanding the current security landscape is crucial for safety and itinerary planning. While many popular tourist destinations have returned to normalcy, areas like Jalisco and Nayarit remain volatile, underscoring the importance of staying updated on travel advisories and adjusting plans accordingly.

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Originally published on Condé Nast Traveler on 2/24/2026