Guatemala Travel Guide

Overview

Capital:

Guatemala City.

Geography:

Guatemala is the third largest country in Central America and shares borders to the north and west with Mexico, to the southeast with El Salvador and Honduras, to the northeast with Belize and the Caribbean Sea, and to the south with the Pacific Ocean. The landscape is predominantly mountainous and heavily forested, with narrow coastal plains and tropical, humid lowlands blanketed in rainforests, coffee and banana plantations.

A string of volcanoes rises above the southern highlands along the Pacific, four of which are still active. Within this volcanic area are basins of varying sizes which hold the majority of the country's population. The region is drained by rivers flowing into both the Pacific and the Caribbean; however one basin west of the capital has no river outlet and thus has formed Lake Atitlán, which is ringed by volcanoes. To the northwest, bordering on Belize and Mexico, lies the low undulating tableland of El Petén, 36,300 sq km (14,000 sq miles) of almost inaccessible wilderness covered with dense hardwood forest. This area covers approximately one-third of the national territory, yet contains only 40,000 people.

Getting There

Getting There By Air

The main airline is Avianca (www.avianca.com), which has direct flights from Guatemala City’s La Aurora International Airport to Colombia, Costa Rica, El Salvador and Honduras, with connections to many US, Central and South American destinations.

There are regular flights from North America: United (www.united.com) has daily flights from Houston and New York; American Airlines (www.aa.com) flies daily from Dallas Fort Worth and Miami; and Delta (www.delta.com) flies daily from Atlanta.

There are no direct flights from the UK; connections are generally via the USA or with Iberia (www.iberia.com) from Madrid direct to Guatemala City.

Air Travel Note

For those wanting to visit the Tikal ruins, the airport in Flores has a handful of international flights with TAG Airlines (www.tag.com.gt) to Belize City.

Departure Tax

US$30, usually included in the fare.

Flight Times

From London - 15 hours (including stopover); New York - 5 hours 20 minutes.

Getting There By Road

There are road routes into Guatemala from all its neighbours. From Mexico the main crossings are at Ciudad Hidalgo and Talismán (both near Tapachula) and between Comitán, Mexico, and Huehuetenango, Guatemala. From Honduras the main crossing is at El Florido, which leads from Copán, and from El Salvador, it is at San Cristobal. From Belize the main border crossing is at Melchor de Mencos.

Guatemala is on the 47,958km (29,800-mile) Pan-American Highway. It is possible to drive across the borders in privately owned vehicles, but it is essential to take caution. Poor road conditions, limited services, crime and corrupt border crossings are all hazards. Drivers must show their original driving licence and vehicle registration papers.

Long-distance buses connect the main Central American and Mexican cities, and direct executive coaches are of high standard with bathrooms and air conditioning. Tica Bus Company (tel: +502 2473 3737; www.ticabus.com) has services running the length of Central America, while Pullmantur (tel: +502 2495 7000; www.pullmantur.com) and Hedman Alas (tel: +502 2362 5072; www.hedmanalas.com) connect Guatemala with San Salvador, Tegucigalpa and San Pedro Sula. Tourist shuttle buses also run between Copan Ruinas, Honduras and Antigua, Guatemala.

Getting There By Water

Santo Thomás de Castilla , Puerto Quetzal and Puerto Barrios are the main ports. Further information is available from the Guatemala Port Authority (www.cpn.gob.gt).

Getting Around

Getting Around By Air

Guatemala’s domestic flight network is fairly limited, the main route being Guatemala City to Flores. Avianca (www.avianca.com) and TAG Airlines (www.tag.com.gt) run daily flights. Except for high seasons such as Semana Santa it isn’t necessary to book these too far in advance.

Bike

Cycling is common and it is possible to rent mountain bikes in places such as Antigua, Panajachel and Quetzaltenango.

Breakdown Services

PROVIAL patrols the major highways (tel: 1520, in Guatemala only). Alternatively, call the police (tel: 120) or the fire brigade (tel: 123).

Car Hire

Travelling by car is a good way to access more remote areas but driving conditions are not for the faint-hearted. International and local car hire firms have offices in Guatemala City. Four-wheel drive vehicles are an asset.

Departure Tax

A travel tax of Q5 per person is applied to internal flights and payable at the check-in desks.

Documentation

A national licence is valid for one to three months, but an International Driving Permit is recommended.

Regulations

Seat belts must be worn at all times. Speed limits vary depending on the condition of the road but they are rarely enforced.

Getting Around By Road

The majority of travel within Guatemala is by road, and major highways connect the main cities. Most travel is by bus and the most popular are the colourful, ex-US school buses called camionetas, but known by visitors as chicken buses. They are cheap and efficient, but the driving conditions can be erratic, schedules somewhat flexible and conditions hot and cramped for longer journeys.

Ex-Greyhound buses known as Pullmans operate longer journeys between main cities, and provide a better level of comfort. Private shuttle minibuses operate on the main tourist routes.

Road Quality

There is an extensive road network and the main highway network has had a major make-over and is now in good quality. Many of the more rural roads can be poorly maintained however.

Side Of Road

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Taxi

Taxis in Guatemala City are metered, and it is preferable to call one from a hotel. In other areas, be sure to negotiate the fare before setting off. Three-wheeled tuk-tuk taxis have become common, especially in smaller towns.

