Puerto Vallarta Chaos Erupts; Flights Canceled, Tourists Told to Shelter in Place

Puerto Vallarta, a popular beach resort in Mexico that welcomed over six million visitors in 2025, has recently experienced unrest.

Authorities in Puerto Vallarta declared a Code Red alert, advising both residents and tourists to stay indoors.

In response, the U.S. State Department and Global Affairs Canada have issued shelter-in-place travel advisories for Jalisco and nearby regions. As of late February 22, 2026, no tourists or civilians appear to be directly affected by the civil unrest.

However, Puerto Vallarta International Airport has seen multiple flight cancellations, impacting airlines such as Air Canada and WestJet.

While Puerto Vallarta is generally considered safer than other Mexican states, visitors are advised to monitor airline updates, official advisories, and local news, as the situation remains fluid.

The State Department recommends that Americans in Mexico register for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, a free service that provides digital alerts in case of an emergency.

According to the U.S. CDC's Travel Health Notices, cases of New World screwworm myiasis, measles, dengue, chikungunya, and malaria have been reported in various Mexican states in early 2026. The CDC suggests prospective travelers to Mexico speak with a travel vaccine advisor about immunization options before departing abroad.