GUATEMALA

Guatemala, the heart of the Mayan world, is a vibrant Central American nation. Its rich history stretches back to ancient Mayan civilization, evident in magnificent ruins scattered across the landscape. Gaining independence from Spain in 1821, Guatemala boasts a diverse geography, from volcanic highlands to tropical lowlands, and a colorful culture deeply rooted in indigenous traditions.

Region: Central America

Capital: Guatemala City

Official Language: Spanish

Level of Travel Safety: Exercise a high degree of caution in Guatemala due to high levels of crime and civil unrest. Violent crime, including armed robbery and carjacking, is common. Be particularly vigilant in border areas and avoid travel at night.

A map of Central America and the Caribbean, with Guatemala highlighted in green.

Why Visit Guatemala?

Mayan Legacy: Explore ancient cities like Tikal, where stone temples pierce the rainforest canopy.

Colonial Charm: Antigua Guatemala offers cobbled streets, baroque churches, and volcano views.

Living Indigenous Cultures: Visit highland markets like Chichicastenango, where tradition thrives in every woven textile.

A cobblestone street in a colonial town with colorful buildings and an archway.

Lakes & Volcanoes: Lake Atitlán, surrounded by dramatic peaks and Indigenous villages, is one of the world’s most beautiful lakes.

Adventure Central: Hike Volcán Acatenango, kayak across lakes, or explore limestone caves in Semuc Champey.

Affordable Travel: Guatemala offers rich experiences for a fraction of the cost of other destinations.

A serene lake with a small boat, reflecting a volcano and lush green surroundings.

Essential Trip Information

Most visitors (including U.S., EU, UK, Canada) do not need a visa for stays ≤90 days.

Check official requirements here.

Passports must be valid for at least six months beyond entry.

Immigration may ask for proof of onward travel and US$500+ funds.

Tourist fee: US$10–40 (varies by nationality; often included in airfare).

Currency: Guatemalan Quetzal (GTQ). US$1 ≈ GTQ7.8 (fixed rate).

Best Ways to Handle Money:

  • ATMs (Banco Industrial, BAC) dispense quetzales and US$.
  • Credit cards (Visa/Mastercard) accepted in cities; cash rules in rural areas.
  • Avoid exchanging USD at airports (poor rates).

Spanish (official), but 22+ Indigenous languages (e.g., K’iche’, Kaqchikel) are widely spoken.

Helpful phrases:

  • “Buenos días” (Good morning)
  • “¿Cuánto cuesta?” (How much?)
  • “Gracias” (Thank you)

Generally safe, but exercise caution:

  • Avoid isolated areas at night (especially Guatemala City).
  • Use registered shuttles for long-distance travel.
  • Emergency number: 110 (police).

Vaccinations: Hepatitis A, Typhoid recommended.

Malaria risk in Petén (use repellent).

Tap water is unsafe—drink bottled/filtered water.

Pharmacies (farmacias) are widespread; carry diarrhea meds.

Shuttles connect major destinations (Antigua, Lake Atitlán, Flores).

Chicken buses are iconic but not always safe for tourists—use selectively.

Uber operates in Guatemala City.

Tuk-tuks and pickups are common in small towns—cheap and fun.

Domestic flights (e.g., Guatemala City to Flores) save time but can be pricey.

Guatemala is very budget-friendly, especially outside of tourist hotspots.

Accommodation

  • Budget: Guesthouses and hostels (US$10–35/night)

  • Mid-range: Boutique hotels and ecolodges (US$50–100/night)

  • Luxury: Resorts or colonial mansions (US$150+/night)

Food

  • Street eats: Pupusas, tamales, and grilled meats (US$2–5)

  • Mid-range restaurants: (US$8–20/person)

  • Upscale dining: (US$30–60/person)

Drinks

  • Local beer (Gallo, Moza): US$2–3

  • Cocktails in tourist areas: US$6–10

Transportation

  • Public buses (chicken buses): US$0.50–2 (local)

  • Shuttles (tourist): US$10–40 between cities

  • Taxis: US$5–10 in cities (always agree on fare or use app-based taxis like Uber in Guatemala City)

  • Tuk-tuks: US$1–3 for short distances

Money-Saving Tips

  • Eat at local comedores or street stalls.

  • Use shuttle services for safer intercity travel.

  • Consider multi-day passes for archaeological sites or use local guides for shared tours.

Explore Guatemala

A UNESCO World Heritage site located in the central highlands, renowned for its beautifully preserved Spanish colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and surrounding volcanoes. It’s a charming city perfect for exploring history and culture.

Nestled in the Guatemalan highlands, surrounded by three majestic volcanoes, Lake Atitlán is considered one of the most beautiful lakes in the world. It’s dotted with indigenous Mayan villages, each with its unique culture and crafts.

