guatemala uk travel advice

Things to know before visiting Guatemala

Nov 2, 2023 • 7 min read

Guatemala is a fascinating country with so much to see – here are tips that will help you make the most out of your trip © Fernanda Reyes / Getty Images

Guatemala has been my second home for nearly two decades, and the country still captivates me: the landscape with its volcanoes and coffee trees, the lakes and rivers and tropical beaches, Mayan ruins peeking out above the treetops. 

Mayan traditions are still alive and well, and the weather’s almost always fine in the Land of Eternal Spring. However, there's information travelers to Guatemala should know before visiting if you really want to enjoy all it has to offer. 

Get your shots before you leave

If you come in from a country where yellow fever is endemic, you’ll need to be vaccinated against this mosquito-borne disease. It’s also recommended that you’re up to date with your typhoid, hepatitis A and B, rabies, flu and TDaP (tetanus, diphtheria and whooping cough) shots. It’s best to visit a travel clinic at least a month before your trip if you need to get vaccinated so there’s enough time to give you full protection. Some vaccines, like hepatitis B and rabies, require follow-up doses.

Bring your own bug spray if you like it DEET free

Most of the things you may have forgotten at home are available in Guatemala, but some items are more difficult to find or very expensive. Bug spray is easy to find but usually contains DEET. The locally produced DEET-free repellents aren’t very effective, so you’ll want to bring a good brand from home. The mosquito-borne diseases of malaria, zika, dengue fever and chikungunya are all endemic in parts of Guatemala. 

Don't go without sunscreen

Sunburn is a real risk if you spend time outside. Some of the larger stores and pharmacies sell chemical sunscreens, but these generally don’t have an SPF higher than 25. The stronger stuff and natural mineral sunscreens are normally only available in a handful of specialty health stores, with limited options and much higher prices. Pack enough of your favorite sunscreen, and remember to use it.

Your preferred feminine hygiene products might be hard to find

In terms of feminine hygiene products, most shops stock pads only. Some larger stores and pharmacies stock tampons with applicators. You might find the kind without an applicator, as well as menstrual cups, in specialty health stores, but the price will reflect the fact that they’re imported.

Pack lightweight clothing

Because Guatemala’s weather is mainly warm and humid, light clothing that dries quickly is more useful than jeans, which are heavy, too warm for the climate and take forever to dry. For cooler days, a light sweater or jacket is generally sufficient. If you need more clothes than you brought or just a wardrobe revamp, most towns have a paca , a place where you can buy secondhand clothing for as little as Q5 (less than US$1). 

When in doubt, cover up

Guatemalans tend to be religious: practicing Catholic, evangelical or, to a smaller extent, traditional Mayan belief systems. That deep-rooted faith also means that they are generally more socially conservative, especially in Maya-dominated communities. 

Men don’t go shirtless unless they’re at the beach. Women prefer knee-length shorts and oversized T-shirts to bathing suits. In the large cities and Ladino-dominated areas, people are more open to shorts, shorter skirts and tank tops. In the Maya communities, however, the women usually wear traditional clothing in public, and their cortes – a garment worn as a skirt – always fall below the knee.

If you’re not sure whether your clothing is appropriate, it’s best to cover up: put on a shirt and don’t wear anything shorter than mid-thigh. If you visit a church or other spiritual site, it’s respectful to cover your shoulders and arms.  

Avoid illegal drugs

Some bars and hostels turn a blind eye to the use of marijuana and other illegal drugs. However, police raids on bars and hostels aren’t uncommon, and if you’re found with any illegal substances in your possession, you will be arrested. 

Don’t drink the water

Tap water in Guatemala is not safe to drink. To reduce your risk of getting parasites, stick to purified water: bottled water is readily available everywhere. Hostels and restaurants will usually let you refill your water bottle, sometimes for a small fee. You may also want to skip the raw salad unless you’re sure that purified water was used for washing produce. 

If you do contract parasites, a trip to the pharmacy is often all you need to get the right treatment.

Guatemalans can get personal but don’t mean harm

It’s not unusual in Guatemalan culture to call people by some physical attribute. Being called guapo or guapa (attractive one) can feel uncomfortable at worst, but being called gordo or gorda (fat one) may sting. If you don’t like the nickname you’ve been given, try not to act offended; the trick is to let it slide and to tell the person your name instead. 

You may also find that Guatemalans like to ask personal questions: how old you are, how many children you have, where you are going. If you answer in the negative as to whether you have a spouse, this may even lead to questions about the status of your virginity, no matter your age. If you feel uncomfortable, remain polite, joke, and change the subject. 

Politeness goes a long way – most of the time

Guatemalans appreciate politeness. A friendly buenas  (good morning/afternoon/evening) or hola  (hello) creates a good first impression. Por favor  or simply porfa  (please) and gracias  (thank you) show that you were raised right. If you learn to say thank you in the Mayan dialect spoken at your destination, it’s guaranteed to elicit a smile. Ask locals how to say thank you in their language, repeat the phrase back to them and then use it for as long as you’re in that town.

One area where being too polite will do you no good, though, is standing in line. People will patiently wait in line in a more formal setting, such as at the clinic or a government office. At the market or in a neighborhood tienda (corner store)? If you don’t speak up, somebody may very well step in front of you as if it’s the most normal thing in the world – and in Guatemala, it is. 

The travel experience might be different for female visitors 

The culture of machismo is rife in Guatemala. Local women generally don’t frequent bars and cantinas on their own because of the risk of sexual harassment and violence. Even in pairs, women may face harassment. If you want to go out drinking, it’s best to do it in a mixed group: the presence of men in your group will deter those who won’t take no for an answer.

Women travelers may also encounter micro-aggressions like being talked over or ignored in favor of the men in their group. They’re also held to a higher standard than male travelers when it comes to dress or how they behave in bars and at parties. Sexual harassment and violence are real risks, and the conviction rate for offenders is low. 

However, as a woman traveler, you may find real solidarity – local women tend to be protective of female tourists traveling on their own. If a situation makes you feel uncomfortable, try to move closer to groups of other women. And who knows: you might make some real connections and make some new friends!

The LGBTQI+ scene is small   

Same-sex relationships are legal in Guatemala but frowned upon. The LGBTIQ+ scene in the country is small and mostly confined to the largest cities and tourist areas. While violence against LGBTIQ+ tourists is rare, local activists have been attacked. Take your cues from your surroundings and watch how the local community behaves towards transgender people or public displays of affection between same-sex couples, for instance. If you’re unsure, err on the side of caution. 

Always hike with a local guide

Some tourists who come to Guatemala climb volcanoes on their own with no issues. However, hiking alone is not a good idea because of the risk of getting robbed, injured or lost. Use local guides and follow their instructions: if they say they’re not going any farther, turn around with them. Guides know what the risks are, and the risks are very real – Guatemala has seen several high-profile deaths of hikers in recent years. Rescue teams are normally made up of volunteers using donated gear. When they have to risk their lives to rescue you, the decent thing to do is to reimburse them for their trouble.   

To stay safe, don't take unnecessary chances

Is Guatemala safe? As a tourist, you’re unlikely to run into serious trouble. That said, listen to local advice about areas to avoid, always be aware of your surroundings and never leave your belongings or your drinks unattended. 

Guatemala has a reputation for corruption and poor enforcement of laws. You may hear of travelers who bribed officials and got away with it. You may also hear of travelers who weren’t so lucky, so just don’t do it. 

This article was first published Mar 3, 2022 and updated Nov 2, 2023.

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Guatemala travel advice

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Below is a beginner's guide to Guatemala with essential travel facts such as dominant language spoken, typical flight time from the UK and the local currency. You can also check whether visas are required and what plug adapter you need to pack.

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Check the latest travel advice on visiting Guatemala from official government sources (in english) from around the world including entry requirements and travel restrictions.

• UK traveller advice for Guatemala - UK FCDO
• Irish traveller advice for Guatemala - Department of Foreign Affairs, Ireland
• Canadian travel advice for Guatemala - Government of Canada
• US travel advisories for Guatemala - US Department of State
• Safe travel advisories for Guatemala - Ministry of Foreign Affairs, New Zealand
• Smarter traveller advice for Guatemala - Department of Foreign Affairs, Australia

Learn more about the current safety and security risks from terrorism, natural disasters and more. Read about the local laws and customs to consider when travelling around Guatemala.

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Find out more about staying safe when travelling to Guatemala with the latest guidance on required vaccinations and recommended medication to take with you.

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Check out the general travel tips for staying safe and healthy in Guatemala, risks of preventable diseases and what to pack.

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Check the latest live updates on Covid-19 in Guatemala with the vaccination requirements, current available statistics and up-to-date travel advice from government agencies.

• Travellers' health for Guatemala - Ministry of Public Health and Social Assistance, Guatemala
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Guatemala FAQs

Read our frequently asked questions about travelling to Guatemala including the current entry restrictions, covid rules, driving side, electrical plugs used and much more.

Are there entry restrictions to Guatemala due to Covid-19?

Guatemala is open for tourism from the UK. There are no special entry requirements for Guatemala. Check out Ministry of Public Health and Social Assistance, Guatemala for more information.

Do I need to quarantine in the UK if I travel from Guatemala?

You do not need to quarantine on arrival in the UK from Guatemala. The UK no longer requires a passenger locator form, Covid-19 test or proof of vaccination.

What is the time difference between Guatemala and the UK?

The time difference between Guatemala and the UK is UK time-6 hours .

What is the main language spoken in Guatemala?

The main language spoken in Guatemala is Spanish . Learn a language for Guatemala with Rosetta Stone * , Babbel * and Mondly * .

What is the currency in Guatemala?

The currency in Guatemala is the Guatemalan Quetzal ( GTQ ). Send money to Guatemala with World Remit * and XE Money Transfers * .

Which plugs are used in Guatemala?

Guatemala uses electrical plug type A + B (120 Volts) .

Which side of the road do they drive on in Guatemala?

They drive on the right side of the road in Guatemala. Find out more about driving in Guatemala with International Drivers Association * .

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Guatemala travel guide

Guatemala humbly has it all: from colonial towns to Mayan ruins, great mountain lakes to vibrant religious festivals, sandy beaches to exotic jungles. Often visitors to the country find they leave enlightened; civilisations they believed long gone are found thriving, Tomb Raider landscapes they thought fantasy are shown to be real.

Antiquity is at the heart of Guatemala, and the country is home to many spectacular Mayan archaeological sites, most significantly the vast UNESCO World Heritage Site of Tikal, where great towers peep through the rainforest canopy and monkeys swing past the sprawling ancient plazas. The pine-forested hills of the highlands are home to many Mayan communities, whose indigenous beliefs, traditional dress, religious practices and craftsmanship, flourish. Indeed, Guatemala has around 21 different ethnic groups, speaking some 23 languages giving it a distinctive culture like nowhere else in the region.

Although Guatemala boasts some truly stunning cities – most notably Antigua, an upmarket colonial town surrounded by smouldering volcanoes – Guatemala’s real joy is its nature. The great Lake Atitlan in the highlands is a place of rare beauty and offers various adventure activities ranging from scuba diving to fishing.

On the other side of the country, the vast and remote region of Peten houses the country’s thickest jungle, home to long-abandoned Mayan ruins that few get to see. Elsewhere, gargantuan lakes, lava-oozing volcanoes, black sandy beaches, natural hot springs and roaring rivers combine to form the most geographically diverse destination in Central America.

Though consistently beautiful, Guatemala is a nation of contrasts; a place where Catholic churches exist alongside Mayan temples, where rugged highlands give way to tropical jungles, and where the legacy of its ancient civilisations is as evident as its modern, Latin American culture.

Despite stories of high crime rates and volatile politics, most visitors encounter nothing but warmth and hospitality from its people, as well as epic landscapes that make them wonder why they didn’t visit sooner.

108,889 sq km (42,042 sq miles).

16,672,956 (UN estimate 2016).

137 per sq km.

Guatemala City.

Constitutional Democratic Republic.

President Bernardo Arévalo since 2024.

President Alejandro Giammattei since 2020.

Travel Advice

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

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 .

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide and see support for British nationals abroad for information about specific travel topics.

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.

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.

This advice reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK, for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Guatemala set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Guatemalan Embassy in the UK . 

COVID-19 rules

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Guatemala.

Travel in Guatemala  

You may be asked to wear a mask in:

• medical settings (hospitals, clinics, vaccination centres and laboratories)
• nursing homes

 Passport validity requirements

Your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the day you arrive in Guatemala and at least 2 blank pages.

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Visa requirements

You can visit Guatemala for up to 90 days without a visa.

If you overstay the 90 days, you’ll have to pay a fine before leaving the country. You can pay this fine at the main Institute of Migration (in Spanish) office in Guatemala City. You can also pay fines at the airport or land borders, but administrative processes can cause serious delays.

Make sure you get your passport stamped. 

