Is Puerto Vallarta Safe? Travel Warnings & Safety [Updated Nov 2021]

Is Puerto Vallarta Safe? While there are many sites that tout the danger of visiting Mexico, there are also plenty of others that argue otherwise with me being the main one.

Puerto Vallarta has been appointed as The Friendliest City in the World by Travel + Leisure magazine. 

Its coasts are embraced by the Sierra Madre Mountains and sprinkled with beaches, islands, and coves, with stunning landscapes contrasting between the sea and the mountain.

Situated on Mexico’s Pacific coast in Jalisco state, Puerto Vallarta is surrounded by the clear waters of Bahía de Banderas (Banderas Bay), lush forests, and the ridges of the Sierra Madre.

And despite its scenic views, the city has maintained its authenticity.

In fact, walk down the cobbled and narrow streets, and you’ll find yourself in some of Puerto Vallarta’s most traditional areas, including the Romantic Zone, known for its lively atmosphere and its range of art galleries, traditional markets, and eateries.

This guide on Puerto Vallarta safety will provide you with the facts you need to decide is Puerto Vallarta safe and I will point you in the right direction if you decide it’s not safe to visit Mexico right now.

I will also tell you what to do if you find yourself in an unsafe situation, as well as how to avoid those situations in the first place.

It’s important to check Mexico travel restrictions and warnings before planning your next vacation to ensure you really understand is Mexico safe for American tourists right now. 

I will continually update the Mexico Travel Warning article therefore you will always find up-to-date information so that you can plan your vacation without worrying about your safety.

I will also discuss the following on Puerto Vallarta safety.

• Is Puerto Vallarta safer than Cancun?
• Is Puerto Vallarta safe at night?
• Is Puerto Vallarta safe due to COVID-19?
• Is Mexico safe overall?

Is Puerto Vallarta Safe for American Tourists 2022?

Omicron (COVID-19) Mexico Travel Restrictions:

Effective Dec 06, 2021, The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Level 3 Travel Health Notice for Mexico due to COVID-19, indicating a very high level of COVID-19 in the country.

Visit the Embassy’s COVID-19 page for more information on COVID-19 in Mexico.

The new rules will require each traveler flying into the US from another country to test negative one day before their departure, changing rules that had allowed inbound travelers to test up to three days before entering the country.

The new rule from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention will take effect at 12:01 a.m. ET on Monday, 12/6/2021.

Scientists are still working to determine how transmissible the Omicron variant is, how sick it makes people and how well the current vaccines work against it.

Key Information for Travelers to Mexico

• COVID-19 Testing

  • Are PCR and/or antigen tests available for U.S. citizens in Mexico? [Yes]
  • If so, are test results reliably available within 24-72 hours? [Yes]
  • CDC requirement for Negative COVID-19 test prior to air travel:
    • A negative viral COVID test or documentation of recovery is required for anyone traveling by air to the United States, including U.S. citizens and legal permanent residents of age two and over, and regardless of vaccination status.
    • This order applies to all flights, including private flights and general aviation aircraft (charter flights). This requirement does not apply to travelers entering the United States by land or sea or to children under two years of age. It applies to U.S. citizens, as well as foreign nationals.
    • Air passengers are required to take a viral test (PCR/NAAT or antigen test for current infection). If they are fully vaccinated with an approved COVID-19 vaccine, the test must be taken no more than three calendar days prior to their flight departure. If travelers are not fully vaccinated with an approved COVID-19 vaccine, the test must be taken no more than one calendar day prior to their flight departure to the United States. Antibody tests are not compliant with the requirement.
  • CDC requires that air passengers arriving in the United States have a paper or electronic copy of their test result for review by the airline before boarding and possible review by public health officials after arrival in the United States. Passengers must provide written documentation of their laboratory test result (paper or electronic copy) to the airline prior to boarding.
  • Effective November 8, 2021, all non-immigrant, non-U.S. citizen air travelers to the United States will be required to be fully vaccinated and to provide proof of vaccination status prior to boarding an airplane to the United States.

Puerto Vallarta – Level 3: Exercise Increased Caution

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Level 3 Travel Health Notice for Mexico due to COVID-19, indicating a high level of COVID-19 in the country

While there are travel restrictions in other parts of Mexico, Puerto Vallarta does not have any travel restrictions due to criminal activity and homicide as other cities in Mexico do.

Puerto Vallarta has largely remained uninvolved in cartel conflicts but this does not mean you should let your guard down and not use the common sense Gawd gave you. 

U.S. State Department Travel Warnings

This year, the U.S. State Department revamped its travel advisory system. It gave Mexico an overall Level 3 warning for visitors to exercise caution.

Violent crimes, such as homicide, kidnapping, carjacking, and robbery are widespread throughout Mexico.

Puerto Vallarta in particular is noted by the U.S. government for having zero travel restrictions.

Tourism is an important part of the economy therefore the local government has invested time, money, and energy into making sure there are not any Puerto Vallarta warnings and that Puerto Vallarta is safe!

