Guatemala
Is Guatemala safe to visit? Advice, scams and health
Most travellers can visit Guatemala safely if they stay in popular tourist hubs, use reputable transport, avoid night travel on isolated roads and keep valuables hidden; high crime areas or political unrest would change this advice.
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Key facts
- Emergencycheck
- 110 police · 122/123 fire and ambulance · 1500 tourist assistance
- Currencycheck
- Quetzal (GTQ, Q); about 7.6–7.8 per US$
- Time zone
- UTC−6 all year
Quick safety summary
Stick to well‑traveled towns such as Antigua, Lake Atitlán, and Flores. Use licensed shuttles, hotel‑arranged tours, and avoid walking alone after dark in city centres. Keep passports and cash in a hotel safe.
- Daytime travel on main roads – safe
- Night travel outside major towns – risky
- Petty theft – common in markets and buses
Common scams in Guatemala
Taxi overcharging: drivers may claim a higher fare or take a longer route. Insist on a meter or agree on a price before starting.
Currency exchange tricks: unofficial exchangers can give a poor rate or short‑change you. Use banks or reputable exchange bureaus.
Fake tour operators: some offer cheap tours that never materialise. Book through recognised agencies or your accommodation.
- Ask for receipts and written confirmations
- Verify licence numbers on official tourism websites
- Pay by card where possible to have a record
Government travel advisories
The U.S. Department of State advises exercising increased caution due to crime, especially in Guatemala City and rural border areas. It recommends staying in groups, using reputable transport and keeping a low profile.
The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) issues a similar warning, noting that violent crime can affect tourists and that demonstrations may occur without notice.
Canadian and Australian advisories echo these points, urging travellers to register with their embassy and have emergency contacts ready.
- Check the latest advisory before departure
- Register travel plans with your embassy
- Carry a copy of the advisory for reference
Questions people ask
Is Guatemala safe for tourists?
Yes, if you stay in popular areas, use reputable transport and avoid night travel on isolated roads; crime rates are higher in some urban districts.
What are the most common scams in Guatemala?
Taxi overcharging, unofficial currency exchange with poor rates, and unlicensed tour operators that disappear after payment.
What do government travel advisories say about Guatemala?
US, UK, Canada and Australia advise increased caution due to crime and occasional protests, recommending group travel, reputable transport and registration with embassies.
Should I carry cash or use cards?
Use cards where accepted for safety, but keep some local cash for markets; exchange at banks or trusted bureaus.
What emergency numbers can I call?
Police: 110; fire/ambulance: 122/123; tourist assistance: 1500 (check local listings).
Verify with the official source
Draft, not field-verified
Deep dive
Every source; changeable facts are marked check
Sources
Ask about Guatemala
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