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Los Cabos, the glittering resort area at the tip of Mexico’s Baja California peninsula, has long been a favorite destination for international travelers, particularly Americans. Known for its stunning beaches, luxury resorts, and vibrant nightlife, it has also cultivated a reputation over the years as one of the safer spots for tourists in Mexico. Many visitors have felt a sense of security there, often finding it insulated from the troubles that have occasionally flared up in other parts of the country. That’s why a recent security alert issued by the U.S. Embassy in Mexico has caught travelers, expats and residents seriously off guard.

Los Cabos’ Well-Earned Reputation for Safety

For years, travel experts and returning tourists have highlighted Los Cabos – encompassing Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo – as a relatively secure bet for a Mexican getaway. Unlike some other resort towns that have faced more persistent security challenges, Los Cabos often seemed like a protected bubble. Investment in security, coordination between local authorities and tourism providers, and perhaps its geographical location contributed to this feeling. Articles, like one previously published by Travel Off Path, have specifically pointed out Los Cabos as standing out for its safety record, making it a top choice for travelers seeking peace of mind along with sunshine. This long-standing perception makes the recent events and the resulting embassy alert particularly noteworthy.

What the New Security Alert Says

The alert, issued recently by the U.S. Embassy and Consulates in Mexico, points to an “emerging security situation” not just in the twin towns of Los Cabos but also in the state capital, La Paz, further north on the Baja California Sur peninsula. It references several specific, concerning incidents that occurred around late April 2025:

• Shootout in Cabo San Lucas: Reports indicated a shootout occurred in the early morning hours of April 25th, affecting several neighborhoods.
• Vehicle Fires: On April 24th, three buses were reportedly set on fire across La Paz and Los Cabos. Such acts are often used as disruptive tactics or signals by criminal groups.
• Violence Against Officials: The alert mentions the killing of a law enforcement officer and three additional homicides on April 22nd.
• Cartel Threats: Adding to the tension, threats allegedly made by cartels against officials were reportedly posted publicly (“narcomantas”).

The embassy noted that residents and visitors should expect to see an increased presence of police and military personnel, potential restrictions on public transportation, and other measures by authorities to manage the situation.

What Travelers Need to Know

While this news is concerning, it’s important to understand what it means practically. The alert doesn’t advise against travel, but strongly urges increased caution. The U.S. Embassy provides specific recommendations for people in the affected areas:

• Situational Awareness: Pay close attention to your surroundings at all times.
• Avoid Crowds: Steer clear of large gatherings or demonstrations where situations could potentially escalate.
• Have an Exit Plan: If you find yourself in a public place and the atmosphere changes rapidly or feels unsafe, leave the area immediately or find secure shelter.
• Stay Informed: Monitor local news reports for updates and always follow guidance from local law enforcement and civil authorities.
• Keep Others Updated: Let friends and family know you are safe.

US State Department Advisory Has Not Changed..Yet

It’s worth noting that despite the recent specific security alert issued by the Embassy regarding the incidents around late April, the overall U.S. State Department travel advisory level for the state of Baja California Sur has not changed at this time. The state, which includes Los Cabos and La Paz, remains at Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution. The advisory notes this is due to crime, stating that “criminal activity and violence may occur throughout the state.” Importantly, the State Department currently places no travel restrictions on U.S. government employees within Baja California Sur, which often signals a baseline level of confidence in security conditions relative to more restricted areas. While this standing advisory already urged caution, the new specific alert highlights immediate, localized concerns that travelers should factor into their situational awareness, even as the broader state-level assessment hasn’t been elevated further… yet. Travelers should continue to monitor official U.S. Department of State communications for any potential updates.

Putting Things in Perspective

Remembering that incidents like those mentioned, while serious, often occur away from the main tourist zones and resorts where most international visitors spend their time. However, the scope of the recent events – including incidents in Cabo San Lucas itself and the specific mention of cartel threats – signals a need for heightened vigilance for everyone in the region. Los Cabos has invested heavily in security, and Mexican authorities typically respond quickly to disruptions, especially in key tourist areas. The expected increased security presence is part of that response.

Staying Safe and Informed

Los Cabos’ reputation for safety has been a major draw for tourists. While this alert highlights a shift that needs to be taken seriously, it doesn’t necessarily erase the destination’s appeal. For those planning travel or currently in the area, the key is to stay informed through reliable sources (like the U.S. State Department website, local news outlets, and official advisories), maintain a higher level of situational awareness than perhaps previously thought necessary, and follow the common-sense safety precautions outlined by the Embassy. Enjoying the beauty of Los Cabos is still possible, but doing so with informed caution is now more important than ever.

Read the full Security Alert by the US Embassy in Mexico.

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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com

Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.

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