Published: May 15, 2025
This report is intended to supplement the U.S. Department of State Guatemala Travel Advisory and Guatemala Country Information Page.
Embassy & Consulate Contact Information
U.S. Embassy Guatemala City
Boulevard Austriaco 11-51, Zona 16, Ciudad de Guatemala.
Tel: +502-2354-0000; or from the U.S. 1-301-985-8164
Hours: 0800-1700 Monday-Thursday; 0800-1200 Friday.
OSAC Country Chapter(s)
The Guatemala City Country Chapter is active and meets quarterly.
Contact OSAC’s Americas team with any questions.
Guatemala Travel Advisory
The current U.S. Department of State Travel Advisory at the date of this report’s publication assesses that travelers should reconsider travel to Guatemala due to crime.
Crime
The U.S. Department of State has assessed Guatemala City as being a CRITICAL-threat location for crime directed at or affecting official U.S. government interests.
The U.S. Department of State has included a Crime “C” Indicator on the Travel Advisory for Guatemala, indicating that there may be widespread violent crime and/or organized crime present in the country, and/or that local law enforcement may have limited ability to respond to serious crimes.
Crime in Guatemala stems from many sources, its impact magnified by corruption, an inadequate justice system, and the prevalence of gang and narcotrafficking activity across the country. The most common crimes against expatriates and foreigners include petty theft and armed robbery.
It is important to be vigilant of surroundings and report any crime incidents promptly to the police. Theft and armed robbery are the most common crimes committed against U.S. travelers. Members of the expatriate community can fall victim to these crimes due to a perceived display of affluence, or by not following sound personal security practices. The threat stemming from gang rivalries and extortion occurring in areas controlled by gangs has become a major issue in some communities.
Many robberies occur during daylight hours while victims are walking or driving in well-known, well-traveled areas, including markets, public parks, and popular restaurant districts. Even the most upscale residential and commercial areas of Guatemala City (Zones 4, 10, 14, 15, and 16) experience violent crimes in broad daylight. These trends are not isolated to one specific part of the country. No area in Guatemala is immune to crime, including the most popular tourist destinations such as Antigua and Tikal.
A common trend in the commission of armed robberies is the use of motorcycles. Typically, two men on a motorcycle accost the driver of a car or pedestrian and demand valuables and cell phones. Often, a second pair of armed individuals accompany the assailants, functioning as lookouts. If the assailants encounter any resistance, they escalate the situation through extreme violence (e.g., stabbings, shootings). The use of motorcycles allows the assailants to flee quickly; police rarely apprehend them. Additionally, pickpockets and purse-snatchers are active in all cities and tourist sites. Petty criminals frequently target high-traffic tourist areas for petty crime. Markets, national parks, crowded venues, and shopping areas are all major areas of operation for criminals.
Guatemala has historically had one of the highest violent crime rates in Central America, but progress has been made at lowering the homicide rate in recent years. 2024 closed with 2,869 homicides nationally, a 3.6% decrease from 2023 with 2,944 homicides. The 2024 homicide rate is estimated at 16.1 homicides per 100,000 residents. This marks a 5-year period where the homicide rate has fluctuated around 15-17 homicides per 100,000 residents. The last year the homicide rate exceeded 20.0 was in 2019. The departments of Guatemala and Escuintla department accounted for about 50% of homicides in the country in 2024. The number of missing persons in 2024 was 2,007, a 13.1% decrease from 2023 with 2,311 missing persons. This followed a 13.6% decrease from 2022 to 2023, with 2,675 missing persons reported in 2022. In 2024, assaults increased by 15.8% with about 56% of reported assaults occurring in the Guatemala department. Note: police do not record crimes as homicides if the victim left the crime scene alive but subsequently died from injuries elsewhere.
Despite the downward trend in homicides, Guatemala remains dangerous. Endemic poverty, an abundance of weapons, a legacy of societal conflict, and the presence of organized criminal gangs like Barrio 18 (18th Street) and Mara Salvatrucha (MS-13) all contribute to violent crime. Guatemala’s high murder rate is driven by narcotrafficking activity, gang-related violence, a heavily armed population, and a law enforcement and judicial system unable to hold criminals accountable.
