Travel Advisory for Republic of Guatemala
This page provides a comprehensive comparison of official government travel advisories for Republic of Guatemala from multiple trusted international sources including the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, France, Spain, Ireland, and Japan. Each government assesses travel risks independently based on their own intelligence, diplomatic relationships, and risk assessment criteria. By comparing these different perspectives, travelers can make more informed decisions about their safety and security when visiting Republic of Guatemala.
The information below is aggregated from official government sources and analyzed to provide you with a unified view of the current travel situation. Last updated: 2026-08-26
AdvisoryAtlas.com Risk Level
Level 3 - Reconsider Travel
Range: Level 2 to Level 3
AdvisoryAtlas.com Safety Index
35
Safety Index Score
Overview
Guatemala presents significant security risks, with a high degree of caution advised due to prevalent violent crime, including robbery, kidnapping, and assault, often exacerbated by organized crime and gang activity. Travelers should be particularly vigilant in border areas, specific city zones, and during nighttime travel, while also being aware of natural disaster risks like earthquakes and volcanic activity.
Detailed Advisory Summary
Guatemala demands a high degree of caution from travelers due to pervasive and often violent crime, with particular risks concentrated in border regions with Mexico, certain departments like Huehuetenango and San Marcos, and specific zones within Guatemala City. Organized crime and gang activity are significant drivers of this insecurity, leading to frequent armed robberies, carjackings, kidnappings, and assaults, sometimes occurring even in tourist areas.
Travelers are strongly advised against non-essential travel to border zones with Mexico and specific departments due to high levels of organized crime and drug-related violence. Within Guatemala City, certain zones are considered particularly dangerous, and even generally safer areas require heightened vigilance, especially after dark. Road travel carries substantial risks, including poor road conditions, aggressive drivers, and the potential for roadblocks and attacks, making nighttime travel strongly discouraged.
Natural hazards such as earthquakes and volcanic eruptions are also a concern, with potential to cause disruptions and require adherence to local authority advice. Health risks, including insect-borne diseases like Dengue and Zika, are present, necessitating precautions against mosquito bites and ensuring adequate travel insurance that covers medical evacuation.
Demonstrations and political tensions can arise, sometimes escalating to violence, and travelers should avoid large gatherings and monitor local media. Cultural sensitivity is important, particularly regarding photography of people, especially in indigenous communities. Overall, meticulous planning, staying informed, utilizing reputable services, and maintaining constant vigilance are crucial for a safer journey.
Travelers are strongly advised against non-essential travel to border zones with Mexico and specific departments due to high levels of organized crime and drug-related violence. Within Guatemala City, certain zones are considered particularly dangerous, and even generally safer areas require heightened vigilance, especially after dark. Road travel carries substantial risks, including poor road conditions, aggressive drivers, and the potential for roadblocks and attacks, making nighttime travel strongly discouraged.
Natural hazards such as earthquakes and volcanic eruptions are also a concern, with potential to cause disruptions and require adherence to local authority advice. Health risks, including insect-borne diseases like Dengue and Zika, are present, necessitating precautions against mosquito bites and ensuring adequate travel insurance that covers medical evacuation.
Demonstrations and political tensions can arise, sometimes escalating to violence, and travelers should avoid large gatherings and monitor local media. Cultural sensitivity is important, particularly regarding photography of people, especially in indigenous communities. Overall, meticulous planning, staying informed, utilizing reputable services, and maintaining constant vigilance are crucial for a safer journey.
