How to Travel to Guatemala Safety

Guatemala is only now emerging from a violent dictatorial history. There are huge wealth disparities and weapons are easily available, fueling crime. Nonetheless, for prudent and well-prepared travelers, Guatemala is generally safe. Travelers are not singled out for violence, and you can greatly decrease your chance of being robbed by taking simple precautions.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

Concealed money pouch
Concealed money pouch

Step 1

Visit the website of the United States Department of State's travel warnings website before traveling and while in Guatemala. If a situation endangers American citizens, the site will post a travel advisory. Also receive travel information from the government by calling toll free1-888-407-4747 in the United States and Canada or 1-202-501-4444 outside. This service is available from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Eastern Time except on weekends and federal holidays.

Step 2

Travel with a tour organization. A local tour group will know what areas to avoid and how to deal with problems. Increase your safety by traveling with a group and being accompanied by locals.

Step 3

Do not travel at night, particularly in Guatemala City or Antigua. When you do travel, stick to known roads and tourist spots and make sure that someone knows where you are.

Step 4

Avoid making obvious displays of wealth. Jewelery, laptops, iPods and large wads of cash will make you look like a good target to thieves.

Step 5

Spread your valuables in different pockets. Place your money in one, your passport in another and your credit card in a third. You can also use a concealed money pouch to hide your cards and a bit of cash in case you are robbed.

Step 6

If you are robbed, do not resist. Travelers who comply with robbers are rarely injured.

Step 7

Avoid taking buses in Guatemala City. They are often targeted by robbers. Instead, call for a cab by dialing 2470-1515.

Step 8

Watch your valuables in crowded places such as chicken buses. They are often targeted by pickpockets.

Resources

Travel Warnings

Article Written By Isaiah David

Isaiah David is a freelance writer and musician living in Portland, Ore. He has over five years experience as a professional writer and has been published on various online outlets. He holds a degree in creative writing from the University of Michigan.

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