Urban Travel

Most Guatemalan cities are small enough to walk around, but Guatemala City and major towns have limited, but cheap regular bus services. Travellers are advised to use radio-dispatched taxis or taxis from hotels.

Getting Around By Water

Regular boats operate between Puerto Barrios and Livingston. There are also frequent services along the Rio Dulce, as well as on the bigger lakes, in particular between villages on Lake Atitlán.

Travel Advice

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice.

Areas where FCDO advises against all but essential travel

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to: 

• within 5km of the Mexican border from the Pacific Coast up to and including the Gracias a Dios crossing
• to the towns of Santa Ana Huista, San Antonio Huista and La Democracia in the department of Huehuetenango

Find out more about why FCDO advises against travel to these areas.

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide and see support for British nationals abroad for information about specific travel topics.

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Follow and contact FCDO:   

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Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

This advice reflects the UK government's understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full 'British citizen' passport from the UK, for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Guatemala set and enforce entry rules. If you're not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Guatemalan Embassy in the UK. 

 Passport validity requirements

Your passport must have an 'expiry date' at least 6 months after the day you arrive in Guatemala and at least 2 blank pages.

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Visa requirements

You can visit Guatemala for up to 90 days without a visa.

If you overstay the 90 days, you'll have to pay a fine before leaving the country. You can pay this fine at the main Institute of Migration (in Spanish) office in Guatemala City. You can also pay fines at the airport or land borders, but administrative processes can cause serious delays.

If you do not get your passport stamped when you arrive, you will get a fine and be delayed on your departure. If you notice your passport has not been stamped, return to the immigration desk, or go to the Institute of Migration (in Spanish) offices in Guatemala City as soon as possible.

Applying for or extending a visa

To stay longer than 90 days (to work or study, for business travel or for other reasons), you must meet the Guatemalan government's entry requirements. Check which type of visa or work permit you need with the Guatemalan Embassy in the UK.

If you want to extend your visa or permit to stay, you must apply to the Institute of Migration (in Spanish).

Immigration declaration form

Before you enter or exit Guatemala, you must complete the online immigration declaration form. Print the confirmation email you receive and carry it with you. Alternatively take a screenshot of the email QR code. If you need more information, contact your travel agent or the Institute of Migration (in Spanish).   

Travelling with children 

To enter or exit Guatemala, children aged 17 and under travelling alone or with only one parent or legal guardian must have a notarised letter in Spanish from the parents or guardians not travelling with them. Contact the Guatemalan Embassy, or if you're in Guatemala the nearest Institute of Migration (in Spanish), for information about what documents you need. Single parents will need additional documents.

Travelling to El Salvador, Honduras and Nicaragua 

Under the Central America Border Control Agreement (also known as CA-4), you can travel between El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua for up to 90 days without a visa. The 90-day period starts when you enter any of these countries and does not restart when you cross borders. You can extend your stay by up to 30 days by paying a fee before the 90 days expires. If you overstay, you may get a fine. 

You'll have to go through immigration checks at borders. If you're expelled from one of these countries, you're also excluded from the other 3. 

If you're planning to travel to Nicaragua, check entry requirements with your travel company, the Nicaraguan immigration authorities or the nearest Nicaraguan Embassy. See travel advice for Nicaragua.

Airport tax

You must pay airport departure tax of 30 US dollars (or the same amount in Guatemalan quetzal). This is normally included in the price of your ticket.

Illegal entry fees at land borders

Guatemalan customs or immigration officials sometimes ask travellers crossing land borders to pay an 'entry fee'. This is illegal. If you are asked to pay a fee, ask for an official receipt, and you may find the officials drop the request.

When crossing into Guatemala by the land border at El Carmen, be wary of people offering to help process your entry into the country. They may be trying to overcharge you for unnecessary services.

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro's Guatemala guide.   

Depending on your circumstances, this may include a yellow fever certificate.

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Guatemala. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Taking money into Guatemala

It is often not possible to exchange British pounds in Guatemala. It is much easier to exchange US dollars.

This guide also has safety advice for regions of Guatemala.

Terrorism

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.

Terrorism in Guatemala

Although there's no recent history of terrorism in Guatemala, attacks cannot be ruled out.

Political situation  

Following nationwide elections in Guatemala in August 2023, the Guatemalan Public Ministry contested the electoral process. This resulted in a number of protests and roadblocks across the country. Whilst a majority of the roadblocks have been lifted, some remain and the risk of others being created is likely.

See a list of protests and roadblocks ('bloqueados') (in Spanish).

Events are fast moving, and the situation has potential to deteriorate without warning.

Most of the protests have been peaceful, but there have clashes between protestors and police, with the use of tear gas.

Avoid all protests and roadblocks and check with local authorities as well as media outlets for the latest information. It is illegal for foreigners to participate in political activities in Guatemala. If you take part in protests, you may be detained and asked to leave the country.

Incidents of political violence, strikes and large demonstrations can occur, often with little or no notice. Most demonstrations are peaceful, but they can turn violent. Protestors may block roads and public facilities, including the international airport, without notice.

Crime

Guatemala has one of the highest violent crime rates in Latin America. Although most of the serious crime involves local gangs, incidents are usually indiscriminate and can take place in tourist areas.

No parts of Guatemala City are free from crime, including Zone 10 (Zona Viva), which is popular with tourists and foreign residents. Take care in Zone 1 (the historical centre), where cheaper hotels are located and several bus routes end.