Risk Level Summary by Government Source
| Source | Risk Level | Updated | Official Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Global Affairs Canada | Level 3 - Reconsider Travel | 2026-08-21 | View Source → |
| U.S. Department of State | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-07-02 | View Source → |
| Ministère des Affaires Étrangères | Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution | 2026-07-07 | View Source → |
| Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-08-13 | View Source → |
| Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade | Level 3 - Reconsider Travel | 2026-03-05 | View Source → |
| Ministerio de Asuntos Exteriores | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-05-08 | View Source → |
| Department of Foreign Affairs (Ireland) | Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution | 2026-04-17 | View Source → |
| Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan | Level 3 - Reconsider Travel | 2026-07-21 | View Source → |
| Auswärtiges Amt | Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution | 2026-07-09 | View Source → |
| New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade | Level 3 - Reconsider Travel | 2026-08-10 | View Source → |
| Département fédéral des affaires étrangères (DFAE) | Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution | 2026-04-08 | View Source → |
| Regjeringen (Norway) | Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution | 2026-05-27 | View Source → |
| Nederland Wereldwijd (Netherlands) | Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution | 2026-08-25 | View Source → |
| Viaggiare Sicuri (Italy) | Level 3 - Reconsider Travel | 2026-03-20 | View Source → |
| BMEIA (Austria) | Level 3 - Reconsider Travel | 2026-03-02 | View Source → |
| 0404 (Korea) | Level 3 - Reconsider Travel | 2026-08-03 | View Source → |
| Ministry for Foreign Affairs (Finland) | Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution | 2026-07-27 | View Source → |
Safety and Security Analysis
Vaccination Information
Required Vaccines
- Yellow fever vaccination is required for travelers aged 1 year or older coming from or transiting through countries with a risk of yellow fever transmission.
Recommended for Most Travelers
- Routine vaccinations such as MMR, diphtheria, tetanus, and polio should be up-to-date.
- Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travelers due to the risk of exposure through bodily fluids.
Recommended for Some Travelers
- Hepatitis A and Typhoid vaccinations are recommended depending on travel plans, food and water precautions.
- Rabies vaccination may be recommended for travelers at higher risk of animal contact, such as adventure travelers or those in rural areas.
- Vaccination against Chikungunya and Dengue may be considered depending on the risk and itinerary, with prevention focusing on mosquito bite avoidance.
It is advisable to consult a healthcare professional or travel clinic at least 8 weeks before departure to discuss necessary vaccinations and health precautions. Ensure your routine vaccinations are current. Travelers should be aware of the risk of diseases transmitted by mosquitoes, including Dengue and Zika, and take appropriate protective measures. Malaria risk exists in areas below 1500m elevation. Travelers should also consider precautions against food and waterborne illnesses.
Visa Information
Visa Types
| Type | Requirement | Stay Limit | Cost | Conditions | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tourist | Free | 90 days | Free | Passport valid for 6 months. |
|
| Business | Free | 90 days | Check Embassy | Passport valid for 6 months. |
|
| Student | Required | Varies | Check Embassy | Requires visa application. |
|
Entry & Legal Compliance
- Passport Validity Needed: 6 months
- Blank Pages Required: 2
- Dual Citizenship Policy: Recognized
- Proof Of Onward Travel: Required by airlines for boarding
- Currency Limit Declaration: USD 10,000
- Drone Usage Law: Not specified, but photography of government buildings and military installations is illegal.
Emergency Contacts
- Police: 110 / 120
- Medical Assistance: 122 / 123 / 128
- Firefighters: 122 / 123
- Tourist Assistance (ASISTUR/DISETUR): 1500 / +502 2290 2810 / +502 5188 1819 (WhatsApp)
- Roadside Assistance (PROVIAL): +502 2419 2121 / 1520
Common Scams & Tourist Traps
- ATM Skimming: Criminals may tamper with ATMs to steal card information.
- Online Romance Scams: Scammers build relationships online to extort money.
- Fake Police/Officials: Individuals posing as law enforcement may attempt to extort money or valuables.
- Distraction Theft: Criminals on motorcycles may approach vehicles or pedestrians to steal valuables.
- Bait-and-Switch: Unofficial currency exchange services may lead victims into ambushes or robberies.
Cultural Etiquette in Republic of Guatemala
Do
- Greet locals respectfully; a simple 'Buenos días' or 'Buenas tardes' is appreciated.
- Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or rural communities.
- Ask for permission before taking photos of people, particularly children and indigenous individuals.
- Be patient; service can be slower than expected, so maintain a calm demeanor.
