Guatemala Safety Guide
Health, security, and travel safety information
Emergency Numbers
Save these numbers before your trip.
Healthcare
What to know about medical care in Guatemala.
Healthcare System
Guatemala has a two-tier healthcare system with public hospitals (generally overcrowded with limited resources) and private hospitals and clinics that offer much higher quality care. Private healthcare in major cities meets international standards, while rural areas have limited medical facilities.
Hospitals
For tourists, private hospitals are recommended: Hospital Centro Médico, Hospital Herrera Llerandi, and Sanatorio El Pilar in Guatemala City are top choices. Antigua has Hospital Privado Hermano Pedro. Most accept international insurance with proper documentation. Payment is typically required upfront or guarantee of payment.
Pharmacies
Pharmacies (farmacias) are widely available in cities and towns. Many medications available by prescription-only in other countries can be purchased over-the-counter. Major chains include Farmacias Cruz Verde and Farmacia Galeno. Pharmacists can provide basic medical advice. Ensure medications are sealed and check expiration dates.
Insurance
Travel health insurance is not required but STRONGLY recommended. Medical evacuation coverage is particularly important as serious conditions may require air transport to Guatemala City or home country. Many private facilities require proof of insurance or upfront payment.
Healthcare Tips
- Bring sufficient prescription medications in original containers with doctor's note; pharmacies may have different brands
- Private clinics (clínicas) are available for minor issues and are more affordable than hospitals
- Dental care in Guatemala is excellent and affordable; many dental tourists visit specifically for procedures
- Keep copies of prescriptions and medical records; consider travel insurance that includes medical evacuation
- Tap water is not safe to drink; stick to bottled water to avoid gastrointestinal issues
- Altitude sickness can affect travelers in highland areas; ascend gradually and stay hydrated
Common Risks
Be aware of these potential issues.
Pickpocketing, bag snatching, and theft from vehicles are common in tourist areas, markets, bus stations, and crowded places. Thieves often work in teams to distract victims.
Armed robberies can occur, particularly in Guatemala City, on highways, and in isolated areas. Robberies on public buses and at ATMs have been reported.
Short-term kidnappings where victims are forced to withdraw money from ATMs. Incidents are relatively rare but have occurred, often involving unlicensed taxis.
Public chicken buses and intercity buses are frequent targets for robbery. Buses may also be poorly maintained and driven recklessly.
Driving in Guatemala can be hazardous due to poorly maintained roads, lack of signage, aggressive driving, roadblocks, and crime on highways. Accidents are common.
Various scams target tourists, from overcharging to fake tour operators and distraction techniques for theft.
Many destinations are at high altitude (Antigua at 1,500m, Quetzaltenango at 2,300m, and highland villages even higher), which can cause altitude sickness.
Tap water is not potable, and food safety standards vary. Traveler's diarrhea and other gastrointestinal issues are common.
Scams to Avoid
Watch out for these common tourist scams.
Individuals approach tourists claiming to be official guides, offer tours at inflated prices or to non-existent destinations, or lead tourists to shops where they receive commissions. Some may lead tourists to isolated areas for robbery.
Taxi drivers claim the meter is broken and quote inflated prices, take unnecessarily long routes, or use rigged meters that run fast.
One person creates a distraction (spilling something on you, asking for help, creating a commotion) while an accomplice steals your belongings.
Criminals install skimming devices on ATMs to capture card information, or watch over your shoulder to see your PIN, then steal or clone your card.
Scammers pose as police officers and demand to see wallets or passports, then steal money or claim fines must be paid immediately.
Drivers quote prices 5-10 times higher than normal rates, especially to tourists who don't know local prices.
People approach tourists asking for donations to fake charities, to help sick relatives, or claim to need help with money exchange or phone calls.
Vendors sell fake jade, silver, or other jewelry claiming it's authentic and valuable, often at high prices with elaborate stories about indigenous sources.
Safety Tips
Practical advice to stay safe.
