Citizens of the US, Canada, EU, UK, Australia, and many other countries do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days. Check with the nearest Guatemalan embassy.

What currency is used?

The Quetzal (GTQ), but US dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas.

Is tap water safe to drink?

No. Stick to bottled or filtered water, and avoid ice unless made from purified water.

What language do they speak?

Spanish is official; 21 Mayan languages are also spoken, including K’iche’ and Kaqchikel.

Exercise caution due to crime. Tourist hubs are relatively safe if you follow local advice, avoid night travel, and use trusted transportation.

What is the best way to get around?

Chicken buses for budget travel, tourist shuttles for convenience, private drivers for flexibility. Uber and taxis work in cities.

What vaccines are recommended?

Hepatitis A, typhoid, and routine vaccines. Yellow fever not required unless coming from an endemic country. Consider malaria prophylaxis for rural Petén.

Can I climb a volcano?

Yes, popular hikes include Pacaya, Acatenango, and Tajumulco. Always go with a guide for safety.

What is the altitude of Antigua?

About 1,530 meters (5,020 feet). Altitude sickness can affect some; take it easy on arrival.

How much should I tip?

10% in restaurants if service not included. Tip guides, drivers, and hotel staff with small amounts.

Is there internet access?

WiFi is common in hotels and cafes. 4G coverage is good in cities and tourist spots. Local SIM cards are cheap.

What plug type is used?

Type A and B (same as US), 120V. Bring a universal adapter if needed.

What language is spoken?

Spanish is official; many indigenous languages like K'iche' and Kaqchikel are spoken. English is common in tourist zones.

Is Guatemala safe for solo travelers?

Yes, but take precautions: avoid walking alone at night, use registered transport, and stay in reputable areas.

What is the best way to get from the airport to Antigua?

Pre-book a shuttle (about $15-20) or take an Uber (around $25-30). Avoid unlicensed taxis.

10% in restaurants is standard. Tip guides and drivers small amounts.

Light clothing for lowlands, warm layers for highlands, rain jacket, sturdy shoes, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a reusable water bottle.

Can I use my credit card?

Yes in hotels, restaurants, and shops in cities. Cash is needed for markets and rural areas.

Are there any cultural taboos?

Avoid pointing with your finger; use your chin. Don't touch someone's head. Respect religious sites and ceremonies.

What is the electricity voltage?

120V, 60Hz. Same as US/Canada. Plugs are Type A and B.

Is it safe to hike volcanoes?

Yes, but hire a guide for active volcanoes like Pacaya. Check weather and bring adequate gear.

Guatemala

Guatemala, North America

Guatemala is a STATE in Guatemala, North America.

Guatemala captivates travelers with its breathtaking tapestry of ancient Mayan ruins, colonial charm, and dramatic volcanic landscapes. Explore the cobblestone streets of Antigua, a UNESCO World Heritage city framed by three towering volcanoes, where vibrant markets and pastel facades invite endless wandering. Venture to Lake Atitlán, ringed by indigenous Mayan villages and mirrored in crystal-clear waters under a cathedral of blue sky. In the north, the soaring pyramids of Tikal rise from the jungle, alive with howler monkey calls and toucan flights. Hikers can summit active Pacaya or Acatenango for a front-row seat to volcanic fireworks. The country’s rich indigenous culture thrives in colorful textiles, bustling highland markets like Chichicastenango, and centuries-old rituals. From the black-sand Pacific beaches to the lush Caribbean coast by Livingston, Guatemala’s diversity is staggering. Savor hearty street foods, rich coffee, and warm hospitality. Whether you’re a history buff, adventure seeker, or culture lover, Guatemala offers an unfiltered, profoundly authentic experience that lingers long after you leave.

Best time to visit Guatemala

The best time is the dry season (November to April), when sunny days and clear skies prevail, ideal for hiking volcanoes and exploring ruins. December to February sees pleasant temperatures and festive celebrations, with peak crowds during Christmas and Easter (Semana Santa). The rainy season (May to October) brings afternoon showers, lush landscapes, and fewer tourists; it’s still possible to travel, but some roads may be impassable. Prices are highest during the dry season and lowest in the wet months, except for the Semana Santa surge.

October

Now

Typical for October

Weather: Rains tapering 22-28°C, sunny intervals

Travel notes

Crowds: Low-Moderate
Prices: Low

End of wet season; great for photography

Know before you go

Getting there

GUA

La Aurora International Airport

International

0 km away

FRS

Mundo Maya International Airport

International

480 km away

AQB

Quetzaltenango Airport

Domestic

120 km away

Getting around

"Chicken buses (converted US school buses) are the cheapest and most authentic way to travel between towns, though crowded and slow. Tourist shuttles offer more comfort and direct routes between Antigua, Lake Atitlán, and other popular spots. Private drivers are affordable and flexible for groups. Domestic flights connect Guatemala City with Flores (for Tikal) and occasionally Quetzaltenango. Taxis are abundant in cities; use authorized services or Uber. In Antigua, walking or renting a bike is best. For Lake Atitlán, public lanchas (boats) shuttle between villages. Rent a car only if you’re confident navigating chaotic traffic and poor road conditions; 4WD is recommended for remote areas. Always agree on fares before starting a trip, and avoid night driving when possible."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

15 Mbps

Mobile data

Good

WiFi

Widely available in tourist towns and cities, but rural areas may have spotty coverage

Local SIM

Local SIM available at airport and shops from $3

Stay safe

Overall

6/10

Petty crime and occasional violent incidents reported; tourist areas have increased police presence but remain vigilant.