There have been armed attacks on tourists travelling by road to and from major tourist sites like Antigua, Tikal, Petén and Lake Atitlán. See Regional risks.

Violent crime

Carjacking and armed robbery are common on the main road (Carretera Salvador) leading from Guatemala City to the border with El Salvador.

Violent attacks, including sexual assault, can take place anywhere and at any time of the day. They usually involve firearms and motorbike riders. Attackers have killed and injured victims who resisted. There is a low arrest and conviction rate.

Criminal kidnappings  

Express kidnappings – short term opportunistic abductions, aimed at extracting cash from the victim – are common in Guatemala. Victims can be targeted or selected at random. They are held while criminals withdraw money from their bank accounts using their cash cards. Many cases involve victims that have been picked up by taxis (registered or illegal) hailed from the street. Be aware of your surroundings and always let someone you trust know your whereabouts, especially after dark.

Business people and visitors perceived to be wealthy may be targeted by kidnappers in search of payouts. Be discreet about discussing your financial or business affairs in places where you may be overheard by others, and when arranging meetings use a secure location.

If you are a victim of kidnapping, follow the kidnapper's instructions.

Protecting yourself and your belongings

You can take precautions such as:

• not displaying valuables like laptops, cameras and mobile phones
• not wearing a lot of jewellery
• carrying only small amounts of cash – avoid withdrawing a lot of money, particularly at night
• keeping valuables safe (for example, in a hotel safe)
• not travelling alone or at night, especially near borders or in areas without many people

If you go to remote areas, it may be safer to travel with others or a reputable tour company.

For shorter trips within towns and cities the safest option is to take radio-dispatched taxis (which are usually yellow) or hotel taxis. You can buy pre-paid taxi vouchers from the office of INGUAT, Guatemala's tourist agency (in Spanish) in the airport's arrivals terminal.

If you're driving, it is generally safer to travel on main roads. There is a greater risk of attack by gangs on quieter routes. Travel in convoy if possible.

Take care around ATMs, petrol station forecourts, the airport, bus stations and shopping centres.

You can get up-to-date security information from INGUAT.

INGUAT's tourist assistance and emergency service, PROATUR, will accompany individual tourists or groups travelling in Guatemala if requested (see Getting help).

Buses and coaches

Avoid travelling on public buses (repainted US school buses). There has been an increase in armed attacks by local gangs on bus drivers and conductors, often resulting in serious injury or death. These attacks have included the use of explosives. There have also been violent muggings, rapes and assaults against foreigners.

Private intercity coach services are generally safer, but gangs have also attacked these during daylight hours, even on main roads.

ATM tampering

Check ATMs for evidence of tampering. Affected machines may not be easy to spot. It's safer to change money in hotels, at banks or at foreign exchange offices.

Bogus police officers

Criminals posing as police officers have committed theft, extortion and sexual assault against visitors to Guatemala. 

Scams

Foreign visitors are at risk of scams. Scams come in many forms and can lead to great financial loss. Warn your friends and family to be sceptical if they're asked to transfer funds to you in Guatemala. Tell them to contact you to check that you've made this request. 

Laws and cultural differences

Personal ID

It is a legal requirement to always carry ID. In most parts of the country, you can carry a copy of your passport's photo page for identification purposes. In San Pedro La Laguna, Sololá, local authorities may not accept a copy and may fine or detain you if you cannot show your original passport or a certified copy. Always co-operate with military and police officers and be prepared for checkpoints.

Alcohol laws and bans

It is illegal to sell alcoholic and fermented beverages from 1am to 6am. 

Illegal drugs and prison sentences

There are severe penalties for drug trafficking and use. Guatemalan prisons are overcrowded, violent and dirty.

Taking photos without permission

Do not take photographs without permission, especially of children. This is particularly important in more remote areas such as Quiché, Petén, San Marcos and Chiquimula provinces. There have been attacks related to accusations and fears of child kidnapping for adoption or theft of vital organs. Foreigners have been caught up in the violence. You may need to pay a small amount of money to take photographs of both children and adults.

LGBT+ travellers

Homosexuality is not illegal, although there are no laws guaranteeing freedom from discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation. Same-sex marriages are not recognised in Guatemala. In Guatemala City, local people are largely tolerant of different lifestyles. Outside Guatemala City, attitudes are more conservative. Showing affection in public may bring verbal and physical attacks, harassment and discrimination.

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers.

Transport risks

Road travel

If you are planning to drive, see information on driving abroad. 

You can use a UK photocard driving licence to drive in Guatemala for up to 3 months. If you still have a paper driving licence, you may need to update it to a photocard licence or get the correct version of the international driving permit (IDP) as well.

Hire car companies often have stricter requirements for their customers, such as a year of driving experience, a higher minimum age and holding an IDP. 

Driving rules and safety

In Guatemala:

• it is illegal to use a mobile phone while driving
• speed limits are strictly enforced
• motorcyclists must wear an orange vest and helmet with the registration number or face a fine of 1,000 Guatemalan quetzal (around £100)

Drink-driving is a serious offence. If you are tested and found to have any alcohol in your system, you may get a fine, your licence confiscated and possible imprisonment. However, drinking-driving is common in Guatemala.

In more isolated locations, roads are unpaved and you may need a 4-wheel drive vehicle.