Don't
- Do not display wealth openly, such as expensive jewelry or large amounts of cash.
- Avoid public displays of affection, especially same-sex couples outside of major cities.
- Do not engage with illegal drugs in any capacity; penalties are severe.
- Do not accept unsolicited help or offers from strangers, especially regarding transportation or currency exchange.
Advisory Comparison by Government Source
Global Affairs Canada
Updated: 2026-08-21
Canada advises a high degree of caution in Guatemala due to crime and roadblocks, with specific regional advisories recommending avoiding non-essential travel to certain areas, including specific zones in Guatemala City and municipalities in Escuintla and Guatemala departments, due to very high levels of violent crime. They highlight the frequency of violent crime, including murders, armed robberies, and kidnappings, and warn that foreigners are perceived as wealthy targets. Petty crime is also common, particularly in urban areas and markets. The advice emphasizes awareness of surroundings, avoiding isolated areas after dark, and not resisting attacks. It also covers safety for 2SLGBTQI+ persons, fraud risks, demonstrations, vigilante justice, photography concerns, women's safety, spiked drinks, adventure travel risks, water activities, road conditions, public transportation dangers (especially 'chicken buses'), taxi safety, and entry/exit requirements including the CA-4 agreement. Health advice covers routine vaccines, Hepatitis B, Influenza, Malaria, Rabies, Yellow Fever, Hepatitis A, Measles, Typhoid, Chikungunya, Dengue, Zika, Chagas disease, Leishmaniasis, and general food/water safety. It also touches on laws, dual citizenship, international child abduction, dress code, photography restrictions, driving, money exchange, natural disasters (forest fires, hurricanes, rainy season, seismic activity, volcanoes), emergency services, and consular assistance.
U.S. Department of State
Updated: 2026-07-02
The U.S. Department of State advises 'Reconsider travel' to Guatemala (Level 3) due to crime and terrorism, with a 'Do not travel' advisory (Level 4) for San Marcos and Huehuetenango Departments, and Zone 18 in Guatemala City, and Villa Nueva due to high levels of cartel, gang, and criminal organization activity. The advisory highlights that local law enforcement often struggles to address serious crimes, leading to low arrest rates, and tourists are targets for scams and extortion. Terrorism risk is noted from cartels, gangs, and criminal organizations in specific high-risk areas. U.S. government employees face travel restrictions to these areas. The advice details risks in specific areas, emphasizing violence from terrorist groups, cartels, gangs, and criminal organizations, and insufficient police resources. It strongly recommends enrolling in STEP, avoiding public ATMs, not displaying wealth, and using trusted taxi services like Taxis Amarillo Express, Taxi Seguro, or Uber. It also covers driving safety, health information from the CDC, entry requirements (electronic declaration form), currency, and provides contact information for the U.S. Embassy in Guatemala City. It cautions against using white taxis or 'chicken buses' due to crime and injury risks. The advice also touches upon local laws, criminal penalties, detention conditions, counterfeit goods, faith-based travel, LGBTQ+ travelers facing social discrimination, travelers with accessibility needs, students, women travelers, human rights reports, health resources, medical payments, vaccinations, healthcare facilities, prescription medications, non-traditional medicine, ART/surrogacy, water/food safety, air quality, transportation safety, weather/natural disasters (hurricanes, earthquakes, volcanoes), and living abroad resources.
Ministère des Affaires Étrangères
Updated: 2026-07-07
France recommends enhanced vigilance across Guatemala due to a high crime rate, with specific warnings for the capital city and certain zones. The advice highlights the risk of armed assaults by motorcyclists and opportunistic crimes targeting tourists, emphasizing the need for caution in crowded markets and service stations. Public transport in Guatemala City is discouraged, with a preference for Transmetro buses, radiotaxis, or yellow taxis. Certain zones in the capital are recommended for daytime visits only due to insecurity. Travel to archaeological sites should be via recognized agencies, preferably with 4x4 vehicles and local drivers, due to poor road conditions. The French advisory also details risks associated with transport, noting that road accidents cause more fatalities than crime, and emphasizes the inadequacy of public hospitals while private clinics are expensive. It strongly advises against nighttime driving and using older public buses, citing frequent delinquency. The advice also covers risks related to 'express kidnappings' by 'pirate taxis', urging the use of reputable apps or pre-booked services, and stresses the importance of verifying driver and vehicle details. It mentions road controls, natural risks like floods and earthquakes, volcanic activity, and provides general recommendations such as carrying minimal valuables, avoiding isolated areas, and cooperating during assaults. It also covers visa requirements, health advice including mosquito-borne diseases and general precautions, and provides contact details for French diplomatic missions.
Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
Updated: 2026-08-13
The UK's Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) advises against all but essential travel to specific areas of Guatemala, including within 5km of the Mexican border from the Pacific Coast up to the Gracias a Dios crossing, and to towns like Santa Ana Huista, San Antonio Huista, and La Democracia in Huehuetenango due to organized crime and drug-related violence. For the rest of Guatemala, a 'high degree of caution' is advised due to the threat of violent crime. The FCDO highlights that violent crime, including murder, carjacking, and kidnapping, is common and often involves firearms, with risks increasing at night. They warn of armed attacks on tourist routes and recommend using only pre-paid or radio taxis, avoiding street-hailed taxis and taxi stands. The advice covers protecting valuables, avoiding travel alone or at night, especially near borders, and being aware of surroundings near ATMs and transport hubs. It strongly advises against traveling on public buses ('chicken buses') due to incidents of attacks and extortion, and notes the risk of ATM tampering and fake police officers. Kidnappings for ransom, including 'express kidnappings', are reported. The guidance also covers local laws regarding personal ID, drugs, photography, and LGBT+ travelers facing conservative attitudes outside the capital. It provides advice on transport risks, including driving conditions, roadblocks, and the dangers of intercity buses, as well as natural disasters like hurricanes, earthquakes, and volcanic eruptions. It also details health risks like Zika, Malaria, and other insect-borne diseases, and the limitations of medical facilities outside the capital, stressing the need for comprehensive travel insurance.
Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade
Updated: 2026-03-05
Smartraveller Australia advises 'Exercise a high degree of caution' in Guatemala overall due to the threat of violent crime, with higher levels in some areas, including border regions with Mexico and specific departments like Huehuetenango and San Marcos, due to organized crime and drug-related violence. The Guatemalan government has declared a state of prevention, expanding authorities' powers to combat organized crime and gang activity. Violent crime, including murder, carjacking, and kidnapping, is common and often involves firearms, with risks increasing at night. The advisory warns about criminals targeting travelers at airports and en route to hotels, recommending pre-paid or radio taxis and avoiding street-hailed options. It also highlights the danger of drink spiking and methanol poisoning, urging vigilance over drinks and caution with offered items. Petty crime like pickpocketing is prevalent in tourist areas, and travelers are advised to safeguard belongings and avoid displaying valuables. Road travel is hazardous, with potential for roadblocks and attacks, and intercity travel after dark is strongly discouraged. The guidance covers risks associated with adventure activities, noting that operators may not meet Australian safety standards and that rescue services are limited. It also details health risks, including widespread Zika virus, Malaria, and other insect-borne diseases, and the limitations of medical facilities outside Guatemala City, emphasizing the need for medical evacuation insurance. It covers local laws on drugs, photography, and LGBT+ travelers facing conservative attitudes, and provides information on consular services via an Honorary Consulate in Guatemala City and the Australian Embassy in Mexico City.
Ministerio de Asuntos Exteriores
Updated: 2026-05-08
Highlights the CA-4 Border Agreement rules and warns against bringing pork products into the country, noting strict agricultural quarantine confiscations.
Emphasizes that travelers must fill out an electronic customs declaration prior to arrival and strictly warns against drinking tap water due to severe gastrointestinal risks.
Emphasizes that travelers must fill out an electronic customs declaration prior to arrival and strictly warns against drinking tap water due to severe gastrointestinal risks.