The two primary gangs in Guatemala terrorize businesses and private citizens through targeted extortion attempts. Reported extortion increased significantly from 2022 to 2023, with 14,725 incidents in 2022 and 18,096 reported incidents in 2023, or a 18.6% increase. There was a further 38% increase in extortion from 2023 to 2024 with 24,978 reported incidents. This increase may also suggest that the public is becoming more comfortable reporting extortion.
Extortion is common and affect all sectors of society, with public bus and taxi drivers being the most common victims. However, local small businesses, the U.S. private sector, and local national employees of the U.S. Embassy were all frequent targets. The gangs also target schoolchildren, street vendors, and local residents. In recent years the number of reported extortions has increased, although most incidents go unreported and there is uncertainty about the true magnitude of the problem. Further complicating the widespread issue of extortion is the presence of persons who imitate gang members to threaten and receive extortion payments, despite not belonging to gangs. Gang members usually punish non-compliant victims with violent assault or murder and victimize their family members as punishment. Extortion tactics have expanded using social media in recent years. Gang members and imitators will use various types of social media to threaten their targets and receive extortion payments.
Home invasions by armed groups continue to occur in upscale neighborhoods. Reports of home invasion increased 50% from 2023 to 2024, with 747 total cases in 2024. This followed a decline from 2022 to 2023, with 556 and 496 reports, respectively. Similarly, there were 590 reports in 2021 and 517 in 2020. Thieves gain access by enticing a resident to open the door for a delivery or rushing in when family or staff open the door. Household staff may also sometimes be complicit in home invasions, acting as insider threats and informants to criminals.
While reported cases of sexual assault decreased year-on year from 2022 to 2024, the Embassy believes that the actual number of sexual assaults, including against foreigners, is far greater than reported numbers. Cultural stigmas and sporadic police presence in rural areas cause significant underreporting. Most reported victims are female. There were 178 reported cases of sexual assault in 2024, 200 in 2023, and 221 in 2022.
The bulk of crimes related to drug trafficking occur near the Mexican border. As such, the departments of San Marcos and Huehuetenango are considered Level 4: Do Not Travel locations due to the prevalence of criminal groups operating in these areas and limited law enforcement capacity. Guatemalan criminal organizations usurp the territories of more established Mexican cartels, inciting violent standoffs. Narcotraffickers are heavily armed and operate with relative impunity. Limited Guatemalan resources make it difficult to combat narcotrafficking and the violence associated with it.
Although there is widespread trafficking in Guatemala most activity does not affect the general populace. There have been instances of homicides near clandestine airfields and areas in Petén near the Mexican border, particularly along CA-13 between La Libertad and El Ceibo. Narcotraffickers tend to avoid confrontation with security forces when unprovoked.
Of particular concern to businesses and landowners in remote regions of Guatemala is the threat of narco-traffickers forcibly seizing land to facilitate the landing and offloading of aircraft transporting large amounts of cocaine. Heavily armed narcotraffickers invade properties, restrain all residents and/or employees, and clear an area to land aircraft. Narcotraffickers then release the families and employees and depart the area after offloading all drugs onto transport vehicles.
Traffic congestion in urban areas and the highways leading out of the capital is extremely heavy, and severely impacts travel time between destinations. Traffic is often at a standstill for hours at a time; such congestion exacerbates the threat to motorists from armed criminals on motorcycles. Use vehicles with all windows tinted. Criminals often look for drivers using cell phones at night and easily identify their targets due to the illumination of smartphones or tablets. One of the newer tactics being utilized in heavy traffic situations is thieves using Bluetooth to identify vehicles that contain high-value phones. By using Bluetooth, thieves can locate “Sam’s iPhone 16” and the vehicle the phone is in. It is recommended that you change your phone name on your device to not include the model, if possible, as well as disable Bluetooth if you are not using it to link to the car for navigation.
