I have waited almost 7 months to write this post! My dad is back in Guatemala! A lot of team leaders have asked questions about traveling to Guatemala, but we’ve had limited information.
If you have facebook, you can follow the Guatemala airport at DGAC Guatemala for information. Basically the steps are as follow:
—Present a Negative PCR or Antigen test within 72 hours of departing. (We think the 72 hours begin once the test is administered. However, the information about this is quite confusing). We highly recommend having the date, time, and type of test on the results.
—Complete an online health form. Link: https://servicios.igm.gob.gt/pasedesalud/en/ You will need to have a screenshot of the QR code. You will scan the QR code in Guatemala.
—Wear a mask.
—Practice social distancing.
From my dad’s experience everything was very smooth. They checked his test results before entering the plane in the states. According to him, it was one of the fastest times to ever go through Guatemala customs, get luggage, and leave the airport.
What is like to travel in Guatemala?
We live our daily lives while wearing a mask! Within the last month, we have stayed at a hotel, eaten at a restaurant, bought groceries, visited the zoo, walked around Antigua, etc. The President is basically allowing all places to open with restrictions (limited capacity, masks, social distancing, etc)
What about bringing a team next year?
There are a lot of ways to minister to people while continuing to be cautious. In my opinion, food distributions are going to be one of the greatest needs. Building houses continue to be such a great need for most families. I explained to one of my Guatemalan friends that many teams are scared to serve in Guatemala because of Covid-19. She replied, “But this is when we need it the most.”
If your team purchases medical insurance, you may want to inquire about coverage for Covid-19. Our insurance company is offering special insurance for Covid-19 coverage.
(The Guatemala government has been known to make sudden changes! We always try to stay informed, but we know the information may change.).
“And Jesus went throughout all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom and healing every disease and every affliction. When he saw the crowds, he had compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest.” Matthew 9:35-38
Shining Light Abroad Ministries 