I’ve never been one to warn people about the dangers of travel. After all, there are countless uncontrollable factors when you’re on the road. Staying adaptable is key, but if you try to avoid every single risk, you might as well stay home. However, this time, the situation was truly terrifying—and it left me feeling completely helpless. I feel compelled to share my experience and warn future travelers to Guatemala that it’s not a safe destination.
A few days ago, I arrived in Guatemala City after a long journey from Medellin. I was well aware that safety in Guatemala City isn’t great, so I deliberately chose to stay in Zone 4, a relatively modern business district. Unlike the chaotic downtown area, this part of the city is filled with office buildings and bustling with white-collar workers during the day. It felt safe enough—until night fell.
At around 10 PM, hunger struck, and the hotel receptionist recommended a nearby restaurant. Checking the map, I saw it was only 500 meters away, so I decided to walk. I brought only my wallet and phone, thinking nothing of it. The route was dotted with bars and restaurants, but there were stretches where the streets were eerily empty.
As I approached a quiet intersection, I noticed a motorcycle passing by. It circled back almost immediately, stopping just a few meters away from me. The rider, wearing a helmet and riding a bike with no license plate, pulled out a gun from his chest bag and pointed it at me, demanding my phone. My mind froze, but instinctively, I took a step back.
Standing at the corner of the intersection, I turned and sprinted down a side street. The robber revved the motorcycle and chased after me. When I heard him closing in, I doubled back and ran in the opposite direction. Thankfully, a few cars were driving by, and in a desperate move, I jumped into the middle of the road, flagging one down for help.
The robber, seeing that I had managed to stop a car, sped off without firing a shot.
Afterward, I realized I had escaped unharmed—but the fear lingered. I was overwhelmed with gratitude that the robber hadn’t turned around and shot me in rage, and that those cars had been there to save me. In that moment, I wasn’t just running—I was fighting for my life, trying to create distance and buy time. Only when a gun is pointed at you do you truly understand what fear feels like.
Here are a few lessons I learned:
1. Guatemala City is extremely dangerous, especially for tourists. The crime rate is high, and guns are often involved. Never walk alone on quiet, deserted streets after dark. Even traveling in pairs may not guarantee your safety.
2. If you find yourself in a similar situation, don’t panic and run like I did.
An angry robber might shoot you. Losing material possessions is far better than risking your life. My escape was pure luck.
3. If you must go out at night, always call a car. It’s safer and could potentially save your life.
Stay vigilant, and prioritize your safety above all else.
I’ve always seen myself as a rather courageous individual, fearlessly traveling solo to countless destinations. But looking back, I can only conclude that I was fortunate not to have faced anything truly severe. In extreme situations, all you can do is accept whatever fate throws your way. I doubt many people would stay composed and walk away unscathed with a gun pointed at them, so it’s wise to steer clear of such risks whenever possible.
Ultimately, if you consider yourself brave enough to stare down danger—and perhaps even fearless in the face of death—then Guatemala awaits you.
