- The best travel insurance plans for Guatemala
- Is it currently safe to travel to Guatemala?
- Is Travel Insurance Required by Law to Enter Guatemala?
- The Importance of Travel Insurance for Guatemala
- What travel insurance for Guatemala should cover
- The Cost of Travel Insurance for Guatemala
- How can you pay less for your travel insurance to Guatemala?
- Can I rely on my current insurance to cover me in Guatemala?
- FAQ
- On the same topic
Travel insurance for Guatemala: key takeaways
1. Definition: Travel insurance for Guatemala covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and other unforeseen travel-related incidents.
2. Warning: The U.S. State Department advises reconsidering travel to Guatemala due to crime in certain areas.
3. Key protection: Insurance is not mandatory but is highly recommended for medical emergencies and potential trip disruptions.
4. Healthcare cost: Private healthcare is costly; a hospital stay can easily exceed $500 to $1,000 per night.
5. Price: A one-week travel insurance plan for Guatemala typically costs between $30 and $60 per person.
6. Good to know: Ensure your policy includes medical evacuation, as quality healthcare is limited outside of major cities.
Why trust HelloSafe?
HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travelers every month. After analyzing 38 travel insurance policies available in the US, our experts share everything you need to know to choose the best travel insurance for Guatemala.
The best travel insurance plans for Guatemala
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement limit | Our view |
|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | 1.1M USD | Strong choice for Guatemala, offering comprehensive support. - very high medical ceiling - covers evacuation - modern guarantee terms |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | 1.1M USD | Reliable for urgent care and incidents. - 24/7 helpline - no deductible - cancellation coverage included |
| Tourist Card | 0.55M USD | Practical pick for most travelers to Guatemala. - solid medical cover - emergency support - budget-friendly cost |
| Travel Pass Monde | 0.77M USD | Offers balanced protection for varied stays. - repatriation included - hospital fees covered - flexible area of coverage |
| Globe Partner | 0.33M USD | Covers essential risks for travelers needing basics. - evacuation coverage - civil liability - easy claims process |
| Globe Traveller | 0.55M USD | Good for short, lower-risk trips in Guatemala. - essential medical protection - fast reimbursement - simple contract conditions |
- very high medical ceiling
- covers evacuation
- modern guarantee terms
- 24/7 helpline
- no deductible
- cancellation coverage included
- solid medical cover
- emergency support
- budget-friendly cost
- repatriation included
- hospital fees covered
- flexible area of coverage
- evacuation coverage
- civil liability
- easy claims process
- essential medical protection
- fast reimbursement
- simple contract conditions
Is it currently safe to travel to Guatemala?
As of June 2025, the US Department of State advises travelers to reconsider travel to Guatemala due to high crime rates, with some regions under strict Level 4: Do Not Travel advisories.
Here are their four main recommendations.
- Security risks: violent crime, carjacking, and armed robbery are frequent, especially in areas like Zone 18 in Guatemala City and Villa Nueva. Travel at night outside Guatemala City is discouraged due to poor lighting and increased risks.
- Health risks: no specific vaccinations are required unless arriving from a yellow fever country, but medical care outside Guatemala City may be limited. Air pollution in Guatemala City can worsen respiratory conditions and complicate care for those with chronic illnesses.
- Legal constraints: US citizens must enter with a valid passport and complete an online immigration and customs declaration. Certain areas, such as San Marcos and Huehuetenango departments (except the main cities), are restricted due to ongoing gang activity.
- Urban and transport risks: public buses, known as "chicken buses," and unlicensed taxis are considered unsafe because of frequent assaults and accidents. Use only reputable taxi companies like Taxis Amarillo Express or Uber and avoid displaying valuables in busy areas like markets in Antigua.
Although not required, travel insurance is strongly recommended by the US Department of State, particularly to cover medical expenses and emergency repatriation, which can be extremely costly in Guatemala.
Is Travel Insurance Required by Law to Enter Guatemala?
No, travel insurance is not mandatory for US travelers entering Guatemala.
Despite this, travel insurance is highly recommended due to the risks of crime, limited access to quality healthcare outside Guatemala City, and the need for costly medical evacuation should a serious incident occur. Private clinics in urban areas may require up-front payment, and emergency situations can lead to rapid costs.
According to our data, 80% of travelers purchase travel insurance before going to Guatemala. This high percentage reflects the elevated security concerns and the potential for expensive medical care during travel to Guatemala.
The Importance of Travel Insurance for Guatemala
It is an essential financial and medical protection for anyone going to Guatemala.
In Guatemala, public hospitals outside Guatemala City can lack essential resources, and foreigners often use private clinics like Centro Médico or Hospital Herrera Llerandi in the capital where treatment costs are high. In rural areas, access to advanced care is limited, and serious injuries or illnesses may require costly evacuation to another country for proper treatment.
