Guatemala

Petty crime

Petty crime is common, particularly pickpocketing and bag-snatching. You’re at risk. 
Take extra care of your valuables in:

• Airports
• Bus terminals
• Public transport
• Tourist areas

To prevent petty crime:

• Be alert after dark
• Avoid being on the streets alone
• Pay attention in crowded areas
• Use ATMs in daylight hours
• Withdraw or change money in secure areas like hotels, banks or shopping centres.

Drink spiking can happen anywhere. Be alert to the potential risks, and don't leave food or drinks unattended. Pay attention when your drinks are being mixed. Stick to reputable venues and avoid homemade alcoholic drinks due to the risk of methanol poisoning. Get urgent medical help if you suspect you’ve been a victim.

More information:

• Partying safely while overseas

Violent crime

Violent crime is common in Guatemala, particularly in tourist destinations. This includes:

• murder
• carjacking
• kidnapping
• assault
• rape
• robbery

Crime often involves guns. The risk of violent crime increases at night.

Areas at risk for violent crime, assault and robbery include:

• Guatemala City, 
• volcanoes and other tourist sites
• borders with El Salvador, Honduras and Mexico
• land border crossings, where travellers exchange large amounts of cash

Border areas between Guatemala and Chiapas State in Mexico are affected by organised crime and drug-related violence. Risks are higher from the Pacific Coast in San Marcos Department up to the Gracias a Dios border crossing in Huehuetenago Department. 

Express kidnappings happen. These are where criminals force you to withdraw funds from ATMs. This can occur at petrol stations and shopping centres.

If you're attacked or robbed, don't resist. If criminals have guns or weapons, they may injure or kill you.

To protect yourself from violent crime:

• always be aware of your surroundings
• take extra care after dark
• only use ATMs during daylight hours
• only change money in hotels or banks
• get updates on regional security conditions

Be careful when crossing land borders. Only cross the border during daylight hours. Allow enough time to arrive in a major town before dark.

Other crime

Criminals may target you when arriving at international airports or travelling to hotels in Guatemala City and Antigua. 

Using an unofficial taxi increases your risk of robbery and assault. Safe options include:

• buying prepaid taxi vouchers from the Tourist Office at the airport
• using radio-dispatched taxis
• using taxis from hotels

Don't use taxis hailed from the street or taxi stands.

You can use an escort from the state-run tourist service PROATUR to reduce your travel risk.

Theft happens at budget hotels, particularly in Antigua.

Road-based crime

To protect yourself while travelling by road:

• plan to arrive at La Aurora Airport (Guatemala City) during the day or early evening
• be aware of your surroundings
• travel in a group
• choose a reputable tour company
• never hitchhike or accept rides from strangers

To protect yourself if you're driving:

• keep doors locked and windows up, even when driving
• keep your valuables out of sight

Kidnapping

Kidnapping occurs across the world with political, ideological, and criminal motives. Foreigners, including Australians, have been kidnapped overseas while travelling. Kidnaps can happen anywhere, anytime, including destinations that are typically at lower risk. The Australian Government’s longstanding policy is that it doesn’t make payments or concessions to kidnappers.

Express kidnappings can occur in urban areas, they are often committed by organised gangs or taxi drivers. The kidnappers usually take their victims to an ATM and force them to make a cash withdrawal. If threatened, do not resist. 

More information:

• Kidnapping

Scams and fraud

Scams and credit card fraud are a risk.

Instances of credit card and ATM fraud can occur. Take precautions when using debit or credit cards.

Scam artists target foreign visitors and residents. The scams come in many forms and can cause great financial loss. Warn your friends and family to be sceptical if they’re asked to transfer funds to you in Guatemala. Tell them to contact you to check that you’ve made this request.

Cyber security 

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you're connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth. 

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media. 

More information:  

• Cyber security when travelling overseas 

Safety Tips for Women Travelers

Women traveling alone may encounter instances of sexual harassment and verbal abuse.

More information:

• Advice for Women Travellers

The government may make state of emergency or state of prevention declarations without notice.

