“Travel Alert: US Warns About Risks in Beloved Central American Vacation Spot”

U.S. visitors are advised to reconsider their plans to travel to a well-known Central American travel spot.

On Monday, the U.S. Department of State released a “Level 3” travel warning for Guatemala.

The warning suggests that travelers avoid visiting the nation due to criminal activity in various regions, some of which have been classified as entirely off-limits.

“Certain areas of Guatemala struggle with gangs, theft, carjackings, drug trafficking, and violence,” states the advisory. “Local authorities may not always respond appropriately to serious crimes, resulting in low arrest and conviction rates. Though tourists are not typically targeted, they remain at risk of being victims of opportunistic crimes.”

Regions under a “Level 4: Do Not Travel” warning include the San Marcos Department, Huehuetenango Department, Zone 18 in Guatemala City, and Villa Nueva. However, popular destinations like Tikal, Antigua, Lake Atitlán, and the Pacific coast regions in Santa Rosa and Escuintla are still accessible.

Guatemala operates a program called the Tourist Assistance Program (ASISTUR) designed to safeguard tourists in these regions. The nation also features an emergency hotline that provides assistance in both Spanish and English. Tourist groups may contact this center to arrange for a security escort as well.

Individuals who choose to travel to Guatemala should observe the following safety measures:

• Avoid traveling outside Guatemala City after dark due to poorly illuminated roads and an increased risk of traffic accidents.
• Utilize authorized tour guides and travel between towns by chartered boat when exploring Lake Atitlán.
• Stay out of the Pacific Ocean because of dangerous currents.
• Always keep drinks supervised in pubs and restaurants, and refuse invitations from unfamiliar individuals to private gatherings.
• Opt for accommodations with secure parking, vigilant staff, and professional security personnel.
• Use reputable taxi services such as Taxis Amarillo Express, Taxi Seguro, or Uber, and only take INGUAT-approved taxis from the “SAFE” stand at the airport, hotel taxis, or verified private drivers.
• Steer clear of public transportation and white car taxis, along with “chicken buses.”
• Refrain from hiking paths or volcanoes without a certified local guide as thefts can occur and obtaining assistance may be challenging.
• Avoid using public ATMs and refrain from displaying signs of wealth, such as expensive watches or jewelry.
• Try to limit phone usage in public places.