The State Department also recommends U.S. citizens to reconsider travel to some areas in Guatemala.

Of course, you should travel in a responsible manner and make use of your common sense.

The attacks are usually performed by local gangs. Your passport must be valid at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Guatemala. I am taking a look at recent events that caused the UK to issue a travel warning, including tourist murders, rapes, car rental break-ins and other incidents, but also my own experience traveling Costa Rica as a female traveler. Use radio-dispatched taxis (Taxi Amarillo), INGUAT approved taxis from the “SAFE” stand from the airport or hotel taxis. Getting to know a place before visiting it always enhances the experience. Avoid areas outside of major roads and highways in the Guatemala Department and listed zones in Guatemala City. Leave the rest in a sealed, signed envelope in your hotel's safe, and obtain a … As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. We may receive a small commission when you make a purchase using our link. If you have any doubts about traveling to Mexico or other parts of Latin America solely because of safety reasons, I’d say don’t let the power of a single story put you off. Guatemala is a generally safe place but to avoid any bad situations it is good to follow some of these recommendations of how to travel safely in Guatemala: There is a tourism police in Guatemala City and in Antigua Guatemala that offers 24-hour assistance to tourists. It’s no secret that most travelers skip Guatemala City all together, but if you’re like me and just had to see it for yourself then here are some things to consider. If you’re planning on traveling here, also check out this article about Antigua Guatemala safety (new window).***. Travel during the daytime – if you can help it. In short, it’s important travelers understand their surroundings. It's best to travel and arrive in daylight hours. Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules. Armed attacks on bus drivers and conductors, ending with serious injury or even death, often happen in Guatemala City. For instructions on how to disable your ad blocker, click here. Only carry the money, cards, checks and valuables that you need. Passport for official travel. UK health authorities have classified Guatemala as having a risk of Zika virus transmission. Traveling on public buses is not advisable for security reasons. Markets, public transport, and other crowded places are best to be avoided because tourists are easy targets in big crowds and Guatemala … So, whether it’s hanging out in one of the trendy cafes in Mazatlan or diving into a cenote in Tulum, there’s definitely something for you here. The threat is real. Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas. Avoid areas outside of major roads and highways in the Guatemala Department and listed zones in Guatemala City. There have been reports of armed robbery and bus/carjackings affecting tourists on a number of travel routes, including along main highways and the road to and from the international airport in Guatemala City. If that's not possible, travel at night using 1st-class buses and catch a taxi to your hotel once you arrive. This post may contain affiliate links. Last Updated on December 31, 2019. Regular Canadian passport. Do not hail taxis on the street in Guatemala City. Escuintla Department – Level 3: Reconsider Travel Being a little more familiar with the country will undoubtedly make your Guatemala travel all … Only carry the money, cards, checks and valuables that you need. If you have been doing research, you probably know that while the vast majority of travelers to Guatemala have worry-free vacations, crime is indeed on the rise in Guatemala, especially in Guatemala City.