Expect an increased police presence in many areas during the state of emergency or state of prevention declarations.

• Follow instructions issued by local authorities on any restrictions.
• Carry your identification at all times.

Demonstrations and protests

Protest and demonstrations can happen.

Demonstrations and protests against the government can occur. Some can turn violent, causing injuries and deaths. They may occur anywhere across the country and often affect public transport.

It’s illegal for foreigners to take part in political demonstrations in Guatemala.

To protect yourself during periods of unrest:

• Avoid demonstrations, protests, and public gatherings
• Check the media for reports of unrest
• Follow advice from local authorities

If you see a protest, leave as soon as it’s safe.

More information:

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Terrorism is a threat worldwide. Terrorist attacks could occur anywhere and at any time. Be alert to possible threats, especially in public places. Terrorists may target tourist areas or other places frequented by foreigners and where large crowds may gather.

Possible targets include:

• places of worship or religious holidays
• hotels, clubs, restaurants and cafes
• markets and shopping malls
• outdoor recreation events, including festivals,  concerts, and sporting venues
• public transport, airports and railway hubs

To stay safe:

• report suspicious activities or items to the police
• check the media for new threats
• take official warnings seriously
• follow the instructions of local authorities

If there’s an attack, leave the area as soon as it's safe to do so.

More information:

• Terrorism

Strong currents and undertows occur on the Pacific coast beaches. Check the safety conditions. 

There may not be lifeguards. Swimming conditions can become dangerous quickly.

Diving

Tour operators and diving centres may not adhere strictly to international standards. When engaging in adventure sports such as diving, choose a reputable company with proper insurance coverage.

Guatemala experiences natural disasters and severe weather, such as:

• hurricanes
• earthquakes
• volcanic eruptions
• landslides
• flash flooding 

To protect yourself in case of a natural disaster:

• secure your passport in a safe, waterproof location
• monitor local media and other sources
• follow the advice of local authorities
• keep in contact with your friends and family
• contact your tour operator or airline
• get local advice before visiting natural disaster-affected areas

Register with the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System for alerts.

To receive alerts on major disasters, register with the:

• Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System
• Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency

Hurricanes and severe weather

The hurricane season is from June to November, although tropical storms and hurricanes can happen in other months.

The wet season is from May to November, when landslides, mudslides, and flooding may occur.

The direction and strength of hurricanes can change suddenly.

If there's a hurricane or severe storm:

• you may get stuck in the area
• your airline may delay or suspend your flight
• available flights may fill quickly
• adequate shelter may not be available

Severe weather may also affect:

• access to ports
• road travel
• essential services, such as electricity and water

To protect yourself if a hurricane is approaching:

• know the evacuation plan for your hotel or cruise ship
• identify your local shelter
• closely monitor alerts and advice from authorities

Monitor weather reports if you're travelling to Guatemala during hurricane season or after a natural disaster.

More information:

• National Hurricane and Tropical Prediction Center
• Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency

Volcanoes

Guatemala has 4 active volcanoes:

• Volcan de Fuego
• Pacaya
• Santiaguito
• Tacana

Volcan de Fuego, Pacaya, and Santiaguito volcanoes are very active. Levels of activity may increase at any time. La Aurora International Airport (Guatemala City) can be subject to closures at short notice due to volcanic ash affecting airport operations.

After a volcanic eruption, falling ash can spread over a wide area. Ash, dust and toxic fumes are a significant health risk. If you have a respiratory condition, take particular care.

To protect yourself if there's a volcanic eruption:

• stay inside with the windows and doors shut
• place damp towels under doors and windows if ash is falling
• monitor advice and alerts from authorities

If you go outside, wear a disposable face mask, goggles and long clothing to avoid contact with ash.

To reduce your risks if you climb a volcano:

• only climb with a group
• use experienced guides and a reputable tour company
• follow the advice of local authorities

Earthquakes and tsunamis

Guatemala experiences earthquakes. Tsunamis can also happen.

Get to know the earthquake safety measures for each place you visit.