Night safety

5/10

Petty crime and occasional violent incidents reported; tourist areas have increased police presence but remain vigilant.

Transport

7/10

Scam risk

6/10

"Guatemala has high levels of petty and violent crime. In tourist areas like Antigua and Lake Atitlán, pickpocketing and bag snatching are the main risks. Avoid displaying valuables, and use hotel safes. Do not walk alone at night, especially in Guatemala City’s unsafe zones (zones 1, 3, 5, 6, 7, 8, 13, 18, 21). Use authorized taxis or ride-hailing apps like Uber in cities; avoid hailing cabs on the street. Chicken buses are economical but prone to robbery after dark; avoid night travel. Volcanic and seismic activity is common; heed local alerts. ATM scams and credit card fraud occur; use machines inside banks. Solo female travelers should exercise heightened caution. Scams include overcharging for tours or taxis; agree on prices beforehand. Despite risks, hundreds of thousands of tourists visit safely by staying alert and following local advice."

Police

110

Ambulance

128

Fire

122

Tourist Police

1500

Entry and health

Health information

"Tap water is not safe to drink; stick to bottled or filtered water. Mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue, Zika, and chikungunya are present; use repellent with DEET and sleep under nets in lowland areas. Malaria risk is low but exists in rural regions like Petén; consult a travel clinic about prophylaxis. Altitude sickness can affect visitors in Antigua (1,530 m) and the Western Highlands; ascend gradually and stay hydrated. Hepatitis A and typhoid vaccines are recommended; ensure routine vaccines are up to date. Traveler’s diarrhea is common; carry oral rehydration salts. Medical care in Guatemala City and Antigua is adequate for minor issues, but serious conditions may require evacuation; comprehensive travel insurance is essential. Prescription medications should be in original packaging, and a doctor’s note is advisable. Rabies risk exists from stray animals; avoid contact. Private hospitals offer good care but payment is expected upfront."

Culture

Local customs

"Greet with a handshake and a warm ‘buenos días/tardes/noches’. Dress modestly, especially in Mayan villages; avoid revealing clothing in markets and churches. Always ask permission before photographing indigenous people, particularly during ceremonies. Elders are highly respected; address them formally. Tipping 10% is standard in restaurants if service isn’t included. Bargaining is expected in markets, but remain polite. Punctuality is relaxed; ‘Guatemalan time’ often means 15–30 minutes late. Public displays of affection are fine in cities but conservative in rural areas. When invited to a home, bring a small gift. Avoid discussing the civil war or sensitive political topics. Learning a few words in a Mayan language, like Kaqchikel or K’iche’, is greatly appreciated. Remove shoes when entering a traditional home."

Spanish (official)Haitian CreoleEnglishSpanish

Costs and practicals

Cost level

Budget

Meals

$4-8 | a cheap local meal costs around $4-8

Hotels

$25-60 | budget hotels range $25-60/night

Local transport

$0.50 | local chicken bus ride ~$0.50

Cost notes

Guatemala is one of Central America’s most affordable countries; even luxury travel can be found at moderate prices.

Timezone

America/Guatemala
Local time 11:53

More facts

Population

3,500,000

ISO code

GT-07

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: Vil'ja-Nuehva, Vilja Nueva, Viljanueva, Villa Nueva, bi ya nu ai wa, wya nwywa gwatymala, Вилья-Нуэва, Вилянуева, ویا نویوا، گواتیمالا, 比亞努埃瓦, ጓቴማላ, غواتيمالا, Watimala, Qvatemala, Гватемала, Гватэмала, Gatemala, গুয়াতেমালা, གུ་ཝེ་ཐི་མ་ལ།, Gvatemala, ގުއަޓެމާލާ, Γουατεμάλα, Gvatemalo, گواتمالا, Gûatemala, Guatamala, Yn Ghuatemaley, גואטמלה, ग्वाटेमाला, Gwatemala, Գվատեմալա, グアテマラ, გვატემალა, ហ្គាតេម៉ាឡា, ಗ್ವಾಟೆಮಾಲ, 과테말라, Guatimalia, Goatemala, Kuatamāra, ഗ്വാട്ടിമാല, Гватемал, ग्वातेमाला, ဂွါတီမာလာနိုင်ငံ, Guatemara, Гватемалæ, ਗੁਆਤੇਮਾਲਾ, ګواتمالا, Tuatemala, IGwathamala, Guatémala, குவாத்தமாலா, Гуатемала, ประเทศกัวเตมาลา, Guwatemala, گۋاتېمالا, گوئٹے مالا, Gvatemän, Guwaatemala, גוואטעמאלע, Guatẹmálà, 危地马拉;危地馬拉;瓜地馬拉, جواتيمالا, گواتیمالا, Guatemaala, Kûa-thi-mâ-là, guatemal, Гватемале, Cuauhtēmallān, گویٹے مالا, Ґватемала, Gwatymala, Гватемалмудин Орн, 危地馬拉, 危地马拉, 危地馬拉;瓜地馬拉, Guwatemaala, 瓜地馬拉, Guatemalská republika, Republik Guatemala, República de Guatemala, Guatemalai Köztársaság, Республика Гватемала

Major HubHistoric CityVolcanoHikingCulturalLakeAdventureColonial ArchitectureIndigenous Culture