Embassy of Guatemala in Havana, Cuba; address Calle 20 No. 301 entre 3ra y 5ta Miramar, Playa, La Habana; phone +5372043417. Head of mission: Mr. Luis…
Head of mission: Mr. Luis Fernando Carranza Cifuentes, Ambassador (as of 2024)
Guatemala offers a rich cultural and geographical experience, making it an appealing destination for some Cuban visitors. With its renowned Mayan sites like Tikal and the colonial charm of Antigua, it attracts cultural explorers. Given that around 300,000 Cubans travel abroad annually, a portion may find Guatemala an interesting option.
Guatemala presents certain safety concerns for tourists, particularly those coming from Cuba. According to the Global Peace Index, Guatemala ranks 115th out of 160 countries, which is lower than Cuba's ranking of 96th. The murder rate in Guatemala is significantly higher, at 20.0 per 100,000 people, compared to Cuba's rate of 5.0. Additionally, the Global Organized Crime Index indicates that Guatemala faces challenges with organized crime, with higher scores across various categories, such as mafia groups (7.5), crime networks (6.0), and drug trafficking (cocaine trade at 8.5). In contrast, Cuba generally scores better in these areas, suggesting a safer environment for tourists. In summary, while Guatemala has much to offer, travelers should be aware of the higher crime rates and take necessary precautions when visiting.