If you're involved in an accident, contact the National Police (telephone: 110) or the fire brigade (telephone: 122 or 123 ) and wait for them to arrive. PROVIAL (telephone: +502 2419 2121 or 1520), a roadside assistance force, patrols most of the major roads in the country. However, patrols are infrequent.

For more information on road laws, see Guatemala Department of Transport (in Spanish).

Intercity buses

Guatemala Municipality no longer allows some intercity buses to enter the city centre. They drop passengers at various points on the city outskirts. 

Outdoor activities and adventure tourism

Climbing volcanoes

Before you climb volcanoes, visit the websites of the Guatemalan Meteorological Office (in Spanish) and CONRED, Guatemala's disaster agency (in Spanish) for information on access, restrictions and recommendations. Follow the advice of local authorities. Some volcanoes are at high altitude with freezing temperatures at night. Tourists have died of exposure on volcanoes in Guatemala. Warm clothing and waterproofs are essential. Local tour organisers tend to underestimate the risks. There is no mountain rescue service. 

Extreme weather and natural disasters

See extreme weather and natural hazards for information about how to prepare, and how to react if there is a warning.

Rainy season

The rainy season in Guatemala normally runs from June to November – the same time as the hurricane season in the Caribbean. Heavy rains cause frequent flooding and landslides, and roads and bridges often collapse. 

Check local media and consult your tour operator and PROATUR, Guatemala's tourist assistance service (see Getting help). Travel routes are likely to face disruption. Monitor local and international weather updates from the World Meteorological Organization and the US National Hurricane Center. Follow the advice of the local authorities, including any evacuation orders.

Earthquakes

There are frequent minor earth tremors and there is a risk of earthquakes in Guatemala. The US Federal Emergency Management Agency website has advice about what to do before, during and after an earthquake or tsunami. 

Volcanic eruptions

There is a risk of volcanic eruptions in Guatemala. Monitor local media and seek advice from your tour operator in case of possible travel disruption. For further information see CONRED, Guatemala's disaster agency (in Spanish).

This section has safety advice for regions of Guatemala. It only covers regions where FCDO has specific advice.

You should also read FCDO's overall travel advice and safety and security advice.

Borders with Mexico, Honduras, El Salvador and Belize

FCDO advises against all but essential travel within 5km of the Mexican border from the Pacific Coast up to and including the Gracias a Dios crossing. Due to increased and sustained gang-related violence along the Mexico-Guatemala border.

FCDO also advise against all but essential travel to the towns of Santa Ana Huista, San Antonio Huista and La Democracia in the department of Huehuetenango

Pay particular attention to your security in the border areas with Mexico, Honduras, El Salvador and Belize.

Take care near the Belize-Guatemala border because of the ongoing dispute between the 2 countries. Use only officially recognised border crossings.

Ixchiguan and Tajumulco

There is a risk of violence crime in the municipalities of Ixchiguan and Tajumulco in the department of San Marcos. Get advice from PROATUR, Guatemala's tourist assistance service (see Getting help) if you plan to travel to these areas, including whether it is safe to climb the Tajumulco volcano.

Roads around Sololá, Panajachel and Lake Atitlán

PROATUR (see Getting help) gives advice on which routes to take when travelling in and around Sololá, Panajachel and Lake Atitlán. Avoid the Godinez bypass between Guatemala City and Panajachel (passing through Patzún). Use the Pan American Highway to Sololá instead. Also avoid the road between Cocales (Suchitepequez) and San Lucas Toliman (Atitlán) if possible. 

Boat services between towns on the shore of Lake Atitlán may be a safer alternative.

Before you travel check that:

• your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
• you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical number

Call 122 or 123 and ask for an ambulance.

Contact your insurance company promptly if you're referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Vaccinations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip check:

• the latest information on vaccinations and health risks in TravelHealthPro's Guatelmala guide
• where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

Altitude sickness is a risk in parts of Guatemala. Read more about altitude sickness on TravelHealthPro.

Medication

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro.

The NHS has information on whether you can take your medicine abroad.

You cannot use British-issued prescriptions in Guatemala. To find a pharmacy ('farmacia') look for one of the big national chains such as Meykos, Cruz Verde or Carolina y H. 

Healthcare facilities in Guatemala

FCDO has a list of English-speaking doctors in Guatemala.

There is also guidance on healthcare if you're living in Guatemala.

COVID-19 healthcare in Guatemala 

If you think you have COVID-19, seek medical advice and check Guatemala government COVID-19 information and advice (in Spanish). Also see the Guatemalan Ministry of Health (in Spanish).

See information on testing facilities (in Spanish) from the Guatemala government.

Travel and mental health

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro.

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel.

Emergency services in Guatemala

Fire and Ambulance: 122 or 123

Police: 110 

PROATUR, Guatemala tourist assistance

PROATUR, Guatemala's tourist assistance service, provides 24-hour emergency assistance and routine guidance to tourists (call centre staff speak English and Spanish). Telephone: +502 2290 2810 or 1500 (inside Guatemala). Fax: +502 2421 2891.

Contact your travel provider and insurer

Contact your travel provider and your insurer if you are involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do.

Refunds and changes to travel

For refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually require you to talk to your travel provider first.