Emboldened armed robbers sometimes attack vehicles on main roads in broad daylight. Travel on rural roads increases the risk of encountering a criminal roadblock or ambush. Driving outside of urban areas at night is dangerous and not recommended—do not conduct intercity travel after dark. Caravan with at least two cars when traveling outside of Guatemala City. The Inter-American Highway (CA-1) and the road from Guatemala City to the Caribbean coast (CA-9) are especially dangerous due to heavy traffic, including large trucks and trailers, and poorly maintained vehicles that often lack properly functioning lights. The main road to Lake Atitlán via CA-1 and Sololá is safer than the alternative secondary roads near the lake.
In the past, armed attacks occurred on roads between Guatemala City and Petén, as well as between Tikal and the Belize border. Plan and research routes prior to departing for your destination. Although many GPS applications work in Guatemala, they may not accurately reflect road conditions. Roads and routes identified on a GPS may be nothing more than a poorly built dirt road accessible only by 4x4 vehicles. GPS applications trying to minimize travel times can also route drivers through gang-controlled neighborhoods.
Informal bus lines are the most common mode of public transportation in Guatemala. These bus routes are serviced by brightly colored, poorly maintained, recycled U.S.-style school buses. Driver qualification levels vary, creating an untenable safety situation. Additionally, these bus lines are prime targets for extortions and robberies. Criminals habitually assault and murder bus drivers because of non-compliance with extortion demands. The official U.S. government community in Guatemala is prohibited from using public buses as a means of transportation.
Taxis are also unsafe. Unlicensed taxis and taxi companies serve metropolitan areas. The U.S. government prohibits its personnel present in Guatemala from hailing taxis on the street. Taxi drivers can be targeted for or complicit in criminal activity. Only use pre-arranged and radio-dispatched taxi services.
Uber operates in Guatemala City, Antigua, and some other urban areas. Uber is a reliable source of transportation, and U.S. government personnel may use the service. It is important to note, however, that local taxi operators do not support Uber and have engaged in physical confrontations with Uber drivers. Wait in a secure location for an available Uber; expect the driver to request that a passenger ride in the front seat to mask the appearance of being a car service.
The principal international airport, La Aurora International Airport (GUA) is in Zone 13, an area of Guatemala City that suffers from elevated levels of crime. Remain cautious when leaving the airport, as assailants may steal money, passports, or luggage. In some cases, taxi drivers rob travelers of their possessions. Pre-arrange transportation arrangements to and from the airport using pre-screened, vetted transportation services, including Uber. A pre-screened, vetted taxi service is available at the airport. Travelers can hire a vetted driver at the kiosk under the “SAFE” sign. Assailants have worn full/partial police uniforms and have used vehicles that resemble police vehicles, indicating that some elements of the police might be involved.
Kidnapping Threat
The U.S. Department of State has not included a Kidnapping “K” Indicator on the Travel Advisory for Guatemala.
Kidnappings are not as prevalent in Guatemala in recent years as in the past. Given the complexity of kidnapping and police attention to this type of crime, kidnapping is not as viable a criminal enterprise as extortion.
The kidnappings that do occur generally involve victims who are involved or perceived to be involved with drug trafficking. In these instances, traffickers will use brutal force to extort, kidnap, and kill victims. Some kidnapping groups kill their victims regardless of a paid ransom. In 2024 there were 9 reported kidnapping cases, a decrease from 13 in 2023. Reporting in previous years show similarly low numbers of reported kidnapping with 11 in 2022, 9 incidents in 2021, and 15 in 2020.
Terrorism
The U.S. Department of State has assessed Guatemala as being a LOW-threat location for terrorism directed at or affecting official U.S. government interests.
The U.S. Department of State has not included a Terrorism “T” Indicator on the Travel Advisory for Guatemala.
There are no known transnational or domestic terrorist organizations present in Guatemala.
