Is Guatemala enough safe actually?
 

hi, i am preparing my first trip to Guatemala. I will come from Palenque, Mexico (3rd trip there)and will of course visit the Tikal ruins and others, Antigua, and so on. THe trip is planned for next february. So, did anybody get there very recently ? I am concerned with the troubles and the safety for tourists?

Of course it's impossible to say for sure but if you follow some basic rules you can minimize the risks. I was in Guatemala but it was a couple of years ago. <BR> The main rules were then and now are <BR>don't take night buses, don't wander at night in the cities especially Guatemala City, always keep an eagle-eye on your bags, be careful of which rural areas you visit, and watch out for scams. <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR>

thanks alan for your quick answer! What are the rural areas you are referring to ? Remote Peten ? Safer wih a guide for visiting maya ruins ?

Tikal is actually a very touristed site. You should be able to tour the ruins fine, the only accidents I have heard of there have been related to people getting lost or falling down, but nothing security related. No, the areas I refer to are the Western Highlands, the mountain areas. If you are going there, stick to the more touristed ones, and don't climb any volcanoes! Volcano hikes are notorious for being unsafe. It's up to you if you want a guide for Tikal. Smaller ruins in the Peten you may need a guide.

Thanks a lot alan for your advices !