If you do not get your passport stamped when you arrive, you will get a fine and be delayed on your departure. If you notice your passport has not been stamped, return to the immigration desk, or go to the Institute of Migration (in Spanish) offices in Guatemala City as soon as possible.

Applying for or extending a visa

To stay longer than 90 days (to work or study, for business travel or for other reasons), you must meet the Guatemalan government’s entry requirements. Check which type of visa or work permit you need with the Guatemalan Embassy in the UK .

If you want to extend your visa or permit to stay, you must apply to the Institute of Migration (in Spanish).

Immigration declaration form

Before you enter or exit Guatemala, you must complete the online immigration declaration form . Print the confirmation email you receive and carry it with you. Alternatively take a screenshot of the email QR code. If you need more information, contact your travel agent or the Institute of Migration (in Spanish).   

Travelling with children 

To enter or exit Guatemala, children aged 17 and under travelling alone or with only one parent or legal guardian must have a notarised letter in Spanish from the parents or guardians not travelling with them. Contact the Guatemalan Embassy , or if you’re in Guatemala the nearest Institute of Migration (in Spanish), for information about what documents you need. Single parents will need additional documents.

Travelling to El Salvador, Honduras and Nicaragua 

Under the Central America Border Control Agreement (also known as CA-4), you can travel between El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua for up to 90 days without a visa. The 90-day period starts when you enter any of these countries and does not restart when you cross borders. You can extend your stay by up to 30 days by paying a fee before the 90 days expires. If you overstay, you may get a fine. 

You’ll have to go through immigration checks at borders. If you’re expelled from one of these countries, you’re also excluded from the other 3. 

If you’re planning to travel to Nicaragua, check entry requirements with your travel company, the Nicaraguan immigration authorities or the nearest Nicaraguan Embassy. See  travel advice for Nicaragua .

Airport tax

You must pay airport departure tax of 30 US dollars (or the same amount in Guatemalan quetzal). This is normally included in the price of your ticket.

Illegal entry fees at land borders

Guatemalan customs or immigration officials sometimes ask travellers crossing land borders to pay an ‘entry fee’. This is illegal. If you are asked to pay a fee, ask for an official receipt, and you may find the officials drop the request.

When crossing into Guatemala by the land border at El Carmen, be wary of people offering to help process your entry into the country. They may be trying to overcharge you for unnecessary services.

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s Guatemala guide .   

Depending on your circumstances, this may include a yellow fever certificate.

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Guatemala. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Taking money into Guatemala

It is often not possible to exchange British pounds in Guatemala. It is much easier to exchange US dollars.

This guide also has safety advice for regions of Guatemala .

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad .

Terrorism in Guatemala

Although there’s no recent history of terrorism in Guatemala, attacks cannot be ruled out.

Political situation  

Following nationwide elections in Guatemala in August 2023, the Guatemalan Public Ministry contested the electoral process. This resulted in a number of protests and roadblocks across the country. Whilst a majority of the roadblocks have been lifted, some remain and the risk of others being created is likely.

See a list of protests and roadblocks (‘bloqueados’) (in Spanish).

Events are fast moving, and the situation has potential to deteriorate without warning.

Most of the protests have been peaceful, but there have clashes between protestors and police, with the use of tear gas.

Avoid all protests and roadblocks and check with local authorities as well as media outlets for the latest information. It is illegal for foreigners to participate in political activities in Guatemala. If you take part in protests, you may be detained and asked to leave the country.

Incidents of political violence, strikes and large demonstrations can occur, often with little or no notice. Most demonstrations are peaceful, but they can turn violent. Protestors may block roads and public facilities, including the international airport, without notice.

Guatemala has one of the highest violent crime rates in Latin America. Although most of the serious crime involves local gangs, incidents are usually indiscriminate and can take place in tourist areas.

No parts of Guatemala City are free from crime, including Zone 10 (Zona Viva), which is popular with tourists and foreign residents. Take care in Zone 1 (the historical centre), where cheaper hotels are located and several bus routes end.

There have been armed attacks on tourists travelling by road to and from major tourist sites like Antigua, Tikal, Petén and Lake Atitlán. See Regional risks .

Violent crime

Carjacking and armed robbery are common on the main road (Carretera Salvador) leading from Guatemala City to the border with El Salvador. Express kidnappings are common in Guatemala. Victims of this type of kidnapping are usually taken to ATMs to withdraw as much cash as possible before they’re released. The use of guns or knives is not uncommon.

Violent attacks, including sexual assault, can take place anywhere and at any time of the day. They usually involve firearms and motorbike riders. Attackers have killed and injured victims who resisted. There is a low arrest and conviction rate.

Protecting yourself and your belongings

You can take precautions such as:

• not displaying valuables like laptops, cameras and mobile phones
• not wearing a lot of jewellery
• carrying only small amounts of cash – avoid withdrawing a lot of money, particularly at night
• keeping valuables safe (for example, in a hotel safe)
• not travelling alone or at night, especially near borders or in areas without many people

If you go to remote areas, it may be safer to travel with others or a reputable tour company.

For shorter trips within towns and cities the safest option is to take radio-dispatched taxis (which are usually yellow) or hotel taxis. You can buy pre-paid taxi vouchers from the office of INGUAT , Guatemala’s tourist agency (in Spanish) in the airport’s arrivals terminal.

If you’re driving, it is generally safer to travel on main roads. There is a greater risk of attack by gangs on quieter routes. Travel in convoy if possible.

Take care around ATMs, petrol station forecourts, the airport, bus stations and shopping centres.

You can get up-to-date security information from INGUAT .

INGUAT ’s tourist assistance and emergency service, PROATUR , will accompany individual tourists or groups travelling in Guatemala if requested (see Getting help ).

Buses and coaches

Avoid travelling on public buses (repainted US school buses). There has been an increase in armed attacks by local gangs on bus drivers and conductors, often resulting in serious injury or death. These attacks have included the use of explosives. There have also been violent muggings, rapes and assaults against foreigners.

Private intercity coach services are generally safer, but gangs have also attacked these during daylight hours, even on main roads.

ATM tampering

Check ATMs for evidence of tampering. Affected machines may not be easy to spot. It’s safer to change money in hotels, at banks or at foreign exchange offices.

Bogus police officers

Criminals posing as police officers have committed theft, extortion and sexual assault against visitors to Guatemala. 

Foreign visitors are at risk of scams. Scams come in many forms and can lead to great financial loss. Warn your friends and family to be sceptical if they’re asked to transfer funds to you in Guatemala. Tell them to contact you to check that you’ve made this request. 

Laws and cultural differences

Personal id.

It is a legal requirement to always carry ID. In most parts of the country, you can carry a copy of your passport’s photo page for identification purposes. In San Pedro La Laguna, Sololá, local authorities may not accept a copy and may fine or detain you if you cannot show your original passport or a certified copy. Always co-operate with military and police officers and be prepared for checkpoints.

Alcohol laws and bans

It is illegal to sell alcoholic and fermented beverages from 1am to 6am. 

Illegal drugs and prison sentences

There are severe penalties for drug trafficking and use. Guatemalan prisons are overcrowded, violent and dirty.

Taking photos without permission

Do not take photographs without permission, especially of children. This is particularly important in more remote areas such as Quiché, Petén, San Marcos and Chiquimula provinces. There have been attacks related to accusations and fears of child kidnapping for adoption or theft of vital organs. Foreigners have been caught up in the violence. You may need to pay a small amount of money to take photographs of both children and adults.

LGBT+ travellers

Homosexuality is not illegal, although there are no laws guaranteeing freedom from discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation. Same-sex marriages are not recognised in Guatemala. In Guatemala City, local people are largely tolerant of different lifestyles. Outside Guatemala City, attitudes are more conservative. Showing affection in public may bring verbal and physical attacks, harassment and discrimination.

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers .

Transport risks

Road travel.

If you are planning to drive, see information on driving abroad . 

You can use a UK photocard driving licence to drive in Guatemala for up to 3 months. If you still have a paper driving licence, you may need to update it to a photocard licence or get the correct version of the international driving permit ( IDP ) as well.

Hire car companies often have stricter requirements for their customers, such as a year of driving experience, a higher minimum age and holding an IDP . 

Driving rules and safety

In Guatemala:

• it is illegal to use a mobile phone while driving
• speed limits are strictly enforced
• motorcyclists must wear an orange vest and helmet with the registration number or face a fine of 1,000 Guatemalan quetzal (around £100)

Drink-driving is a serious offence. If you are tested and found to have any alcohol in your system, you may get a fine, your licence confiscated and possible imprisonment. However, drinking-driving is common in Guatemala.

In more isolated locations, roads are unpaved and you may need a 4-wheel drive vehicle.

If you’re involved in an accident, contact the National Police (telephone: 110) or the fire brigade (telephone: 122 or 123 ) and wait for them to arrive. PROVIAL (telephone: +502 2419 2121 or 1520), a roadside assistance force, patrols most of the major roads in the country. However, patrols are infrequent.

For more information on road laws, see Guatemala Department of Transport  (in Spanish).

Intercity buses

Guatemala Municipality no longer allows some intercity buses to enter the city centre. They drop passengers at various points on the city outskirts. 

Outdoor activities and adventure tourism

Climbing volcanoes.

Before you climb volcanoes, visit the websites of the  Guatemalan Meteorological Office  (in Spanish) and  CONRED , Guatemala’s disaster agency  (in Spanish) for information on access, restrictions and recommendations. Follow the advice of local authorities. Some volcanoes are at high altitude with freezing temperatures at night. Tourists have died of exposure on volcanoes in Guatemala. Warm clothing and waterproofs are essential. Local tour organisers tend to underestimate the risks. There is no mountain rescue service. 

Extreme weather and natural disasters

See extreme weather and natural hazards for information about how to prepare, and how to react if there is a warning.

Rainy season

The rainy season in Guatemala normally runs from June to November – the same time as the hurricane season in the Caribbean. Heavy rains cause frequent flooding and landslides, and roads and bridges often collapse. 

Check local media and consult your tour operator and  PROATUR , Guatemala’s tourist assistance service (see Getting help ). Travel routes are likely to face disruption. Monitor local and international weather updates from the  World Meteorological Organization  and the  US National Hurricane Center . Follow the advice of the local authorities, including any evacuation orders.

Earthquakes

There are frequent minor earth tremors and there is a risk of earthquakes in Guatemala. The US Federal Emergency Management Agency website has advice about what to do before, during and after an earthquake or tsunami . 

Volcanic eruptions

There is a risk of volcanic eruptions in Guatemala. Monitor local media and seek advice from your tour operator in case of possible travel disruption. For further information see CONRED , Guatemala’s disaster agency  (in Spanish).

This section has safety advice for regions of Guatemala. It only covers regions where FCDO has specific advice.

You should also read FCDO ’s overall travel advice and safety and security advice .

Borders with Mexico, Honduras, El Salvador and Belize

FCDO advises against all but essential travel within 5km of the Mexican border from the Pacific Coast up to and including the Gracias a Dios crossing. Due to increased and sustained gang-related violence along the Mexico-Guatemala border.

FCDO also advise against all but essential travel to the towns of Santa Ana Huista, San Antonio Huista and La Democracia in the department of Huehuetenango

Pay particular attention to your security in the border areas with Mexico, Honduras, El Salvador and Belize.

Take care near the Belize-Guatemala border because of the ongoing dispute between the 2 countries. Use only officially recognised border crossings.

Ixchiguan and Tajumulco

There is a risk of violence crime in the municipalities of Ixchiguan and Tajumulco in the department of San Marcos. Get advice from PROATUR , Guatemala’s tourist assistance service (see Getting help ) if you plan to travel to these areas, including whether it is safe to climb the Tajumulco volcano.

Roads around Sololá, Panajachel and Lake Atitlán

PROATUR (see Getting help ) gives advice on which routes to take when travelling in and around Sololá, Panajachel and Lake Atitlán. Avoid the Godinez bypass between Guatemala City and Panajachel (passing through Patzún). Use the Pan American Highway to Sololá instead. Also avoid the road between Cocales (Suchitepequez) and San Lucas Toliman (Atitlán) if possible. 

Boat services between towns on the shore of Lake Atitlán may be a safer alternative.

Before you travel check that:

• your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
• you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical number

Call 122 or 123 and ask for an ambulance.

Contact your insurance company promptly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Vaccinations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip check:

• the latest information on vaccinations and health risks in TravelHealthPro’s Guatelmala guide
• where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

Altitude sickness is a risk in parts of Guatemala. Read more about altitude sickness on TravelHealthPro .

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro .

The NHS has information on whether you can take your medicine abroad .

You cannot use British-issued prescriptions in Guatemala. To find a pharmacy (‘farmacia’) look for one of the big national chains such as Meykos, Cruz Verde or Carolina y H. 

Healthcare facilities in Guatemala

FCDO has a list of English-speaking doctors in Guatemala .

