Guatemala Travel Advisory: Latest Safety Updates and Tips
Planning a trip to Guatemala? The U.S. Department of State advises reconsidering travel due to high crime rates, especially along the Mexico border. Learn about safety concerns like violent crime, potential roadblocks, and demonstrations. Discover vital safety tips, regional risks, and emergency contacts to ensure a secure trip. Read on to prepare yourself before you go.
Important information
- The U.S. Department of State has issued a Level 3: Reconsider Travel advisory for Guatemala due to high crime rates, particularly violent crime.
- Exercise increased caution throughout the country, especially in urban areas and along the Chiapas, Mexico border where organized crime is prevalent.
- Avoid public buses and use reputable transportation services like registered taxis or pre-arranged transport. Do not display signs of wealth and be aware of your surroundings.
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for important safety updates and consider obtaining travel insurance for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage.
- For emergencies, contact the police (110/120), ambulance/fire (122/123), or ASISTUR for bilingual tourist support (1500/+502-2290-2810).
Understanding the Guatemala Travel Advisory
Planning a trip to Guatemala? The U.S. Department of State’s Travel Advisory provides crucial safety and health information. Currently at Level 3: Reconsider Travel, the advisory highlights crime as the primary concern. The risk varies by region. Before you go, carefully review the advisory for details on violent crime, potential roadblocks, strikes, and demonstrations. Exercise increased caution throughout your travels in Guatemala.
What is the Current Travel Advisory for Guatemala?
Guatemala’s travel advisory is Level 3, urging travelers to reconsider their plans. This warning is primarily due to the country’s crime rate, with some areas being more dangerous than others. Before traveling to Guatemala, carefully review the official travel advisory for comprehensive information.
Key Factors Influencing the Advisory Level
Several factors influence safety in Guatemala. These include crime rates, health concerns like disease outbreaks, and political stability. Extreme weather, such as hurricanes, is also a consideration. These factors are carefully evaluated to determine the travel advisory level, keeping travelers safe and informed.
Safety Updates for Travelers to Guatemala
Exercise increased caution while traveling in Guatemala due to high crime rates. Safeguard your valuables by keeping them out of sight, and avoid walking alone at night. Always use reputable transportation services and opt for secure accommodations. In the unfortunate event of a robbery, prioritize your safety by cooperating with the perpetrators.
Stay informed about local conditions, as these can shift rapidly. Be aware that political demonstrations may arise unexpectedly. Enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) will provide you with crucial updates and safety information.
Certain areas warrant extra vigilance. The Guatemala-Chiapas, Mexico border region poses a heightened risk due to organized crime. Urban areas also experience frequent violent crime. Avoid public buses, as they can be targets for armed attacks; instead, choose registered taxis. Thorough research on specific high-risk areas within cities will significantly contribute to your safety.
Recent Changes to Safety Guidelines
Exercise increased caution in Guatemala due to violent crime, especially along the Chiapas, Mexico border where organized crime is widespread. Reconsider travel to these areas.
Avoid protests and large gatherings. If you encounter one, leave quickly when it is safe to do so. Stay informed about local conditions by monitoring news outlets and following guidance from local authorities.
Areas of Concern: Regions and Cities
Exercise extreme caution when visiting Guatemala City due to high crime rates. Gang activity and civil unrest are common in certain areas, making these zones particularly dangerous for travelers.
Practical Safety Tips for Traveling in Guatemala
Exercise a high degree of caution in Guatemala due to safety concerns, especially violent crime. Avoid demonstrations and maintain situational awareness at all times. Use pre-paid or radio taxis, and avoid ATMs after dark. Stay informed about local conditions and avoid risky areas at night.
While driving, keep your car doors locked and windows rolled up. Don’t hail taxis off the street, and avoid traveling outside Guatemala City at night. Around Lake Atitlán, use certified tour guides and exercise caution when swimming in the Pacific due to strong currents. Never leave your drinks unattended.
Avoid displaying signs of wealth, such as expensive jewelry or electronics. Choose hotels with robust security measures and use ATMs located within those hotels. Regularly check local security reports for updates. Carry only small amounts of cash and utilize hotel safes for valuables.
Travel with companions, particularly at night and in less populated areas. Use radio-dispatched taxis or those arranged through your hotel. If driving, stick to well-traveled roads. Be extra vigilant at ATMs and bus stations. Keep your belongings close and secure.
Carry copies of important documents, and choose accommodations with good security. Use reputable transportation services. In case of a robbery, prioritize your safety and don’t resist. Hand over your valuables. Be wary of strangers and avoid isolated areas.
Recommended Precautions for Tourists
Safeguard your valuables: avoid overt displays of expensive jewelry, electronics, or large sums of cash.
Insurance and Emergency Contacts
Traveling to Guatemala? Don’t forget travel insurance! It’s your financial safety net, protecting you from unexpected hiccups like trip cancellations, medical emergencies, and lost luggage.
Emergency Contacts in Guatemala
- Police: 110.
- Ambulance: 120.
- Fire: 122.
- Other emergencies: 123.
US Embassy Assistance
US citizens can seek assistance from the US Embassy in Guatemala. Contact details are readily available online.
Should You Get Travel Insurance?
Travel insurance is crucial for safeguarding yourself against unexpected travel disruptions. A comprehensive policy offers valuable peace of mind by covering various unforeseen issues.
What does travel insurance protect against?
- Medical emergencies,
- Trip cancellations,
- Lost luggage.
What should you carefully evaluate?
- Coverage options, especially medical expenses,
- Emergency evacuation,
- Trip interruption and baggage loss.
Selecting the right policy is essential for ensuring you’re prepared for any travel mishap.
Emergency Contacts and Resources in Guatemala
For police assistance, dial 110 or 120.
For medical attention or the fire department, call 122 or 123.
Tourists can access bilingual support (English and Spanish) through ASISTUR by dialing 1500 or +502-2290-2810.
Your embassy or consulate can also provide consular assistance.
