By Andy Noorlander
Guatemala has an unfortunate reputation as a risky place to travel. Perhaps more unfortunate is the fact that this reputation is well-deserved. To explore this beautiful country's Spanish charm, active volcanoes, jungle landscapes and Mayan ruins you'll need to prepare yourself to minimize risk and stay safe throughout your stay.
Instructions
Difficulty: Moderately Challenging
Step 1
Avoid high-risk areas. In Guatemala, these include the Mexican border area, especially along the northwestern border where the Laguna del Tigre and Sierra de Lacandon National Parks are located, the rural areas of Petén and the crime hotspot of Guatemala City.
Step 2
Steer clear of demonstrations. Keep yourself updated on local events through hotel staff, tour guides and newspapers, and avoid all public demonstrations as they have the capability to turn violent.
Step 3
Do not get too close to children, especially in rural areas of Guatemala. Infant and child kidnapping cases have been a problem and suspicions run high. As a result of such crimes, vigilantism has spread with mob attacks and lynchings, so be on your guard and exercise caution when dealing with or photographing children in small towns or the countryside.
Step 4
Hike in groups. Never travel alone, especially when in remote locations. For optimal safety, outdoor activities in Guatemalan rural or wilderness areas should be booked through reputable travel agencies and with professional guides.
Step 5
Be selective in your transportation. In Guatemala City and other cities, riding the chicken buses may be cheap, but it carries the risk of pick-pockets or robbery. Calling, rather than hailing, taxis is recommended. For travel throughout the country, try reputable bus services or consider flying.
Step 6
Do not display your valuables. Theft, assault and armed robbery are common in Guatemala. If you are carrying expensive items like computers, ipods, cameras or jewelry, keep them inside your bags as much as possible so as not to draw attention. Hide your money and keep it on your person at all time. Take the same care with important travel documents. Only carry the amount of cash you'll need to make it to your next destination.
Step 7
Do not resist robbery. While you can and should do everything in your power to prevent becoming a victim of crime, it is unwise to resist when cornered. Cut your losses and cooperate for the best chance of coming out of the situation unharmed. Most assailants have firearms and often attack in groups. They generally take no chances when executing a robbery and will not hesitate to use their weapons if they face trouble.
Resources
About the Author:
Andy has attended schools all over the world but is now on the leg last of her Bachelors Degree at Brigham Young University through Independent Study while living in China. She has studied Spanish, Finnish, and Mandarin and is majoring in English literature. She has been a writer fro Demand Studios for over a year.
