U.S. issues ‘Level 3: Reconsider Travel’ advisory to this popular Central American destination

If you’re thinking of visiting Guatemala, think again.

The U.S. Department of State recently issued a “Level 3: Reconsider Travel” advisory to U.S. travelers planning a trip to the popular Central American nation because of the prevalent crime.

“Some areas of Guatemala have problems with gangs, robbery, carjacking, drug trafficking and violence,” according to advisory. “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.”

Certain regions of Guatemala are under a “Level 4: Do Not Travel” advisory, the most critical level and most severe travel warning. These areas include the San Marcos and Huehuetenango departments, as well as Zone 18 in Guatemala City and the municipality of Villa Nueva.

However, many popular tourist destinations remain accessible to American travelers. These include Tikal, Antigua, Lake Atitlán, and the Pacific coast areas located in Santa Rosa and Escuintla.

According to the advisory, 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.

Check the country information page for helpful information about traveling to Guatemala. This includes information on entry and exit rules, safety, local laws, health, and getting around. Also, visit the U.S. Embassy in Guatemala City’s website for local resources, like legal help, medical services, driver’s licenses, and information on residence and work permits, as well as rules about bringing weapons into Guatemala.

If you decide to travel to Guatemala, the advisory further states the following:

• 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.
• Use trusted taxi services like Taxis Amarillo Express, Taxi Seguro, or Uber, and only use INGUAT-approved taxis from the “SAFE” stand at the airport, hotel taxis, or vetted private drivers. Avoid public transport and white car taxis, as well as “chicken buses.”
• Do not hike trails or volcanoes without a qualified local guide, as robberies can happen and getting help can be difficult.
• Avoid using public ATMs, and do not show signs of wealth like wearing expensive watches or jewelry. Also, try not to use your phone in public.
• Check the Overseas Security Advisory Council’s (OSAC) Country Security Report for Guatemala.