Question 1

Why Due South Travels?

Accepted Answer

Booking with Due South Travels will provide you with a worry-free, authentic, and affordable trip through Guatemala.  We aim to create a exceptional experience for all of our travelers by tailoring the trip to your specific needs.  Whether you're exploring Guatemala as a retirement location, or you're here to enjoy the beautiful highlands surrounding Lake Atitlan and Antigua, we will make it memorable. Traveler satisfaction is our number one priority, and all trip accommodations and locations have been thoroughly explored and vetted.  Lastly, we aim to support local business owners and community initiatives, giving you an understanding of the true Chapín way of life.
 
We understand that some of the products we offer are similarly offered by other providers. Our goal is to provide you a service at a price-point you can afford and with personalized, friendly service. We make ourselves available to you 24/7 with a direct WhatsApp number where we can offer you any type of assistance you need in country or prior to your arrival. Having a worry-free getaway makes all the difference, and our unique products, perspective, and accessible costs contribute to that goal.

Question 2

Is Guatemala safe?

Accepted Answer

The number one question we get asked here at Due South Travels is about health and safety while traveling in Guatemala. The US State Department constantly has an elevated alert level for travel to Guatemala, but it is indicative of crime rates that very rarely affect tourists. Like all large cities, Guatemala City does have areas that tourists are urged to avoid, however, we will be sure to make you aware of any precautions to take while on your own.  
 
Our priority is your health, safety and comfort.  Theft through robbery and pickpocketing is the most prevalent tourist complaint to the local police, however, personal safety does start with some common-sense measures. These may include: always hiking with a local guide, do not flagrantly display your valuables such as cash, jewelry, and electronics, be aware of your surroundings, carry a photocopy of your passport and only carry enough cash for that day.
 
Western-standard doctors and clinics are easy to find in all of the large cities.  Pharmacies are common and many times you do not need a prescription for medications.  Again, use caution around any feral animals or insects, or when participating in sports, swimming, and adventure activities.  
 
Due South Travels strongly recommends comprehensive trip insurance that provides medical and travel interruption coverage, including property loss due to theft.  Our favorite provider is World Nomads.(https://www.worldnomads.com/)
 
We also recommend checking your government's official pages for travel advisories, including health/immunization suggestions.  For US citizens, you can access the US Department of State website (https://www.state.gov/travel/)for travel information, or the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website (https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/)for health information.  
 
In the rare case that you have an emergency while traveling with us, we will find you the proper assistance, whether it be medical, police, or diplomatic.  You will never be left alone when needing assistance, and prior to the start of your tour, you will receive in-depth information about any specific precautions to be aware of.

Question 3

What tours are available?

Accepted Answer

Tours with current availability are listed on our website. If you are looking for a specific, customized service that is not listed, we would be happy to serve you! Please call or e-mail us and we will have a thorough discussion about your ideal trip, budget, and other restrictions or desires, and will be sure to plan the trip of your dreams! 
 
We can do private guided small group tours, arrange volunteer opportunities, and plan for longer-term stays here in beautiful Guatemala. Get in touch today!

Question 4

Will I need a visa to visit or relocate?

Accepted Answer

Most visitors receive a tourist visa stamp in their passport which permits a 90 day stay, renewable once for another 90 days. For longer visits, many expats or those who come south for part of the year will come on a visitor stamp and do a visa renewal run every 180 days outside of Guatemala. However, Guatemala also offers a number of other visa options, including a pensioner visa for those who have verifiable monthly income of at least $1250. To find out which visa you require, either for a tourism visit, or for a longer term stay, visit the Guatemalan Embassy website in your home country, or visit https://www.minex.gob.gt/Visor_Pagina.aspx?PaginaID=22

Question 5

What is included in the tour price?

Accepted Answer

We work closely with our clients to create customized itineraries that have a fully detailed agenda according to what our clients have requested. However, we certainly can make an itinerary that includes almost each and every part of your day, although we usually do not include all meals, because there are so many lovely restaurants to choose from and often clients have very specific preferences for their meals.  Once you book a trip with us, you'll be clear as to what is included, and we'll be in touch throughout your trip to make sure you are enjoying yourself and feeling great while in country!

Each tour will vary as to what is included in the price, however, each night's accommodation and in-country transport for the duration of the tour will be provided for each of our guests on the Expat Experience Tours and Custom Guided Excursions.  Please see the tour descriptions or your e-mailed itinerary for a comprehensive list of what you will have covered, what will not be covered, and what other expenses you should plan for.

Question 6

I've booked my trip! Now what do I pack?

Accepted Answer

The primary concern with packing would be minimizing the weight of your bag. Rucksacks/backpacks or other luggage pieces that can be carried on your back are preferred over the wheeled bag mainly due to a lack of elevators, escalators, and the frequency of stairs and cobblestoned streets and sidewalks.  However, you will have staff assistance available when you need it. For those on longer trips, it is inexpensive and easily arranged to have your personal items laundered, so pack lightly.
 
Anything that you forget at home can be purchased in Guatemala - there are a myriad of stores selling common foods, snacks, toiletries, clothing and other supplies.  There are pharmacies and banks in all of the main stops on our guided tours.  
 
Helpful items may include:
1. Insect repellent
2. Sun and rain protection
3. A refillable water bottle
4. Comfortable closed-toe walking shoes
5. Clothing that can be layered for cooler mornings and evenings
6. A day bag with zippered pockets to carry essentials
7. Your prescription medications
8. At least one swimsuit
9. Your camera!
 
Each person who books a group tour that includes an overnight with us will receive a detailed packing list prior to departure from your home country. 
 
Please be aware of baggage restrictions when traveling by air from international locations, and if booking domestic airfare with us, be sure to read this notice of TAG Airline's luggage policy.(https://www.tag.com.gt/en/luggage)

We are specialists in Guatemalan travel, with a focus on independent travel planning services, custom small group tours, and expat relocation services.

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