Find out more about changing or cancelling travel plans, including:

• where to get advice if you are in a dispute with a provider
• how to access previous versions of travel advice to support a claim

Support from FCDO

FCDO has guidance on staying safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including:

• finding English-speaking lawyers, funeral directors and translators and interpreters in Guatemala
• dealing with a death in Guatemala
• being arrested or imprisoned in Guatemala
• getting help if you're a victim of crime
• what to do if you're in hospital
• if you're affected by a crisis, such as a terrorist attack

Contacting FCDO  

Help abroad   

See how to get help from the UK government abroad including in an emergency.  

Help in the UK   

You can call FCDO in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad.   

Telephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours)   

Find out about call charges 

Get travel advice updates   

Sign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.   

Follow and contact FCDO:  

• travel advice on X 

• travel advice on Facebook

Risk information for British companies

The Overseas Business Risk service offers information and advice for British companies operating overseas on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks.

Vaccinations

Title	Special Precautions
Yellow Fever	No*
Typhoid	Yes
Tetanus	Yes
Rabies	Sometimes
Malaria	Sometimes
Hepatitis A	Yes
Diphtheria	Sometimes

Overview:

There are both public and private medical facilities in Guatemala City, but state-run hospitals tend to be under-funded and can be unhygienic. Private clinics should be used where possible. Medical care outside of the capital is more limited. Comprehensive travel and medical insurance is strongly advised. Travellers should carry evidence of their insurance at all times, as doctors may be reluctant to treat them otherwise.

Vaccinations Note:

* A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required from travellers over one year of age coming from countries with infected areas.

Food Drink:

The tap water in Guatemala is not safe to drink and water used for drinking, brushing teeth or making ice should have first been boiled or otherwise sterilised. Bottled water is recommended. Milk may be unpasteurised and should be boiled. Powdered or tinned milk is advised. Avoid dairy products which are likely to have been made from unboiled milk. Only eat well-cooked meat and fish. Vegetables should be cooked and fruit peeled.

Other Risks:

The tap water in Guatemala is not safe to drink and water used for drinking, brushing teeth or making ice should have first been boiled or otherwise sterilised. Bottled water is recommended. Milk may be unpasteurised and should be boiled. Powdered or tinned milk is advised. Avoid dairy products which are likely to have been made from unboiled milk. Only eat well-cooked meat and fish. Vegetables should be cooked and fruit peeled.
Other risks: Vaccinations are sometimes advised for tuberculosis and hepatitis B. There is a risk of malaria in rural, lowland areas such as Alta Verapaz, Baja Verapaz, El Petén and San Marcos, and anti-malarial drugs should be considered. Take appropriate action to avoid getting bitten by mosquitoes, especially between dusk and dawn. Dengue fever is endemic in Guatemala, also contracted through mosquitoes. Affected areas include Escuintla, the Pacific coast towns, Zacapa and Petén. Rabies occurs; if you are bitten, seek medical advice without delay. There are also often outbreaks of cholera in the country, although this rarely affects travellers. Avoid touching animals as rabies is widespread, and in case of being bitten get medical help immediately.

Currency Information:

Quetzal (GTQ; symbol Q), named after the national bird of paradise. Notes are in denominations of Q200, 100, 50, 20, 10, 5 and 1. Coins are in denominations of Q1, and 50, 25, 10, 5 and 1 centavos. US dollars are widely used.

Credit Cards:

American Express and Visa are accepted, whilst Diners Club and MasterCard have a more limited acceptance. ATMs are common throughout the country.

ATMs:

ATMs are common throughout the country, although care should be taken as there are frequent scams and robberies. It is best to use ATMs inside banks and shopping centres.

Travellers Cheques:

Accepted by most banks and good hotels, although visitors may experience occasional problems. To avoid additional exchange rate charges, travellers are advised to take traveller's cheques in US Dollars.

Banking Hours:

Opening times vary, but generally Mon-Fri 0900-1900; Sat 0900-1300.

Currency Restrictions:

There are no restrictions on the import and export of either foreign or local currency in cash, objects and precious metals. However, amounts of over US$10,000 must be declared upon arrival and departure.

Currency Exchange:

The Quetzal is extremely difficult to obtain outside Guatemala or exchange after leaving Guatemala, and visitors are strongly advised to exchange local currency before departure. It may be difficult to negotiate notes which are torn. Unused local currency can be exchanged at the bank at the airport.

Currencies

Code	Symbol
GTQ	Q

Exchange Rates

7.89

9.38

7.54

Language

The official language is Spanish which is spoken by 60% of the population. There are also 23 officially recognised indigenous languages.

Overview:

Below are listed Public Holidays for the January 2014-December 2015 period.

.

List Of Public Holidays

Title	Start Date	To Be Confirmed
New Year's Day	2024-01-01 00:00:00	0
Good Friday	2024-03-29 00:00:00	0
Holy Saturday	2024-03-30 00:00:00	0
Easter Monday	2024-04-01 00:00:00	0
Labour Day	2024-05-01 00:00:00	0
Army Day	2024-06-30 00:00:00	0
Assumption	2024-08-15 00:00:00	0
Independence Day	2024-09-15 00:00:00	0
Revolution Day	2024-10-20 00:00:00	0
All Saint's Day	2024-11-01 00:00:00	0
Christmas Eve	2024-12-24 00:00:00	0
Christmas Day	2024-12-25 00:00:00	0
New Year's Eve	2024-12-31 00:00:00	0

Overview:

The following goods may be imported into Guatemala by travellers without incurring customs duty:

• 500g of tobacco in any form (18 years and older).
• 5L of alcoholic beverages (18 years and older).
• 2kg of confectionery.
• Gifts and goods other than luggage up to the value of US$500.

