Guatemala Important Airport Tax

In Guatemala, there is a $30 USD / Q240. airport exit tax. This is for all International flights leaving Guatemala. Payment must be in US Dollars or Quetzales (local currency) - NO Travelers Checks or Credit Cards accepted. There is a Q20. or $3.00 (USD) Domestic airport tax if you fly with Guatemala (for example, Guatemala City to Flores/ Tikal).  • go to top

What to bring and to consider when coming to Guatemala

Violent crime in Guatemala is not as frequent for tourists as a simple robbery or pick-pocket. Safety begins when you pack. To avoid being a target dress conservatively, act respectfully in churches. Leave extra / expensive jewelry at home. Have a photocopy of your passport, credit cards or other important items with you and leave them at home with a friend in case you need the info while traveling. Carry the minimum amount of valuables necessary for your trip, but make sure you have enough in case of an emergency. Your passport, cash and credit cards are most secure when locked in a hotel safe if possible. When you carry your money best to carry it in several places rather than in one place. Handbags, fanny packs and outside pockets can be easy targets for thieves. Inside pockets and a sturdy shoulder bag with the strap worn across your chest are somewhat safer. One of the safest places (against pick-pockets) is to carry valuables in a pouch or money belt hidden under your clothing. Bring Travelers Checks and some US Dollars in small denominations. A major credit/debit card are also advised for emergencies. Note that many places add a fee of 4-10% if you use a credit card. VISA is most frequently accepted. Always change money at bank or hotel. Never on the streets. There is a bank at the airport that is usually open until 9:00pm as well as a few ATM machines that give Quetzales (local currency - Q) or US Dollars. Is a good idea to bring several $1. US bills for tips and taxis. In general, smaller denominations in $ & Q are better than a large bill. If anyone ever asks you for you money in a threatening way, by all means give them your valuables. Statistics show that more assaults happen when a tourist is resisting a robbery than in the general tourist population. In general, always try to travel light. If you do, you can move more quickly and will be more likely to have a free hand. You will also be less tired and less likely to set your luggage down, leaving it unattended. There is laundry service available with clothing and other essential items readily available for purchase if needed. Since many flights have minimum time between connections, pack any medicines you need and a change of clothes in your carry-on luggage - just in case your primary suitcase does not arrive with you Always check twice before you leave a bus, plane or hotel room for any forgotten property. If you did leave something behind consider it a "donation"... !

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Be aware

Be aware (but not paranoid) in crowded markets, bus stations, elevators, crowded tourist sites, festivals and marginal areas of villages...

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Short cuts

Don't use short cuts, narrow alleys or poorly-lit streets. Try not to travel alone at night.

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In public places in Guatemala

Avoid public demonstrations and other civil disturbances.

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Keep it low

Keep a low profile and avoid loud conversations or arguments. Do not discuss travel plans or other personal matters with strangers. Keep extra money hidden

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Avoid strangers

Avoid scam artists. Beware of strangers who approach you, offering bargains or to be your guide. Use a registered guide - (s)he will have an identification card. Beware of pickpockets. They often have an accomplice who will creatively distract you or yours.

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Purposeful

Try to seem purposeful when you move about. Even if you are lost, act as if you know where you are going. When possible, ask directions only from individuals in authority or stores.

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Travel services in Guatemala

Use a reputable / known travel agency or travel service. There is a lot of competition for your tourist dollars and several similar activities at different prices. Always good to "shop around" and be an informed consumer, but sometimes a few extra dollars can save you in the long run.

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Leave at home

If you have a choice, don't bring anything you would hate to lose... As well, leave these at home.

Knives, nail cutters, sharp objects, lighters (you can buy them at any pharmacy or tienda)

Valuable or expensive-looking jewelry.

Irreplaceable family objects or documents.

All unnecessary credit cards or other cards / items.

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If driving

If you are driving in Antigua Guatemala, Guatemala City or some other villages and towns in Guatemala, do not park on the red line of the street. The red line is on the edge of the sidewalk on one side of the street and 10 feet away from each corner.

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Basically

Be cautious and take precautions, but relax and enjoy your time here. Guatemala has much to offer in its culture, sights and customs. One visit is seldom enough !!! Use the same common sense traveling here that you would at home.

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