To receive tsunami alerts, Rregister with the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System.
If you're near the coast, move immediately to high ground if advised by local authorities, or if you:

• feel a strong earthquake that makes it hard to stand up
• feel a weak, rolling earthquake that lasts a minute or more
• see a sudden rise or fall in sea level
• hear loud and unusual noises from the sea

Don't wait for official warnings, such as alarms or sirens. Once on high ground, monitor local media.

Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave.

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

Confirm:

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition.

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

More information:

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips (Healthdirect Australia)

Not all medications available over the counter or by prescription in Australia are available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

Medications containing pseudoephedrine are banned in Guatemala.

If you plan to take medication, check if it's legal in Guatemala. Take enough legal medication for your trip.

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is, including its generic name
• your required dosage
• that it's for personal use

More information:

• Medication
• Embassy of Guatemala in Canberra

Insect-borne diseases

Zika virus is widespread in Guatemala.

If you're pregnant, the Australian Department of Health and Aged Care recommends that you:

• discuss travel plans with your doctor

Malaria is a year-round risk in rural areas below 1500m elevation.

Other insect-borne diseases occur in Guatemala. These include:

• dengue
• Chagas disease
• river blindness
• leishmaniasis

To protect yourself from disease:

• make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing
• consider taking medicine to prevent malaria.

Get medical advice if you have a fever, muscle pain, rash, bleeding nose or gums, or severe headache.

More information:

• Infectious diseases

HIV/AIDS

HIV/AIDS is a significant risk in Guatemala.

Take steps to protect yourself if you're at risk of infection.

Other health risks

Waterborne, foodborne and other infectious diseases are common. These include:

• hepatitis
• typhoid
• tuberculosis

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

To protect yourself from illness:

• boil drinking water or drink water from a sealed bottle
• avoid ice cubes
• avoid raw and undercooked food, such as salads
• make sure your vaccinations are up to date
• avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth, or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated
• avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs

Get medical advice if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

Medical facilities in Guatemala City are adequate. Outside the capital, facilities are limited.

Expect to pay cash before doctors and hospitals will treat you, even in an emergency.

Doctors will rarely agree to work with your travel insurer. You may need to be reimbursed after you pay cash for your treatment. Doctors may only speak Spanish.

If you become seriously ill or injured, you may need to be evacuated to a place with better facilities. Medical evacuation can be very expensive.

Respect local laws and regulations at all times. Follow directions from local authorities.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our Consular Services Charter. But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Drugs

Penalties for drug offences are severe and include lengthy prison sentences in local jails.

More information:

• Carrying or using drugs

Other laws

Guatemala has the death penalty for aggravated murder and political crimes.

Photographing some government buildings, military sites and areas like the Presidential Palace and airports is illegal. Check with local authorities before taking photos.

LGBTQIA+ travellers 

Avoid public displays of affection.

Same-sex relationships are legal in Guatemala, but the country is conservative.

Same-sex marriages aren't recognised in Guatemala.

More information:

• LGBTQIA+ travellers

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you’re overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

More information:

• Staying within the law and respecting customs

Guatemalan males, including dual nationals, must complete compulsory military service.

If you're a male dual citizen aged between 18 and 50 years, contact the Embassy of Guatemala in Canberra before you travel.

If you are an Australian citizen, and a Guatemalan citizen, the consular services we can provide to you may be limited. 

More information:

• Dual nationals

Get permission before photographing anyone, especially women, children and indigenous people.

Visas

You'll need to purchase a tourist card at the airport. This permits you to visit Guatemala for up to 90 days.

Guatemala is a member country of the Central American Border Control Agreement (CA-4), along with:

• El Salvador
• Honduras
• Nicaragua

With a CA-4 tourist visa, you can travel freely by land between member countries within the 90-day period.

Your tourist card is dated from the first entry into any member country.

You can apply to extend the CA-4 visa before it expires at the local immigration office.

If you overstay the visa without an extension, you may be:

• fined
• forced to leave
• unable to enter other CA-4 member countries

If you're not a tourist or you plan to stay longer, you'll need a visa.