However, in February, the U.S. Department of State designated eight Latin American transnational criminal organizations (TCOs) as Foreign Terrorist Organizations (FTOs) and Specially Designated Global Terrorists (SDGTs). This listed the six Mexican groups, including the Cartel de Sinaloa and Cartel de Jalisco Nueva Generación (CJNG), which have ties to Guatemalan criminal groups. The Central American street gang Mara Salvatrucha (MS-13) was also designated as an FTO and is one of the predominant criminal gangs in Guatemala.
In relation to the FTO designations, U.S. organizations should be aware of criminal penalties associated with providing material support to FTOs. The primary criminal statutes OSAC members need to be aware of regarding FTOs include 18 U.S.C. § 2339 A-D. These statutes define material support such as (tangible or intangible) property, monetary instruments, lodging, training, advice, equipment, transportation, and other goods or services. This can include paying extortion demands to criminal groups designated as FTOs. Compliance departments should ensure that an organization does not knowingly, or unknowingly, provide material support to any FTO or FTO-affiliated entity.
Political Violence and Civil Unrest
The U.S. Department of State has assessed Guatemala City as being a MEDIUM-threat location for political violence directed at or affecting official U.S. government interests.
The U.S. Department of State has not included a Civil Unrest “U” Indicator on the Travel Advisory for Guatemala. Civil unrest can develop quickly without prior notice, often interrupting logistics and services. Avoid demonstration activity, as even those planned to remain peaceful have the potential to turn violent.
Elections/Political Stability
Guatemala is a multiparty constitutional republic. They last held a general election on June 25, 2023, with a subsequent presidential run-off on August 20 that year. The general election occurred largely without incident despite isolated cases of electoral violence, intimidation of poll workers, and the disqualification of multiple opposition candidates. Current President Bernardo Arevalo unexpectedly finished second in the presidential primary and qualified for the run-off which he also won before being inaugurated in January 2024. Since before his inauguration he has faced legal challenges from the Attorney General’s office, led by Consuelo Porras – who is considered to have been involved in instances of significant corruption.
Protests and demonstrations continue to occur regularly, often related to issues such as corruption, pensions, and other government services.
The next general election is expected to occur in June 2027.
Protests & Demonstrations
Large demonstrations occur, sometimes with little to no notice, and can cause serious traffic disruptions. In recent years, Guatemala has experienced a variety of protests demonstrating against topics ranging from public corruption and the cost of living to motorcycle restriction laws and veteran employment. Although most demonstrations are peaceful, they can turn violent.
Protests in Guatemala City tend to occur near government buildings in the historic center or Zona 1. This includes locations near Plaza de la Constitución, the National Palace, and Congreso de la República.
Travelers must also be aware of the high frequency of demonstrations/protests in Guatemala. Several highly organized groups are capable of drawing thousands of people to support their cause. Protests often lead to disruption in public infrastructure such as blocking roads like the CA1, CA5, and the Pan American Highway. Some protesters have started small fires and clashed with police during their demonstrations. The use of roadblocks and/or blocking of public facilities, including airports, may delay or prevent tourists from reaching their destination.
A good resource for updated information regarding traffic concerns throughout Guatemala is PROVIAL, a roadside assistance force that routinely provides updates on significant issues related to accidents, traffic conditions, and road blockades.
Notably, following the 2023 presidential runoff, large protests and road blockades took place throughout Guatemala against efforts by the Attorney General to disqualify Bernardo Arevalo’s election. This resulted in significant disruptions to the movement of goods and people throughout the country.
Anti-U.S./Anti-Western Sentiment
There is not significant anti-U.S. or anti-Western sentiment in Guatemala.
Law Enforcement
Victims of crime should contact the police emergency line 110 or 120; in the event of fire emergencies, call 122 or 123. Tourist groups should request security escorts—security information and escorts are available from the Tourist Assistance Office (ASISTUR) of the Guatemalan Tourism Institute (INGUAT).
The Interior Ministry (Ministerio de Gobernación) oversees Guatemala’s law enforcement forces. Its remit includes law and order, national security, border control, and prison services. The Policía Nacional Civil (PNC), or National Civil Police, serve under the Interior Ministry and are responsible for maintaining public order, preventing and investigating crimes, and ensuring the safety and security of citizens throughout Guatemala. In 2024, the PNC established the Special Counter-Extortion Group (GECE) to combat extortion in the country.
