Safety Tips in Guam – Travel Safety Tips

Guam Warnings and Dangers

Part of the United States, Guam makes an ideal place to explore the culture of the Pacific Islands. If you are planning to travel here, it is important to keep certain things in mind as you plan any trip.

Like many other islands, Guam has some real dangers in the ocean and on land.

Water Safety

Guam is located in what is known as typhoon alley. Each year, the island gets four or five major storms. Try to avoid staying here if there is a major storm predicted. If an unexpected storm shows up when you are here, make sure you have lots of bottled water on hand because the local water supply can easily get contaminated for days after a storm. If you want to go swimming be aware that there are strong currents off shore in many places. Check carefully before you enter the water. Stick to well guarded beaches and tourist areas for swimming.

Beach closings are common here due to the weather and possible local contamination. Ask your hotel staff about any recent alerts if you are planning to go in the water and read the local papers each day to double check. If you are in the water and you see any kind of sea creature, do not touch it as it may be dangerous. You should also not bring it away from the beach area. This includes starfish, shellfish and coral. Sea cucumbers can get into your baggage. Sea urchins often have highly dangerous spikes. Doing so may be illegal under local laws. Many areas also prohibit fishing so make sure it’s legal if you do go fishing.

Wildlife and Nighttime 

Potential dangers in Guam aren’t confined to the ocean. Be aware of creatures like geckos. While harmless, you don’t want to step on them or accidentally bring on home with you. You also need to be aware of other animals. Snakes are everywhere in Guam. You will find poisonous rat snakes you should avoid. The most dangerous snakes in Guam are the Brown Tree snakes. These snakes have fangs in the back of their mouths. While they will typically slither away from you, you should not disturb them. Be particularly cautious at night when you might not be able to see them. Check under toilet seats before you sit down as this is where they can hide. Night is also a particularly dangerous time for encounters with animals. There are wild boars in many places. Do not engage with them in any way. You should also be careful when traveling here at night.

Not all areas are safe or patrolled by police. There are minor problems all over Guam with break-ins, gangs and other criminal activities. If you feel unsafe, it is best to return to your hotel room.

Editor’s Note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about warnings and dangers in Guam.