Is Guatemala Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Guatemala does have a high level of crime and it's recommended for solo female travelers to maintain a heightened level of caution. Particularly in major cities, it's recommended to steer clear of less populated areas, especially at night. However, if precautions are taken such as not displaying signs of wealth, using reputable transportation services, and staying in safe accommodations, it can be manageable. It is also advisable to learn some basic Spanish, as English is not widely spoken.

Safety rating

4.3 /5

Based on 50 experiences from female travelers

2.5 /5

Based on our research and crime data

2.8 /5

Based on 4 experiences from local women

Guatemala is currently ranked #66 safest country for solo female travelers, with an overall safety rating of 4.3 out of 5. Check the full ranking.

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How safe is Guatemala?

Safety at night:Unsafe

Guatemala can hold potential dangers at night, particularly for solo female travelers. Walking alone at night is not highly recommended due to incidents of petty crimes like mugging and pickpocketing. There is also a possibility of more serious crimes in certain areas. It's best to use a trusted taxi service for transportation after dark or stay in populated, well-lit areas if you must venture outside. Even day travel calls for a vigilant attitude. It's best to keep low-key, avoid flashing expensive belongings, and always be aware of your surroundings.

Public transportation:Unsafe

Public transportation in Guatemala, specifically local buses, are often overcrowded and can be subject for petty theft. While major cities may have more reliable services, rural areas can be problematic. For long-distance travel, shuttle van services are recommended as they tend to be safer but often a bit more expensive. Always be mindful of your possessions and avoid travel after dark.

Street harassment:Moderate

In Guatemala, street harassment is a notable concern. This can range from cat-calling to more aggressive forms of verbal harassment. While a large number of locals are welcoming and friendly, some women reported incidents of unwanted attention and comments on the streets. As with any travel destination, it's crucial to stay aware of your surroundings and take safety precautions, especially when alone or in less crowded areas.

Petty crimes:High

Guatemala does experience a fairly high rate of petty crime, mainly in areas frequently visited by tourists. You may become a target for pickpocketing, bag snatching, and other non-violent thefts particularly in crowded markets, bus stations, or other touristic areas. While these crimes are usually non-violent, it is always recommended that you stay vigilant, keep your belongings secure, and avoid flashing expensive items in public.

Is Guatemala worth visiting?

Overall rating

4.7 /5

based on 50 experiences from female travelers

Things to do

4.7/5

Safety

4.3/5

Food

4.7/5

Budget-friendly

4.3/5

Antigua Guatemala, Family travel

It felt fairly safe, if you follow common sense. We didn't take the bus there as it was pretty much not advised by fellow travellers or locals. We took private shuttles or public shuttles for long transportation wish was pretty nice! Just, when they come get you at the rendezvous point wait for them to say for who it is and don't blatantly say "oh is it for me/us" followed by your name cause well it's easy afterwards to say "oh yes it's for you op". We stayed in a youth hostel and again it felt safe! We walked through the city by foot and it was nice! We also booked a guide to have the history of the buildings and it was worth it! People over there are so nice! No problem with the food too! Didn't get sick or anything! Do bring medication for the travelers flu in case, it can be useful! Overall very nice!

Posted: March 12, 2025Experienced: May, 2022

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Laura

Germany

Acatenango, Solo travel

Really nice hiking trip that you can do in Guatemala! You start in the city of Antigua which is also a really nice town. It‘s cool for solo travellers cause you will probably hike with a nice group and meet nice people hiking

Posted: January 28, 2025

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Guatemala, Solo travel

I felt extremely safe in Guatemala! I solo travelled to Guatemala City, Antigua and Lake Atitlan and at no point did I feel unsafe or threatened. I was particularly surprised with my experience in the city when every single blog post I read advised me to stay away. However, I still decided to explore the city. I stayed only around zona 10, 4, and cayala

Posted: October 15, 2024

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Franllely

Costa Rica

Antigua Guatemala, Solo travel

It was my first time solo traveling amazing experience It’s really affordable and local food is cheap and delicious the people amazing love the culture Be ready to walk a lot in September it’s really hot Take pictures everywhere those are nice memories

Posted: August 9, 2024

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Ayla

Netherlands

Antigua Guatemala, Solo travel

When you visit Antigua please do the Acetenango Vulcano hike if you can! This was one of the most challenging things I’ve ever done but also the most special and most fulfilling! We saw so many eruptions and lightning and it was definitely a core memory moment. Antigua is a beautiful city surrounded by vulcano’s and for me it felt like a magical place. All the cute restaurants are so pretty with their little courtyards. I stayed at Adra hostel and Ojala hostel which I would both definitely recommend!!

Posted: June 14, 2024

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Is Guatemala safe for women?

Safety index

2.8 /5

Based on 4 local experiences

Crime index

1.9 /5

Based on 4 local experiences

Emily

Guatemala City

Guatemala can be safe if youbtake certain precautions, like always having your bag close to you, never walk with your headphones or phone on display and always be aware of your surroundings. Take Uber or private rentals, because the public transport is extremely unsafe and inefficient. Never go out alone, especially during the dark, go out in groups and make sure someone knows your location.

Posted: April 21, 2025

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