Your safety in Puerto Vallarta is a priority for Puerto Vallarta Tourism so if anything does occur, your resort and the proper authorities will help you sort out any problems and answer any questions about safety in Mexico. 

So, is Puerto Vallarta safe? Yes, but it wouldn’t be wise to assume that there’s never a petty crime.

It’s highly unlikely that any of your walks or excursions will lead you somewhere dangerous.

As you explore the city, exercise caution and avoid flashing a large amount of money or wearing expensive jewelry. These items as well as important travel documents can be kept in your safe at your resort.

If you’re going out at night, stay with a group, and don’t wander off on your own, especially if you’re a woman.

While Mexico is safe you should use safety precautions no matter where you travel, it is important to keep them in mind even in Puerto Vallarta.

If you use these simple tips and exercise common sense, you’ll stay safe in Puerto Vallarta during your vacation.

Mexico Travel Restrictions 2022

Do not let the over-exaggerated news stories deter you from traveling to this vibrant Latin American destination.

Aside from dangerous areas along the U.S. border and other regions where cartels operate, Mexico is safe and I firmly believe it is safe to travel to Mexico including Puerto Vallarta.

In general, if you’re not taking part in illegal activities you don’t have anything to worry about.

To put things in perspective, Level 3 is the same tier given to many other tourist hotspots that have an uptake in criminal activity including the following countries:

I have been to both Belize and Italy and I have never wondered is it safe to travel to those countries.  Are you concerned about traveling to Italy?

Italy has the same level 3 warning so why is Mexico considered more violent and why are you asking is Puerto Vallarta safe?

Is it Safe to Travel to Mexico?

No matter where travelers go to in Mexico, even if their destination is a place like Puerto Vallarta with no travel restrictions, they should still consider safety suggestions by the State Department.

Puerto Vallarta achieved Sharecare health security verification, becoming the world’s first VERIFIED™ travel destination.

This designation signifies that the majority of the hotels and resorts in the destination continue to ensure that their health protocols are in compliance with over 360 expert-validated global standards.

The seven-step system evaluates and strictly implements health and safety protocols across the airport, transportation, accommodations, restaurants and bars, tour activities, the beach, and throughout the local community.

Is Puerto Vallarta Safer than Cancun?

Both Puerto Vallarta and Cancun are relatively safe but Puerto Vallarta has less crime than Cancun. 

Cancun has made headlines in recent years for spiking murder rates and other unfortunate statistics. However, the government there has taken steps to improve safety, especially in tourist areas.

You’ll likely see multiple levels of police roaming the beaches around resorts to protect travelers. 

Puerto Vallarta has a strong police presence as well but has far less recorded crime.

While Puerto Vallarta has less crime you should stay aware of your surroundings and keep your valuables secure. Tourist-targeting pickpockets and scammers are common in both Cancun, Puerto Vallarta, and other Mexican cities. 

20 Tips to Stay Safe in Puerto Vallarta

Although a travel advisory is in effect, it’s important to remember that tourists flock to Mexico every year without incident.

The Mexican government is highly motivated to keep tourists safe in order to preserve the tourist trade but you must also do your part when traveling to Mexico.

Traveling anywhere requires a little bit of a safety precaution. So, remember to enlist these general rules during your vacation and you will not have to continually ask is Puerto Vallarta safe?

Here are some precautions that you can take in order to make sure your trip goes as planned:

1. Keep Your Nose Clean: As mentioned above, much of the criminal activity in Mexico revolves around the drug trade and sex trade. Although many Americans go south of the border to have a little fun remember the last thing you want is to end up in a Mexican Jail. 
2. When Driving, Stick to Main Roads, and Daytime Travel: One of the most popular methods to extort money and protect cartel turf is through carjacks or roadblock ambushes. Avoid back roads and nighttime driving and hire taxis and driving services through the hotel where you’re staying.
3. Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date about safety news through a few methods. First of all, talk with your travel agent and/or hotel concierge about safety updates, and where to go. They’ll have the most current read on the situation. As an American Citizen, you should also consider signing up for STEP, the Department of State’s Safe Traveler Enrollment Program. This will sign you up for travel alerts, put you on the consulate and Embassy radar, and make it easier to work things out if there’s an incident. 
4. Leave a copy of your passport and itinerary with someone at home.
5. Keep your valuables locked up when you leave the hotel.
6. Learn the language as much as possible (This is not just for safety, but also for courtesy, which can actually keep you safer too!)  Remember the old saying you can catch more flies with honey than vinegar. 
7. Trust people who are invested long-term in making your stay a good one, like booking agents and hotel staff, and be on your guard with one-off opportunities.
8. Research your destination: Make sure you are up to date on the current travel warnings. 
9. Keep windows shut and doors locked in a car: especially at traffic lights
10. Use first-class bus companies– these bus companies take toll roads that have security checks on passengers as they board.
11. Don’t walk around by yourself late at night: You are asking for trouble.
12. Be careful taking money out of the ATM: these are good spots to rob people. 
13. Use a money belt: Keep the thieves at bay.
14. Don’t get scammed: If someone is asking you for your personal information will are likely scamming.
15. Don’t wear flashy jewelry – looking like you are balling out of control will get you robbed. Leave your LV and Gucci in the states. 
16. Ask for a hotel concierge: The hotel staff will be able to provide full tips about where to eat and what attractions you must see.
17. Avoid getting DRUNK: you need to know where you are at all times.
18. Don’t try to buy drugs: Don’t ask about buying drugs and don’t even think about buying drugs.
19. DON’T travel at night: Most crime occurs at night.
20. Only use well-known tour operators: Most of the cheaper tour operators will not have up-to-date equipment and experienced guides.