Department of Foreign Affairs (Ireland)
Updated: 2026-04-17
Ireland advises a 'High Degree of Caution' for Guatemala, citing prevalent crime and violence that poses a risk to foreigners. Specific states of prevention, a form of emergency measure, are in place in six departments due to organized crime and gang activity, requiring travelers to be alert to ongoing violent crime threats. The advisory warns about the prevalence of crime and violence throughout the country, recommending thorough research and precautions in all areas, including tourist hotspots. It highlights the risks associated with road and border travel, particularly after dark, and mentions the possibility of armed criminals setting up roadblocks and posing as police. The Irish guidance also notes that petty theft of passports and belongings is common, especially on public transport, and advises against displaying valuables or carrying large amounts of cash. It recommends using only radio or hotel taxis and being vigilant at ATMs. The advice covers natural hazards like earthquakes, hurricanes, and volcanic activity, urging travelers to follow local authority guidance. Health advice includes risks of Zika virus and Dengue fever, recommending mosquito bite precautions and seeking early medical advice for symptoms. It stresses the importance of comprehensive medical insurance for local treatment or evacuation, as hospitals may require upfront payment. The advisory also covers local laws regarding drugs and public displays of affection by same-sex couples, recommending caution outside the capital. It mentions the CA-4 Border Control Agreement and advises caution at land borders due to disruptions and closures, recommending crossing during daylight hours and avoiding walking border crossings at night. It also provides contact information for the Honorary Consul in Guatemala and the Irish Embassy in Mexico.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan
Updated: 2026-07-21
Japan advises travelers to 'Exercise a high degree of caution' (Level 1) for most of Guatemala, with a 'Do not travel' advisory (Level 2) for specific municipalities in San Marcos and Sololá departments, and the municipality of El Estor and its surroundings in Izabal department, due to ongoing armed conflicts between communities or between companies and residents related to resource extraction. The advisory highlights that crime, including murder, robbery, and theft, is occurring nationwide, and urges travelers to be inconspicuous and vigilant. It specifically warns against travel to the aforementioned Level 2 areas due to the possibility of foreign travelers being caught in conflicts. The Japanese guidance also notes that motorcycle-riding criminals are actively using a tactic of approaching pedestrians or vehicles in traffic to commit robberies, often using firearms. It details specific past incidents involving Japanese nationals, including murder and serious injury. The advice covers visa requirements, customs declarations, and the importance of checking passport stamps to avoid fines. It also warns against illegal currency exchange and drug offenses, emphasizing severe penalties. The guidance includes information on transportation, noting poor road conditions and driving behavior, and advises against using public buses. It also covers health precautions, recommending bottled water and caution with raw foods, and provides contact details for the Japanese Embassy in Guatemala.
Auswärtiges Amt
Updated: 2026-07-09
New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade
Updated: 2026-08-10
New Zealand advises 'Exercise increased caution' (Level 2) for Guatemala overall due to violent crime and civil unrest, with 'Avoid non-essential travel' (Level 3) recommended for specific areas near the Mexican border and in Huehuetenango Department due to violent crime. The Guatemalan government has declared a nationwide state of emergency in response to escalating insecurity, which may lead to increased security presence, movement restrictions, roadblocks, and potential disruption of public services. New Zealanders are warned about prevalent violent crime, often involving firearms, including armed robbery, kidnapping, sexual assault, and murder, noting that violence can be indiscriminate and occur in tourist areas. 'Express kidnappings' have been reported, and caution is advised with ATMs, recommending those within bank branches during daylight hours. Petty crime like pickpocketing is common in cities and tourist sites, requiring safeguarding of belongings and avoiding valuable displays. Road travel is dangerous, especially after dark, with reports of armed robbery, hijackings, roadblocks, and criminals posing as police. The advisory strongly discourages travel on local public buses ('chicken buses') due to safety and security risks, recommending radio-dispatched or hotel taxis. Special care is advised in border areas due to organized crime and drug-related violence. Natural hazards like seismic activity and volcanic eruptions are noted, with advice to monitor local media and follow authorities' instructions. Health risks include insect-borne diseases like Zika, Malaria, Dengue, and Chagas disease, and limited medical facilities outside Guatemala City necessitate comprehensive travel insurance including medical evacuation. The advisory also covers local laws on drugs and photography, and notes that while same-sex relationships are legal, social discrimination may occur outside the capital.