.

Banned Imports:

Special permits are required for some fresh foods like meat, fish, vegetables, fruit, dairy items and their byproducts, along with ammunition weapons, and certain chemical products.

You are not allowed to import pornographic media or literature.

Plants must be accompanied by phytosanitary certificates.

Telephone:

Most public phone booths accept phone cards, and internet cafes are offer the best value international calls. There are no area codes in Guatemala.

Mobile Telephone:

Roaming agreements exist with some international mobile phone companies. It is possible to buy cheap pay-as-you-go phones from local companies. The main ones are Tigo and Claro.

Internet:

The internet is widely available and Wi-Fi is common in tourist areas. Internet cafes can be found in even the smallest towns. Connection speeds to vary but in the main cities is usually fast and reliable.

Post

Regular airmail to Europe takes 10-14 days, and 7 days to the United States. Courier companies such as FedEx and DHL can be found in most cities.

Post Office Hours:

These vary but in major cities are generally between 0800 and 1700.

Media:

Guatemala has a free press and journalists openly criticise government policies. However, they may face intimidation because of their reporting, such as anonymous threats. Media is dominated by privately-run outlets. Four of the country's national TV channels share the same owner and have been accused of being pro-government. The main press publications include Diario Centroamérica, La Hora, El Periódico, Prensa Libre, Siglo Veintiuno and La Cronica. Central America Report is an English-language publication. Canal 3 Radio-TV Guatemala, Teleonce, Televisiete and Trecevisión are Guatemala’s main commercial television channels. La Voz de Guatemala is a government-owned radio station while Emisoras Unidas de Guatemala, Radio Continental, Radio Nuevo Mundo and Radio Panamericana are commercial stations.

Embark on a jungle adventure

Guatemala's great outdoors are easily accessible at Ixpanpajul Nature Park. This pocket of protected subtropical rainforest is ideal for hiking, biking, horse riding and even canopy touring. You may even encounter some of the park's many feathered inhabitants or a cheeky monkey or two cavorting in the canopy alongside you.

Discover Quetzaltenango

Known more commonly as Xela, the city of Quetzaltenango (Guatemala's second biggest) is ringed by three towering volcanoes and shelters a predominantly Mayan population. Use it as a base to discover nearby Mayan hamlets as well as for hikes to sacred lakes, sulphur pools and cloud forests.

Take to the water

Guatemala's waterways are ideal for adventurers: Río Dulce and Lakes Izabal and Atitlán are a windsurfer's paradise, with the latter also popular for altitude diving. Fast-moving rivers, such as El Cahabón, El Chiquibul, El Motagua, La Pasión and El Usamacinta, are ideal for boating and shooting rapids, while the Cahabón River near Semuc Champey is prime tubing territory.

Purchase local handicrafts

Survey superb craftsmanship throughout Guatemala at towns like Jocotenango (renowned for its ceramics) and San Antonio Aguascalientes (feted for textiles). Salamá is a good place to buy silver, clay and leather handicrafts, while Momostenango (City of Altars) is the place to go for traditional handwoven ponchos.

Travel the Río Dulce by boat

Take a boat trip from Livingston along the Río Dulce, which wends its way through steep cliffs, dense vegetation and lakes to Amatique Bay. Its waterways pass through mangroves, lagoons and the natural hot springs of the Chocón Machacas Biosphere. Keep an eye out for manatees splashing about as you float along.

Explore the highlands

Explore the unique highlands region of Western Guatemala (known in Spanish as El Altiplano), inhabited by the greatest number of modern-day, indigenous Mayan groups – many of whom still speak the languages and uphold the sacred rituals of their ancestors. Great mountain passes and unspoilt beauty bolster the region's appeal.

Get to know Guatemala City

Most travellers don't linger in Guatemala's sprawling, traffic-clogged capital. But if you can withstand the fumes and frenzy, there are some enticing hidden gems to uncover, including Parque Central (bordered by the National Palace and the Cathedral), the enormous relief map in Minerva Park, and the city's wonderful art and archaeology museums, specifically the National Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology.

Walk the cobblestone streets of Flores

Flores, situated on an island in the middle of Lake Peten Itza, is used as the main gateway to Tikal, but the tiny town is well worth visiting in its own right. A jumble of red-roofed buildings, which houses bountiful craft shops and cafés, it is the perfect place to enjoy sunset over the lake.

Climb Mayan pyramids

Guatemala's most famous archaeological site, Tikal, is hidden deep within the rainforest where 70m (230ft) high pyramids poke through the canopy. Once home to an estimated 100,000 Maya, the UNESCO World Heritage Site contains more than 3,000 structures including temples and palaces as well as many species of wildlife, among them monkeys, anteaters and tapirs.

Careen through the jungle

Thrill-seekers can get their kicks with a canopy tour, which involves flying through the jungle via a series of cables. Guatemala's rainforests are the perfect place to try this adrenaline-inducing activity and there are various opportunities for canopy tours around Antigua and Tikal.

Lounge on black sands at Monterrico

Escape to the Pacific Coast's Monterrico, which offers remote black sand beaches and a laidback atmosphere. Spot sea turtles nesting on the volcanic sand and arrange to get involved with release programmes arranged by conservation organisations. Horse riding along the beach, visiting the mangrove swamps and learning Spanish are other popular activities in this region.