There is also guidance on healthcare if you’re living in Guatemala .

COVID-19 healthcare in Guatemala 

If you think you have COVID-19, seek medical advice and check Guatemala government COVID-19 information and advice (in Spanish). Also see the  Guatemalan Ministry of Health (in Spanish).

See information on testing facilities (in Spanish) from the Guatemala government.

Travel and mental health

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health . There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro .

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel.

Emergency services in Guatemala

Fire and Ambulance: 122 or 123

Police: 110 

PROATUR , Guatemala tourist assistance

PROATUR , Guatemala’s tourist assistance service, provides 24-hour emergency assistance and routine guidance to tourists (call centre staff speak English and Spanish). Telephone: +502 2290 2810 or 1500 (inside Guatemala). Fax: +502 2421 2891.

Contact your travel provider and insurer

Contact your travel provider and your insurer if you are involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do.

Refunds and changes to travel

For refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually require you to talk to your travel provider first.

Find out more about changing or cancelling travel plans , including:

• where to get advice if you are in a dispute with a provider
• how to access previous versions of travel advice to support a claim

Support from FCDO

FCDO has guidance on staying safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including:

• finding English-speaking  lawyers , funeral directors and translators and interpreters in Guatemala
• dealing with a  death in Guatemala
• being  arrested or imprisoned in Guatemala
• getting help if you’re a  victim of crime
• what to do if you’re  in hospital
• if you’re affected by a crisis , such as a terrorist attack

Contacting FCDO

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.

You can also contact FCDO online .

Help abroad in an emergency

If you’re in Guatemala and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the British Embassy in Guatemala City .

FCDO in London

You can call FCDO in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad.

Telephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours)

Find out about call charges

Risk information for British companies

The  Overseas Business Risk service  offers information and advice for British companies operating overseas on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks.

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We had an outstanding trip to Guatemala.

Most people get to Guatemala by plane, arriving in the capital, Guatemala City. Flores airport, near Tikal, also has a few flights from Belize City and Cancún. Guatemalan land and sea entry-points are relatively hassle free, unless you’re bringing your own transport, in which case you can expect plenty of red tape, dubious entry fees and delays.

Flights from the US and Canada

Flights from the uk and ireland, flights from australia, new zealand and south africa, agents and operators, travel ideas for guatemala, created by local experts.

Off the tourist trail and highlights of Guatemala and Belize

Meet school kids in Antigua and traders in Chichicastenango before learning ancient cookery and weaving skills and viewing a Mayan ceremony. This fascinating tour visits archaeological sites such as majestic Tikal before an idyllic private island stay off Belize’s Caribbean coast completes the trip.

The Best Of Guatemala & Belize

Visit Antigua with the nearby Pacaya volcano before heading to Lake Atitlán and further to Tikal, once one of the most powerful kingdoms of the ancient Maya. Afterwards, cross the border to Belize to visit the Caracol ruins and enjoying some sun & sand on Ambergris Caye.

Guatemala and Belize Family Adventure

Take a family-friendly adventure through Guatemala and Belize. Discover Lake Atitlan on kayaks, explore the active volcano Pacaya or play hide and seek in the large archaeological complex of Tikal before heading out to Belize for its fantastic underwater world and gorgeous beaches.

The Best Of Guatemala

You will visit the most popular destinations including the Western Highlands, Tikal and Antigua Guatemala. Enjoy the different types of activities like exploring the Mayan pyramids in the middle of the virgin jungle or having one of the best cups of coffee surrounded by a unique landscape.

Unparalleled Guatemala

Guatemala's culture and archaeology is one of the most fascinating ones in the world. On this trip, you will get to know the locals of several places: Mayan food in Antigua, the Quiché people in Chichicastenango, the Mayan ruins of Tikal and much more.

A true Mayan expedition

This trip takes you all over Guatemala, from Antigua over Chichicastenango to Lake Atitlán. Take a day trip across the border to Honduras to visit the Mayan ruins of Copán before continuing to Guatemala's Caribbean coast: Rio Dulce awaits before you head to the ruins of Tikal.

Airfares always depend on the season, with the highest being from Christmas to February, around Easter and in July and August.

Going to Guatemala? Start preparing by familiarising yourself with things to know before you go .

Most flights to Guatemala are routed through a few US hub cities : Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, Fort Lauderdale, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami and New York. You’ll also find several non-direct options via San Salvador (with Taca) and Mexico City (Aeroméxico and Interjet). Prices vary wildly, depending on the season and promotional fares, with return flights starting at around US$330 from Fort Lauderdale with Spirit Airlines or from Miami with Taca, while return fares from either Houston or New York are typically US$460–700.

From Canada , as there are no direct connections to Guatemala, your best bet is to fly via one of the US gateway cities. Return flights from Toronto typically cost Can$700–950, from Vancouver Can$790–950.

There are no direct flights from the UK to Guatemala; most itineraries travel via the US cities of Atlanta, Houston, New York or Miami. Other options include flying via Madrid on Iberia, via Amsterdam and Panama with KLM, or via Mexico with a number of airlines and then on to Guatemala with a Mexican airline. Prices for return flights to Guatemala City are around £620 low season/£750 high season, whichever airline and route you take.

From Ireland , it’s often cheapest to grab a low-cost airline ticket to one of the London airports and travel on from there, or there are numerous possibilities via gateway cities in the US. Expect to pay around €820 low season/€970 high season.

There are no direct flights from Australasia to Guatemala, so most travellers fly via the US. Tickets cost Aus$1900–2400 (depending on the season) from Sydney via LA or NZ$2800–3300 from Auckland. Delta and United usually have the best fares. If you want to visit Guatemala as part of a longer Latin American trip it often costs only a little more to book an open-jaw ticket flying into Guatemala City and returning from Panama.

From South Africa return flights start at about ZAR15,500; Iberia often have the best rates via London and Madrid, though the total journey time is between 30 and 40 hours.

From southern Mexico , nine daily buses leave Tapachula for Guatemala City. One daily minibus connects San Cristóbal de Las Casas with Antigua, passing by drop-offs for Huehuetenango, Quetzaltenango and Panajachel. There’s also a daily bus route linking Cancún with Flores, with one minibus taking you to the Belize–Mexico border and another connection travelling via Belize City and the Guatemalan border to Flores. Shuttle bus connections between Palenque and Flores are another option,.

Very regular buses connect San Salvador with Guatemala City. From Honduras there are direct daily links between Copán and Guatemala City/Antigua, and also daily buses from both San Pedro Sula and Tegucigalpa to Guatemala City.

Finally there are buses run by King Quality and Tica Bus between Panama City and Guatemala City via Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Honduras and El Salvador. These involve nights in hotels on the way and several days of travel (see Information and tours).

A little concerned about security during your time in Guatemala? In our guide , we provide helpful tips on safety.

From Punta Gorda, Belize , there are three daily boats to Puerto Barrios and twice-weekly connections to Lívingston.

You can also arrive in Guatemala from Mexico crossing the Usumacinta River at Frontera Corozal.

Booking your tickets online cuts out the costs of agents and middlemen. Check out Momondo ( w momondo.com), an excellent flight search engine which comes up with some great deals. Discount or auction sites are other possibilities, as are airlines’ own websites. The tour prices below do not include airfares to the region, unless stated.

Adventure Life US t 1 800 344 6118, w adventure-life.com . Small-group specialists with a choice of seven excellent tours (US$795–2085) in Guatemala, using experienced guides. Well-structured itineraries include many opportunities to visit community-run projects.

Adventures Abroad US t 1 800 665 3998, w adventures-abroad.com. Adventure specialists with a selection of comfortable small-group tours; their twelve-day Guatemala tour also includes Copán.

Cayaya Birding Guatemalat 5308 5160, w cayaya-birding.com . Resident specialists with unmatched knowledge of birding hot-spots. Great tours including a four-day Quetzal trip and customized itineraries.

Ceiba Adventures US t 1 800 217 1060, w ceibaadventures.com . Adventure trips, including rafting, kayaking, caving and archeological tours throughout the Maya region. The ten-day “River of Ruins” (US$2950) tour includes many of the Usumacinta sites, plus Tikal and Aguateca.

eXito US t 1 800 655 4053, w exitotravel.com . North America’s top specialist for travel to Latin America. Speak to them about open-jaw and multi-stop flights to the region.

Explore Worldwide UK t 0845 013 1537, w exploreworldwide.com . Tours include a fifteen-day Guatemala Explorer (from £1275) which covers all the main sites.

Far Horizons US t 1 800 552 4575, w farhorizon.com . Superb small-group archeological trips, guided by Mayanists, including a ten-day “Capital Cities of the Maya” tour (US$6895 including airfare) that takes in the sites of Quiriguá and Copán.

Imaginative Traveller UK t 0845 867 5852, w imaginative-traveller.com. Offers several affordable tours including Explore Mexico and Guatemala which costs £610 for a 10-day trip between Cancún and Antigua.

Intrepid Travel UK t 0800 781 1660, w intrepidtravel.com. Small-group trips with an emphasis on cross-cultural contact and low-impact tourism. Tours have different comfort-level options.

Journey Latin America UK t 020 3432 9271, w journeylatinamerica.co.uk. UK-based experts for airfares and all-round travel advice to Guatemala and the region. Also offers a few Central American tours.

Lost World Adventures US t 1 800 999 0558, w lostworldadventures.com . A selection of tempting tours (US$1407–4646) including Guatemalan Road Less Travelled, a multi-activity cycling, hiking and kayaking trip.

Maya Expeditions 13 Av 14-70, Zona 10, Guatemala City t 2363 4955, w mayaexpeditions.com . Adventure tour specialists offering everything from whitewater rafting day-trips (around US$80) to well-planned archeological expeditions in the Petén.

Toucan Travel US t 805 927 5885, UK t 0800 804 8435; w tucantravel.com. Latin America specialists with over a dozen inexpensive, sociable tours through the Maya region and Central America, some using public buses, others mainly camping. The 22-day “Maya Circle” trip from Antigua costs US$2025/£1290.

Trailfinders UK t 020 7368 1200, Republic of Ireland t 01 677 7888; w trailfinders.com. One of the best-informed and most efficient flight agencies for independent travellers. Also offer some Central American tours, including Secrets of Guatemala (£1100/€1325).

Wilderness Travel US t 1 800 368 2794, w wildernesstravel.com. Well-organized cultural and wildlife adventure trips. The nine-day “Guatemala Private Journey” tour (US$2495) takes in all the main sites.

Wildland Adventures US t 1 800 345 4453, w wildland.com . Very well guided and thought-out tours, with “Guatemalan Highlands” (US$1675) and “Great Cities of the Maya” (US$2200) itineraries.

Start planning your trip to Guatemala by first finding out how many days are the best to spend in Guatemala and checking out our Guatemala travel tips .

The Rough Guides to Guatemala and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Travel advice for Guatemala

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Guatemala

• Eating and drinking in Guatemala
• Getting around Guatemala: Transportation Tips
• Tips and travel advice for Guatemala
• Best time to visit Guatemala
• 5 days in Guatemala — 4 travel itineraries

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• Travel Tips

written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 21.05.2024

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Tailor-made Guatemala holidays shaped around your passions

Holidays in Guatemala can feel more intrepid than journeys to other parts of Central America . In reality, our specialists will tell you that Guatemala is a safe, compact country to explore. Pockets of it — such as the mountain communities of the Western Highlands — have changed little in centuries. While we can suggest a tried-and-tested circuit for your Guatemala holiday, you might also like to explore less trodden destinations such as the Rio Dulce and Livingston, where Carib-influenced Garifuna culture beats to the sound of African-inspired drumming.

Weathered Maya temples rise at vertiginous angles above the jungle canopy at Tikal, in the north. To the southwest lies glassy, gaping Lake Atitlán  with its backcloth of stratovolcanoes and Maya-speaking shoreline villages. And, close by is the venerable Spanish colonial city of Antigua. Our specialists will weave them all into a custom-made Guatemala trip, advising you on how to make the most of your time there.

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Suggested tours for Guatemala

These tours give you a starting point for what your holiday to Guatemala could entail. Treat them as inspiration, as each trip is created uniquely for you.

Guatemala & Belize uncovered

15 days from £5,995pp

Classic Guatemala tour

10 days from £5,200pp

Grand tour of Guatemala

13 days from £6,350pp

In search of the Maya through Honduras, Belize, Guatemala & Mexico

22 days from £8,300pp

Suggested activities for Guatemala

Whatever your interests, our specialists will build activities into your trip that connect to how you want to experience Guatemala.

Uaxactun camping excursion

A two day / one night excursion visiting the ruins of Uaxactun and the opportunity to enjoy a locally cooked, evening meal.

Antigua Valley Mountain Biking

This is a great way to explore Guatemala and see how the local people live. You visit tranquil villages and churches, coffee plantations and come into contact with the local Mayans.

