Yes, you can fly a drone in Guatemala as a tourist, but you need a special permit from the Dirección General de Aeronáutica Civil (DGAC) first. Guatemala regulates drones under the Civil Aviation Law (Decree 93-2000) and regulation RAC 101, and the DGAC issues a permit aimed specifically at foreign tourists who want to make recreational flights. With it, you fly below 400 ft, away from towns, crowds and airports.
The tourist permit
The DGAC has said, as reported by Guatemalan newspaper La Hora in March 2025, that it offers two types of drone flight permits. One is for foreign visitors (tourists) who want to fly their drone recreationally in Guatemala; the other is for certified companies and foreign companies doing aerial work. Each permit has a fixed start and end date and can't be renewed.
Apply before you travel through the DGAC website, which posts its drone directives and forms. Ask about current requirements, fees and processing time, and carry the permit with you.
Guatemalan residents follow a separate registration process under RAC 101 that includes registering the drone in the national aircraft register, insurance and fees. That process is not designed for a short visit, which is why the tourist permit exists.
Flight limits under RAC 101
- No higher than 400 ft above ground level (RAC 101.35), unless specifically approved.
- Daylight and visual line of sight.
- No flights within 6 km of any airport or aerodrome.
- No flights over government institutions, embassies, military bases, hospitals, prisons or customs facilities.
- No flights over populated areas or events with more than 100 people. Those need a separate special permit.
Violations are sanctioned under Article 119 of the Civil Aviation Law, with penalties that range from a warning to fines, suspension or cancellation.
Popular places
Lake Atitlán, the volcanoes around Antigua and the jungle around Tikal are the most photographed spots. Keep in mind:
- Antigua is a town, so the populated-area rule applies over its streets and squares.
- Tikal is a protected national park and archaeological site. Ask the park administration before flying.
- Guatemala City is close to La Aurora International Airport, so most of the city is within the 6 km limit.
The State Department's Guatemala page covers entry rules and safety conditions.
Which drone to bring
- DJI Mini 4 Pro: 249 g, obstacle sensing near trees and ruins.
- DJI Mini 5 Pro: 249 g, 1-inch sensor for volcano sunrises.
- DJI Neo: 135 g, simple palm launches from a boat on Atitlán in calm air.
Antigua is around 1,500 m above sea level and the volcano trails go far higher, so expect shorter flight times; see flying a drone in cold weather.
Rules current as of October 2026. This is general information, not legal advice. Confirm requirements with Guatemala's DGAC.
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