Travel insurance covers medical fees, hospitalization, medication, ambulance transport, and emergency repatriation to the United States in the event of a serious incident.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs in Guatemala.
| Example of medical treatment | Cost at Hospital Herrera Llerandi | Covered by travel insurance |
|---|---|---|
| I have to be hospitalized 48 hours after contracting an infection | 14,000 GTQ (about $1,800) | up to 100% |
| I broke my tibia (X-ray, cast, and crutch rental) | 10,000 GTQ (about $1,300) | up to 100% |
| I need to be repatriated | 120,000 GTQ (about $15,400) | up to 100% |
| I have appendicitis (consultation and surgery) | 40,000 GTQ (about $5,100) | up to 100% |
These prices are given as an indication and may vary depending on the facilities and regions.
It is therefore essential to take out appropriate travel insurance to avoid unexpected and potentially high expenses.
What travel insurance for Guatemala should cover
| Main coverages | Explanations and recommendations |
|---|---|
| 🏥 Medical expenses | Covers treatment, hospital care, medication, and doctor fees if you are sick or injured. We recommend a minimum reimbursement limit of $100,000 per traveler. |
| 🚑 Medical evacuation | Pays for evacuation by air or road to a facility able to provide proper treatment, including transport to the US if necessary. A limit of at least $200,000 is recommended. |
| 💼 Baggage loss/theft | Protects your belongings if your baggage is lost, damaged, or stolen during travel. Choose a reimbursement ceiling of $2,000 or more. |
| ✈️ Trip cancellation | Reimburses prepaid and non-refundable expenses if you have to cancel or cut your trip short due to covered reasons. Ensure your limit covers flight and hotel costs, typically $5,000 or more. |
| 🛡️ Personal liability | Pays damages if you accidentally injure someone or cause property damage. Minimum limit recommended is $100,000. |
| 🦷 Emergency dental care | Covers urgent dental treatment needed as a result of injury or pain. We advise a limit of at least $1,000. |
| 🏄♂️ Adventure activities | Covers accidents during activities like hiking, volcano climbing, and water sports. Confirm this coverage is included and matches your medical coverage limits. |
| 🧑⚕️ 24/7 assistance | Access to help in English for medical, legal, or travel emergencies at any time. Look for responsive, international service included in your plan. |
We recommend a minimum reimbursement limit of $100,000 per traveler.
A limit of at least $200,000 is recommended.
Choose a reimbursement ceiling of $2,000 or more.
Ensure your limit covers flight and hotel costs, typically $5,000 or more.
Minimum limit recommended is $100,000.
We advise a limit of at least $1,000.
Confirm this coverage is included and matches your medical coverage limits.
Look for responsive, international service included in your plan.
Travel insurance offered by local providers or bank cards is usually limited, with low coverage amounts and many exclusions. For complete protection during your trip to Guatemala, select a trusted insurer with comprehensive coverage. Compare top policies on HelloSafe and subscribe online for instant proof of coverage.
The Cost of Travel Insurance for Guatemala
| Trip duration | Traveler’s age | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 1 week | 25 years old | $24 |
| 2 weeks | 45 years old | $40 |
| 1 month | 35 years old | $69 |
| 1 month | 70 years old | $127 |
These prices are indicative and may vary depending on the coverage chosen and the specifics of each insurer.
Good to know
The price of your policy is shaped by several key details. Be sure to consider your age, the trip's duration and destination, your desired coverage level, and any add-ons like a cancellation option. Keeping these in mind is essential to select the right plan for your needs and budget, ensuring you're properly protected.
💡 It is always recommended to compare multiple offers to find the best value-for-money plan for you. You can use HelloSafe.
👉 Compare the best travel insurance for freeI compareHow can you pay less for your travel insurance to Guatemala?
Here are some suggestions to optimize the cost of your travel insurance to Guatemala while keeping good coverage:
| Criteria | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| 🏥 Medical coverage | Healthcare is limited outside Guatemala City and medical evacuation may be needed in an emergency. | Pick a policy with strong medical and evacuation coverage, but skip non-essential extras to save money. |
| 🕒 Trip duration | Longer trips lead to higher premiums as the risk window increases for the insurer. | Insure only the dates you are in Guatemala, and avoid overextending the policy beyond your travel plan. |
| 👥 Traveler’s age | Age can affect insurance premiums, especially for older travelers. | Compare insurers by age, and remember Heymondo does not increase its prices for people over 62. |
| 👨👩👧👦 Group or family policies | Insuring a group or family can reduce per-person costs. | Look for family or group rates, as these policies can be more economical for multiple travelers. |
| 🎒 Baggage and valuables | Petty theft and loss, especially at transport hubs, are concerns for travelers in Guatemala. | Insure only valuable items and check if you’re already covered by your bank or credit card to reduce duplicate coverage. |
| 🧗♂️ Activities coverage | Popular hikes and adventure activities may have elevated risk and affect policy cost. | Only add coverage for activities you plan, and exclude extreme sports or excursions you will not do. |
| 💳 Deductible amount | Choosing a higher deductible reduces the premium but increases your out-of-pocket costs. | Select a deductible that matches your financial situation, balancing affordability and your risk comfort. |
Important
Travel insurance is not required by law for travelers from the US to enter Guatemala. However, reliable medical and evacuation coverage is highly recommended, especially due to safety concerns and limited rural health services.