Located in the Petén Basin of northern Guatemala, this vast archaeological site is home to the ruins of an ancient Mayan city, set within a lush jungle. Its towering temples and plazas offer an incredible glimpse into a powerful civilization.

A natural monument situated in the department of Alta Verapaz, it features a natural limestone bridge under which the Cahabón River flows. Above the bridge are a series of stunning turquoise-colored pools perfect for swimming and relaxation.

An active volcano located near Antigua, it’s one of Guatemala’s most accessible active volcanoes. Visitors can hike to a safe distance from its crater and often witness small eruptions and even roast marshmallows over hot spots.

A vibrant indigenous town in the western highlands, famous for its bustling Thursday and Sunday market. Here, Mayan culture thrives with colorful textiles, traditional crafts, and ancient rituals practiced at the Santo Tomás Church.

The capital and largest city, situated in the south-central part of the country. While often a transit point, it offers museums, historical sites, and modern amenities, providing a contrast to the country’s more traditional areas.

A significant river and protected area in eastern Guatemala, connecting Lake Izabal to the Caribbean Sea. It’s a haven for wildlife, with lush mangroves, hot springs, and offers boat trips to the Garifuna town of Livingston.

Guatemala’s second-largest city, located in the western highlands. Xela is a cultural and academic hub, offering a more authentic Guatemalan experience with beautiful neoclassical architecture, indigenous markets, and Spanish language schools.

A vast pre-Columbian Mayan city located deep in the Petén jungle, near the Mexican border. It’s home to La Danta, one of the largest pyramids by volume in the world. Reaching it typically requires a multi-day trek, offering an unparalleled adventure for history enthusiasts.

Smart Travel

Key Advantages:

  • Lowest Prices
  • Fewer Crowds
  • Lush Green Landscapes
  • Authentic Local Vibe
  • Unique Wildlife Encounters

Main Drawbacks:

  • Afternoon Rains
  • Muddy Trails
  • Limited Outdoor Activities (some treks might be harder)
  • Some roads may be less accessible

Key Regions:

  • Semuc Champey: Waterfalls and natural pools are incredibly lush and full.
  • Cobán: Cloud forests are vibrant and ideal for coffee tours.
  • El Mirador: Jungle treks to remote ruins are more challenging but highly rewarding.
  • Lake Atitlán: The lake takes on a mystical, often cloudy, beauty.

Key Advantages:

  • Ideal Weather
  • Manageable Crowds
  • Reasonable Prices
  • Festivals & Events (Holy Week in April, Giant Kite Festival in November)
  • Greenery from the rainy season still present

Main Drawbacks:

  • Higher prices during specific holiday periods (e.g., Holy Week)
  • Dustier roads as dry season approaches (November)
  • Can be warmer in April before rains
  • Some popular spots start to get busier

Key Regions:

  • Antigua: Enjoy ideal weather for exploring colonial streets and local festivities.
  • Lake Atitlán: Perfect for cultural immersion and enjoying the clear lake views.
  • Pacaya Volcano: Excellent conditions for hiking with clearer views.
  • Chichicastenango: Market days are vibrant, and the weather is generally pleasant.
  • Dry Season (December – March)
  • Holy Week (Semana Santa) (varies in March/April)
  • Christmas and New Year Holiday Period

Planning Your Trip

Greetings: A handshake or light cheek kiss (among women) is common.

Haggling: Acceptable in markets (e.g., Chichicastenango), but be polite.

Tipping:

  • Restaurants: 10% if service isn’t included.
  • Guides/Tour Drivers: US$5–10 per day.

Dress Code:

  • Conservative in rural areas (avoid shorts/tank tops at religious sites).
  • Casual in cities/beach towns.

Respect Mayan Culture: Ask before photographing locals (some expect small payment).

Accommodation:

  • Hostels: US$10–30
  • Hotels: US$40–100
  • Luxury stays: US$200+

Food:

  • Street food: US$2–5 (try pupusas, tamales)
  • Local restaurants: US$6–12
  • Tourist-oriented spots/fine dining: US$25+

Transport:

  • Shuttles: US$10–30 per leg
  • Tuk-tuks/local buses: US$0.50–3
  • Domestic flights: US$100+

Activities:

  • Ruins (Tikal): Entry US$25
  • Volcano hikes: US$20–50 with guide
  • Lake boat tours: US$5–15

Daily Budget:

  • Budget: US$50–80 (hostel, street food, shuttle)
  • Mid-range: US$100–180 (hotel, guided tours, nicer meals)
  • Luxury: US$250+ (boutique stays, domestic flights, private guides)

Free Wi-Fi: Common in hotels/cafés (slow in rural areas).

SIM Cards:

  • Tigo/Claro (US$5–10 for 1–5GB): Sold at airports/convenience stores.

eSIMs: Supported (Airalo, Holafly).