Chicken bus, carpentry and local school excursion

This morning you will be met at your hotel by a local NGO representative and driven by local 'Chicken' bus to Ciudad Vieja.

Why travel with Audley?

• 100% tailor-made tours
• Fully protected travel
• Established for over 25 years
• 98% of our clients would recommend us

Best time to visit

Our specialists advise on the best months to visit Guatemala, including information about climate, events and festivals.

Request our brochure

Covering all seven continents, The World Your Way shows you how you can see the world with us. It features trip ideas from our specialists alongside hand-picked stays and experiences, and introduces our approach to creating meaningful travel experiences.

Useful information for planning your holiday in Guatemala

The official language of Guatemala is Spanish, although there are also 23 Indigenous languages spoken. English is spoken only in the main visitor areas.

The currency of Guatemala is the quetzal (GTQ), which is named after Guatemala's national bird. You’ll find ATMs in larger towns and cities, and credit cards are accepted in some hotels and larger shops, although you may have to pay a surcharge to use them. Visa is more widely accepted than Mastercard.

US dollars are accepted and changed in all banks, but it’s a good idea to ask for small denomination quetzal notes because vendors and retailers in smaller towns and local markets rarely have change.

In restaurants in Guatemala, a 10% tip is usual where service is not already included in the total. As a rule, however, tipping in Guatemala isn't common or expected.

For the latest travel advice for Guatemala, including entry requirements, health information, and the safety and security situation, please refer to the  Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office website .

In Guatemala, you should try tamales (corn dough filled with meat, beans, or cheese), paches (a potato tamale), caldo de res (beef soup), and tapado (fish soup with plantain and milk). Although Guatemalan food is generally simple, with rice, beans, and tortilla everyday staples, you’ll find a variety of fresh seafood on the Caribbean coast and a good choice of restaurants in Guatemala City and Antigua.

Other traditional foods to look out for include pepian de indio (chicken stew), kak’ik (turkey soup), and hilachas (shredded beef). Hass avocados originated in Guatemala, and you’ll see them on sale in all the markets, while tostadas (deep fried tortillas topped with refried black beans, guacamole, and tomato salsa) are a popular snack food.

Guatemalan coffee is very good, especially that grown in the highlands around Antigua, while beer and rum are the most popular alcoholic drinks.

You can explore Indigenous culture and historic cities in Guatemala, hike through emerald jungle, and discover lost Maya cities. Compact but incredibly diverse, Guatemala offers nature experiences and wildlife spotting as well as a rich culture and history.

You can wander the cobbled streets of 18th-century cities, browse traditional markets for intricately woven textiles, take a boat tour on a glittering lake, kayak around quiet coves, or take a mountain bike tour and learn about responsible coffee production .

Venture into the hills to hike up Pacaya volcano or go in search of howler and spider monkeys, visit local villages, and explore local culture on a guided street food tour of Antigua , before exploring the ruins of an ancient lost city to learn about the advanced cultures that thrived here thousands of years ago.

In Guatemala, you can stay in boutique hotels set in historic buildings, family-run guesthouses, and rustic thatched bungalows. You’ll find the best choice of places to stay in the more popular destinations where you could choose to stay in an intimate hotel in the heart of Antigua’s old town, or in an elaborate villa on a hillside overlooking Lake Atitlán.

In the north of the country, close to the Maya sites, places to stay are generally simpler but often offer lakefront or jungle locations that are a highlight of a trip. For example, you could stay in a riverside lodge on a private reserve and spot howler monkeys from your deck, or a characterful casita decorated with local arts and crafts near Lake Petén Itzá.

Browse our collection of places to stay in Guatemala for more ideas.

In Guatemala, most visitors go to Antigua, Tikal, and Lake Atitlán. The country’s former capital, Antigua is an atmospheric city where the UNESCO-protected cobbled streets are lined by buildings inspired by the Italian Renaissance and set against a backdrop of volcanoes.

For ancient architectural grandeur, head to the lost city of Tikal where a series of pyramidal temples lie in the heart of the jungle. Getting out into the rainforest around Cobán and the Verapaces brings the chance to spot tropical birdlife and explore the area’s intricate cave systems with their limestone bridges and emerald pools.

More volcanic peaks ring the expansive Lake Atitlán where you can visit Maya villages and markets, or if you’d prefer to get right off the beaten track, you could visit remote Livingston in Rio Dulce to learn about Garifuna culture.

It takes around 16 hours to fly from the UK to Guatemala, via the USA or mainland Europe.

The time zone in Guatemala is UTC-6 hours. Daylight Savings Time isn’t observed.

The best way to get around Guatemala is by 4x4. The roads aren’t well maintained in places and journeys can be long and winding, so we can arrange a private 4x4 and driver.

If you’d like to combine your trip to Guatemala with a visit to Mexico, Belize, or Honduras, this is also easy to arrange with overland routes into each country.

UK citizens don’t need a visa to visit Guatemala for stays of up to 90 days. You should complete the immigration pre-clearance form online in advance and print your confirmation email to speed up your arrival in the airport.

If you’re flying to Guatemala via the United States under their Visa Waiver Program, you’ll need to have a valid authorisation to travel. You can apply or renew in advance on the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). Applications can take up to 72 hours to be processed and approved.

Your doctor is best placed to give you up-to-date vaccine advice for Guatemala. You can check suggested vaccinations on the  Travel Health Pro website , but you should also ensure you’re up to date with the recommended vaccinations at home.

Check that your passport will be valid for at least six months after your date of departure from Guatemala and has at least one unstamped page.

Guatemala in pictures

Our expert guides to travelling in Guatemala

Written by our specialists from the viewpoint of their own travels, these guides will help you decide on the shape of your own trip to Guatemala. Aiming to inspire and inform, we share our recommendations for how to appreciate Guatemala at its best.

My travels in Guatemala

Central America specialist Daniel captured this footage while travelling through Guatemala. He visited the beautiful Semuc Champey pools, zip-lined through jungle, climbed the Acatenango volcano and learnt about local traditions.

Festivals in Central & South America

Latin America boasts many festivals, from the solemn processions of Holy Week to the raucous party of Carnival to the recreated glory of an Inca sun ritual. Let our specialists suggest where to go to discover these vibrant cultural events.

Maya and Aztec Empires in Mesoamerica

Visit the fascinating remains and ruins of ancient civilisations, including the Aztec and Maya empires in Central America and Mexico.

The Maya civilisation

Discover the culture and history of a country on a tailor-made trip, with visits to explore famous sites and others not quite so well known but equally impressive.

Discover more about Guatemala on our blog

Top Festivals Around The World

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Travel Vaccines and Advice for Guatemala

Guatemala boasts some of the most stunning and diverse landscapes in Central America. With opportunities to explore ruins, volcanoes, and sandy seasides, there’s something for everyone!

Both Guatemala City and Antigua offer great base points for travel to the Lake Atitlan, a stunning volcanic crater-formed lake still surrounded by the volcanoes that formed it. Lake Atitlan is regarded as a beautiful and largely spiritual destination.

A must-see destination for all types of travellers is Fuentes Georgina, a hot-spring created by Guatemala’s volcanoes. All Guatemala’s regions come into one at this destination.

If Mayan culture fascinates you, you should visit the Peten Region. Bordering Belize, it is home to many Mayan ruins including Tikal, the largest Mayan archeological site.

Whichever adventure you seek, Guatemala is calling your name.

On This Page: Do I Need Vaccines for Guatemala? Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Guatemala? What is the Climate Like in Guatemala? How Safe is Guatemala? Fuentes Georginas Hot Springs in Guatemala What Should I Take To Guatemala? Embassy of the United Kingdom in Guatemala

Do I Need Vaccines for Guatemala?

Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Guatemala. The National Travel Health Network and Centre and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Guatemala: COVID-19 , hepatitis A , typhoid , yellow fever , rabies and tetanus .

See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunisations:

• COVID-19 – Airborne – Recommended for all travellers
• Hepatitis A – Food & Water – Recommended for most travellers to the region, especially if unvaccinated.
• Tetanus – Wounds or Breaks in Skin – Recommended for travelers to most regions, especially if not previously vaccinated.
• Typhoid – Food & Water – Recommended for travellers to most regions.
• Yellow Fever – Mosquito – Required if travelling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission.
• Rabies – Saliva of Infected Animals – High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-stay travellers and those who may come in contact with animals.

See the tables below for more information:

Some more health risks include:

• Zika – This virus can cause birth defects. Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant should avoid travel to the region. Mosquito repellents and netting are the best way to avoid the virus.
• Malaria – While there is no malaria vaccine, antimalarial medication serves the same purpose. Speak with a travel health specialist to learn which type of antimalarial is right for you.
• Dengue – Dengue is also transmitted by mosquitoes. Speak to your local travel medicine specialist about necessary precautions.
• Travellers diarrhoea – This is common in Central America and it is suggested travellers bring the proper antibiotics and medications.

Medical care in Guatemala City is readily accessible. In rural areas it can be scarce. Check with your assurance provider before travel to solidify overseas coverage.

Visit our vaccinations page to learn more. Travel safely with Passport Health and schedule your appointment today by calling or book online now .

Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Guatemala?

A visa is not needed for stays in Guatemala under 90 days. Passports must be valid for at least six months at entry. Proof of yellow fever vaccination is required to enter the country. If you do not have proof of vaccination, you may be vaccinated on site, quarantined or returned to your previous location.

A US $30 airport departure tax is normally included in the price of tickets.

Sources: Embassy of Guatemala and GOV.UK

What is the Climate Like in Guatemala?

Guatemala’s climate is diverse for a country bordering the ocean. This allows a peculiar experience for travellers if one chooses to seek out all three zones. Here are the three climate zones that you will find in Guatemala:

• Cool Area – Areas of the country encompassed by mountains and at a high altitude. Expect temperatures to be between 18 and 21 degrees. This is where the hot-spring Fuentes Georginas is located, along with Quetzaltenango.
• Temperate Area – Moderate elevation areas that include both Guatemala City and Antigua. Expect temperatures to be around 29 degrees and lower.
• Tropical Area – Any part of Guatemala in contact with the ocean. Temperatures can reach 38 degrees with fluctuations as low as 21 degrees. Cities include Livingston and Monterrico.

Due to the dry season, December to May are the most popular times to visit Guatemala. Expect the weather to be consistent with the above numbers during the daytime.

How Safe is Guatemala?

The government of the UK labels Guatemala as an area of “critical” concern for violent crimes. Most crimes are sexual assault, theft, armed robbery, and carjacking. In Guatemala, UK citizens are known for having material goods worth high monetary value. There are areas of the country, especially in the larger cities, to avoid to decrease risks.

It is important to remain vigilant immediately upon arriving in Guatemala. Reports of robberies and carjacking whilst leaving the airport are common at all hours of the day. Additionally, diversions are common in pick-pocketing attempts. Be sure to keep your belongings close and leave important items in a safe space at your lodging.

Transportation wise, cars are the best option though public transportation is available. Seek out radio-dispatched taxis and avoid public buses, as the crime rate is high. With the highest rate of motor-vehicle accidents at night, try motoring during light hours. Tourists groups can also seek security escorts.

Fuentes Georginas Hot Springs in Guatemala

These hot springs are popular with travellers seeking to relax or enjoy history. With views of the volcanoes and hot sulfur springs that created the pools themselves, it is a must see.

There are four separate pool areas, all differing in temperatures. Enjoy a tour of the entire Fuentes Georginas natural spa for a complete experience.

What Should I Take To Guatemala?

Here are some essential items to consider for your trip to Guatemala:

• Medication and First Aid – It is always better to be prepared. Bring along any recommended medications by your Passport Health Specialist as a well as an appropriate first-aid kit.
• Clothing – Though Guatemala is generally a hotter climate, nights can get very cold. Bring lightweight clothing for active travel and heavier clothing for the night time. A sturdy pair of hiking boots or trainers will be perfect for any walking and hiking. As pick-pocketing is a threat, less flashy clothing is ideal.
• Sun Cream and Insect Spray – Guatemala is close to the equator which equates to a stronger sun. Look to invest in sun cream as well as sun protective clothing. Insect spray is available for buy in Guatemala but it is best to invest before leaving.
• Electronics – If you cannot replace it, do not bring it due to the crime rate. Hole-in-the-wall scams are also prevalent in Guatemala. Avoid public ATM’s as well as using your credit card in unreliable places. Exchanging sterling to quetzales is the safest route.

Embassy of the United Kingdom in Guatemala

If you are in Guatemala and have an emergency (for example, been attacked, arrested or someone has died) contact the nearest consular services. Contact the embassy before arrival if you have additional questions on entry requirements, safety concerns or are in need of assistance.

British Embassy in Guatemala City Edificio Torre Internacional, Nivel 11, 16 Calle 0-55, Zona 10 Guatemala City Guatemala City Guatemala Telephone: +502-2380-7300 Emergency Phone: +502 2380-7300 Contact Form: Click Here

If you have any questions about travelling to Guatemala or are wondering which jabs you may need for your trip, schedule an appointment with your local Passport Health travel medicine clinic. Ring us up at or book online now and protect yourself today.

