If you are considering a trip to Guatemala and check the U. S. State Department's travel warnings, it reads like the plot of an action film. However, how safe is it really in Guatemala?
Guatemala is a developing nation that has a lot of development, particularly in Guatemala City. Poverty is a sad reality that drives most petty crimes, but there are organizations, both governmental and non-governmental, that work in rural villages throughout the country to provide healthcare, education, & help meet all other needs. But when you arrive you will see that although many Guatemalans have little, they maximize very creatively the resources they do have. So while you may see beggars, you will mostly see individuals of all ages working by trying to sell fruit, produce, food, gum, handicrafts, as well as see a few play an instrument and shine shoes.
 |
| Little Ana, 5 yrs old, selling bracelets to us |
There are specific locations throughout Guatemala that we call a "bubble" that does not see the type of crime found commonly in major cities throughout the world. Antigua is one of these bubbles. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and because of this, the municipality of Antigua strives to keep the town in tact, safe, and since it attracts tourists from all over the world it generates more income for the locals who live there and in surrounding villages. Additionally, Guatemala was the first country in Central America to institute the Tourism Police. These officers work to serve the tourist with safety & information.
Below are a few common-sense tips for safety while traveling through Guatemala:
- Don't bring valuables unless you have to (i.e., expensive cameras, watches, jewelry, laptops, etc). It's ok if you bring your smart phones, tablets, & mp3 players because they are small and after all- most of us still want to have internet access to upload photos or keep in touch with family back home.
- If in the middle of large crowds for a festival (like Semana Santa), put nothing in your pockets & don't carry any bags. Just leave them in your room.
- Don't hike alone even if you're with a group of tourists. Hire a local guide or better yet, go through a travel agency that provides armed security and a local guide.
- Don't walk around in the wee hours of the night.
- Don't carry a lot of cash. Most establishments in Antigua take major credit/debit cards. I recommend you get a pre-paid Visa card and notify your bank that you will be traveling. Traveler's Cheques are no longer accepted unless you're using that check to make a deposit in a local bank.
- When arriving at the airport, there are official taxis. Make sure the cab you get in has an official taxi sign with an identification number on the sides. But most hotels, hostels, and Bed & Breakfasts can arrange airport pick-up for $35. So arrange airport pickup with your accommodations.
- Young women who travel alone & struggle with the local language, are soft targets. So if you're a woman, don't travel alone.
- Exchange money at banks. You will need 2 forms of identification. You can always check the current exchange rate HERE . Please note that only USD & EUROs are the only currency that Guatemalan banks will exchange. Also, if your bills are torn or wrinkled- they will NOT be accepted.
- Shuttle buses (known as "colectivo"), first-class tour buses, & private drivers are the safest ways to get around Guatemala. However, it is also safe & encouraged to rent a scooter and visit the surrounding towns in Sacatepequez (the Department of which Antigua is a part of). But always travel during daylight.
- Carry a copy of your passport with entry stamp. Leave the original in your room.
Now that we've taken the precautions, let us help you plan your trip to Guatemala! This is a beautiful country with warm, caring, people and breathtaking beauty. Incidents are few & far between. We at Lost City Adventures make sure that you are taken care of.
Email us now!