Département fédéral des affaires étrangères (DFAE)
Updated: 2026-04-08
Switzerland advises 'Do not travel' to specific border areas with Mexico and certain departments like Huehuetenango and San Marcos due to high crime rates associated with drug trafficking and human trafficking. For the rest of Guatemala, a 'high degree of caution' is advised due to a very high crime rate, including violent assaults, robberies, and kidnappings, often by armed and unpredictable criminals. The political situation is described as tense, with potential for violent clashes during strikes, demonstrations, and roadblocks, which can cause significant disruptions. The Swiss advisory emphasizes that in case of roadblocks or strikes, it can be very difficult or impossible for the Swiss Embassy to assist travelers in leaving affected regions. It highlights the risk of state of emergency declarations that grant authorities powers like home searches without warrants and restrictions on movement. The advice strongly recommends joining organized tour groups and staying informed through media and local tourism offices. It also warns of the general risk of terrorist attacks and kidnappings, with specific mention of high crime rates in Petén and Zacapa departments, advising guided tours for Maya sites like Tikal and using flights if possible. The guidance covers criminal activity in Guatemala City, caution in border areas with Belize, and the need for prudence near raw material extraction projects due to conflict risks. It stresses not resisting during assaults due to the high risk of violence and mentions the use of sedatives in food or drinks. It advises using only hotel or radio taxis, avoiding isolated areas, and being cautious with credit cards and ATMs. It also covers legal dispositions, severe penalties for drug offenses, precarious detention conditions, and cultural sensitivities regarding photography and respect for local customs. Health advice focuses on the inadequacy of public hospitals and the better, though expensive, conditions in private clinics, recommending travel insurance and caution against insect-borne diseases like Dengue, Malaria, and Zika.
Regjeringen (Norway)
Updated: 2026-05-27
Nederland Wereldwijd (Netherlands)
Updated: 2026-08-25
The Netherlands advises 'Exercise increased caution' (Yellow Code) for Guatemala overall, citing particular safety risks related to gang violence, theft, and robberies. Specific areas, including all zones of Guatemala City (especially the historic center and business district), Mixco, Villa Nueva, border areas with Honduras, El Salvador, Mexico, and Belize, Alta Verapaz, Petén (especially Tikal), Lake Atitlán, Semuc Champey, Rio Dulce/Livingston, and tourist spots like Quetzaltenango and Antigua, are highlighted for high crime rates. The government has implemented measures against gang violence, leading to an increased presence of police and military. Travelers are warned against using public transport, recommending luxury intercity buses, hotel taxis, or online-booked taxis, and to always lock car doors and keep windows closed. The advisory notes that resistance during robberies often leads to more violence. It also covers sexual violence against women, advising against solo travel or travel with unknown guides in remote areas. Health risks include Dengue, Chikungunya, and Zika, with precautions against mosquito bites emphasized. It also mentions the poor quality of healthcare and the high costs of private clinics, stressing the need for good travel insurance. The advice covers drug laws, LGBTQ+ rights, photography restrictions, natural disasters like tropical storms and earthquakes, and demonstrations, advising avoidance of large gatherings and adherence to local authorities' instructions. It also provides information on entry requirements, passport validity, and the CA-4 agreement.