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Is Guatemala Safe? 60+ Practical Tips For Safe Travel In Guatemala

Written by BELLA FALK

How dangerous is Guatemala really? It’s a question that bothered me endlessly before I went there.

Far more than planning routes or researching hotels, the one thing I obsessed about was safety. Is Guatemala safe for solo travellers? Is it safe for women? What about solo women? What about solo women with expensive camera gear? !

Contents (click to view)

I’m an overthinker, and with that comes a lot of anxiety. I’m not one of those people who can be chill about things, or who can just put fears aside with a relaxed ‘Well I can’t do anything about that, so I won’t worry about it. Que será, será…”

Instead, I wrestle, and analyse, and worry, and have sleepless nights; my busy brain incapable of letting the problem lie.

So when I booked my 3-month trip to Guatemala , I was only excited for a nanosecond, because almost immediately the realisation set in that I had just committed to go off to a country that I knew very little about, on my own, as a woman, and, to top it all off, carrying a backpack full of camera gear, a Macbook Pro, and an iPhone.

Stupid, right? And most likely, dangerous…

Is Guatemala safe for tourists?

The first thing I want to remind you of is that nowhere is 100% safe. Not that I wish to scare you, but bad things can happen anywhere.

Given the demographics of my audience, it’s likely you may be from the UK or the USA. So is Guatemala safe for American tourists? Or British travellers?

Well let me ask you this: how safe is the place you live in? You could be in a car accident a mile from your house. People get stabbed on the streets of London, and don’t get me started on gun crime in the US. If you were planning a trip to Paris or New York and googled safety there, what do you think you would find?

My point is that I don’t think you should let the fear of something bad happening stop you from visiting Guatemala. Yes, it has its problems. There is extreme poverty, and high levels of gun and gang violence. But, this stuff does not normally involve tourists, and as the UK Foreign Office advice says, “Despite the high levels of crime, most visits to Guatemala are trouble-free.”

You can’t let the fear of something bad happening stop you from taking calculated risks and having adventures. Life is for living!

So to answer the question, ‘How safe is Guatemala?’ The short answer is: it can be safe or dangerous. Like anywhere, it has its good and bad guys, its risks and problems. As well as crime, you also need to consider other risks like wildlife, earthquakes and floods during rainy season.

But it isn’t as dangerous as some reports (or your anxious brain) would have you believe. The vast majority of people in Guatemala are welcoming, kind and friendly locals who just want you to have a great time, spend some money, and leave with a positive impression of their country.

Is Guatemala dangerous for solo female travellers?

Of course, whatever risks there may be, they become harder when you’re travelling alone – and even more if you’re a woman. There’s no one to watch your back, no one to walk home from the bar with, no one to guard your stuff while you go to the loo.

Travel is inherently riskier when you are alone, but it also has so many positives, and for me those massively outweigh the downsides.

Of course, I was sensible, and took precautions. So now I want to share with you my top practical advice for safety in Guatemala. Obviously I can’t guarantee that something bad won’t happen while you’re there, but hopefully you will have as fabulous a time in Guatemala as I did.

This post is long, and there’s loads of information in it. You might find it overwhelming, but please don’t be freaked out!

If it helps, remember that I spent three whole months as a solo female traveller in Guatemala, met scores of wonderful people, and had a great time!  

Personal safety in Guatemala

To make sure nothing bad happens to you while backpacking in Guatemala (especially if you are a solo traveller or a solo female traveller), follow these tips:

• Avoid going out late, getting too drunk, or walking alone at night. Guatemala isn’t that much of a party country anyway, and it’s better to get up early, make the most of the day, and then hang out in your hotel or a nearby bar after it gets dark. When I did go out, I went with friends I had met in the same hostel, and we walked back together, or I got an Uber.
• Just as you would anywhere in the world, don’t accept drinks from strangers and keep an eye on your glass at all times to avoid getting spiked. Don’t accept invitations from randoms to go to private houses or parties.
• Be aware of your surroundings. Never walk with headphones on or looking at your phone.
• When arriving in Guatemala City at night, make sure you have a shuttle or pickup pre-booked to collect you from the airport and take you to your hotel.
• Some robberies involve the use of motorbikes. Try to walk close to the wall and away from the road to avoid being an easy target. If someone does try to snatch your bag, let it go. If you struggle, you could be pulled into the road and hit by a car.
• Keep a colour photocopy of your passport with you at all times but leave the real thing locked in your hotel room.
• Always have good travel insurance that covers you for medical treatment, personal possessions, and emergency repatriation if needed.

Read more: A Perfect Guatemala Itinerary In 10 Days, 2 Weeks Or 3 Weeks

Keeping your money and possessions safe in Guatemala

While your personal safety is the most important thing, none of us want to get robbed on holiday! Here’s some advice about how to look after your gear while you’re away.

• Try not to travel with too many valuables. Expensive jewellery and watches are best left at home. That said, I’m a hypocrite because I took my DSLR, several lenses, iPhone and laptop (about which, more below).
• If, like me, you want to do this, then make sure you have good gear insurance!
• When leaving valuables in your hotel room, lock them away in your suitcase or cupboard.
• Never leave your stuff unattended in public.
• Don’t put valuables in outer pockets that can be easily opened.
• Bring a cable lock so you can lock your luggage to a table, bed, or other fixed object.
• Don’t carry loads of cash with you. Leave most of it in the hotel safe or locked in your suitcase. It’s a good idea to separate it into several stashes, so that if some of it gets nicked, you won’t lose the whole lot.
• Only use the ATMs located inside banks; put your money and card away properly before you exit and keep an eye on who may be watching as you leave.

• Check your online bank statements regularly in case of fraudulent activity on your card.
• You might want to wear a hidden money belt – though personally I find these annoying and prefer just to keep my money in an inner pocket in my backpack which I carry in front of me.
• Be aware of who is watching you. If you see someone notice you, stare back so they know you’ve seen them.
• If you do need to look at your phone, for example to check directions, walk a little away from the main drag and do it subtly.
• In crowds, it’s better to put your backpack or bag your front, and put your hands on it.
• I also had padlocks for all my luggage, and I attached a carabiner clip to the zip on my satchel bag so it was much harder to open. You can also buy suitcases with built in locks if that’s something you prefer.
• Be extra cautious on market days and during holidays and festivals , when crime rates tend to increase.
• If someone does try to rob you, hand over your stuff immediately. It’s not worth getting injured or worse for, and if you have good insurance you’ll be covered anyway.

Read more: Travel Photography On The Road – My Photo Editing Workflow Tips

Hiking safety in Guatemala

One of the top activities in Guatemala is hiking. There are some stunning landscapes, including 37 magnificent volcanos (of which I hiked seven). But most of the trails are remote with few people around. Robbers have been known to lie in wait for tourists and take their phones, cameras, and even shoes!

In addition, the weather can be unpredictable, and the terrain can be challenging. If you’re unfamiliar, you might get lost or injured.

So here’s how to stay safe while hiking in Guatemala.

• Never hike alone. The rare exceptions are the very popular, short, touristy routes close to cities and only if you do it at peak times when there are lots of other people about.
• Keep your ear to the ground, ask for advice in your hotel, or check the news for local information. When I was in Quetzaltenango , there had been recent reports of gang violence at the Tajumulco volcano and so I decided not to go.
• Where possible, go with a group or tour guide. For all the hikes in Xela including the Santa Maria Volcano , I went with lovely local guide Rony Turnil . For Acatenango , Pacaya and San Pedro volcanos, I joined a tour group. On other occasions I met people in my hostel and hiked with them. I know joining a tour is more expensive, but what price are you willing to pay for safety?

Read more: The Thrilling Volcan De Acatenango Hike In Antigua Guatemala

• Avoid hiking Volcan de Agua in Antigua – it’s notorious for robberies.
• Definitely don’t hike Volcan San Pedro at Lake Atitlan without a group or a guide.
• Leave your valuables at home. Though you will probably want to take your phone and camera – and it was worth joining a group to be able to do this.
• Tell someone where you are going and what time you expect to be back.
• Take plenty of sun cream, water, snacks, a waterproof jacket and layers.
• Do not leave the marked paths.
• Keep away from cliffs and edges, even if you find the BEST photo spot EVER!

Read more: A Sunrise Hike Up Volcan Santa Maria In Xela, Guatemala

Staying safe in Guatemala while taking photos

The whole purpose of my visit to Guatemala was to do travel photography , so I knew I wanted to take my DSLR, lenses and laptop. Of course this made me extra anxious, especially given all the warnings about not taking valuables or getting them out on the street. How are you supposed to take photos if you’re too terrified to get your camera out of the bag?!

At first, this is what happened. I imagined that the streets were full of evil men just waiting for their chance to pounce and rob me. But after a while I realised that I had to feel the fear and do it anyway – otherwise what was the point of me being there?

Read more: The Colourful Market In Solola Guatemala: A Photo Guide

So here’s how I stayed safe while taking photos in Guatemala:

• I had good gear insurance. It wasn’t cheap but having the peace of mind knowing my camera and laptop were covered was invaluable. Good companies include Towergate, Eversure, and Photoguard.
• I backed up my laptop before leaving for Guatemala, and backed up my images on 2 separate portable hard drives every day.
• I never left my backpack unattended. If I left gear in my room, I locked the bag with a padlock.
• I only walked around with the camera out while I was actively taking photos. On the way to and from places, I put it back in the bag.
• I kept my kit to a minimum and avoided changing lenses in public where possible.
• In busy places where I felt safe to have the camera out, like tourist areas and markets, I hung it round my neck so people could see clearly what I was doing and I didn’t look furtive or suspicious.
• I asked permission before taking photos of people to avoid causing offence.
• I never took photos of children without asking their parents’ permission. I heard stories of tourists getting beaten up for doing this, so definitely only take pictures of kids if you are 100% certain you have consent.
• Even though I was a solo traveller, I rarely travelled alone. Instead I used tourist shuttles, joined tour groups, and made friends in the hostels so I could take photos with the safety of other people around – which was also great for having someone to take photos of me!

Read more: Yaxha Guatemala: The Magical Mayan Ruins You Need To Visit

Crime in Guatemala: how to avoid scams

As with all tourist destinations, sometimes people will try to scam you. Here are a few common scams and how to avoid them in Guatemala.

• Ticket scams are common. One way is that ticket touts will accost you as you get off the bus in a new destination – and later you find out the tickets they sell you are worthless. Only buy from reputable ticket agencies – either through your hotel or hostel, or well-reviewed ones with high street offices in Antigua and Flores . In Flores, I recommend using the booking office at Amigos Hostel for Tikal and any other tours.
• Negotiate prices for tours and travel in advance, make sure you have written confirmation of what is included (take a photo of the sign or brochure), and get receipts where possible.
• Another common scam is for one person to distract you while an accomplice robs you. If someone says you have bird shit on you, or ‘accidentally’ spills something on you, grab your bag and walk away. You can sort the mess out later.
• The photography scam is where someone in the street asks you take their photo, so you kindly oblige, but when you give the camera back they drop it, blame you, and ask for money. It’s sad, but to avoid this one, only agree to take photos for other tourists or members of your tour groups.

Read more: A Colourful Guide To Flores Guatemala: Gateway To The Maya World

How dangerous is travelling around Guatemala?

While getting around the country is normally trouble-free (apart from traffic jams!), there are a few things you can do increase your chances of arriving safely at your destination.

• While it is possible to use public buses between cities in Guatemala, most tourists opt to use the dedicated tourist shuttles that run daily between the most popular destinations. I almost always used these and found them to be more reliable and comfortable than other forms of transport – and they’re a great way to meet new people if you’re travelling solo. I recommend Adrenalina Tours or Monte Verde tours .
• If you do decide to use the chicken buses, keep your valuables close to you at all times and watch your surroundings. Pickpockets operate on the buses. Never use the chicken buses at night.
• Where possible, only travel during the day.
• If you see an accident, call Inguat on +502 2421-2810 but do not stop to help as it may be a setup.
• When travelling around Lake Atitlan, it’s much better to use the public boats across the lake than drive round the narrow, windy roads.
• Uber is reliable and safe in Xela, Antigua and Guatemala City. In other places if you need a taxi, get your hotel to call you one. Don’t pick up a taxi on the street.
• Use extra caution in Guatemala City. The safest zones are Zonas 10, 15, 9 and 13. But you still need to be careful and follow all the other advice listed in this article.

Read more: Backpacking in Guatemala: All You Need To Know Before You Go

Guatemala safety: natural disasters

I’ve covered a lot about personal safety so far, but don’t forget that there are also a fair few natural dangers in Guatemala. From wild animals to biting insects to floods, earthquakes and volcanos, here’s how to stay as safe as possible when faced with the unpredictability of the natural world.

