Located in Central America, Guatemala is a country with a rich cultural heritage, stunning natural beauty, and a fascinating history. Travelers visit Guatemala for its charming colonial cities, ancient Mayan ruins, picturesque volcanoes, and diverse ecosystems that range from dense rainforests to pristine beaches.
Why Visit Guatemala
NATURE
Guatemala offers an incredible diverse nature and wildlife, with over 20 different ecosystems. More than 1500 species of animals (between mammals, reptiles and birds) call Guatemala their home. From beaches and jungles to mountains and volcanoes. Its name means “the land of trees” in Nahuatl language (one of the native languages of the country), but is best known as “The land of the eternal spring”.
MAYAN RUINS
Guatemala is home to some of the most impressive ancient Mayan ruins in the world, with several archaeological sites located throughout the country. The most famous is Tikal, a UNESCO World Heritage site located in the northern region of the country, which features towering pyramids and stunning views of the surrounding jungle.
PEOPLE
Guatemalans are characterized for being very friendly, warm and attentive, always willing to help and welcoming you with open arms.
CULTURE & ARCHITECTURE
Guatemala has a rich cultural heritage, which is evident in its colonial architecture, traditional markets, and vibrant festivals. The city of Antigua is a popular destination for its well-preserved colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and colorful buildings. The Chichicastenango Market is a bustling hub of traditional Mayan crafts, textiles, and food.
AFFORDABLE
Guatemala is an affordable travel destination, offering a wide range of budget-friendly options for accommodation, food, and activities. Backpackers can find budget accommodation for as little as $5-10 a night, while mid-range hotels and hostels are also widely available.
Located in Central America, Guatemala is a country with a rich cultural heritage, stunning natural beauty, and a fascinating history. Travelers visit Guatemala for its charming colonial cities, ancient Mayan ruins, picturesque volcanoes, and diverse ecosystems that range from dense rainforests to pristine beaches.
Why Visit Guatemala
NATURE
Guatemala offers an incredible diverse nature and wildlife, with over 20 different ecosystems. More than 1500 species of animals (between mammals, reptiles and birds) call Guatemala their home. From beaches and jungles to mountains and volcanoes. Its name means “the land of trees” in Nahuatl language (one of the native languages of the country), but is best known as “The land of the eternal spring”.
MAYAN RUINS
Guatemala is home to some of the most impressive ancient Mayan ruins in the world, with several archaeological sites located throughout the country. The most famous is Tikal, a UNESCO World Heritage site located in the northern region of the country, which features towering pyramids and stunning views of the surrounding jungle.
PEOPLE
Guatemalans are characterized for being very friendly, warm and attentive, always willing to help and welcoming you with open arms.
CULTURE & ARCHITECTURE
Guatemala has a rich cultural heritage, which is evident in its colonial architecture, traditional markets, and vibrant festivals. The city of Antigua is a popular destination for its well-preserved colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and colorful buildings. The Chichicastenango Market is a bustling hub of traditional Mayan crafts, textiles, and food.
AFFORDABLE
Guatemala is an affordable travel destination, offering a wide range of budget-friendly options for accommodation, food, and activities. Backpackers can find budget accommodation for as little as $5-10 a night, while mid-range hotels and hostels are also widely available.
- Name: Republic of Guatemala
- Capital: Guatemala City
- Official Languages: Spanish
- Currency: Quetzal
- Time Zone: UTC−6
- Name: Republic of Guatemala
- Capital: Guatemala City
- Official Languages: Spanish
- Currency: Quetzal
- Time Zone: UTC−6
Bucket List
Hike Volcano Acatenango
Hike Indian Nose at Sunrise
Explore the city of Antigua
Visit the Tikal Ruins
Do some shopping in the Chichicastenango market
Go on an adventure in Semuc Champey
Enjoy the peace at the Lake Atitlan
Wander around Flores
What to expect
LANGUAGE
Spanish is the official language in Guatemala. 21 Mayan languages, one Arawakan language, and two indigenous languages are also spoken, especially in rural areas. Only 60% of the population uses Spanish as their first language. English might be spoken on the main tourist attractions, but not in the rest of the country.
