Scam in GuatemalaBuses and trains
Robbery and extortion on public buses in Guatemala
How it works
Gangs target public buses. Passengers and drivers face armed robbery, and the old red city buses are also associated with extortion.
Warning signs
- The service is one of Guatemala City's old red buses.
- You would need to travel after dark.
How to avoid it
- Use trusted transport arranged in advance.
- Ask your hotel to arrange your journey.
- Avoid the old red city buses.
- For trips from Antigua, consider an arranged tourist shuttle.
If it happens to you
Do not resist an armed robber. Give up belongings if demanded and seek help after reaching safety.
- Get to a safe, staffed place. If someone threatens you with a weapon, do not resist.
- Check whether anyone is injured. Seek medical help if needed.
- Freeze stolen cards and contact your card issuer about disputed withdrawals. Lock a stolen phone remotely and contact your mobile provider.
- Write down what happened, including the time, location, vehicle details and amounts. Save receipts and screenshots without confronting the person involved.
- Report the incident to police. In Antigua, ask the Tourist Police for help. Request a report or reference number.
- Contact your insurer. If your passport is missing or you need serious assistance, contact your embassy or consulate.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
- Government adviceSafety and security - Guatemala travel advice - GOV.UKUK travel advice describes gang attacks and extortion against public-bus drivers that have caused serious injuries and deaths.Read on Government advice
- Government adviceGuatemalaNew Zealand travel advice reports armed gang attacks and crimes against foreigners travelling on local public buses.Read on Government advice
Questions
What is the robbery and extortion on public buses scam in Guatemala?
Gangs target public buses. Passengers and drivers face armed robbery, and the old red city buses are also associated with extortion.
How can I spot it early?
The service is one of Guatemala City's old red buses. You would need to travel after dark.
How do I avoid robbery and extortion on public buses in Guatemala?
Use trusted transport arranged in advance. Ask your hotel to arrange your journey. Avoid the old red city buses. For trips from Antigua, consider an arranged tourist shuttle.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Do not resist an armed robber. Give up belongings if demanded and seek help after reaching safety.
Where in Guatemala does this happen?
Public buses across Guatemala, especially Guatemala City's old red buses It has been reported in Guatemala City.
How common is this scam in Guatemala?
Common. The main risks in Guatemala are theft, armed robbery, unsafe taxi rides and inflated fares. Phone theft is especially common, while some cash machines in Flores have reported fee and withdrawal problems. Risk varies by place: Antigua's centre is safer in daylight, and Flores island is described as very safe.
Who can I report it to?
Police: report robbery, theft, kidnapping or fraud once you are safe. Ask your accommodation to help you reach police and request a written report or reference number. Tourist Police in Antigua: ask for help with an incident in Antigua. Your accommodation can help you find them. Card issuer or bank: use the contact details in your banking app or on your card. Freeze stolen cards and report ATM debits without cash or other disputed transactions. Taxi Amarillo / Amarillo Express: for a complaint about a booked ride, contact 1766 or servicioalcliente@amarilloexpress.com. Keep your booking and trip details. Embassy or consulate: contact your country's embassy or consulate if your passport is stolen, someone is being held or you need serious assistance. Travel insurer: use your policy's assistance or claims contact. Keep police reports, receipts and evidence of losses.
Reviewed by @snuck