Essential for:

  • Medical emergencies (hospitals may require upfront payment).
  • Adventure activities (volcano hikes, zip-lining).

Recommended coverage: Theft (common on buses), trip delays (rainy-season landslides).

Tip: Check if your policy covers altitude sickness (Antigua/Lake Atitlán are at 5,000+ ft).

From luxury eco-lodges to backpacker hostels.

Hotels:

  • Luxury: Casa Santo Domingo (Antigua), Las Lagunas (Flores).
  • Mid-range: Porta Hotel Antigua, Hotel Atitlán (Lake Atitlán).

Hostels (US$8–20/night):

  • Selina (Antigua/Lake Atitlán), Los Amigos (Flores).

Eco-Lodges (US$50–150):

  • Earth Lodge (Antigua), El Retiro (Lanquín).

Airbnb (US$30–100):

  • Great for families—Antigua and Lake Atitlán have charming rentals.

Tip: Book ahead for Semana Santa and Christmas—top places fill fast.

Transport varies from modern shuttles to local “chicken buses.”

Shuttles:

  • Tourist shuttles (US$15–50 per trip): Fastest way between major spots (Antigua–Lake Atitlán).
  • Shared vans (colectivos): Cheaper but crowded (US$5–20).

Public Buses:

  • Chicken buses (US$1–5): Colorful old school buses—cheap but slow and packed.

Taxis/Rideshares:

  • Uber (Antigua/Guatemala City): Safer than street taxis (US$5–15 for short trips).
  • Negotiate fares upfront for regular taxis.

Car Rentals (US$40–80/day):

  • Only recommended for experienced drivers (chaotic traffic, poor rural roads).

Domestic Flights (US$100–200):

  • Limited routes (Guatemala City to Flores for Tikal).

Tip: For long distances (e.g., Antigua to Semuc Champey), overnight buses save time.

Handy Tips

Guatemala uses the Guatemalan Quetzal (GTQ). Bills come in Q1, Q5, Q10, Q20, Q50, Q100, and Q200 denominations. Coins include 1, 5, 10, 25, and 50 centavos, and Q1 coins.

  • Exchanging Currency: Avoid exchanging money at airports or hotels due to poor rates. Use ATMs in banks or urban areas for more favorable exchange rates.

  • Using Cards: Credit/debit cards (Visa and Mastercard) are widely accepted in cities and tourist areas, but carry cash for rural regions, local buses, markets, and small eateries.

  • Tipping Etiquette:

    • Restaurants: 10% is standard if not already included in the bill.

    • Taxis and Rideshares: Not mandatory, but rounding up is appreciated.

    • Hotel Staff: Q5–Q10 per bag for porters; Q15–Q30 per night for housekeeping.

    • Tour Guides: Q40–Q80 (US$5–10) per person for group tours.

Spanish is the official language. Over 20 indigenous languages are spoken across the country (e.g., K’iche’, Q’eqchi’, Kaqchikel).

  • Useful phrases:

    • “¿Dónde está la estación de autobuses?” (Where’s the bus station?)

    • “¿Cuánto cuesta esto?” (How much is this?)

    • “¿Puedo pagar con tarjeta?” (Can I pay by card?)

  • English is spoken in major tourist hubs like Antigua, Lake Atitlán, and by guides.

Pro Tip: Learn a few polite Spanish phrases—it goes a long way in rural areas.

Guatemala is generally safe in tourist areas, but petty theft can occur. Be cautious in bus terminals, crowded markets, and zones in Guatemala City after dark.

Emergency Contacts:

  • 110: National Police
  • 122: Fire Department
  • 123: Medical Emergencies
  • Your Embassy: Most are in Guatemala City—note emergency contact numbers.

Avoid flashing valuables, and use registered taxis or hotel-arranged transport at night.

Guatemala uses 120V/60Hz, the same as the U.S., with Type A and B plugs.

No adapter is needed if you’re coming from the U.S. or countries using the same system.

Tap water is not safe to drink.

  • Drink only bottled or filtered water.

  • Most restaurants serve purified water—ask if unsure.

  • Brush your teeth with bottled water in rural areas.

Most banks, government offices, and many shops close on holidays:

  • 1 Jan: New Year’s Day

  • Holy Week (Semana Santa): March/April (varies by year—especially vibrant in Antigua!)

  • 1 May: Labor Day

  • 15 Sep: Independence Day

  • 1 Nov: All Saints’ Day (famous kite festival in Sumpango)

  • 25 Dec: Christmas Day

  • 31 Dec: New Year’s Eve
    Note: Holy Week sees huge local tourism—book hotels well in advance!

Stores: 9:00–18:00 (Monday to Saturday); some close midday for lunch.

Malls: 10:00–20:00; open Sundays.

Pharmacies: Many open late or 24/7 in larger cities (e.g., Cruz Verde, Meykos).