ELECTRICITY
In Guatemala the standard voltage is 110 V and the frequency is 60 Hz. That’s the standard voltage in the american continent; If you are traveling from the EU you will need an adaptor.
CURRENCY
The Guatemalan Quetzal is the currency of Guatemala. Dollars are accepted at most places, and Euros only at tourist destinations, however cash in guatemalan quetzals is recommended. Credit cards are widely accepted. It is encouraged to exchange it in a bank or withdraw it directly from the ATM. 1 USD equals 7.87 Quetzals as of 2023.
CLIMATE
The climate in Guatemala varies depending on the region, but it is generally tropical, with two distinct seasons: the rainy season (May to October) and the dry season (November to April). Temperatures range from around 16°C (61°F) to 35°C (95°F), depending on the region and time of year.
SAFETY
Unfortunately, violent crime such as armed robbery and murder is not uncommon. Guatemala has one of the highest violent crime rates in Latin America. Most incidents of violent crime are drug- and gang-related. They occur throughout the country, including in tourist destinations. Exercise caution at all times. Try not to wear flashy jewelry.
How to get around
Getting around Guatemala can be a bit challenging, but there are several options available to travelers:
- Buses: The most common and affordable way to get around Guatemala is by taking the local buses, which are known as “chicken buses.” These buses are often old school buses from the United States that have been painted bright colors and outfitted with extra seats. They are cheap, but they can be crowded and uncomfortable.
- Shuttles: Many travelers prefer to take shuttles between popular destinations in Guatemala. These shuttles are typically minivans that offer a more comfortable and convenient option than the local buses. However, they are more expensive than the chicken buses.
- Taxis: Taxis are available in most cities and towns in Guatemala. They are a good option for short trips within a city, but they can be expensive for longer distances.
- Rental cars: It’s possible to rent a car in Guatemala, but it can be expensive and the roads can be challenging, especially in rural areas.
- Walking: If you’re in a small town or city, walking can be a great way to get around and see the sights. Just be sure to stay aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings close at hand to avoid theft.
Visa Policy
Visitors to Guatemala may need a visa depending on their nationality. Citizens from many countries are exempt from obtaining a visa for stays of up to 90 days, while others need to apply for a visa in advance. Here are some details:
Visa-free entry for up to 90 days is granted to citizens from the following countries:
- All European Union citizens, as well as citizens of Andorra, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Monaco, Norway, San Marino, Switzerland, and Vatican City.
- Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Australia, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Fiji, Grenada, Guatemala, Guyana, Honduras, Hong Kong, Israel, Jamaica, Japan, Kiribati, South Korea, Malaysia, Marshall Islands, Mexico, Micronesia, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Palau, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Philippines, Russia, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Samoa, Singapore, Solomon Islands, South Africa, Taiwan, Trinidad and Tobago, Turkey, Tuvalu, United Arab Emirates, United States of America, Uruguay, Vanuatu, and Venezuela.
Citizens of the following countries need to obtain a visa in advance:
- Afghanistan, Albania, Algeria, Angola, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Belarus, Benin, Bhutan, Bolivia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cambodia, Cameroon, Cape Verde, Central African Republic, Chad, China, Comoros, Congo, Cuba, Djibouti, Egypt, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Gabon, Gambia, Georgia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Haiti, India, Indonesia, Iran, Iraq, Ivory Coast, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Kuwait, Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Lebanon, Lesotho, Liberia, Libya, Madagascar, Malawi, Maldives, Mali, Mauritania, Mauritius, Moldova, Mongolia, Montenegro, Morocco, Mozambique, Myanmar, Namibia, Nepal, Niger, Nigeria, North Korea, Oman, Pakistan, Papua New Guinea, Qatar, Romania, Rwanda, Sao Tome and Principe, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Serbia, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Suriname, Swaziland, Syria, Tajikistan, Tanzania, Thailand, Timor-Leste, Togo, Tunisia, Turkmenistan, Uganda, Ukraine, Uzbekistan, Vietnam, Yemen, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
It’s always best to check with the nearest Guatemalan embassy or consulate to confirm the visa requirements for your nationality before you travel.
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