A few days ago, the USA put new restrictions on travel - especially returning into the USA via air travel. That’s to say that if you’re taking a plane to Puerto Vallarta, you’ll need a negative COVID-19 test within 3 days of your return flight back to the US.
So let’s break it down…
Do you need a COVID test to get INTO Mexico?
Short answer - No.
Long answer is that if you’re traveling into a location that is in the RED zone, you’ll want to stay cautious and perhaps make sure you’re covid free before jumping on a plane to another country.
You are going to have to fill out a flight form where you write down if you’ve had contact with anyone who has had covid or if you haven’t. Where you’re going and what the reason is for your travel.
You can do this online or at the airport. It’s safer online of course to avoid touching additional surfaces at the airport.
Are COVID tests available in Mexico?
Yes! You can get tested at a wide range of locations and your hotel or travel agent can get the list to you of locations offering the test.
You are responsible for the cost of the test that can range anywhere from 400MXN to 1000MXN pesos (roughly $20-$50 US dollars). Be prepared to pay in cash as well.
Can we stay at a resort?
Yes you can! Resorts are working at 30% capacity and are using many of the regulations required by the Mexican Health Services.
This means that to go in and out of the hotel you’ll need to wear a mask covering your nose, mouth, and chin. You’ll need to wear the mask in public areas and social distance as best you can.
Employees are required to use masks and shields and sometimes they’ll wear gloves.
The resorts are really great at following the restrictions and requirements - unfortunately it really is up to the guest to keep social distancing norms and wear a mask whenever possible.
What about sightseeing / tourist attractions?
At the close of December, the governor of Jalisco reported Puerto Vallarta and surrounding areas in the Red Zone. All non-essential businesses are not operating at this time.
You can book private tours however, I don’t believe they’re allowed.
Many of the public plazas and the famous Malecon are closed. This means that you’ll most likely be restricted to your resort unless you rent a car and take it upon yourself to venture out.
Again, you’ll have to wear a mask in all public or spaces where there are people. Going to the stores require masks as well.
Children are not allowed in the stores, is this true?
To my knowledge, this is TRUE. Children under the age of 12, I believe are not allowed into Walmart, grocery stores, or other public stores. Some stores and shopping malls allow children and anyone over 65 enter the spaces during certain hours. For example Walmart has a 7am-11am time slot for children, anyone over 65 and pregnant women.
So make sure you are informed before heading to the store just in case you’re not allowed in with children.
Are you still available for sessions/weddings?
While Puerto Vallarta experiences another lockdown, we are still available for sessions! Most sessions will have to take place at your resort or where ever you’re staying because the public beaches are shut down at the moment. I’ve heard that they’re closing the beaches at 3pm and police do enforce - except if you’re at a resort where a part of the beach is private.
Weddings are happening still and again it is upon the guests and couple to make sure that everyone who attends has been covid free and also follows mask regulations.
I personally wear a mask at all times during the session and keep my distance. I have also been home for most of the 2020 and after traveling to California in Dec., I quarantined for one month and have no symptoms or have signs of COVID. (I will be getting tested soon).
What about the airlines? Can they keep me from entering Mexico?
Airlines are taking the regulations seriously. Temperatures are taken at the airport even before your board your plane. If at anytime someone is exhibiting symptoms, they might not be allowed to get on the plane.
Be a responsible traveler no matter where you go
In the end, Puerto Vallarta continues to host many travelers from all over the world! We are really keeping to the restrictions, mask wearing, and sanitation regulations as much as possible.
In the end, it really is up to YOU. If you have been keeping safe, wearing masks, staying home, and really taking COVID seriously, then traveling shouldn’t be a problem. If you are going to come and stay in the resort, social distance, enjoy the beach with ONLY your pod, then come and enjoy!
If you haven’t been responsible, then I suggest you stay home. COVID has taken 1 million of our citizens and the number continues to grow. We thrive on tourism but not at the expense of peoples’ lives which are the same people who help you have a great stay.
Helpful links:
US Embassy Website with COVID 19 visitor information