Can I rely on my current insurance to cover me in Guatemala?
It is completely legitimate to wonder whether your existing coverage—such as credit card insurance or your public health system—can protect you during a trip to Guatemala. Unfortunately, this coverage is often limited or insufficient, especially for medical emergencies, hospitalization, or evacuation needs. Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of Insurance | Valid in Guatemala? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance | No, never | No coverage outside the US. No support for medical bills, hospitalization, or emergency transport abroad. | Travel insurance covers $100,000+ for medical emergencies and evacuation costs. |
| Private health insurance | Yes, partly | Some plans cover up to $25,000 for emergencies. Often excludes evacuation, delays, and lost baggage. | Travel insurance covers up to $100,000+, evacuation, delays, and baggage loss. |
| Classic credit card (Visa Classic, Mastercard Standard, Discover) | Yes, partly | Medical emergencies up to $5,000. No coverage for evacuation, trip interruption, or lost luggage. | Travel insurance reimburses $100,000+ for emergencies and adds more trip protections. |
| Premium credit card (Chase Sapphire Preferred, Amex Platinum, Citi Prestige) | Yes, partly | Medical emergencies up to $25,000. Limited delay or baggage loss payments, strict conditions. | Travel insurance covers $100,000+, baggage, large delays, and on-site assistance. |
Example
While visiting Lake Atitlán, Maria contracted severe Dengue fever, requiring hospitalization. The private clinic bill was $9,000. Her US health insurance offered no overseas coverage, and her premium Visa Signature card's travel benefit only covered $1,000. She was left with an unexpected $8,000 bill for a common tropical illness.
Expert advice
Always check the terms, exclusions, and limits of your current insurance. Essential situations, like trip interruption due to a relative’s illness or death, might be excluded. Read the conditions carefully to avoid unpleasant surprises abroad. In all cases, it is safer and more reassuring to get dedicated travel insurance tailored to your trip.
FAQ
Do I need a visa to travel to Guatemala?
U.S. citizens do not need a visa for tourist visits to Guatemala of up to 90 days. Your passport should be valid at the time of entry with at least one blank page for entry and exit stamps. All travelers are required to complete an electronic immigration and customs form before arriving or departing.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Guatemala?
First, compare policies using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool to see different options for Guatemala. Then, review the plan features and exclusions, focusing on coverage relevant to local health and security conditions. Purchase your chosen policy online, and you will receive your insurance certificate by email.
Is healthcare easily accessible for travelers in Guatemala?
Quality medical care is available mainly in Guatemala City. In rural or remote areas, healthcare services are limited and emergency evacuation may be required. Travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage is strongly recommended, as transportation to a major facility may cost several thousand dollars.
Are there particular safety concerns I should consider in Guatemala?
Crime rates are high in many areas, making it important to take precautions such as avoiding travel at night, using only reputable transportation, and keeping valuables concealed. Petty theft, armed robbery, and gang activity occur. Travel insurance often includes emergency assistance or repatriation, which can be valuable in case of an incident.
Will travel insurance cover adventure activities in Guatemala, such as volcano hiking?
Most standard travel insurance plans exclude hazardous or adventure activities unless you add a specific upgrade. If you plan to hike volcanoes or participate in adventure sports, select a policy that covers these activities. Coverage limits for accidents or evacuation related to tours and excursions typically range from $10,000 to $100,000, depending on the insurer.
Do I need a visa to travel to Guatemala?
U.S. citizens do not need a visa for tourist visits to Guatemala of up to 90 days. Your passport should be valid at the time of entry with at least one blank page for entry and exit stamps. All travelers are required to complete an electronic immigration and customs form before arriving or departing.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Guatemala?
First, compare policies using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool to see different options for Guatemala. Then, review the plan features and exclusions, focusing on coverage relevant to local health and security conditions. Purchase your chosen policy online, and you will receive your insurance certificate by email.
Is healthcare easily accessible for travelers in Guatemala?
Quality medical care is available mainly in Guatemala City. In rural or remote areas, healthcare services are limited and emergency evacuation may be required. Travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage is strongly recommended, as transportation to a major facility may cost several thousand dollars.
Are there particular safety concerns I should consider in Guatemala?
Crime rates are high in many areas, making it important to take precautions such as avoiding travel at night, using only reputable transportation, and keeping valuables concealed. Petty theft, armed robbery, and gang activity occur. Travel insurance often includes emergency assistance or repatriation, which can be valuable in case of an incident.
Will travel insurance cover adventure activities in Guatemala, such as volcano hiking?
Most standard travel insurance plans exclude hazardous or adventure activities unless you add a specific upgrade. If you plan to hike volcanoes or participate in adventure sports, select a policy that covers these activities. Coverage limits for accidents or evacuation related to tours and excursions typically range from $10,000 to $100,000, depending on the insurer.
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