Volcanos and earthquakes

• Volcanic eruptions and earthquakes can happen at any time. When checking into your accommodation, make sure you know where the exits are in case you need to get out in a hurry.
• If you’re planning to visit any of the volcanos – especially active ones like Fuego and Pacaya, check local news or current volcanic activity reports from the  Global Volcanism Program ; and talk to your hotel or tour company before you go.
• It’s a good idea to familiarise yourself with this advice about what to do during an earthquake before you travel.

Water: the ocean, lakes, floods

• At the Pacific coast beaches like Monterrico, the currents can be strong and there are no lifeguards. Take extra care when swimming and pay attention to beach safety flags.
• Lake Atitlan can get very windy and choppy, especially in the afternoons. Keep an eye on the weather forecast and don’t travel if the weather is too bad.
• During rainy season, extreme heavy rainfall can cause flash flooding and landslides. Again, check the forecast and the news before you travel and if in doubt, stay put.

Wildlife dangers in Guatemala

While you might be thinking of scary wild animals like jaguars and howler monkeys, the most dangerous animals in Guatemala are a lot more commonplace: dogs and mosquitoes.

• Guatemala has a huge street dog problem and some of them carry rabies. Although they may look cute, street dogs are feral and unpredictable. Do not approach or pet them. If you see a large pack of street dogs, it’s best to avoid them and find another route.
• If you do get bitten, rabies is not a joke and can cause serious harm and even death if left untreated. Get medical attention and a rabies jab immediately – even if this means cutting short your trip and going home.
• Mosquitoes can transmit Dengue Fever and Zika – both are common in the jungles, beaches and lowlands of Central America. Make sure you wear long sleeves and long trousers as much as possible and use plenty of insect repellent.  
• Make sure your vaccines are up to date and check with your local travel clinic for advice on what additional vaccines you may need to get for Guatemala.
• Other wild animals will normally run away from you, so are not too much of a concern. But note that there may be crocodiles in the lagoons and lakes in the Peten, so don’t swim unless told it’s safe to do so.

What to do if something bad happens to you in Guatemala

Public hospitals are underfunded, understaffed and under-resourced. If you are injured, take a taxi to the nearest private hospital. If necessary, this may mean heading to Antigua or Guatemala City.

You should call your travel insurance provider as soon as possible to let them know you need assistance. They will be able to advise you what to do next. I strongly advise you to store their number in your phone right now.

Guatemala has a National Tourist Assistance Program (PROATUR) which offers round-the-clock emergency support for tourists. There are extra PROATUR security officers on the beat in tourist areas. If you need to call them, they speak English; the number is 1500 or +502-2290-2800. Another number it’s a good idea to save right now!

For general tourist assistance, you can also contact INGUAT , the Guatemalan Tourist Board. They can coordinate security for tourist groups and can also be contacted in case of emergencies.

If you need emergency assistance (for example, you’ve been attacked, arrested or someone has died) and are a UK citizen, the British Embassy’s emergency number is +502 2380-7300.

My favourite safety gadgets to travel with

Here are some of the tools and gadgets I like to travel with, to help keep me and my stuff safe while travelling

• Luggage tags – because sometimes bags just go missing, so you want your details on them, but not showing on the outside so anyone can see your personal information.
• Luggage padlocks – good for making sure airline baggage handlers don’t raid your bag, and for extra security in your hotel room.
• Carabiners – to help hold zips closed or for attaching stuff to your backpack.
• Small packable backpack – I use these all the time when I don’t want to take my huge camera backpack out with me
• Money belt – for keeping your cards and cash hidden on your person.
• Cable lock – can be used for locking your bag to a fixed object.
• Apple Air Tags – I bought these specially before going to Guatemala and they were great for keeping track of my bags and the peace of mind of knowing where things were. And if yours goes walkabout, you can use them to find out where it’s gone. However, if your bag does get nicked, I really don’t recommend you go after it unless it’s in a public place and you’re certain you can retrieve it safely and without getting hurt.

Don’t forget travel insurance!

And – it’s not a gadget – but the most important safety thing of all is Travel Insurance! I recommend World Nomads for flexible insurance that you can extend while you’re away. Or head over to my Travel Resources page for more companies I’d recommend.

Is Guatemala safe to visit now? 

At the time of writing, the US State Department classes Guatemala as ‘Level 3: Reconsider Travel’. Travel is not recommended to:

• San Marcos Department (except the city of San Marcos).
• Huehuetenango Department (except the city of Huehuetenango).
• Zone 18 and the city of Villa Nueva in Guatemala City.

However things can change rapidly and this information may soon be out of date! If you’re wondering, is it safe to travel to Guatemala right now, check for the latest safety advice and travel warnings for Guatemala on the UK FCO Advice pages or the US State Department website .

You can also ask for tips, and make travel buddies, in the Expats in Guatemala Facebook group.

If you’re on Twitter, you can follow the National Police (Policía Nacional Civil) at  @ PNCdeGuatemala and the disaster agency @ ConRED (Coordinadora Nacional para la Reducción de Desastres) for updates on crime and natural disasters. 

A final word on dangers in Guatemala

Look, I know this is a LOT! And if you’ve read it all, you’re probably starting to panic. ‘How the hell am I going to do all that?!”

So I want you to remember that a lot of this is common sense, and stuff I’m sure you would normally do anyway. And to be completely honest, I didn’t do all of it, not all the time anyway.

I often walked around by myself with a backpack on and my camera round my neck, a noticeable, blonde, solo female traveller by herself. I chatted to lots of strangers. Sometimes I didn’t wear insect repellant!

And… I was fine.

The most important thing is to do the best you can and trust your instincts. If something feels sketchy, give it a swerve. And if in doubt, spend a bit more money to take that Uber, join that group, or stay in the more central hotel. Think of it as additional insurance to ensure your holiday passes without incident.

If you’re sensible and take precautions, there’s no reason why you can’t have the same trouble-free trip as most of the other travellers who have visited Guatemala before you.

And finally, I want to leave you with something someone said to me when I was in the middle of my pre-trip panic spiral:

“I travelled the length of Central America, on my own. If I listened to all the nightmare stories I would have never gone. Which would have meant I would have never had all those incredible experience and met all these amazing people.”

So go to Guatemala, stay safe, and have fun!

Where to next?

If you’re planning a trip to Guatemala, I have tonnes of posts here to help you. Head to my main Guatemala page or try some of these for size!

• How To See The Resplendent Quetzal Bird In Guatemala
• Santa Catarina Palopo: The Colourful Painted Town In Guatemala
• Alfombras In Guatemala: A Guide To The Colourful Sawdust Carpets
• Rio Dulce Guatemala: Is The ‘Sweet River’ Worth It?
• Guatemala People: 30 Portraits Of Guatemalans That Show Their Rich Culture

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Guatemala Travel Guide

Last Updated: September 1, 2023

The rugged mountains and jungles offer adventurous travelers a chance to get off the beaten path and explore pristine landscapes for a fraction of what you’d pay elsewhere in the world. And the ruins are underrated and a must-see for history buffs, including the impressive Tikal, an ancient Mayan city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

I love this country and have always had an incredible time here. (One of my favorite memories involves camping in Tikal National Park)

In this travel guide to Guatemala, I’ll show you how to make the most of your trip, save money, and stay safe in one of Central America’s most popular destinations!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Guatemala

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Guatemala

1. Visit Lake Atitlán

This spectacular lake is actually a massive volcanic crater. The lake sits 1,500 meters (4,921 feet) above sea level and is also one of the deepest lakes in Central America. It should come as no surprise that it’s one of the best spots to watch the sunset in Guatemala. On the northern coast of the lake lies the tourist village of Panajachel, a good base to arrange lake and volcano tours (there are two volcanoes here you can explore, Toliman and San Pedro). The village offers incredible views of the surrounding volcanoes and you can also enjoy restaurants, bars, and nightlife in a rustic lakeside setting here too. Boat tours are available as well.

2. Head to Antigua

Antigua is a picturesque colonial city in a highland valley between three volcanoes. It’s full of colonial Spanish architecture, including cobbled streets, what’s left of the centuries-old San Francisco church, houses, and ruins. There’s a vibrant market with colorful Guatemalan blankets and fabrics as well as lots of crafts and souvenirs. Head to the Plaza Mayor to take in the city’s amazing garden and don’t miss a hike up the Fuego volcano (which is active). There are two routes to choose from: La Soledad and the super high, extremely steep Alotenango Route. Conversely, you can hike the difficult (yet super popular) Acatenango volcano, which offers well-earned views of Fuego spitting lava, fire, and ash into the air. The best time for these hikes is during the dry season from the end of November to early April.

3. Explore Tikal National Park

Tikal is home to the most popular Mayan ruins in the country . Located in Petén Province in the north of Guatemala, this enormous national park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and spans nearly 600 square meters (6,500 square feet), housing centuries of Mayan history and archeology covered in lush vegetation. It is famous for rare animals like pumas, toucans, snakes, monkeys, and many species of birds. Arrive early and stay late as the park empties out in the afternoon when tour groups leave. I also recommend sleeping over in the park to catch the sunrise. You will need to pay extra for a guided tour if you want to see the sunrise or sunset. Ticket prices vary depending on if you buy day tickets, sunrise tickets, or sunset tickets. Admission is 150 GTQ for day hiking before sunset. You can reach Tikal from Flores by shuttle bus or even from neighboring Belize .

4.Visit Semuc Champey

This natural attraction outside the town of Lanquin near Coban consists of 300 meters (984 feet) of limestone bridges over the Cahabòn River that form natural lagoon-like pools. Take a candlelit tour through the Kamba caves, go tubing down the Cahabòn, or swim in the turquoise pools along the bridge. Keep in mind that the caves can only be visited with a guide. It’s possible to get here with local transport, private shuttles, or on a day trip. Go early in the morning to beat the crowds. To avoid getting rained on or risk that the area is flooded, visit during the dry season (December-April). Day trips cost 250-300 GTQ.

5. Explore the Chichicastenango Market

Most people who come to Guatemala visit Chichicastenango, the largest indigenous market in North America. Every Thursday and Sunday, thousands of Quiché Mayans come to town to buy and sell handicrafts, flowers, poetry, trinkets, pottery, and colorful textiles. There are plenty of places to eat tasty street food and buy local fruits and veggies, try fresh juices or Guatemalan coffee, and buy delicious handmade tortillas. Don’t forget to bring smaller bills and remember to bargain for the things you buy. Go early in the morning to beat the crowds.

Other Things to See and Do in Guatemala

1. visit the national museum of archaeology and ethnology.

Located in Guatemala City, this museum houses the many artifacts uncovered from the Mayan archaeological sites around the country. Created in 1898, the museum holds over 20,000 items and artifacts and is a good place to visit so you can learn more about the Mayan culture. Admission is 60 GTQ.

2. See the Yaxha ruins

If Tikal is too touristy for you, consider the more secluded Yaxha ruins. Like Tikal, Yaxha is a massive Mesoamerican archaeological site. Located in the northeast, it was the third-largest Mayan city in the region. Home to several huge stone pyramids, the site was “discovered” in 1904 and dates to 250-600 CE. Spend a few hours looking at ancient drawings and intricately carved hieroglyphs. Admission is 80 GTQ.

3. Explore Quirigua

The archaeological site of Quirigua, located in the southeastern corner of the country near the border with Honduras, contains the largest stelae (upright stone columns covered in drawings or carved into shapes) ever discovered in the Mayan world. Nine stelae are arranged around a central plaza, accompanied by altars carved into zoomorphic shapes that date from the 2nd-8th centuries CE. Although the stelae are unrestored, they are a magnificent sight; the largest of these is a whopping 25 feet tall! Admission is 80 GTQ.

4. Hike the Volcán de Pacaya

This active volcano frequently erupts ash clouds over Antigua, however, it makes for a fun day hike (don’t worry, it’s safe). The trail is relatively easy (it’s not that steep) and takes around two hours to hike, giving you lots of time to admire the view before you actually get a chance to peer into the volcano’s cone. Pacaya can only be accessed with an authorized guide so you will need to book a tour. Be aware the cheap tours often just offer transportation and a Spanish-speaking guide. If you don’t speak Spanish you will need to ask for an English-speaking guide. Guided hikes start at 250 GTQ . Some of the tours also include a visit to a thermal spa where you can soak in the naturally warm waters as well as a chance to roast marshmallows over the volcano.

5. Wander Flores

A small island, Flores sits on Lake Peten Itza, a large lake in the north and the second-largest lake in the country. A narrow man-made causeway connects the island to the mainland and the region is perfect for hiking, swimming, and spotting wildlife. From here, you’re just a short drive away from some of the most untamed jungles in the country (it makes for a good base for exploring the nearby jungles). It’s also close to the ruins at Tikal.

