Flores, Guatemala
What 90% of solo women don't know about staying safe in Flores.
Santa Elena has the bus terminal, airport, and markets - useful for transport and shopping during the day. Stay on Flores island for sleeping and evenings.
Santa Elena is the mainland town where locals live, connected to Flores by a causeway. This is where the bus terminal, airport, supermarkets, and markets are - the practical stuff. It's grittier than the island, with fewer tourists and more working families doing daily life. Fine for walking around during the day to shop at markets or eat cheap at comedores. After 10pm the streets empty fast and you shouldn't walk around alone. The bus terminal area has pushy vendors and some sketchy people hanging around, though actual crime against tourists is uncommon. English doesn't work as well here - you'll need basic Spanish. Most people staying on Flores only come to Santa Elena for the bus terminal or to buy things at the supermarket. Not much reason to be here in the evening. Tuk-tuks run between Santa Elena and Flores constantly for Q20, so you can shop then get back to the island quickly.
Daytime Safety
GoodNight Walking Safety
ModerateHarassment Risk
ModeratePublic Transport Safety
ModeratePickpocketing Risk
ModerateScam Risk
ModeratePolice Visibility
GoodEmergency Services
GoodEvening Venues
ModerateSolo Dining
GoodDrug Activity
LowHomelessness Visibility
LowGetting By in English
ModerateSome mistakes you only make once in Flores. But you shouldn't have to make them at all. This free checklist reveals the 5 safety pitfalls that catch solo women off guard — so you can avoid them before they happen.
"Okay during the day for shopping, wouldn't walk around at night"
"Cheap food and supplies but nothing else to do"
"Market vendors can be pushy and in your face"
"Way less touristy than Flores, more real but less comfortable"
"Always took a tuk-tuk back to Flores before it got dark"
Areas with comparable safety profiles for solo female travelers
San Miguel is quiet and secluded across the lake - good for peace and nature, but isolated with limited food options. Better for people who want solitude than those who prefer community and easy access to restaurants.
Isla de Flores has the hostels, restaurants, and bars concentrated on a small walkable island. It's the obvious base for visiting Tikal and exploring the area.
Help other women stay safe in Santa Elena
Neighborhood conditions can change. Check recent news, ask locals or your accommodation about current safety, especially for nighttime plans.