Scam in GuatemalaTours and guides
Volcano operators downplaying danger in Guatemala
How it works
Businesses may have outdated information about volcanic activity or may keep operating despite severe warnings to avoid losing business. Reassuring sales advice may leave visitors exposed to serious danger.
Warning signs
- An operator dismisses severe eruption warnings.
- Staff cannot explain the latest conditions or their cancellation plan.
How to avoid it
- Check current volcanic warnings independently before departure.
- Ask how the operator handles worsening conditions.
- Avoid climbing Volcán de Fuego itself.
- Consider viewing Fuego from dormant Acatenango.
If it happens to you
Do not continue into danger because you have already paid. Move to safety and discuss any refund afterwards.
- 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.
Questions
What is the volcano operators downplaying danger scam in Guatemala?
Businesses may have outdated information about volcanic activity or may keep operating despite severe warnings to avoid losing business. Reassuring sales advice may leave visitors exposed to serious danger.
How can I spot it early?
An operator dismisses severe eruption warnings. Staff cannot explain the latest conditions or their cancellation plan.
How do I avoid volcano operators downplaying danger in Guatemala?
Check current volcanic warnings independently before departure. Ask how the operator handles worsening conditions. Avoid climbing Volcán de Fuego itself. Consider viewing Fuego from dormant Acatenango.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Do not continue into danger because you have already paid. Move to safety and discuss any refund afterwards.
Where in Guatemala does this happen?
Tours involving Volcán de Fuego near Antigua It has been reported in Antigua Guatemala.
How common is this scam in Guatemala?
Occasional. 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