The National Defense Ministry oversees the military, which focuses primarily on operations in defense of the country, but the government also uses the army to support the National Civil Police in internal security operations, as permitted by the constitution.
There is no roadside assistance club in Guatemala. However, PROVIAL patrols most major highways; contact them by calling 1520 from a local phone. Their vehicles are equipped with basic tools and first aid supplies, and their services are free. Police patrol major roadways sporadically and may assist travelers. For roadside assistance, call the police at 110 or 120, or the fire department at 122 or 123. Cellular service covers most areas tourists frequent. Some reports of highway robberies include accusations that police, or assailants dressed as police, have been involved.
Police Response
The police lack sufficient personnel and training to accomplish their mission. They suffer from a lack of supplies (e.g., vehicles, fuel, and ammunition) with little improvement from year to year. Often, police investigations fail to result in an arrest, much less a conviction. Apart from impunity, a principal reason that the government is unable to respond to the needs of crime victims, or to prevent crime in the first place, is that the police force significantly lacks training and funding. The average officer should have at least a high school degree (some have much less), has as little as six months of police training before being sent out on the streets, and receives only a small monthly salary. Moreover, the annual police budget is inadequate to support its personnel, vehicles, training, and other infrastructure needs. Although some units have adequate equipment and training, they do not have the capacity to handle multiple taskings or cases at the same time.
Travelers with Special Considerations
For specific traveler concerns in Guatemala, review the local laws and circumstances on the Department of State’s Country Information Page.
Rule of Law, Arbitrary Detention, Official Harassment, Corruption, & Transparency
The U.S. Department of State has not included a Risk of Wrongful Detention “D” Indicator on the Travel Advisory for Guatemala.
The law prohibits arbitrary arrest and detention, but there are credible reports of extrajudicial arrests, illegal detentions, and denial of timely access to a magistrate and hearing as required by law. Suspects are entitled to challenge in court the legal basis or arbitrary nature of their detention. There is no compensation for those ruled unlawfully detained.
The law provides criminal penalties for official corruption, but officials frequently engaged in corrupt practices with impunity. Despite numerous allegations of corruption among the legislative and executive branches of the government, few high-profile are prosecuted with anticorruption efforts within the judiciary stalled. Prominent anticorruption prosecutors have been fired or removed from significant cases in the past, and corrupt actors have threatened independent judges.
The Arevalo administration made several campaign promises to combat corruption. However, he still faces several challenges to execute them due to entrenched corrupt actors.
The law provides for freedom of expression, including for the press, and the government generally respects this right. The intimidation of, and violence against, journalists results in significant self-censorship. Independent media are active and express a wide variety of views. Nonetheless, reporters covering organized crime, including its links to corrupt public officials, acknowledge practicing self-censorship due to the danger investigative journalism creates for them and their families. The risk of lower advertising revenue from some companies, has resulted in media outlets becoming less independent and hesitant to report on corruption.
Members of the press report receiving pressure, threats, and retribution from public officials and criminal organizations regarding the content of their reporting. Online attacks against independent journalists and media outlets continue. These include hacking journalists’ private social media accounts, publishing stolen or falsified personal information, and conducting apparent coordinated attempts to undermine specific journalists and the press. The government takes little action to protect these individuals.
Observers note that net centers, or collections of social media accounts operating from office buildings associated with government information sources, have increased activity, creating fake social media accounts to criticize and defame journalists.
Cybersecurity
Exercise standard precautions when using public Wi-Fi services in Guatemala.
Import/Export Restrictions
Guatemalan customs authorities may enforce strict regulations concerning temporary importation into or export from Guatemala of items such as antiquities and other cultural property. There are no known issues bringing in satellite phones.
A country-specific listing of items/goods prohibited from being exported to the country or that are otherwise restricted is available from the U.S. International Trade Agency website.
Additional resources and reports can be found in the OSAC Traveler Toolkit.
