Guatemala Travel & Emergency Guide

Emergency Numbers in Guatemala

Key Travel Facts

Driving Rules & Speed Limits in Guatemala

Toll & Vignette: Tolls active on designated highways (e.g. Palín-Escuintla). Cash payment in Quetzales required.

Tipping & Etiquette

Recommendation: Tipping of 10% in restaurants and cafes is customary. 10% is customary in restaurants in tourist hubs (Antigua, Lake Atitlán, Flores). Volcano and trek guides appreciate 50–100 Quetzals per day.

• DO Climb active volcanoes (Acatenango, Pacaya) only with certified guides registered with PROATUR.
• DO Wear sturdy walking shoes for Antigua's historic cobblestone streets.
• DO Carry local cash (Quetzales) for public boat transfers on Lake Atitlán (Lanchas), tuk-tuks, and artisan markets.
• DON'T Avoid driving on rural secondary highways after dark.
• DON'T Never photograph indigenous children or sacred Maya rituals without explicit permission.
• DON'T Avoid entering high-risk zones in Guatemala City (such as Zones 3, 6, and 18).

Power Sockets & Tap Water

Plug Type & Electricity: Type A & B (120V, 60Hz – standard US flat pins, travel adapter required for European plugs).

Tap Water: Tap water is not safe to drink in Guatemala. Drink only sealed bottled purified water (Agua Pura) and use it for brushing teeth.

Insider Tip: The official Tourist Police PROATUR (emergency dial 1500) offers free safety assistance, travel updates, and escort services for volcano hikes (Pacaya, Acatenango)!