It’s no secret that Guatemala has had its share of problems over the years. The country has been plagued by political instability and violence, making it a less than ideal destination for travelers. But is it really as dangerous as people say? ? Are the risks worth it?
In this article, we’ll explore the dangers of traveling to Guatemala and weigh the pros and cons of visiting this country from Central America. We will examine the different types of risks travelers face, from street crime to kidnapping to natural disasters. And we will discuss ways to stay in safety when traveling in Guatemala. Let’s see it all together!
Why is Guatemala considered a dangerous country?
Guatemala is considered a dangerous country for several reasons. First of all, the country has a high crime rate, especially in urban areas. Property crimes, such as theft and burglary, are common, and violent crimes, such as theft, assault, and sexual assault, are not uncommon. Additionally, cases of kidnappings and express kidnappings (where victims are taken for a short time and forced to withdraw money from ATMs) have been reported in Guatemala.
Second, Guatemala is home to several active volcanoes and is in an earthquake-prone region. This means that natural disasters such as volcanic eruptions and earthquakes are still possible and travelers should be aware of the risks before traveling there.
Third, due to its political instability, Guatemala has been the scene of several civil wars and internal conflicts over the years. Although the country is currently at peace, tensions remain high in some areas and travelers should be aware of the risk of violence.
What are the risks of traveling to Guatemala?
The risks associated with a trip to Guatemala vary depending on the region you are visiting and the activities you plan to do. In general, however, all travelers to Guatemala should be aware of the following risks:
-Street crime, such as pickpocketing, muggings, and robberies, is common in urban areas. Visitors should take precautions, such as hiding valuables and not walking alone at night.
-Kidnappings and kidnappings have been reported in Guatemala. In express kidnapping, victims are taken away for a short time and forced to withdraw money from ATMs. In a kidnapping, victims are usually held for ransom.
-Violent crimes, such as assault and sexual assault, are not uncommon in Guatemala. Women should take extra precautions, including traveling in pairs and avoiding isolated areas.
-Guatemala is home to several active volcanoes and is in an earthquake-prone region. This means that natural disasters such as volcanic eruptions and earthquakes are still possible. Travelers should familiarize themselves with emergency safety procedures.
How can I stay safe when traveling to Guatemala?
There are several things you can do to stay safe when traveling to Guatemala:
- Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against street crime.
- Do not accept rides from strangers and do not ride in cars with strangers.
- Keep your belongings close to you and do not leave them unattended in the public places.
- If possible, travel with a group of people and avoid isolated areas.
- Familiarize yourself with emergency procedures in the event of a natural disaster.
- Monitor them information to know the evolving security situation in Guatemala.
By following these safety tips, you will have a safe and enjoyable trip to Guatemala!
What are the secure places that we can visit without fear?
Safe places to visit without fear in Guatemala are:
- Antigua
- Lake Atitlan
- Flores
- Monterrico Beach
- Semuc Champey
- Tikal
These are some of the most popular tourist destinations in Guatemala and they are all considered relatively safe. Of course, you should always take precautions and be aware of your surroundings, but these places are generally considered safe for travelers.
Dangerous areas or areas to avoid in Guatemala
Some areas are considered dangerous or prohibited for travelers in Guatemala:
Borders : The area surrounding the Mexico-Guatemala border is particularly dangerous due to high gang and drug trafficker activity.
Guatemala City: Guatemala City is also considered dangerous, due to its high rate of street crime. Some rural areas of Guatemala are controlled by gangs and are best avoided.
If you are considering traveling to Guatemala, it is important to do your research and be aware of the risks involved. By taking precautions and being aware of your surroundings, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip.
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