Entry and exit conditions can change. Contact the Embassy of Guatemala in Canberra for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

Border measures

To enter the country, you'll need:

• a valid passport
• a return or onward ticket
• evidence you have enough money for your visit

You'll need to pay an airport and security tax in cash on departure at the airport.

You'll also need to pay an exit tax if your ticket price doesn't include it.

Follow the entry requirements set out by Guatemalan authorities (in Spanish).

Travel via the United States 

If you're travelling through the US, ensure you meet all current US entry or transit requirements, including if you're transiting through Hawaii.

Travel via Canada

If you're travelling via Canada, ensure you meet all entry and transit requirements. 

Travel via Chile

If you’re travelling via Chile, ensure you meet all current entry or transit requirements.

Yellow fever vaccination

Depending on where you’ve travelled, you may need a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate to enter Guatemala. Some airlines may want to see one when you leave. 

More information:

• Countries with a risk of yellow fever (PDF 151KB)

Travelling with Children

A child travelling to Guatemala without both parents must have notarised written consent from both parents. A child travelling with at least 1 parent won't need this letter.

These documents must be in Spanish and approved by the Guatemalan mission closest to the child's home.

More information:

• Embassy of Guatemala
• Advice for people travelling with children

Validity

Some countries won’t let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you’re just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport’s expiry date before you travel. If you’re not sure it’ll be valid for long enough, consider getting a new passport.

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the Australian Passport Information Service.
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest Australian Embassy or Consulate.

Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can’t guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers. 

More information:  

• LGBTQIA+ travellers 

The local currency is the Guatemala Quetzal (GTQ).

You can't import or export the Quetzal. You can only exchange US dollars in Guatemala.

ATMs aren't always reliable. Credit cards are widely accepted.

Contact your bank to make sure your cards will work.

Using ATMs on the street puts you at high risk of robbery or express kidnapping.

Tour operators

Transport and adventure tour operators may not meet Australian safety standards for:

• scuba diving equipment
• providing life jackets, seat belts and other safety equipment

Rescue services may not be as effective as those in Australia.

If taking part in adventure activities:

• check your travel insurance covers you for the activity
• check the operator's safety equipment before you book
• use reputable operators
• use life jackets and seat belts, even if others don't

If appropriate safety equipment isn't available, use another provider.

Border crossings

Strict security controls are in place at Guatemalan borders due to high levels of drug-related criminal activity.

Military personnel are stationed along the border between Guatemala and Mexico. They may want to check your documents.

Only use recognised border crossings, particularly between Guatemala and Belize. There is an ongoing border dispute between the two countries.

The Mexican government has recently increased security at border crossings into Mexico in response to a large number of migrants seeking to travel to the US. Take extra care when using these border crossings and follow the direction of authorities.

Driving permit

To drive in Guatemala, you need both:

• an International Driving Permit (IDP)
• an Australian driver's licence

You must get the IDP before arriving in Guatemala.

Road travel

Demonstrations are having a significant impact on road transport networks and affecting road travel throughout the country. Monitor the media for updates. (see 'Civil unrest and political tension').

You're more likely to die in a motor vehicle accident in Guatemala than in Australia.

Driving in Guatemala can be dangerous. Hazards include:

• aggressive local drivers
• poorly maintained vehicles
• roads in poor condition
• drivers ignoring traffic laws

In rural areas, extra road travel risks include:

• poor lighting and street signs
• people and animals on roads

Mudslides and road collapses caused by heavy rains are common. Roads may be closed at short notice.

Inter-city travel after dark anywhere in Guatemala is dangerous. Violent carjackings occur, particularly on poorly maintained roads and main highways.

Dangerous roads include:

• the Pan-American Highway (CA-1)
• the Pacific Coast Highway (CA-2)
• the Atlantic Highway (CA-9)

Criminals have violently attacked motorists between El Salvador and Guatemala, particularly on the Guatemalan side of the border.

Armed gangs often build roadblocks in:

• the northern and western Departments of San Marcos
• Huehuetenango
• El Quiche
• Alta Verapaz
• El Peten
• Escuintla

Other dangerous areas for road travel include:

• the route between Cocales (Suchitepequez) and San Lucas Toliman (Atitlan)
• the isolated dirt roads near Lake Atitlan
• the Godinez bypass via Patzun between Guatemala City and Panajachel

An alternative route to the Godinez bypass is the main Pan-American highway to Solola.