6. Visit the ruins at El Mirador

El Mirador is one of the most undiscovered Mayan sites in Guatemala. Located near the border with Mexico in the northeast, the majority of its complexes lie in the depths of the jungle and remain relatively inaccessible to tourists. It’s the largest of all the Mayan ruins, rivaling even the pyramids in Egypt in size. Though discovered in 1926, researchers didn’t start studying it until 2003! Multi-day tours cost around 2,300-3,100 GTQ since it’s so remote.

7. Explore Rio Dulce

Rio Dulce is a gorgeous river and popular backpacker destination in eastern Guatemala. Two towns, El Relleno and Fronteras, lie on either side of the river and are connected by one of the largest bridges in Central America. The area is famous for its trekking and water activities, including the Finca Paraiso hike, which leads to a hot spring and a waterfall. The Quiriguá ruins (mentioned above) are also nearby and worth a visit.

8. Visit the Antigua Market

This sprawling market is colorful and somewhat chaotic. It’s open-air and filled with everything from fruits and vegetables to handmade crafts and poultry to fake DVDs and knock-off jeans. Come here to buy souvenirs, people watch, and take in the bustling chaos!

9. Relax at Monterrico

This is the most popular beach in the country. Located close to Guatemala City and Antigua, this laid-back beach town is a relaxing place to catch some sun and hit the waves. Between June-December, you can also see giant leatherback, green sea, and smaller olive ridley turtles. There are also lots of tours of the nearby mangroves.

10. Hike Acatenango

Located near Antigua, Acatenango is a stratovolcano standing almost 4,000 meters (13,000 feet). It’s the third-highest volcano in Central America and last erupted in 1972. It offers a strenuous 7-8-hour hike up to a campsite, where you camp overnight before summiting to watch the sunrise. Overnight hiking tours cost around 600-800 GTQ and include cold-weather gear, an English-speaking guide, and park admission.

11. Watch the sunrise from Indian Nose

The sunrise from the Indian Nose volcano is quite possibly one of the most magical sunrises you will ever experience. Located next to Lake Atitlan, you’ll get to look out across the water and the magnificent volcanoes before you (including the Atitlán and San Pedro volcanoes). You can do this hike alone but it is difficult finding the path in the dark so it is much better to go with a guide. Expect to pay around 465 GTQ.

12. Learn to surf

Guatemala isn’t known for its beaches but the small coastal town of El Paredon is a well-kept secret where you can hit the waves. The black sand beach is beautiful and the surf is great. A board rental is around 100-125 GTQ per day and surf lessons cost around 120 GTQ for a private class, including a board.

Guatemala Travel Costs

Budget hotels are plentiful in Guatemala and rooms cost as little as 235-250 GTQ for a double or twin bed with basic amenities. For a mid-range hotel with free breakfast, expect to pay closer to 500 GTQ

Airbnb is available around the country, with private rooms starting at 200 GTQ per night. For an entire home or apartment, prices begin around 300 GTQ per night though they average closer to 800 GTQ. Book early to find the best deals.

For those traveling with a tent, camping is not common and not recommended. You can camp in the parks of El Paredon and Tikal though. Camping there costs around 50 GTQ per night.

Food – Guatemalan cuisine leans heavily on traditional Mayan foods with a strong influence from Spain (the Spanish arrived here in 1524). Traditional foods use a lot of corn, chilies, avocados, and beans. Popular dishes include tamales, seafood soup, and meat stews (usually chicken or beef), which are readily available and usually quite affordable. Gallo en perro (spicy stew), tapado (seafood soup with green plantain and coconut milk), and fried rice are other popular dishes.

If you’re on a budget, you can get a large meal of beans, rice, corn, and meat for around 40 GTQ from a comedor (local eateries that usually offer large portions). Another local favorite is a tortilla with beans and eggs with sour cream and fried plantain on the side, which usually cost the equivalent of just a couple of dollars.

Lunch is the main meal of the day here, and many restaurants offer affordable set menus. These usually include soup and grilled meat.

Pre-made plates of food (usually chicken or beef, rice, and tortillas) are often sold on the buses during stops for about 25-30 GTQ. Street food, like hot dogs or tamales, can be found for less than 15 GTQ.

A three-course meal in a mid-range restaurant with a drink costs around 250 GTQ. Mexican-style dishes like tacos or enchiladas are a popular evening choice (since dinner is usually a lighter meal).

Fast food like McDonald’s costs around 45 GTQ for a combo meal. For a meal at a Western restaurant (think burger and fries or pizza), expect to pay at least 100 GTQ.

A beer costs 15 GTQ, bottled water is 6 GTQ, and a cappuccino/latte costs around 19 GTQ.

If you plan on buying your own groceries, expect to pay around 200 GTQ per week for staples like vegetables, rice, seasonal produce, and some meat.

Backpacking Guatemala Suggested Budgets

As a budget backpacker in Guatemala, expect to pay around 250 GTQ per day. This assumes you’re staying in a hostel dorm, cooking most of your meals, sticking to free activities (like hiking and the beach), limiting your drinking, and using public transportation to get around.

On a mid-range budget of 650 GTQ, you can stay in an Airbnb, eat out for all your meals, enjoy a few drinks, take some guided tours, use taxis here and there, and visit more attractions such as museums or ruins.

On a “luxury” budget of 1,750 GTQ per day, you can stay in a hotel, take taxis everywhere, book higher-end tours (including private tours and day tours), and eat out every meal at nicer restaurants. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in GTQ.

Guatemala Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

It’s easy to save money while traveling in Guatemala since the country isn’t that expensive. However, a good budget traveler always looks for ways to maximize value. Here are some of the best ways to save money in Guatemala:

• Take a free walking tour – In some of the larger cities (like Antigua) you can find free walking tours. They’re the best way to get introduced to a new destination. Freetour.com has options you can choose from. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end!
• Stay with a local – While accommodation is cheap here, staying with a local via Couchsurfing makes it free. Not only will you save some money, but you’ll get firsthand knowledge from a local!
• Visit the Mercado – Although eating out is cheap in Guatemala, it makes sense to shop at the markets for your food to take on day trips or to prepare at your hostel. Fruit costs mere pennies and everything is always fresh.
• Eat street food – The local street food is the cheapest food you can eat — and the tastiest. Stick to street food when it comes to eating out.
• Avoid flying – Bus rides are longer, but if you are trying to see the country on a budget you shouldn’t fly. An hour-long flight can cost hundreds of dollars. Avoid flying as much as possible!
• Avoid drinking – Sure, the beer here is cheap but a couple of beers every day will add up. Watch your drinking to keep your budget intact!

Where to Stay in Guatemala

Guatemala has plenty of hostels in all the major cities. Here are some of my suggested places to stay:

• Maya Papaya (Antigua)
• Barbara’s Boutique Hostel (Antigua)
• La Iguana Perdida (Santa Cruz, Lake Atitlan)
• Casa de Grethel (Flores)
• Hostal Los Lagos (Guatemala City)
• Hostal Guatefriends (Guatemala City)

How to Get Around Guatemala

Public transportation – The main method of transportation in Guatemala is las camionetas (“chicken buses”). They are old school buses from North America and are the most inexpensive way to get around. Expect to pay around 10 GTQ for a 1-2 hour journey. Shorter journeys can cost as little as 5 GTQ.

If you are traveling between places like Antigua and Lake Atitlan, shuttle buses are the most common form of transport for backpackers. Travel between Antigua and Guatemala City costs around 150 GTQ on a shuttle bus. On a chicken bus, it costs considerably less.

Train – There are no trains in Guatemala.

Bus – Because of the poor condition of the roads in Guatemala large coach buses aren’t available on many routes. You can find night buses between Guatemala City and Flores to take you to countries like Mexico , Belize , and Nicaragua . For most other places, you have to rely on shuttle buses.

You have two options for booking: asking in your hostel to call and book for you and pay in cash, or booking online through guatego.com. Unfortunately, websites like Busbud don’t operate in Guatemala as their transport infrastructure is still developing.

Keep in mind the shuttles are pretty basic. Most don’t have working AC and are not very spacious. Plan for delays as well.

Flying – There are regular flights from Guatemala City to Flores, usually costing around 1,000-1,400 GTQ per person for the one-hour flight. If you are short on time and have plenty of money to spend, I suggest flying. But for most travelers, the bus is the best option.

Car rental – Renting a car costs around 175 GTQ per day. Do take care if you decide to drive in Guatemala as the roads aren’t the best and landslides are common during the rainy season (which can often result in both accidents and road closures). Make sure you have an International Driving Permit (IDP) — you’ll need one for any car rental.

For the best car rental prices, use Discover Cars .

When to Go to Guatemala

Guatemala is a fantastic place to visit at any time of the year because of its spring-like climate. As many places are at altitude, you can expect cool mornings and evenings and warm days. Expect temperatures to sit between 18-28°C (65-82°F).

Many choose to avoid Guatemala during the rainy season (May-September) as the rain can be a bit disruptive, especially if you want to do things like hiking. That said, it is during these months that Guatemala is at its most beautiful as the country turns green and the flowers bloom. Prices also drop significantly during the rainy season.

To beat the crowds, visit in the shoulder season (the start or end of the rainy season). You’ll see fewer people and things will be a little cheaper. The weather won’t be perfect but it will still be sunny and warm most days so you’ll still be able to hike.

How to Stay Safe in Guatemala

While Guatemala is generally safe, there’s no denying that certain precautions should be taken as there is a lot of petty crime (and other safety issues) in the country. Avoid isolated areas, especially at night and in big cities. Keep your personal belongings on you while using public transit (especially chicken buses) and night buses.

Additionally, don’t wear flashy jewelry or leave your valuables out in the open. Petty theft is common here so you must be vigilant.

Violent attacks against tourists are rare. Most of the time it’s because the tourist was involved in something drug-related or was where they shouldn’t be at night.

Scams are common in the larger cities so be wary of any overly friendly strangers. You can read about common travel scams to avoid right here.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.). Whenever possible, share a taxi with friends and avoid walking around alone just to be safe.

Guatemala is home to 37 volcanoes so volcanic activity isn’t uncommon. Be sure to check for warnings before you embark on any hikes/activities (especially ones on or around volcanoes).

Additionally, due to its political instability, protests and demonstrations are common. If one is occurring near you, simply head back to your accommodation and avoid taking part.

If you experience an emergency, dial 110 for assistance.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Guatemala Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Guatemala Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Central America and continue planning your trip:

Do You Need Travel Insurance for Costa Rica?

The Best Tour Companies in Costa Rica

The 6 Best Hostels in Panama City, Panama

Is Belize Safe to Visit?

Is Central America Safe to Visit?

How to Get Around Central America on a Budget

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UK Foreign Office throws holidays into disarray after 'don't travel' cyclone warning

The foreign, commonwealth and development office advises against all but essential travel to parts of the country.

Tom Earnshaw

A warning against all but essential travel to a country loved by British tourists has been issued by the UK's Foreign Office due to the impending threat of a major cyclone.

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) issued the important advice on Tuesday (18 June), with it still active a day later and no sign of it being lifted any time soon.

As per daily checks, officials from the government department update UK travel guidance for countries across the world to give UK travellers the most up to date information available on visiting every country on the planet.

That includes giving important advice on warnings and insurance issues you might encounter to basic entry requirements so you're not turned away at passport control .

The latest information on security, health and safety risks can also be found alongside any regional risks inside the country you're heading too.

And should you get in trouble, you can find help pages on who to contact in case of emergency whether that by local police, paramedics, fire departments or insurance issues.

In the latest advice, the Foreign Office send countless holidays in to disarray after issuing the warning for Mexico.

With eight regions of the country falling under the new travel advice, it is certain to have disrupted a whole load of travellers.

But it is for good reason, with Mexico at major risk of being hit by a tropical cyclone with winds of up to 74mph and torrential rain. Up to 150 millimeters of rain will fall across the country.

And the Foreign Office warns that if you still travel, you could be in a lot of financial trouble should you get in to dire straits.

"Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office," it says.

The US state of Mexico is also set to be hit by the massive pour down, with the National Hurricane Center noting a 'tropical disturbance' in the south-west Gulf of Mexico.

It now has a 60 per cent chance of developing into a tropical cyclone during the next week.

Areas of Mexico where Foreign Office advises against all but essential travel

• State of Baja California - All but essential travel to the city of Tijuana, except airside transit through Tijuana airport; the Cross Border Xpress bridge from the airport linking terminals across the Mexican-US border; and the federal toll road 1D and Via Rápida through Tijuana to the border.
• State of Chihuahua - All but essential travel to the state of Chihuahua except to the city of Chihuahua; Ciudad Juarez border crossing; federal toll road 45D connecting the cities of Chihuahua and Ciudad Juárez; the Copper Canyon rail route to and from Chihuahua and towns immediately on this route including Creel; the road from Creel via San Juanito to San Pedro; and state highway 16 from San Pedro to Chihuahua.
• State of Sinaloa - Advice against all but essential travel to the state of Sinaloa, except the cities of Los Mochis and Mazatlán; road 32 that runs between El Fuerte and Los Mochis; the 15D federal toll road that runs the length of the state ;the Copper Canyon rail route to and from Los Mochis; and El Fuerte and the towns immediately on this route.

