Security risks in Guatemala
Guatemala underwent a civil war from 1954-1996. This ended with a peace accord between the guerrillas and the government, largely negotiated by the United Nations. It also has a long-standing territorial dispute with its neighbour, Belize. Negotiations are still underway to resolve this.
Since then, there has been economic growth and successive democratic elections. Nevertheless, it’s one of the poorest countries in Latin America, with more than half the population below the national poverty line.
The country is a common route for trafficking drugs and humans. The law enforcement institutions are corrupt and weak.
Crime rates are very high – but we take care to ensure the safety of all our clients.
Violent crime
Murders average over 100 per week. There is a low rate of arrest and conviction.
Due to organised crime, extra-judicial killings and death squads are common, and the country has the third highest rate of femicide in the world.
Business people and anyone perceived to be wealthy can be targeted by kidnappers.
Armed robbery
Car-jacking and armed robbery are common, especially on the main road from Guatemala City to the border with El Salvador, and on the routes to and from main tourist sites.
Criminals are known to dress in police uniforms to commit theft, extortion or sexual assaults.
Street crime is most often perpetrated by young men against their peers.
Terrorism
Terrorist acts cannot be ruled out.
The mass killing of Mayans during the civil war counts as genocide and is sometimes called ‘the silent holocaust’. An estimated 200,000 people were killed, and children were often the targets.
Riots
There have been strikes and protests across the country, including at the international airport, and often without notice.
Vigilante justice is common due to lack of public confidence in the police. Mob violence and lynchings are widespread in rural regions.
Our security teams monitor the mainstream media and social media platforms for signs of unrest, so we can avoid it.
Events
Visitors to Guatemala especially enjoy the Mayan archaeological sites which include Tikal in the Peten, Quiriguá in Izabal, Iximche in Chimaltenango, and Guatemala City (where you’ll also discover various fascinating museums).
There are also many natural attractions such as Lake Atitlán and Semuc Champey, as well as historical sites including the colonial city of Antigua Guatemala – a recognised UNESCO Cultural Heritage site.