Is San Juan del Obispo Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

San Juan del Obispo in Guatemala is generally considered safe for solo female travelers. The locals are warm and welcoming, and the community is used to tourists. However, like in any location, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings, especially during the night. Avoid flaunting valuables and always keep your belongings secure. Make sure you follow general safety precautions and use trusted transportation.

Safety rating

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Safety index

Safety at night:Moderate

San Juan del Obispo, has a moderate safety level at night. You'll encounter a peaceful ambiance in general, as it's a small town and not as congested or crime-ridden as larger cities. However, it's still important to be cautious because pickpocketing and theft occur from time to time. It's less frequented by tourists, which can be both a positive and negative aspect. Walking alone at night is not recommended unless absolutely necessary, and if you do, stay on well-lit streets and try not to carry too many valuables. Moreover, it's always better to opt for a taxi during the night.

Public transportation:Safe

Public transportation in San Juan del Obispo, mostly consists of buses and tuk-tuks, which are generally reliable and safe. Locals are very friendly and often help foreigners with directions. However, due to occasional reports of pickpocketing, it's advisable for solo female travelers to remain vigilant, especially at night and in crowded areas. Always keep an eye on your belongings. Also, understanding a bit of Spanish can be a big help in navigating the system.

Street harassment:Low

San Juan del Obispo, in general, is a peaceful and friendly place with relatively low cases of street harassment. As a solo female traveler, it is common to experience a sense of safety and tranquility here. However, like any other places, it's not entirely free of unwanted attention. The locals are often curious and there might be an occasional whistle or call. It's always good to keep your awareness up and respect local customs.

Petty crimes:Low

San Juan del Obispo is generally considered a tranquil village, with relatively lower crime rates in comparison to larger cities in Guatemala. Of course, this doesn't mean the place is exempt from petty crime occurrences such as pickpocketing or bag snatching. However, these incidents are usually rare and most commonly associated with bustling, tourist-heavy areas. As with any other destinations, maintaining a regular vigilance and awareness of your surroundings goes a long way.

Tap water:Unsafe

Drinking tap water in San Juan del Obispo might be risky. The water quality varies greatly across regions and at times could get contaminated due to inadequate sanitation infrastructure. It is popularly suggested to stick to bottled water or using a water purifier to avoid any waterborne illness.

Is San Juan del Obispo safe to travel?

Is San Juan del Obispo safe right now?

Before your visit to San Juan del Obispo, it's essential to check travel advisories for Guatemala, including your home country's official travel advisory. These advisories can provide up-to-date information on safety, health, and any specific considerations for travelers.
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United States Travel AdvisoryReconsider your need to travel

The United States government advises reconsidering travel to Guatemala due to crime. Certain areas pose an increased risk. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: July 17, 2023
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Canada's Travel AdvisoryExercise a high degree of caution

The Canadian Government advises exercising a high degree of caution in Guatemala. This is due to high levels of violent crime, as well as roadblocks, strikes, and demonstrations that occur throughout the country. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: April 15, 2024
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Australia's Travel AdvisoryExercise a high degree of caution

The Australian Government advises exercising a high degree of caution in Guatemala due to the threat of violent crime. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: November 10, 2023

Safety in Guatemala