Officials advise reconsidering travel to Central American county, large neighboring city

The U.S. Department of State is warning travelers to reconsider travel to a pair of destinations in Central America over violent crime and say three areas of one nation shouldn’t be visited by Americans at all. On Monday, updated travel warnings were issued for those looking to visit Belize and Guatemala.

In regards to Guatemala, officials advise reconsidering travel to most portions of the country, but deemed the areas of San Marcos Department, Huehuetenango Department and Zone 18 in Guatemala City and the city of Villa Nueva as “do not travel” areas. Those areas experience a high level of gang activity, drug trafficking and other violent crime.

Other areas of Guatemala are described as dangerous due to ongoing crime and a lack of police assistance in those areas.

“Some areas of Guatemala have problems with gangs, robbery, carjacking, drug trafficking and violence. Local law enforcement may not always respond well to serious crimes, leading to low arrest and conviction rates.  While tourists are not usually targeted, they can still be victims of opportunistic crimes,” reads a summary included in the advisory.

If you do decide to travel to Guatemala, some recommendations from the State Department include:

• Do not travel outside Guatemala City at night because the roads are poorly lit, and there is a high risk for serious traffic accidents.
• When visiting Lake Atitlán, use certified tour guides and travel between villages by chartered boat. The paths around the lake can be dangerous and hard to access. Emergency services cannot arrive quickly to help.
• Avoid swimming in the Pacific Ocean because the currents and undertow are very strong, and there are not many lifeguards.
• Never leave drinks unattended in bars and restaurants and say no to invitations from strangers to private parties.
• Consider staying in hotels that have secure parking, doormen, and professional security staff.

Along with the nation of Guatemala, the State Department also advised reconsidering travel to Belize City in the neighboring country of Belize. Officials say gang activity and violent crime in the southside of Belize City is particularly problematic and advise visitors to be highly aware of their surroundings if visiting.

As for the country itself, travelers visiting Belize are asked to use extra caution, even in tourists areas and during the day. You should avoid showing off signs of wealth, avoid walking or driving at night and do not resist any robbery attempts.