Canada updates travel advisory for Mazatlán, Mexico, due to gang violence

The Government of Canada has updated its travel advisory for Mexico, warning travellers of gang-related violence that is apparently happening in regions along the Gulf of California.

The Mexico travel advisory, which was updated on Monday (Oct. 28), cautions Canadians about “violent clashes between rival armed groups”  in Culiacán, Mazatlán and the surrounding areas.

The notice goes on to say that there has been continuous gunfire reported, as well as armed groups “stopping vehicles on the highway.”

Mazatlán, in particular, is a popular beach and resort destination for many Canadians during the winter months. 

The vibrant city on the Pacific shoreline – known for its sunsets, shrimp industry, banda music and 21 km-long malecón (boardwalk) – is sold by Canadian tour operators like Sunwing and WestJet Vacations.

Caught in the middle

Mazatlán is once again caught in the middle of gang-related conflicts. 

In January 2023, flights to the destination were temporarily suspended after widespread violence broke out after the arrest of Ovidio Guzman – an alleged drug trafficker who is a son of former cartel boss Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman.

Reports at the time depicted burning cars and busses, exchanges of gun fire and threats to essential infrastructure – including airports. Flights resumed shortly after while the mayor of Mazatlan assured tourists that his city was safe.

Under this latest advisory, the Canadian government is urging travellers to "exercise extreme caution" and "limit your movements" to avoid potential dangers if visiting affected cities.

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