Enjoy Caribbean costal living

Livingston is a colourful, lively town on the Caribbean coast and exudes all the charm of its Garifuna residents. It can only be reached by boat along the Río Dulce, giving it an isolated, island feel. Thatched cabins, hammocks and rustic beachside bars and restaurants serve traditional, hearty cuisine and belt out music with a hip-swaying beat.

Hike an active volcano

Despite a series of recent eruptions, the highly active Volcan Pacaya is still one of the most hiked volcanoes in the country. Red hot molten lava slowly pours down the summit and huge dust and lava fields create an impressive landscape. The volcano can be hiked in an afternoon with an organised tour from nearby Antigua.

See the shimmering Lake Atitlán

One of the world's most ancient lakes, the glistening surface of Lake Atitlán is framed by three volcanoes: Tolimán, Atitlán and San Pedro. Go waterskiing, swimming, boating or scuba-diving and visit some of the small towns and villages that dot the shore, such as the bohemian San Pedro de la Laguna and the Mayan Panajachel.

Swim in the turquoise pools of Semuc Champey

Semuc Champey Natural Park is one of Guatemala's most pristine beauty spots. Turquoise pools and waterfalls cascade down to a 300m (984 ft) limestone bridge, under which passes the Cahabón River, and activities include caving, tubing and hiking amidst the unspoilt jungle in the heart of Lanquín.

Shop for souvenirs at Chichicastenango Market

This mountaintop Mayan town is most famous for its colourful market. On Thursdays and Sundays, indigenous vendors pile into the main plaza and adjacent streets to sell handicrafts, textiles, food, flowers, pottery, medicinal plants, animals and household and farming items. It provides a wonderful insight into the local culture.

Wander colonial Antigua

Take a trip to the former capital, Antigua, with its colonial buildings, huge central square and lively festivals. Despite the damage wrought by countless earthquakes, floods and fires, Antigua remains one of the country's most beautiful cities where multi-coloured, single-storey buildings, tropical gardens, plazas, fountains and cobbled streets create a postcard-perfect image.

Overview

For those in search of crafts and local products Guatemala has some of the best shopping in Central America. Markets are best for local products and are as much a sightseeing experience as a shopping one. The Central Market and Craft Market in Guatemala City, the market in Quetzaltenango, and the famous Chichicastenango market (twice weekly) are the best places to find traditional, authentic crafts and meet local artisans. The slightly bohemian, Mayan villages around Lake Atitlan are also a good place to find souvenirs and local handicrafts, as are the street vendors in Antigua and Panajachel.

Craft-making in Guatemala has a long heritage and different styles and designs are produced in different regions. Textiles tend to show these regional differences the most clearly and the ornately decorated, brightly colours weaves make for superb purchases.

There is so much to choose from that it is difficult to decide what to buy, but there are wonderful colourful textiles, Mayan jewellery, jade and wood carvings, leather goods, hammocks, blankets, ceramics and basketry. Ceramics can be purchased cheaply in many places including Villa de Chinautla, San Luis Jilotepeque and Rabinal. Cobán is the cheapest place to buy silverware.

Bargaining is necessary in the markets or anywhere where prices aren’t fixed, and this should be done in a light-hearted and respectful manner. Vendors expect to haggle, so start at half the asking price and work up to an agreed price from there.

Modern shopping malls can be found throughout the country, and many have international chain shops and restaurants. Guatemala City contains many modern shopping centres. Gran Centro Comercial Los Proceres, Galerias La Pradera, Plaza Cemaco and Geminis International Mall are all located in Zone 10. Other malls include Tikal Futura, Peri-Roosevelt Shopping Mall and the Century Shopping Centre.

Opening Hours

Mon-Sat 0930-1930. Malls are also open on Sunday.

Overview

Guatemala’s cuisine tends to have distinctive regional variations. Many of the dishes have descended from Mayan ancestry combined with Spanish and Mexican influences. The country’s cuisine relies on the core staples of corn tortillas, black beans and white rice, which are generally served alongside meat and fish, although soups and stews also feature heavily in the local diet.

All dishes tend to include some meat, which makes life tough for vegetarians, but fish and seafood are found in coastal regions. Many dishes are spicy thanks to the fiery chillies, which are found in most kitchens.

Popular drinks include fruit juices and beer. Despite producing some of the world’s best coffee, it’s hard to get a decent cup; most of the good stuff is exported and local coffee tends to be served weak and sweet. Guatemalan rum, however, ranks among the best in the world.

Regional Specialities

Tipping

10% is normal in restaurants where service has not been included.

Drinking Age

18.

Hotels

Hotel standards, prices and facilities vary considerably throughout the country, but in general tend to be of good quality, especially in the tourist areas. There are many first-class hotels in Guatemala City, and Antigua also has a good selection of smaller, boutique hotels which offer high quality services and excellent restaurants and bars.

However, the majority of the country’s hotels are small to mid-sized establishments that are comfortable and welcoming even if not brimming with mod-cons. Chichicastenango, Cobán, Panajachel (near Lake Atitlán), Puerto Barrios and Quetzaltenango have a reasonable selection of this type of hotel Elsewhere accommodation tends to be a bit more limited and rustic, although prices do reflect this. Registered hotels are required to display room rates.