Beach Safety In Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is an internationally well-known beach destination due to its warm waters, exotic natural beauty, and top-notch facilities that blend in with its warm hospitality.

There’s plenty of beaches to discover and to choose as your favorite, each of them with a particular enchantment, some of them are accessible only by boat, hidden and surrounded by magical sceneries, others with plenty of life going around them

Finally, while I understand you are in Mexico and “dranking” is at the top of your to-do list remember the heat and too much alcohol do not mix well and can lead to massive dehydration.

Avoid swimming at the beach when a black warning flag is posted. Cover your child with sunscreen or protective clothing before heading to the beach.

There are two main beaches in Puerto Vallarta, Playa Camarones (Camarones Beach) and Los Muertos Beach (or Playa de Los Muertos), the first beach is along the northern part of downtown and the second beach is in the “Romantic Zone” or Old Vallarta,  south of the Cuale River.

Wear Sunscreen in Puerto Vallarta

You didn’t fly to Mexico to stay inside but please beware that Mexican rays are intense and can lead to a severe burn or sun poisoning, especially during the warmer spring and summer months.

The sun in Puerto Vallarta is pretty strong and high in damaging UV rays. Stay hydrated and limit the amount of sun you get based on your skin type.

• Staying in the shade as much as possible.
• Protecting skin with clothing.
• Applying sunscreen to protect skin from harmful rays.
• Wearing a hat preferably with at least 2-3 inches brim all around.
• Wear sunglasses to protect yourself from UV rays.

Excessive Drinking 

The Mexican authorities do not tolerate excessive drinking and rowdy behavior and here are a few laws a tourist may not be aware of when vacationing in Mexico;

• Foreigners must have a valid tourist card or a resident visa to be in Mexico; it is illegal to overstay your visa.

• Vehicle insurance is mandatory in Mexico if you are renting a car you need insurance with liability coverage.  Consider purchasing a policy that includes legal representation and the cost of the bail bonds from a service provider who is available 24 hours a day.

• Many tourists come to Mexico to indulge and take in the nightlife, but did you know it is illegal to be drunk and disorderly in public, even in Mexico.

• It seems logical but drunk driving is a serious crime in Mexico; foreigners do not get any special privileges regarding drinking and driving, and if you cause an accident you will end up in jail.

• Under Mexican law, possession and trafficking of any illegal drug is a federal offense; you may be fined or imprisoned.

Eating Too Much Puerto Vallarta

Vacations are often synonymous with overindulgence – whether it’s too much food, water, the sun, party, or even rest.

This is why it is called a vacation. And when you are in Puerto Vallarta – you are bound to overindulge in all the above. But when it’s over, it’s back to reality.

Puerto Vallarta offers variety in its cuisines and budget. Take your time, it’s a vacation, not an eating marathon.

• Packing a few healthy snacks with you.
• Eating plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables.
• Avoiding ordering the “fancy drinks” available at pool bars. Packed with calories!
• Take in a run or head to the hotel gym every morning before heading out sightseeing.

Is Puerto Vallarta Safe for Families? 

Mexico is safe but if you are traveling with small kids the beach resort areas of Puerto Vallarta and other popular Mexican cities are popular vacation destinations for families with young children. 

These areas provide you with the opportunity to introduce your kids to a new culture, new food, and a different way of life.

Is it Safe to Rent a Car in Puerto Vallarta?

For the most part, bus travel is the best way to get around in Mexico, but if you are anything like me I prefer to be on my own time and not have to wait on other people. 

Getting around Puerto Vallarta and Banderas Bay is quite easy, even if you don’t speak Spanish.

While public transportation is efficient and taxis are affordable, renting a car offers so much more freedom of movement and comfort. 

Booking online can save you money and give you access to the best deals, just be aware that the prices quoted online do not always include the costs for obligatory insurance coverage. You are also recommended to opt for full coverage.

Is it Safe to Drink the Water in Puerto Vallarta?

Not only has Puerto Vallarta’s water been rated as perfectly safe for human consumption with a certificate of purity for 17 consecutive years, but it is also one of only two vacation destinations in the country to achieve this important distinction.

Moreover, the city is well known for its attention to the quality of drinking water as a part of local culture, and major hotels and other accommodations often have their own dedicated filtration systems on top of the municipal filtration system.

Millions of people visit Mexico each year and 99% of travelers do not run into any trouble but the 1% that makes the news is all that you hear about and you began asking yourself is Puerto Vallarta safe.

Mexico Travel Warning

ASSISTANCE FOR U.S. CITIZENS