Money and Valuables
- Carry only what you need for the day; leave passports, extra cash, and valuables in hotel safes
- Use ATMs inside banks during business hours; withdraw larger amounts less frequently
- Divide money between different pockets and bags; consider a money belt for large amounts
- Keep small bills (Q1, Q5, Q10) for purchases as vendors often claim not to have change
- Don't flash expensive jewelry, watches, cameras, or phones in public
- Make copies of important documents and store separately from originals
- Use credit cards instead of debit cards when possible for better fraud protection
Transportation
- Use tourist shuttles (like Atitrans, Adrenalina Tours) instead of public buses for intercity travel
- In Guatemala City and Antigua, use Uber or registered taxis arranged by your hotel
- Never hail taxis on the street; registered taxis are white with yellow taxi signs and numbered
- Avoid traveling between cities after dark; most robberies occur on highways at night
- If renting a car, choose a reputable company, get full insurance, and avoid driving at night
- Keep car doors locked and windows up, especially in cities and at stoplights
- Have a charged phone with offline maps; GPS can be unreliable in rural areas
Accommodation
- Stay in established tourist areas: Zona 10 or Zona 14 in Guatemala City, central Antigua, Panajachel or San Pedro at Lake Atitlán
- Choose accommodations with good security: locked gates, 24-hour reception, safes in rooms
- Read recent reviews about safety and location before booking
- Get specific directions and transportation advice from your hotel before arriving
- Don't open your door to unexpected visitors; verify identity with reception
- Keep your room locked even when inside; use additional door locks if provided
Daily Activities
- Stay aware of your surroundings; avoid using phones or cameras in isolated areas
- Walk confidently and purposefully; avoid appearing lost or confused in public
- Avoid walking alone at night, even in tourist areas; take taxis after dark
- Join group tours for visiting attractions outside main tourist zones
- Be cautious in markets and crowded areas where pickpockets operate
- Learn basic Spanish phrases; it improves safety and experiences
- Trust your instincts; if something feels unsafe, leave the situation
- Dress modestly and blend in; avoid wearing expensive-looking clothing or accessories
Technology and Communication
- Purchase a local SIM card (Tigo or Claro) for reliable communication and data
- Keep phones charged and carry a portable charger
- Use phone security features: passwords, Find My Phone, remote wipe capability
- Share your itinerary with family/friends; check in regularly
- Avoid using phones while walking on streets; step into shops if you need to use it
- Be cautious using public WiFi; use a VPN for sensitive transactions
- Save emergency numbers in your phone before arrival
Health Precautions
- Drink only bottled water; check seals are intact when purchasing
- Bring hand sanitizer and use frequently, especially before eating
- Pack a basic first aid kit with anti-diarrheal medication, pain relievers, and any prescriptions
- Use insect repellent containing DEET to prevent mosquito-borne illnesses
- Ensure routine vaccinations are up to date; consider Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and others
- Wash fruits and vegetables with purified water or peel them
- Be cautious with street food; choose vendors with high turnover and cooked-to-order items
Cultural Awareness
- Ask permission before photographing indigenous people; some may request a small tip
- Respect sacred sites and ceremonies; don't enter churches during services without permission
- Dress modestly, especially in rural and indigenous communities
- Learn about local customs; for example, bargaining is expected in markets but not in stores
- Be respectful of Mayan spiritual practices; some sites are actively used for ceremonies
- Avoid discussing politics or sensitive historical topics with people you don't know well
- Support local communities by buying authentic handicrafts directly from artisans
Information for Specific Travelers
Safety considerations for different traveler groups.
Women Travelers
Women can travel safely in Guatemala, though they may experience more attention and occasional catcalling (piropos), particularly in cities. Solo female travelers should take extra precautions, especially regarding transportation and nighttime activities. Most incidents can be prevented through awareness and smart planning. Many women travel solo successfully by staying in tourist areas, joining group tours, and connecting with other travelers.
- Stay in well-reviewed accommodations in safe neighborhoods; hostels can be good for meeting other travelers
- Avoid walking alone at night; take taxis even for short distances after dark
- Dress conservatively, especially outside tourist areas; cover shoulders and avoid short shorts in rural communities
- Wear a wedding ring (real or fake) and mention a husband/partner if uncomfortable; this often deters unwanted attention
- Be firm and confident when declining offers or attention; don't feel obligated to be overly polite
- Join group tours for activities outside main tourist areas rather than going alone
- Keep your phone charged and share your location with trusted contacts
- Be cautious accepting drinks from strangers; watch your drink being prepared
- Trust your instincts; if a situation feels uncomfortable, remove yourself immediately
- Connect with other female travelers through hostel communities or online forums
- Learn basic Spanish phrases for asserting boundaries: 'déjame en paz' (leave me alone), 'no me molestes' (don't bother me)
- Consider joining women-specific travel groups or tours if traveling solo for the first time
- Be aware that machismo culture exists; some men may be persistent but usually respect firm boundaries
- Avoid isolated beaches, hiking trails, or viewpoints alone; always go with a group or guide
- Use official transportation; never accept rides from strangers
LGBTQ+ Travelers
Homosexuality is legal in Guatemala (since 1871), and the age of consent is equal for all orientations (18 years). However, there are no anti-discrimination laws protecting LGBTQ+ individuals, no recognition of same-sex relationships, and no legal protections against hate crimes based on sexual orientation or gender identity.
- Exercise discretion with public displays of affection; same-sex couples may face harassment or hostility
- Guatemala City's Zona 10 and Zona 4 have LGBTQ+-friendly venues and more acceptance than other areas
- Research LGBTQ+-friendly accommodations before booking; some guesthouses and hotels are specifically welcoming
- Connect with local LGBTQ+ organizations like OASIS (Organización de Apoyo a una Sexualidad Integral frente al Sida) for current information
- Be cautious using dating apps; meet in public places and verify identities as scams and violence have occurred
- Avoid discussing LGBTQ+ topics with strangers or in public, especially in rural areas
- Consider joining LGBTQ+ travel groups or tours for added safety and community
- Be aware that transgender travelers may face additional challenges and discrimination
- Keep emergency contacts readily available, including your embassy
- Know that while Guatemala City has Pride events and LGBTQ+ venues, these are not widely publicized due to safety concerns
- Exercise particular caution in rural areas and small towns where acceptance is minimal
- Be prepared for potential discrimination in healthcare settings; seek LGBTQ+-friendly providers when possible
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is essential for Guatemala due to risks of theft, accidents, medical emergencies requiring expensive private healthcare, potential medical evacuation needs, and trip disruptions from natural disasters or safety situations. Public healthcare is inadequate for tourists, and private medical care, while excellent, requires upfront payment. Medical evacuation to Guatemala City or your home country can cost tens of thousands of dollars without insurance.
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