Guatemalatravel guide
⌖ 15.8° N · 90.2° W · CAPITAL: GUATEMALA CITY
First impressions
Know before you go.
Welcome to Guatemala, a country of vibrant culture, breathtaking landscapes, and ancient Mayan ruins. Tucked away in Central America, this gem offers a diverse range of experiences that will leave you enchanted. Guatemala is known for its stunning natural beauty, from the awe-inspiring volcanoes that dot the horizon to the lush rainforests teeming with wildlife. Explore the mystical depths of Tikal National Park, where towering pyramids emerge from the jungle canopy and transport you back in time.
But it's not just nature that captivates visitors; Guatemala is alive with rich traditions and colorful festivals. Immerse yourself in the lively markets of Chichicastenango or Antigua Guatemala and be mesmerized by the vibrant textiles and intricate handicrafts created by skilled artisans.
Delve into Guatemalan cuisine, a delightful fusion of Indigenous Mayan flavors and Spanish influences. Savor traditional dishes such as pepian or try street food favorites like tamales or pupusas.
With warm hospitality and an abundance of hidden gems waiting to be discovered, Guatemala beckons travelers seeking authentic cultural experiences and natural wonders.
Entry card · GT
- Currency
- Guatemalan Quetzal (Q)
- Exchange rate
- US$1 = Q7.63
- Language
- Spanish
- English
- Moderate
- Capital
- Guatemala City
- Population
- 18 million
- Drives on
- right
- Plugs
- A, B, G
- Time zone
- Central Standard Time (UTC-06:00)
01 · The seasons
When to go.
- January - AprilHigh season with pleasant weather
- May - AugustLow season with occasional rain showers
- September - DecemberHigh season with cooler temperatures
02 · Daily fares
What it costs.
Est. daily fares
GUATEMALA · US$1 = Q7.63
- Hostel DormUS$10
- Takeaway MealUS$5
- Public transportUS$1
- Long-distance busUS$10
- Entrance FeeUS$5
- BeerUS$2
Daily totalUS$26 (Q 198)
Money field notes
Cards
Cash is king, cards are almost never accepted
ATM Fees
All ATMs charge fees. Limits are low and fees are high - for higher amounts, doing a self-remittance can be cheaper than ATMs
THIS TRAVEL GUIDE MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS
03 · The shortlist
Best experiences.
- 1Experience the breathtaking Antigua sunset on an ATV tour
- 2Visit the colorful Chichicastenango market
- 3Explore the ancient Mayan ruins of Tikal
- 4Visit the charming colonial city of Antigua Guatemala
- 5Hike the Indian Nose at sunrise
- 6Join an overnight exedition to Acatenango, an active volcano, and see the errupting lava
04 · At the table
Eat like you live here.
Menu
TASTE OF GUATEMALA
- PepiánMUST TRY
- Ka'kikMUST TRY
- Chiles RellenosMUST TRY
Before you go
At the border.
Customs declaration · Travel etiquette
Declare
- try the local cuisine and traditional dishes.
- dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.
- learn a few basic phrases in Spanish.
- respect the customs and traditions of the indigenous communities.
Do not bring
- wear revealing clothing in conservative areas.
- drink tap water. Stick to bottled or boiled water.
- touch or climb on ancient ruins or archaeological sites.
Is Guatemala safe to visit?
What are the must-visit tourist destinations in Guatemala?
What are some essential phrases in Spanish to know when visiting Guatemala?
What's the best way to get around in Guatemala?
05 · The flight plan
Itineraries.
Exploring Guatemala (3 weeks)
- 1FloresA picturesque island town nestled in the heart of Lake Petén Itzá.
- 2TikalVisit the ancient Mayan ruins in the heart of the jungle.
- 3Semuc ChampeyDiscover the stunning natural pools and limestone bridge.
- 4Lake AtitlanRelax by the beautiful lake surrounded by volcanoes and indigenous villages.
- 5Xela (Quetzaltenango)Experience the vibrant culture and take part in language courses.
- 6AntiguaExplore the colonial city known for its colorful streets and historic sites.
- 7AcatenangoEmbark on an overnight expedition to Acatenango, an active volcano, and witness the mesmerizing sight of erupting lava up close.
06 · The community