Guatemala, a land of vibrant Mayan culture, stunning volcanoes, and lush rainforests, is an enticing destination for adventurous families. From the ancient ruins of Tikal to the serene beauty of Lake Atitlán and the colorful colonial streets of Antigua, Guatemala offers a rich tapestry of experiences. However, like many countries, it’s important to be aware of safety concerns to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. This guide, drawing on travel advisories, will help you navigate Guatemala Travel with a focus on family safety.
Understanding the Safety Landscape in Guatemala
Guatemala is known for its warm hospitality and breathtaking landscapes, but it also faces challenges with crime, including gang activity, robbery, and drug trafficking. While tourists are not typically targeted directly, opportunistic crime can occur. It’s crucial to understand that local law enforcement in some areas may have limited resources, which can affect response times and resolution of incidents. Being informed and prepared is key to a safe guatemala travel experience.
Areas to Exercise Extreme Caution During Guatemala Travel
Certain areas in Guatemala carry a higher risk due to crime. It’s advised to reconsider travel to or exercise extreme caution in the following regions:
- San Marcos Department (except the city of San Marcos): This department faces significant issues with drug trafficking and gang control, leading to a high risk of crime.
- Huehuetenango Department (except the city of Huehuetenango): Similar to San Marcos, drug trafficking and gang activity are prevalent in Huehuetenango, increasing safety risks.
- Zone 18 in Guatemala City and Villa Nueva: These urban areas are known for high crime rates and significant gang presence, making them particularly dangerous.
While these areas should be avoided, popular tourist destinations like Antigua, Lake Atitlán, Tikal, Quetzaltenango, Puerto Barrios, and Coban are generally considered safer, especially with the presence of tourist police (DISETUR) and the Tourist Assistance Program (ASISTUR).
Essential Safety Tips for Guatemala Travel with Family
To mitigate risks and ensure a safer guatemala travel experience for your family, consider these essential safety tips:
Transportation Safety in Guatemala
- Night Travel: Avoid driving outside Guatemala City at night. Poor lighting and road conditions, combined with safety risks, make night driving hazardous.
- Lake Atitlán Travel: When visiting Lake Atitlán, opt for certified tour guides and travel between villages via chartered boats. Pathways around the lake can be dangerous, and emergency services may be slow to respond.
- Trusted Transportation Services: Utilize reputable taxi services like Taxis Amarillo Express, Taxi Seguro, or Uber in urban areas. From the airport, use INGUAT-approved taxis from the “SAFE” stand, hotel taxis, or vetted private drivers.
- Avoid Risky Public Transportation: Steer clear of public transportation, especially “chicken buses” and white car taxis, due to higher risks of crime and accidents.
Accommodation and Personal Safety
- Secure Hotels: Choose hotels with secure parking, doormen, and professional security staff for added safety.
- Mindful of Belongings: Avoid displaying signs of wealth, such as expensive jewelry or watches, and try to limit phone use in public to minimize attention from potential criminals.
- ATM Awareness: Refrain from using public ATMs, which can be targets for theft.
- Avoid Unattended Drinks and Strangers: Never leave drinks unattended in public places and politely decline invitations from strangers to private gatherings.
Activities and Excursions
- Guided Hikes and Volcano Treks: Always hire a qualified local guide for hiking trails or volcano excursions. Robberies can occur in isolated areas, and getting help can be challenging.
- Pacific Ocean Swimming: Avoid swimming in the Pacific Ocean due to strong currents and undertows, and limited lifeguard presence.
Utilizing the Tourist Assistance Program (ASISTUR)
Guatemala provides a valuable resource for tourists through the Tourist Assistance Program (ASISTUR). This program works in conjunction with tourist police (DISETUR) in popular tourist areas to offer assistance and protection. ASISTUR offers:
- Emergency Call Center: A 24/7 call center with English and Spanish speakers, reachable by dialing 1500 from a Guatemalan phone or (+502) 2290-2810. You can also contact them via WhatsApp at +502-5188-1819.
- Security Escorts: Tourist groups concerned about safety can request security escorts.
ASISTUR’s presence in key tourist locations enhances the safety net for visitors and can be a crucial resource during your guatemala travel.
Conclusion: Informed Travel to Guatemala
Guatemala offers incredible experiences for families willing to be informed and prepared. By understanding the safety landscape, avoiding high-risk areas, and adhering to safety tips, you can minimize potential risks and enjoy the beauty and culture of this Central American gem. Remember to stay updated on travel advisories, enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for alerts, and maintain communication with the U.S. Embassy in Guatemala for the latest information. With careful planning and awareness, your guatemala travel can be a safe and unforgettable adventure for the whole family.
