Essential Facts to Consider Before Traveling to Guatemala with Children
Guatemala, a vibrant Central American country, is a fascinating destination for families seeking a unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. With its volcanoes, Mayan ruins, dense rainforests, and colorful colonial cities, Guatemala offers an unforgettable experience for travellers [1].
However, it's important to note that the country still faces certain challenges. Rabies remains a concern among stray dogs, and the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) advises against all but essential travel to specific areas near the Mexican border and some towns in Huehuetenango due to security concerns [1].
Safety is paramount when travelling with children, and Guatemala is no exception. Families should avoid high-risk zones, adhere to safety advice regarding transport and crime, and maintain good health practices [2][3]. Violent crime, including kidnapping and carjacking, is prevalent in Guatemala, particularly at night and around border crossings. Tourists are advised to avoid demonstrations and public gatherings, only use pre-paid or radio taxis, and keep vehicle doors locked while moving [4].
In terms of health, masks continue to be recommended in crowded places, airports, and while travelling with children. Parents are advised to educate their kids about the importance of mask-wearing, carry extra masks for emergencies, and maintain frequent hand sanitation to reduce the risk of illness [2][3].
Preparation is key, and travelers with children should secure comprehensive travel insurance that covers their itinerary, planned activities, and emergencies. Remaining flexible and up to date with official advice is essential given the risk of natural hazards and political unrest [1][3].
Navigating Guatemala can be easier with a few local phrases, as English is not widely recognized [5]. American dollars are not generally accepted in Guatemala, and the Guatemalan quetzal is the official currency [6].
Guatemala's climate is hot and humid, with a tropical nature and intense sun [7]. Street dogs are common and while most are friendly, they may carry fleas, ticks, or rabies, so precautions should be taken [8].
Some must-visit locations include Lake Atitlan, known for its Maya towns, craft markets, food options, and volcanic crater lake [9]; Tikal National Park, home to one of the most impressive Mayan ruins sites in the Americas [10]; and Semuc Champey, a natural monument with river caves and brilliant turquoise swimming pools [11].
Pacaya Volcano, an active volcano located about an hour from Antigua, is a popular site for guided tours and hiking [12]. The historic city of Antigua, known for its colorful buildings and colonial charm, is perhaps the most popular city for tourism in Guatemala [13].
Tourism has not been a major income source for Guatemala until recent years, but it is now increasingly popular among backpackers and families [14]. Personal safety in Guatemala might be a concern in some areas, particularly in Guatemala City, but the country is generally safe and the people are welcoming [15].
Blonde children may receive attention from locals in Guatemala [16]. It's essential to remember that Guatemala is the most populated country in Central America, but it is still one of the most economically challenged [17].
In conclusion, a family adventure in Guatemala can be a safe and memorable experience with the right planning and precautions. Staying informed through official sources before and during travel is key for a successful visit to Guatemala with children.
[1] Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO). (n.d.). Guatemala Travel Advice - Guatemala - GOV.UK. Retrieved March 15, 2023, from https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/guatemala [2] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (n.d.). Guatemala - Travel Health Notices - COVID-19 - CDC. Retrieved March 15, 2023, from https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/notices/covid-19/covid-19-guatemala [3] World Health Organization. (2022). Guatemala - Health Information - World Health Organization. Retrieved March 15, 2023, from https://www.who.int/countries/gtm/en/ [4] United States Department of State. (2022). Guatemala - Travel Advisory - U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Guatemala. Retrieved March 15, 2023, from https://gt.usembassy.gov/u-s-citizen-services/travel-and-living/travel-advisory/ [5] Lonely Planet. (2023). Guatemala - Language - Lonely Planet. Retrieved March 15, 2023, from https://www.lonelyplanet.com/guatemala/language [6] XE. (2023). Guatemala Quetzal to United States Dollar Exchange Rate History. Retrieved March 15, 2023, from https://www.xe.com/currencytables/historical-rates/?from=GTQ&to=USD [7] World Travel Guide. (2023). Guatemala Climate - Weather - Climate Data and Average Temperature. Retrieved March 15, 2023, from https://www.worldtravelguide.net/guatemala/weather [8] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (n.d.). Rabies - Guatemala - Traveler Information - CDC. Retrieved March 15, 2023, from https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/traveler/none/guatemala [9] Lonely Planet. (2023). Lake Atitlan - Attractions - Lonely Planet. Retrieved March 15, 2023, from https://www.lonelyplanet.com/guatemala/lake-atitlan [10] Lonely Planet. (2023). Tikal - Attractions - Lonely Planet. Retrieved March 15, 2023, from https://www.lonelyplanet.com/guatemala/tikal [11] Lonely Planet. (2023). Semuc Champey - Attractions - Lonely Planet. Retrieved March 15, 2023, from https://www.lonelyplanet.com/guatemala/semuc-champey [12] Lonely Planet. (2023). Pacaya Volcano - Attractions - Lonely Planet. Retrieved March 15, 2023, from https://www.lonelyplanet.com/guatemala/pacaya-volcano [13] Lonely Planet. (2023). Antigua - Sights - Lonely Planet. Retrieved March 15, 2023, from https://www.lonelyplanet.com/guatemala/antigua [14] World Travel Guide. (2023). Guatemala - Tourism - Tourist Attractions - World Travel Guide. Retrieved March 15, 2023, from https://www.worldtravelguide.net/guatemala/tourism [15] United States Department of State. (2022). Guatemala - Crime and Safety - U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Guatemala. Retrieved March 15, 2023, from https://gt.usembassy.gov/u-s-citizen-services/crime-and-safety/ [16] Lonely Planet. (2023). Guatemala - Culture - Lonely Planet. Retrieved March 15, 2023, from https://www.lonelyplanet.com/guatemala/culture [17] World Bank. (2022). Guatemala. Retrieved March 15, 2023, from https://data.worldbank.org/country/guatemala
The lifestyle in Guatemala offers unique experiences for families with its vibrant mix of culture, history, and natural beauty. This includes travel destinations such as Lake Atitlan, Tikal National Park, Semuc Champey, and the active Pacaya Volcano.
While touring these locations, families should prioritize safety and maintain good health practices to avoid risks like violent crime and diseases like rabies. To achieve this, they should adhere to safety advice regarding transportation and crime, maintain a flexible itinerary for emergencies, and secure comprehensive travel insurance that covers their planned activities.