Camping Caravaning

There are a few campsites dotted around the country but facilities are usually basic. A popular excursion is to stay overnight in camping grounds on the still active Pacaya volcano to see the glow of the ashes and lava from the volcano's eruptions. Around Lake Atitlán, camping is permitted only in designated areas. Camping is not recommended due to safety issues.

Other

History

Guatemala is steeped in Mayan history and many aspects of the ancient civilization have endured to this day. The Mayans were dominant through much of Central America from 2000 BC until the 15th century AD when the Europeans arrived.

The region was soon conquered by Spanish conquistador, Pedro de Alvarado, in 1524. It wasn’t until the early 19th century however, that the Spanish conceded independence to their American colonies, principally Mexico, into which Guatemala was briefly incorporated in 1822.

Guatemala enjoyed comparative stability, punctuated by brief periods of upheaval, under a series of dictators who were content to keep the country under a quasi-feudal regime underpinned by a small clique of land-owning families.

The government of Colonel Arbenz Guzman attempted various land reforms in the early 1950s, but was overthrown by a US-backed invasion led by military opponents. The country then slid into a state of almost perpetual civil war between a series of right-wing military governments and various leftist guerrilla movements.

Guatemala’s successful transition from military to civilian government began in 1985, when the new constitution was put into effect. The centre-right Partido Democracia Cristiana Guatemalteca (PDCG) formed the majority party in the new National Congress, staying in control until 1995 when they came up against serious challenges from the Plan por el Adelantamiento Nacional (National Advance Party, PAN), and the Frente Republicano – Guatemalteco (FRG).

A period of political musical chairs ended in 1995 with a FRG/PDCG coalition in control. Only then did the government admit that its predecessors, especially the Rios Montt regime, were responsible for massive human rights abuses. A UN-sponsored investigation concluded in 1999 that the army was responsible for 90% of the estimated 200,000 killings thaty occurred during the conflict. Efrain Rios Montt is currently standing trial for genocide.

The complicity of American governments in the counter-insurgency campaign was also highlighted, and drew an apology from US president Bill Clinton. In recent years, Guatemalan politics has continued to be plagued by scandal, and in 2015, former President Otto Pérez Molina was forced to resign after evidence surfaced of his involvement in a customs corruption ring.

Widespread distrust of the political establishment led to the election of former TV comedian and first-time politician Jimmy Morale, who has promised to stamp out corruption. Just how he will go about that remains unclear.

Did you know?
• The name Guatemala is derived from an Indian phrase meaning ‘land of trees’.
• Though Spanish is the official language, it isn’t the only one: there are at least 21 Mayan languages, a couple of non-Mayan indigenous languages and Garifuna, which is spoken by communities on the Caribbean coast.
• Despite its relatively small size, Guatemala is home to 33 volcanoes.

Religion

About 60% of the population are Catholic. Most of the remaining population are Protestant with a smaller percentage of the population having indigenous Mayan beliefs. Some indigenous communities hold services combining Catholicism with pre-Columbian rites.

Social Conventions

Guatemala is the most populated of the Central American republics and is the only one which is predominantly Indian, although the Spanish have had a strong influence on the way of life. Full names should be used when addressing acquaintances, particularly in business. Dress is conservative and casual wear is suitable except in the smartest dining rooms and clubs.

Photography: Locals are often suspicious of foreigners taking photographs, particularly of young children. Before approaching children for photos, or even just to talk to them, you should check with an an adult that this is acceptable. However, if you are in any doubt, refrain from doing so. You may be asked to pay a small amount of money to take photographs of both children and adults.

Best Time To Visit:

Guatemala’s weather is eternally comfortable: neither too hot nor too cold. Its seasons tend to be divided into the dry season and the wet season, although the temperature,which averages 22°C (72°F) across the country, varies more according to altitude than by season. November through to April is the dry season and in the mountainous central region (Guatemala City, Antigua, Lake Atitlan, Chichicastenango, Cobán and the highlands) it is an ideal climate for outdoor pursuits with average temperatures of 18°C (64°F). It also coincides with the festivals of Semana Santa, Day of the Dead, the Burning of the Devil and the Saint Thomas festival in Chichicastenango.

The rainy season runs from May to October which can hinder travel in more remote areas where roads are not well maintained, with Petén receiving the most amount of rainfall. In higher climes, near the centre of the country, the rainy season, running from May to September, is characterised by clear skies after abundant rainfall in the afternoons and evenings. This means that travel during this time can be extremely pleasant, with less crowds and cooler temperatures. Temperatures can fall sharply at night.

The coastal regions and the northeast are hot throughout the year with an average temperature of 20°C (68°F) sometimes rising to as much as 37°C (99°F), although the Pacific coast has more unpredictable weather and rain is possible year round.

The busiest time of the year for tourism is between December and May when the dry season and festivals mean that much of the accommodation can be booked long in advance (especially in Antigua during Semana Santa). This is also a popular time for language learning and many North Americans come to study in the schools in towns such as Antigua and Xela.

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Required Clothing

Lightweight clothing. Jacket or light woollens for the evening. Waterproof jacket during rainy season. Hiking boots for outdoor activities.

Dialing Code:

+502

Area(sq km):

108889

Population:

17.915.568

Population Density(per sq km):

137

Population Year:

2020

EU Member:

No

Main emergency number

1500