• State of Tamaulipas - Advice against all but essential travel to the state of Tamaulipas, except the border crossing at Nuevo Laredo accessed by federal toll road 85D from Monterrey; federal highways 80, 81 and 85 between Tampico, Ciudad de Victoria and Magueyes, and the entire area of Tamaulipas south of these highways
• State of Zacatecas - Foreign Office advises against all but essential travel to the state of Zacatecas.
• State of Guanajuato - Advice against all but essential travel to the areas south-west of road 45D.
• State of Michoacán - FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the state of Michoacán, except the city of Morelia accessed by federal toll roads 15D, 126 and 43; and the federal toll road 48D between the city of Morelia and the General Francisco Mujica airport; town of Pátzcuaro accessed by federal toll roads 14D and 15 from Morelia, and boat trips out to islands on Lake Pátzcuaro; and Federal Highway 15D.

• State of Jalisco - FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the areas south and south-west of Lake Chapala to the border with the state of Colima. Also advice against all but essential travel to the northern municipalities of Bolaños; Chimaltitán; Colotlán; Hostotipaquillo; Huejúcar; Huequilla el Alto; Mezquitic; San Martin de Bolaños; Santa Maria de los Ángeles; Totatiche; and Villa Guerrero.
• State of Colima - FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the state of Colima, except the city of Manzanillo accessed by sea or air via the Manzanillo-Costalegre International Airport, and direct travel via road 200 from the airport to Manzanillo.
• State of Guerrero - FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the state of Guerrero, except the town of Zihuatanejo/Ixtapa accessed by air.
• State of Chiapas - FCDO advises against all but essential travel to within 40km of the Guatemalan border between the Pacific Coast up to and including the border crossing at Gracias a Dio. Also advises against all but essential travel on Federal Highway 199 (Carretera Federal 199) between Rancho Nuevo (just outside San Cristobal de las Casas) and the Chancalá junction just outside Palenque (where Federal Highway 199 meets Federal Highway 307).

Topics:  Holiday , Travel , UK News , World News , Weather

Tom joined LADbible in 2024, specialising in SEO and trending content. He moved to the company from Reach plc where he enjoyed spells as a content editor and senior reporter for one of the country's most-read local news brands, LancsLive. When he's not in work, Tom spends his adult life as a suffering Manchester United supporter after a childhood filled with trebles and Premier League titles. You can't have it all forever, I suppose.

@ TREarnshaw

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Manchester airport power outage – what are your rights if you were disrupted?

Exclusive: thousands of airline passengers were affected by 140 flight cancellations at the weekend, article bookmarked.

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Around 20,000 airline passengers are waking up where they did not intend to be this morning, after being caught up in the travel chaos at Manchester airport following a voltage surge and power cut early on Sunday.

Airlines were ordered to cancel some of their flights yesterday to try to deal with the backlog of passengers.

What are these passengers’ prospects for reaching their destinations today – and will they be able to claim any compensation?

These are the key questions and answers.

How many flights were cancelled?

To and from Manchester airport – the third-busiest in the UK – I calculate that 140 departing and arriving flights were cancelled, which represents around 20,000 passengers. They include some long-haul flights – to New York, Singapore, Houston and Dubai – which have many hundreds of passengers booked.

In addition, some were diverted on Sunday morning and a dozen flights to and from Amsterdam were grounded during the day.

How are things now at Manchester airport?

The airport posted last night that Monday’s schedule “is expected to run as usual with no further disruption”.

This is not strictly true. Some flights are operating with delays of an hour or two as airlines cope with residual delays, and easyJet has cancelled a round-trip to Amsterdam.

EasyJet is telling passengers this morning: “Please be advised due to the airport system failure at Manchester airport the bag drops is running slow, our ground handling agents are doing Manual check-in which might take more time than usual.”

But the airport says it is unaware of any problems with the baggage system.

The airport says: “Passengers should plan to travel to the airport as normal, checking-in two hours ahead of their flight for short-haul, and three hours for long-haul. It is always advisable to check the status of your flight before you travel to the airport.

“Airlines will be in touch with passengers to rearrange cancelled flights as we work with airlines, their baggage handling agents and other partners to make sure passengers whose bags did not make it onto their flights are reunited with their belongings as soon as possible.”

What happens to stranded passengers today?

Under European air passengers’ rights rules , they are entitled to be flown to their destination as soon as possible. The trouble is – there’s real pressure on airlines at the moment, and finding spare planes, pilots and cabin crew to launch “rescue” flights is going to be tricky. As is finding empty seats on other flights. But Tui and Jet2 will be running extra flights today.

What are passengers entitled to? If they’re abroad, they are due hotels and meals until they can be flown home. Beyond that, the airline will not be paying any cash compensation. The closure of a big international airport counts as an “extraordinary circumstance” and therefore airlines are not liable to pay out for cancellations and delays. Someone could, in theory, claim for additional losses from Manchester airport under the Consumer Rights Act, if they contends that the operator failed to act with “reasonable care and skill”.

But this would only be a possibility if they can demonstrate financial harm as a result of having the plane cancelled. Since out-of-pocket expenses are met by airlines, that seems unlikely.

Do people who miss part of their holiday get anything back?

If you’re on a package holiday, you can expect a pro-rata refund of the price of the trip – so if you were booked for a week but will now only get six days, you should get one-seventh back.

The other avenue is travel insurance: some policies pay a modest amount if you’re stuck for 12 hours or more.

Lots of people who did get away don’t have their baggage. What are they due?

Those who got away on Sunday typically checked in early, then spent hours at the airport. They flew – unfortunately without their baggage. I reckon somewhere between 10,000 and 15,000 people are in that position. The airport says they are working with the airlines to get cases to them as soon as possible. That will likely take a few days, although Jet2 has been trucking bags to other airports to be flown out, which should accelerate the process.

If you’re stuck without essentials – toiletries and clothing – you can buy what you need, keep the receipts and reclaim. But don’t go mad. And if you’re on a cruise – well, you may need to start borrowing stuff from fellow passengers.

How common is power failure at a major airport?

It does happen – including at Gatwick in 2013 – but normally the effects are not so dramatic. Manchester airport will have some investigating to do.

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Greece heatwave 2024: is it safe to travel and should you cancel your holiday

As the country continues to be scorched by its earliest heatwave on record, here is everything you need to know if you have a trip booked

Greece is one of the sunniest countries in Europe , and the bright weather paired with lovely beaches and striking scenery have made it a well-established summer getaway spot for years. 

However, Greece’s warm temperatures make it highly prone to heatwaves and wildfires, which are only becoming more common because of the climate emergency. After extreme temperatures scorched the country in a Europe-wide heatwave last summer , it looks like Greece is just at the beginning of a long and searingly hot summer. 

Wildfires have spread around Paphos in Cyprus , and  the Acropolis, Greece’s most popular tourist attraction, was forced to close during the hottest parts of the day last week, but areas across the country have felt the heat. Here is everything you need to know about the Greece heatwave if you have a trip booked. 

Which areas have been affected by the heatwave in Greece? 

Areas across Greece have been affected by the heatwave – it’s thought to be caused by winds bringing in hot air and dust from north Africa. Temperatures in the capital of Athens reached 43C last week, the islands of Rhodes and Samos have both experienced at least 40C, and in Chania, on Crete ’s northwestern coast, it soared to 44.5C. 

In Greece, temperatures above 38C which last at least three days constitute a heatwave. 

So, is it safe to travel to Greece right now? 

Travelling to Greece hasn’t been advised against, but if you have a trip booked, you’ll need to take precautions to stay safe. In some areas, people have been told to remain indoors between 11am and 3pm, and last week it was reported that schools were suspended and attractions, including the Acropolis, were closed due to wildfire fears . 

Greece’s extreme temperatures have so far led to the deaths of five tourists, the first of which was British author and TV presenter Michael Mosely on the island of Symi, and three more are currently missing. Some of these were out hiking during the hottest parts of the day. 

What islands were affected by the wildfires? 

Back in April, there was a wildfire on the island of Crete which injured three people. More recently, Paphos, a city in southwest Cyprus, has experienced wildfires. Five villages in the area were evacuated, and many homes and farms have been destroyed by the fire. Thankfully, no casualties have been reported as a result of wildfires.

What is the UK Foreign Office saying? 

The Foreign Office hasn’t advised against travelling to Greece, but on the safety and security section of the website, it reads: ‘There are active wildfires across Greece, including in populated areas on the mainland and a number of islands. Wildfires are highly dangerous and unpredictable. The situation can change quickly. Follow ‘112 Greece’ on X (formerly known as Twitter) for official updates.

You should:

• take care when visiting or driving through woodland areas
• make sure cigarette ends are properly extinguished
• not light barbecues

Causing a forest fire is treated as a criminal offence in Greece even if unintentional. If you see a forest fire, call the emergency services on 112. Forest fires can also cause travel disruption in wider areas.’

There’s more advice in this section about what to do if you find yourself in an area affected by wildfires – you can read that here . 

What are your rights if you’ve booked a trip to Greece? 

You won’t be entitled to a refund on your trip, as the Foreign Office hasn’t advised against travel to Greece. However, if you are concerned, it’s worth contacting your travel provider to see what can be done – you may be able to move the dates you travel. 

What’s the hottest Greece has ever been?

Greece actually holds the record for the hottest temperature ever recorded in Europe. On July 10 1977, Elefsina (which is in the Athens metropolitan area) reached a scorching 48C. The longest heatwave ever recorded in Greece was in July 2023, lasting for 16 days. 

ICYMI: Is it safe to travel to Rhodes right now? The latest advice after the earthquake in Greece . 

Stay in the loop: sign up to our free Time Out Travel newsletter for all the latest travel news. 

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

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NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

‘Slow travel’ is surging — but there’s a secret to it

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Holidays can often feel rushed, dashing to cram in as much as possible while wanting to feel adequately rested during that crucial time away.

In fact, it takes the average person three days to switch off , and the average trip length is just eight days. So, how does that match up? And is it possible to accommodate all our rest and relaxation needs?

Enter the ‘slowcation’ (AKA, ‘ slow travel ’), a trend encouraging tourists to take a slower, more meaningful approach to travel and incorporate more time to unwind and de-stress.

According to new research, 81% of Brits are using travel this summer to slow down and de-stress more than anything else. But in the same vein, 57% don’t think they could go away without their phone , while 50% couldn’t hack 24 hours without checking their social media.

That’s where ‘slow travel’ comes in, embracing switching off and detaching from everyday life, with Google searches for ‘slow travel trips’ having increased by 61% in the last three months alone. Likewise, the trend has been tagged almost 20,000 times on TikTok.

But ‘slow travel’ isn’t just about slowing your itinerary down – there’s a secret to mastering it.

What is a ‘slowcation’ or ‘slow travel’?

A ‘slowcation’ or ‘slow travel’ isn’t just about slowing down the journey: it also necessitates taking a different mindset.

‘Slow travel is more about a mindset as opposed to a pace of movement, it’s exploring somewhere on a deeper level, making space mentally and physically for things to happen spontaneously. For example, taking time to walk in nature, cycle through countryside, engage with the locals or taking a long-distance rail journey,’ Simon Lynch, Global Product Director at Scott Dunn Travel , explains.

What does ‘slow travel’ look like in 2024?

Train travel.

Not only is taking the train eco-friendly: it’s also the most obvious way to slow down a trip and embrace the ‘slow travel’ vibe.

‘Leisurely train travel is one of the best ways to experience ‘slow travel,’ allowing you to sit back and savour every moment with each stop of the route,’ Simon advises, noting that the company has seen triple the amount of bookings for train journeys between January and April this year compared to the same period in 2023.

‘A new wave of luxury rail itineraries has driven a thirst for cultural immersion, exploring the less-visited backroads of popular destinations.’

Likewise, the new figures reveal some of the most popular train journeys right now, which include the Belmond Andean Explorer in Peru, the first luxury sleeper train to travel across South America, alongside the Eastern and Oriental Express, connecting Singapore with Malaysia.

Adopting a ‘go with the flow’ approach

As Simon explains, ‘slow travel’ isn’t just about the time it takes to reach a destination: it’s also a mindset.

The research from Scott Dunn Travel also finds that Brits aren’t exploring as much as they used to, instead taking a fast-paced, pre-arranged approach to holidaying.

However, 30% reported that going on an excursion helps them to unwind on a trip and 31% said that mother nature also helps them to relax, proving the point that perhaps taking a ‘go with the flow’ approach might wield some benefit.

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Daily horoscope today: June 24, 2024 astrological predictions for your star sign

So, why not channel your spontaneous side the next time you go away? It could change the way you holiday forever.

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