Markets: Early morning to 16:00; best for local crafts and textiles.

Pepián: Rich, spicy stew (often chicken) with roasted chiles, seeds, and tomatoes—Guatemala’s national dish.

Kak’ik: Bright red turkey soup from Alta Verapaz, spiced with coriander and achiote.

Jocón: Chicken in a tangy green sauce of tomatillos, cilantro, and green onions.

Chiles Rellenos: Peppers stuffed with meat and vegetables, dipped in egg batter and fried.

Pupusas: Corn masa pockets stuffed with cheese, beans, or pork—shared with El Salvador but popular in Guatemala too.

Tamalitos de Elote: Sweetcorn tamales served with sour cream—light and comforting.

Hilachas: Shredded beef in a tomato-based stew, often served with rice and potatoes.

Rellenitos: Fried plantains stuffed with sweet black beans and cinnamon—crispy outside, creamy inside.

Torrejas: Guatemalan-style French toast soaked in syrup made from panela and cinnamon.

Buñuelos: Fried dough balls, airy and soaked in sweet syrup—typically festive.

Alcoholic:

  • Gallo: Guatemala’s iconic lager—crisp, light, and widely available.

  • Cabro: Darker local beer with roasted malt flavor.

  • Monte Carlo: Premium Guatemalan beer—smooth and slightly bitter.

  • Quetzalteca: A strong sugarcane aguardiente—usually mixed or sipped during festivals.

  • Ron Zacapa Centenario: Award-winning aged rum from the highlands—smooth, caramel-rich, and perfect for sipping neat.

  • Chelada: Beer mixed with lime juice and salt—refreshing and popular in warm regions.

Non-Alcoholic:

  • Atol de Elote: Thick, sweet corn drink served warm—often for breakfast or festive occasions.

  • Rosa de Jamaica: Hibiscus tea served iced—tangy and ruby-red.

  • Licuados: Fresh fruit smoothies made with milk or water—try mango, papaya, or banana.

  • Coffee: Grown in highlands like Antigua—smooth, full-bodied, and globally acclaimed.

  • Chilate: Traditional Mayan drink made of roasted corn, cacao, and spices.

Mayan Heritage: Over 40% of the population is indigenous—visit Iximché, Yaxhá, and Tikal for ancient history.

Semana Santa in Antigua: Elaborate processions and flower carpets during Holy Week.

Sumpango Giant Kite Festival: Held on 1 November—a spectacular display of massive handmade kites.

Colonial Churches: Explore La Merced and San Francisco in Antigua.

Maximón: Visit Santiago Atitlán to see this folk saint—a blend of Mayan and Catholic traditions.

Museo Popol Vuh (Guatemala City): One of the best museums for Maya artifacts.

Textile Cooperatives: Visit local weaving communities in San Juan La Laguna or Nebaj.

Historic Xela: A highland city with neo-classical architecture and indigenous culture.

Volcano Viewpoints: Watch Fuego erupt from Acatenango Base Camp (overnight hike).

Traditional Dress (Traje): Still worn in many communities—colorful and distinct by region.

Lake Atitlán: Relax in Panajachel or explore lakeside villages (San Juan, San Marcos).

Antigua: Colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, rooftop cafés, and volcano views.

Hiking Pacaya Volcano: Active but safe; marshmallow roasting included!

Semuc Champey: Stunning limestone pools deep in the jungle near Lanquín.

Tikal: Majestic Mayan ruins—climb Temple IV for a sunrise you’ll never forget.

Chichicastenango Market: Huge open-air market (Thursdays & Sundays) with textiles and handicrafts.

Hot Springs: Visit Fuentes Georginas near Quetzaltenango (Xela).

Coffee Tours: Available in Antigua or Cobán—learn how beans go from plant to cup.

Cooking Classes: Learn to make pepián or tortillas with a local family in Antigua.

Live Marimba Music: Catch a traditional performance during festivals or in parks.

Café No Sé (Antigua): Legendary bar and mezcal hideout with live music.

Ulew Cocktail Bar (Guatemala City): Speakeasy-style bar known for craft cocktails using local infusions.

Sky Café (Antigua): Rooftop views with mojitos and volcanic sunsets.

El Barrio (Antigua): Multi-bar courtyard—pick your vibe: wine, mezcal, or jazz.

Mono Loco (Antigua): Sports bar with Guatemalan beer and wild nachos.

Gekko Trails (Flores): Popular backpacker bar with cold drinks and lakeside views.

Rincón Suizo (Xela): Classic local bar with beer, fondue, and friendly crowds.

Livingston Nightlife: Reggae, drums, and Garífuna rhythms spill into the streets.

Tabacos y Vinos (Guatemala City): Cigar bar with aged rum and fine wines.

TrovaJazz (Guatemala City): Live Latin jazz and candlelit cocktails.