Guatemala
Warnings and insurance
Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).
Areas where FCDO advises against all but essential travel
FCDO advises against all but essential travel to:
- within 5km of the Mexican border from the Pacific Coast up to and including the Gracias a Dios crossing
- to the towns of Santa Ana Huista, San Antonio Huista and La Democracia in the department of Huehuetenango
Find out more about why FCDO advises against travel to these areas.
State of Exception
The Guatemalan government has declared a 15-day State of Emergency in the municipalities of Santa Catarina Ixtahuacán and Nahualá in Sololá department in western Guatemala, effective from 15 December. This follows violent clashes involving armed security forces linked to territorial disputes. If you plan to visit Lake Atitlán, Quetzaltenango, or nearby towns, check your route in advance, monitor local news, and avoid traveling at night.
Under the State of Emergency, public gatherings are prohibited, road blocks are in force and security forces may intervene to disperse unauthorised gatherings. Restrictions also apply to carrying items that could be used for violence.
Before you travel
No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to:
- see general advice for women travellers
- read our guide on disability and travel abroad
- see general advice for LGBT+ travellers
- read about safety for solo and independent travel
- see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad
Travel insurance
If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.
About FCDO travel advice
The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) provides advice about risks of travel to help you make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice.
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