Guatemala
Summary
Before you travel, check the ‘Entry requirements’ section for Guatemala’s current entry restrictions and requirements. These may change with little warning. Monitor this advice for the latest updates and stay in contact with your travel provider.
If you plan to pass through another country to return to the UK, check the travel advice for the country you’re transiting.
Tropical Storm Lisa is due to make landfall on Wednesday 2 November and enter Guatemala on Thursday 3 November. Localised flash flooding is expected across northern Guatemala. You are advised to follow official advice from local authorities. Further information can be found on www.conred.gob.gt (English and Spanish) and www.insivumeh.gov.gt (Spanish).
On 10th October 2022 local authorities declared a “State of Public Calamity” for 30 days in the whole country due to the damage caused by Tropical Storm Julia. This declaration allows the authorities to take measures to further protect and guarantee the lives and security of the population. See Natural disasters.
It is more important than ever to get travel insurance and check it provides sufficient cover. See the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) guidance on foreign travel insurance.
You should follow the advice of local authorities, including any evacuation orders. Monitor local media and consult your tour operator and PROATUR as travel routes are likely to face disruption. See Natural disasters
15,229 British nationals visited Guatemala in 2019. Most visits are trouble free.
Guatemala has one of the highest violent crime rates in Latin America. Take care in all parts of the country, including Guatemala City. You should carry personal ID when travelling (certified copies are fine). See Crime
Avoid travelling on public buses (repainted US school buses). Private inter-city coach services are safer, but not immune from attack. See Local travel
The rainy season in Guatemala normally runs from June to November, coinciding with the hurricane season in the Caribbean. See Rainy season. You should plan any travel carefully. You should monitor local and international weather updates from the US National Hurricane Centre. Follow the advice of local authorities, including any evacuation orders. See Natural disasters.
Guatemala has active volcanoes, some prone to heightened activity. See Volcanoes
Although there’s no recent history of terrorism in Guatemala, attacks can’t be ruled out. See Terrorism
You can contact the emergency services by calling 120 (police) or 122/123 (ambulance and fire).
If you are abroad and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the nearest British embassy, consulate or high commission.