How Secure Is It To Visit The Beaches Of Guatemala?

Guatemala is not the safest country to visit due to its high crime rates, both violent and petty. Hiking in the area is best with the help of a local guide to minimize the risk of something wrong. Playa Blanca, Guatemala’s best beach, is popular for Caribbean vibes. However, visitors are advised to avoid swimming in the Pacific Ocean due to strong currents and undertows, and beaches lack adequate safety measures.

While Guatemala is relatively safe, it is important to be aware of natural disasters, jungles, history, public transport, and coastal waters. Riptides are common, and not all beaches have lifeguards or warning flags. Exercise caution when swimming and don’t swim alone.

The safest zones for tourists in Guatemala include 10, 14, 15, 16, and 16, but other areas should be visited with high caution. Avoid 6, 18, 21, and some parts of 13, and consider using an airport unless necessary. As a lifelong resident of Los Angeles, it is crucial to exercise the same precautions as in any big city in the US.

What is the most common crime in Guatemala?

In 2022, extortion was the most prevalent criminal activity in Guatemala, with 84 cases reported. Eight cases were reported per 100, 000 inhabitants, with theft accounting for an additional 34 cases. 1. Theft, with a rate of 20. The remaining offenses were as follows: 7 cases of extortion, 34. 1 cases of theft, and 20 cases of murder. Thirdly,

Is Guatemala safe for American tourists?

The United States Department of State has issued a travel advisory for its citizens, urging them to exercise caution and reconsider travel to Guatemala due to an elevated crime risk in specific regions. The U. S. Embassy in Guatemala City is available to provide assistance. It is also recommended that travelers who identify as LGBTQIA+ take particular care to consider any special considerations that may apply to them.

Is it safe to go to Guatemala right now in 2024?

Travel to Guatemala is advised due to increased risk of crime, particularly in San Marcos, Huehuetenango, Zone 18, and Villa Nueva in Guatemala City. Common forms of violent crime include extortion, murder, armed robbery, carjacking, narcotics trafficking, and gang activity. Local police may struggle to respond effectively, leading to a low arrest and conviction rate. The National Tourist Assistance Program (PROATUR) offers 24-hour emergency assistance and routine guidance to tourists, as well as additional security in frequented locations. The call center is available 24/7 in Spanish and English.

Is Guatemala or Colombia safer?

Colombia has experienced a significant improvement in safety, making it an attractive destination for tourists. Popular tourist spots like Medellín and Cartagena have seen reduced crime rates. Guatemala, known as the Maya civilization’s center, boasts beautiful Tikal ruins and vibrant indigenous culture. Colombia, on the other hand, is a thriving cultural center with a mix of indigenous, Spanish, and African elements, as seen in events like Barranquilla’s Carnival and the traditional “paisa” culture of the UNESCO-listed coffee area.

Why is the crime rate so high in Guatemala?

Guatemala has one of the highest murder rates in the world, with less than 4 of murders ending in conviction. The country’s high murder rate is attributed to four main factors: an increase in drug trafficking, a growing prevalence of gang-related violence, a heavily armed civilian population, and a weak and incompetent police/judicial system. In September 2019, the government announced a state of siege in five northeastern provinces after three police officers were killed by drug traffickers.

Sexual crimes, including sex exploitation of minors, are common in Guatemala, with foreigners from the US, Canada, and Europe participating in commercial sexual exploitation of children. The country enacted the Law against Sexual Violence, Exploitation, and Trafficking in Persons in 2009, but the total number is likely much higher due to under-reporting due to social stigma.

Femicide is also common in Guatemala, with women killed at rates comparable to that of the peak violent period of the civil war. From 2000 to 2010, the country saw over 5, 000 murders of women and girls. Most femicides go unsolved, highlighting the continuation of civil war societal features like impunity and the normalization of violence against women.

Common crime violence has exacerbated the situation for women, creating a dual upsurge in both gender-based violence and femicide in Guatemala. According to the UN, two women are murdered on average each day in Guatemala. Females face more vulnerabilities of private violence, while young males are threatened more by public gang violence. In 2005, Guatemala City alone received 13, 700 reports of family violence. Many women Guatemalan immigrants to the U. S. will still face threatening situations if they are deported to their home country.

Are the beaches in Guatemala safe?

Coastal waters can be dangerous, with riptides common and not all beaches have lifeguards or warning flags. The Public Health Agency of Canada has updated its travel health information, highlighting risk levels, safety, security, entry and exit requirements, health, laws, culture, natural disasters, and climate. In Guatemala, exercise caution due to high levels of violent crime, roadblocks, strikes, and demonstrations.

What injections do I need for Guatemala?

Hepatitis A and Tetanus vaccines are typically recommended, along with other vaccines like Diphtheria, Rabies, and Typhoid. Hepatitis B is selectively advised for individuals at highest risk. Risk is higher in countries with hepatitis A circulating or in areas with poor hygiene and sanitation. Risk is highest for those with underlying medical conditions, men with sex with men, drug users, and those exposed through their jobs. Risk is also higher for frequent, extended visits, visiting friends and relatives, children, and those requiring medical treatment during travel.

Is Guatemala or Mexico safer?

The primary reported risk was robbery, with 90 respondents identifying it as a risk in Guatemala and 82 in Mexico.

What is the safest place in Guatemala?

Guatemala offers a variety of attractions, including Antigua, a colonial town with beautiful neighborhoods, and Quetzaltenango, a bustling mountain town known as Xela. The country is known for its beautiful nature and history, including colonial buildings and ancient Mayan ruins. However, it has not always been the safest place in Central America due to scams, petty crime, robberies, gang violence, and volcanic eruptions. Therefore, it is essential to be cautious and aware of potential risks.

Do I need malaria pills for Guatemala?

The CDC recommends travelers to certain areas of Guatemala take prescription medicine to prevent malaria, which may be taken multiple days before, during, and after their trip. To stay healthy and safe, it is important to learn about behaviors that can reduce the risk of diseases spread by bugs like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas. To prevent bug bites, cover exposed skin with long-sleeved shirts, pants, and hats, use insect repellent, use permethrin-treated clothing and gear, stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms, and use a bed net if the sleeping area is exposed to the outdoors.