Criminals sometimes pose as police officers.

It's illegal to drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Authorities may arrest or detain you.

If you plan to drive in Guatemala:

• check your travel insurance cover
• learn local traffic laws and practices
• don't travel alone, at night or through dangerous areas
• keep doors locked and windows up, even when moving
• don't drink or use drugs

Before you drive:

• get local advice on road conditions, including security risks
• know your travel options in advance
• be prepared for a change in plans if any security issues come up

More information:

• Driving or riding

Motorcycles

Check with your travel insurer whether your policy covers you when using a motorbike, quad bike or similar vehicle.

Your policy may not cover you for accidents that occur while using these vehicles.

Always wear a helmet.

Taxis

Travelling by taxi can be dangerous.

Book airport taxis and regular taxis through a reputable taxi company. These are safer than taxis flagged from the street or at taxi stands.

If you use a taxi:

• arrange transport through your hotel or a radio dispatcher to avoid unlicensed operators
• buy vouchers from the airport Tourist Office for airport taxis
• book in advance if travelling at night
• don’t let your driver pick up other passengers
• never share a taxi with a stranger
• agree on the fare before you set off
• note your taxi driver’s name and licence number

Public transport

Public buses and chicken buses (converted school buses) are often unsafe. Armed robberies are common.

Bus travel can be dangerous. Gangs have targeted, robbed and sexually assaulted passengers on:

• tour buses
• inter-city buses
• luxury coaches

Gangs have also detonated bombs targeting buses. In 2016, gangs killed 5 people in a bomb blast on an inter-city bus in San Jose Pinula, near Guatemala City.

Dangerous areas for bus attacks include:

• border crossings
• tourist areas like Panajachel and Antigua
• the roads from the El Salvador border to Cuilapa
• from the Belize border to El Cruce

If you need to use public transport:

• avoid travelling on public buses or chicken buses (converted school buses)
• only travel on tour buses and inter-city buses with good security arrangements
• do not stow your bag in the overhead bin or under your seat
• check security arrangements before you book

If you plan to travel by bus from Guatemala to southern Mexico, see our travel advice for Mexico.

Boat travel

Criminals may attack you on motorised or sailing boats in Rio Dulce and Livingston.

Check there are good security measures in place before booking any boat travel.

Beaches

Strong currents and tides on Guatemala's Pacific coast are dangerous for swimmers.

You often won't find beach patrols, lifeguards or warning and advisory signs.

Air travel

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check Guatemala's air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.

More information:

• Air travel

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider
• employer
• airline

PROATUR, the tourist assistance unit, provides 24-hour help:

• call 1500

• email proatur@inguat.gob.gt

Fire and rescue services

Call 122.

Medical emergencies

Call 123 or go to the nearest hospital.

Police

Call 110 or visit the nearest police station.

Emergency telephone operators may not speak English.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Read the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

Australia has a consulate in Guatemala City, headed by an Honorary Consul. The consulate provides limited consular assistance to Australians in Guatemala. The Consulate can conduct passport interviews and provide provisional travel documents for emergency travel to the nearest Australian embassy.  The Consulate can’t issue Australian passports. You can get full consular assistance from the Australian Embassy in Mexico City.

Australian Consulate, Guatemala

Avenida 5 16-62, Zona 10
Edificio Platina, office 102
Ciudad de Guatemala, Guatemala

Phone: (+502) 4210 9805
E-mail: consuladoaustralia.guate@gmail.com

Australian Embassy, Mexico City

Ruben Dario #55
Corner of Campos Eliseos, Polanco
Colonia Bosque de Chapultepec
11580 CDMX Mexico

Phone: (+52 55) 1101 2200
Email: consularpassports.mexico@dfat.gov.au
Website: mexico.embassy.gov.au
Facebook: @AusEmbMex
X: @AusEmbMex

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia