US issues security alert to exercise ‘increased caution’ in Guatemala after gangs seize control of multiple prisons
The U.S. Embassy in Guatemala has issued a security alert urging Americans to exercise “increased caution” while in the country.
“The U.S. Embassy has lifted the shelter-in-place order for their staff,” the alert, released Sunday, states. “The situation remains tense with coordinated, armed attacks on police in several zones of Guatemala City.”
Americans in Guatemala are advised to monitor local media for updates, avoid crowds and demonstrations, and maintain a “low profile.” Travelers should review personal security plans and limit unnecessary movements.
The alert follows coordinated gang attacks on Guatemalan police after the seizure of three prisons, according to The Associated Press (AP). President Bernardo Arévalo declared a state of emergency after prisoners took 43 guards hostage, resulting in the deaths of 10 officers.
The emergency declaration highlighted “coordinated actions by self-named maras or gangs against state security forces, including armed attacks against civilian authorities.”
The violence has been linked to major criminal groups such as Barrio 18 and Mara Salvatrucha (MS-13), both designated as terrorist organizations by Guatemala and the United States. The U.S. Embassy condemned the attacks in a statement to AP, saying:
“These terrorists, as well as those who cooperate with them or are linked to them, have no place in our hemisphere. The security of the Guatemalan people and the stability of our hemisphere must prevail. We reaffirm our support for Guatemala’s security forces to curb the violence.”
Travelers should note that the U.S. State Department currently lists Guatemala at “Level 3: Reconsider Travel,” one step below the highest warning level. The State Department uses four advisory levels: Level 1 – Exercise Normal Precautions; Level 2 – Exercise Increased Caution; Level 3 – Reconsider Travel; and Level 4 – Do Not Travel.
Guatemala welcomed over 2.9 million international visitors between January and November 2025, according to the Guatemalan Tourism Institute, highlighting the potential risks to travelers amid ongoing unrest.
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