- Travel Advice
DFAT advice for Guatemala
When travelling to Guatemala, you should always get travel insurance in case the worst happens. To help you ensure you travel safely, we have included the travel advice from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade for Guatemala.
| Guatemala overall | This Advice is current for Thursday, 28 August 2008. | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Be alert to own security | Exercise caution | High degree of caution | Reconsider your need to travel | Do not travel |
This advice has been revised and reissued. It contains new information in the Local Travel (travel to Tajumulco Volcano and surrounding areas). The overall level of the advice has not changed.
[top]Summary
- We advise you to exercise a high degree of caution in Guatemala because of the risk of serious criminal activity and incidents of local unrest.
- Pay close attention to your personal security at all times and monitor the media for information about possible new safety or security risks.
- The hurricane season is June to November when landslides, mudslides and flooding may occur. In the case of a hurricane, monitor local media reports and follow the instructions of local emergency officials. See the Natural Disasters section for detailed advice.
- Guatemala has one of the highest crime rates in Central America. Criminals have targeted tourists arriving at the international airport and travelling to hotels in Guatemala City.
- Tensions remain in Rio Dulce and Livingston in Izabal Department. If you intend to visit this region, we advise you to check with local authorities and monitor the local media for developments.
- Australia does not have an Embassy or Consulate in Guatemala. The Canadian Embassy in Guatemala City provides consular assistance to Australians in Guatemala (except the issue of passports). The Australian Embassy in Mexico can also assist Australians.
- Be a smart traveller. Before heading overseas:
- organise comprehensive travel insurance and check what circumstances and activities are not covered by your policy
- register your travel and contact details, so we can contact you in an emergency
- subscribe to this travel advice to receive free email updates each time it's reissued.
