Travel Vaccines and Advice for Guatemala
Guatemala boasts some of the most stunning and diverse landscapes in Central America. With opportunities to explore ruins, volcanoes, and sandy seasides, there’s something for everyone!
Both Guatemala City and Antigua offer great base points for travel to the Lake Atitlan, a stunning volcanic crater-formed lake still surrounded by the volcanoes that formed it. Lake Atitlan is regarded as a beautiful and largely spiritual destination.
A must-see destination for all types of travellers is Fuentes Georgina, a hot-spring created by Guatemala’s volcanoes. All Guatemala’s regions come into one at this destination.
If Mayan culture fascinates you, you should visit the Peten Region. Bordering Belize, it is home to many Mayan ruins including Tikal, the largest Mayan archeological site.
Whichever adventure you seek, Guatemala is calling your name.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Guatemala?
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Guatemala?
What is the Climate Like in Guatemala?
How Safe is Guatemala?
Fuentes Georginas Hot Springs in Guatemala
What Should I Take To Guatemala?
Embassy of the United Kingdom in Guatemala
Do I Need Vaccines for Guatemala?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Guatemala. The National Travel Health Network and Centre and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Guatemala: COVID-19, hepatitis A, typhoid, yellow fever, rabies and tetanus.
See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunisations:
- COVID-19 –
Airborne –
Recommended for all travellers - Hepatitis A –
Food & Water –
Recommended for most travellers to the region, especially if unvaccinated. - Tetanus –
Wounds or Breaks in Skin –
Recommended for travelers to most regions, especially if not previously vaccinated. - Typhoid –
Food & Water –
Recommended for travellers
to most regions. - Yellow Fever –
Mosquito –
Required if travelling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. - Rabies –
Saliva of Infected Animals –
High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-stay travellers and those who may come in contact with animals.
See the tables below for more information:
Recommended Travel Vaccinations for Guatemala |
||
VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
---|---|---|
COVID-19 | Airborne | Recommended for all travellers |
Hepatitis A | Food & Water | Recommended for most travellers to the region, especially if unvaccinated. |
Tetanus | Wounds or Breaks in Skin | Recommended for travelers to most regions, especially if not previously vaccinated. |
Typhoid | Food & Water | Recommended for travellers to most regions. |
Yellow Fever | Mosquito | Required if travelling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. |
Rabies | Saliva of Infected Animals | High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-stay travellers and those who may come in contact with animals. |
Some more health risks include:
- Zika – This virus can cause birth defects. Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant should avoid travel to the region. Mosquito repellents and netting are the best way to avoid the virus.
- Malaria – While there is no malaria vaccine, antimalarial medication serves the same purpose. Speak with a travel health specialist to learn which type of antimalarial is right for you.
- Dengue – Dengue is also transmitted by mosquitoes. Speak to your local travel medicine specialist about necessary precautions.
- Travellers diarrhoea – This is common in Central America and it is suggested travellers bring the proper antibiotics and medications.
Medical care in Guatemala City is readily accessible. In rural areas it can be scarce. Check with your assurance provider before travel to solidify overseas coverage.
Visit our vaccinations page to learn more. Travel safely with Passport Health and schedule your appointment today by calling or book online now.
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Guatemala?
A visa is not needed for stays in Guatemala under 90 days. Passports must be valid for at least six months at entry. Proof of yellow fever vaccination is required to enter the country. If you do not have proof of vaccination, you may be vaccinated on site, quarantined or returned to your previous location.
A US $30 airport departure tax is normally included in the price of tickets.
Guatemala Entry Requirements |
||
Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Guatemala? | |
---|---|---|
Passport | ||
Tourist Visa | ||
Business Visa | ||
Vaccinations |
Sources: Embassy of Guatemala and GOV.UK
What is the Climate Like in Guatemala?
Guatemala’s climate is diverse for a country bordering the ocean. This allows a peculiar experience for travellers if one chooses to seek out all three zones. Here are the three climate zones that you will find in Guatemala:
- Cool Area – Areas of the country encompassed by mountains and at a high altitude. Expect temperatures to be between 18 and 21 degrees. This is where the hot-spring Fuentes Georginas is located, along with Quetzaltenango.
- Temperate Area – Moderate elevation areas that include both Guatemala City and Antigua. Expect temperatures to be around 29 degrees and lower.
- Tropical Area – Any part of Guatemala in contact with the ocean. Temperatures can reach 38 degrees with fluctuations as low as 21 degrees. Cities include Livingston and Monterrico.
Due to the dry season, December to May are the most popular times to visit Guatemala. Expect the weather to be consistent with the above numbers during the daytime.
How Safe is Guatemala?
The government of the UK labels Guatemala as an area of “critical” concern for violent crimes. Most crimes are sexual assault, theft, armed robbery, and carjacking. In Guatemala, UK citizens are known for having material goods worth high monetary value. There are areas of the country, especially in the larger cities, to avoid to decrease risks.
It is important to remain vigilant immediately upon arriving in Guatemala. Reports of robberies and carjacking whilst leaving the airport are common at all hours of the day. Additionally, diversions are common in pick-pocketing attempts. Be sure to keep your belongings close and leave important items in a safe space at your lodging.
Transportation wise, cars are the best option though public transportation is available. Seek out radio-dispatched taxis and avoid public buses, as the crime rate is high. With the highest rate of motor-vehicle accidents at night, try motoring during light hours. Tourists groups can also seek security escorts.
Fuentes Georginas Hot Springs in Guatemala
These hot springs are popular with travellers seeking to relax or enjoy history. With views of the volcanoes and hot sulfur springs that created the pools themselves, it is a must see.
There are four separate pool areas, all differing in temperatures. Enjoy a tour of the entire Fuentes Georginas natural spa for a complete experience.
What Should I Take To Guatemala?
Here are some essential items to consider for your trip to Guatemala:
- Medication and First Aid – It is always better to be prepared. Bring along any recommended medications by your Passport Health Specialist as a well as an appropriate first-aid kit.
- Clothing – Though Guatemala is generally a hotter climate, nights can get very cold. Bring lightweight clothing for active travel and heavier clothing for the night time. A sturdy pair of hiking boots or trainers will be perfect for any walking and hiking. As pick-pocketing is a threat, less flashy clothing is ideal.
- Sun Cream and Insect Spray – Guatemala is close to the equator which equates to a stronger sun. Look to invest in sun cream as well as sun protective clothing. Insect spray is available for buy in Guatemala but it is best to invest before leaving.
- Electronics – If you cannot replace it, do not bring it due to the crime rate. Hole-in-the-wall scams are also prevalent in Guatemala. Avoid public ATM’s as well as using your credit card in unreliable places. Exchanging sterling to quetzales is the safest route.
Embassy of the United Kingdom in Guatemala
If you are in Guatemala and have an emergency (for example, been attacked, arrested or someone has died) contact the nearest consular services. Contact the embassy before arrival if you have additional questions on entry requirements, safety concerns or are in need of assistance.
British Embassy in Guatemala City
Edificio Torre Internacional,
Nivel 11, 16 Calle 0-55,
Zona 10 Guatemala City
Guatemala City
Guatemala
Telephone: +502-2380-7300
Emergency Phone: +502 2380-7300
Contact Form: Click Here
If you have any questions about travelling to Guatemala or are wondering which jabs you may need for your trip, schedule an appointment with your local Passport Health travel medicine clinic. Ring us up at or book online now and protect yourself today.