Viaggiare Sicuri (Italy)
Updated: 2026-03-20
Italy advises 'particular caution' in Guatemala due to a high rate of violent crime, including homicides, armed robberies, and extortion, particularly in certain capital city neighborhoods and major urban centers. Assaults on private vehicles have occurred, even on main routes, and travelers are advised to take necessary precautions in all areas, including tourist hotspots like Lake Atitlán, where recent assaults on foreigners have been reported. The Italian advisory highlights the risk of social tensions and protests, which can turn violent and cause disruptions, recommending adherence to police instructions and avoiding conflict. It also warns about the potential for landslides and flooding during the rainy season, and the need for caution in rural municipalities with historical social conflicts and high criminality. The guidance stresses avoiding nighttime travel, solo travel, and individual tourism, recommending group excursions with professional guides. It advises against using urban buses and recommends only trusted, authorized radio taxis due to recent armed assaults. The advisory also covers the risk of credit card fraud and ATM manipulation, recommending caution and the use of ATMs within banks or malls. It warns against drug offenses with severe penalties and precarious detention conditions. Health advice focuses on the precariousness of the healthcare system, recommending private clinics in Guatemala City (though expensive) or medical evacuation to the US or Italy for serious conditions. It highlights the prevalence of diseases like AIDS, tuberculosis, Dengue, and Malaria, recommending preventive measures against mosquito bites and consulting doctors for vaccinations. It also covers entry requirements, passport validity, visa information, customs and currency regulations, and the importance of travel insurance covering medical expenses and repatriation.
BMEIA (Austria)
Updated: 2026-03-02
Austria advises 'High security risk' (Level 3) for the border region with Mexico and departments like Huehuetenango, San Marcos, Alta Verapaz, Baja Verapaz, and Petén, recommending against non-essential travel to these areas. Maya ruins in Tikal should ideally be visited by plane. A 'security risk' (Level 2) applies to the rest of the country, with a warning that the security situation can change rapidly. The advisory notes a significant increase in violent assaults on foreign travelers, with criminals often operating in groups, armed, and unpredictably. Tourist centers are considered relatively safe but still experience assaults and burglaries. Armed clashes between criminal groups and security forces are frequent, and short-term states of emergency with movement restrictions are possible. Travelers should expect increased military and police presence, especially in Guatemala City, and be aware that weapons are widespread. Resistance during assaults is strongly discouraged due to the high risk of weapon use. The advice also warns against organized gang crime and recommends carrying a smaller amount of cash. It advises against using taxis hailed from the street, sharing taxis, and traveling by car after dark, strongly advising against hitchhiking, particularly for women. It highlights the risk of passport and ticket theft and recommends saving electronic copies of documents. It covers customs regulations, currency exchange, and health risks including Dengue, Malaria, Chikungunya, and Zika, recommending insect protection and comprehensive travel insurance. It details entry requirements, passport validity, the 'Boleta de Migración' electronic form, and visa requirements, noting potential difficulties with passport stamps and the need for consent letters for minors. It covers transport risks, advising against public buses and recommending licensed taxis, and notes that foreigners involved in traffic accidents may be detained during legal proceedings.
0404 (Korea)
Updated: 2026-08-03
Ministry for Foreign Affairs (Finland)
Updated: 2026-07-27
Advises avoiding the historical center of Guatemala City at night and warns that hospitals demand credit cards upfront before providing emergency treatment.
Highlights that the use of drones is heavily restricted and taking unauthorized photos of military installations can lead to immediate arrest and equipment confiscation.
Highlights that the use of drones is heavily restricted and taking unauthorized photos of military installations can lead to immediate arrest and equipment confiscation.
Important: This is an aggregated summary from multiple government sources. Always consult official government travel advisory websites before making travel decisions.
About Travel Advisories for Republic of Guatemala
This comprehensive travel advisory page for Republic of Guatemala aggregates official government warnings and recommendations from eight major international sources. Each country's foreign affairs department maintains its own travel advisory system based on unique assessment criteria, intelligence gathering, and diplomatic considerations.
The United States Department of State, Global Affairs Canada, UK Foreign Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), Australia's Smartraveller, France's Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs, Spain's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ireland's Department of Foreign Affairs, and Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs each provide independent assessments of travel risks to Republic of Guatemala.
By comparing these multiple perspectives, travelers can gain a more complete understanding of the current situation in Republic of Guatemala and make better-informed decisions about their travel plans. Remember to always check the official government websites directly before finalizing any travel arrangements.
Last updated: 2026-08-26