B+

Tourist Popularity

Hotels

Family Friendly

Single Friendly

B-

Senior Friendly

C+

LGBTQ+ Friendly

B+

Weather

B-

Recreation

B-

Nightlife

Restaurants

Crime

InternationalTravel.ai > Guatemala

Guatemala

Coastal Beaches

Best Season to Visit: Winter

Best Off-Peak Month to Visit: May

Famous For: Mayan ruins, Colorful textiles, Coffee

Train Access: No

Bus Service: Yes (Transurbano, Rebuli, Transportes Unidos Quetzal, relatively safe)

Tourist Visa: Citizens from the United States, Canada, and most European countries do not require a visa for stays up to 90 days for tourism purposes. Travelers from other countries may need to apply for a visa in advance, with the process varying by nationality.

Guatemala is a vibrant country brimming with rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and an array of sensory experiences. Travelers to Guatemala can explore ancient Mayan ruins, such as the world-famous Tikal, nestled in the lush rainforest. The colonial city of Antigua, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, enchants visitors with its cobblestone streets, colorful architecture, and the backdrop of imposing volcanoes. For those interested in indigenous cultures, the market at Chichicastenango offers a kaleidoscope of traditional textiles and handicrafts. Lake Atitlán, surrounded by volcanoes and quaint villages, provides a serene setting for kayaking, hiking, and immersing in local Tz'utujil and Kaqchikel communities. Guatemalan cuisine is a feast for the palate, with dishes like pepián (spicy stew) and tamales, best enjoyed in local comedores. Coffee plantations open their doors for tours and tastings, showcasing the country's rich coffee culture. Adventurers can scale volcanic peaks, zip-line through cloud forests, or explore the natural limestone pools of Semuc Champey. Guatemala also hosts unique events, such as the colorful Semana Santa (Holy Week) processions, and the Day of the Dead kite festivals in Santiago Sacatepéquez and Sumpango.

VRBO Vacation Rentals
Learn More

With over 2 million bookable vacation rentals, Vrbo connects homeowners with families and vacationers looking for something more than a hotel for their trip. The Vrbo community offers families an array of rental property types such as condos, cabins, lake rentals, beach houses, and more. Discover properties in destinations that everyone dreams of visiting.

VRBO Vacation Rentals

Podcasts

Episode 8: Jake Barber - The Expat Finance Expert Returns

Jake Barber, the Founder and CEO of SJB Global, is a life-long expat and an expert in expat finance. Over the course of Expat Exchange's nearly 30 years online, there are few people we have met with as much lived experience and professional acumen as Jake. We were thrilled to welcome him back to the show and look forward to having him on again!

Episode 6: Jake Barber - Expat Finance Expert and Lifelong Expat

Jake Barber is an expat finance expert and the founder and principal of SJB Global. A lifelong expat currently living in Marbella, Spain, Jake has vast experience helping expats from the United States, the United Kingdom, and other countries manage their finances while living abroad. Get a primer on what you need to know both before and after you move abroad!

Planning Your Trip to Guatemala

Weather: Guatemala features a tropical climate with both a wet and dry season. The highlands have a temperate climate, while the coastal areas and lowlands are typically hot and humid. The rainy season runs from May to October, with the dry season from November to April. Temperature variations are more dependent on altitude than on the time of year.

Festivals: The Semana Santa celebrations in Antigua Guatemala are renowned for their elaborate religious processions and intricate alfombras (carpets) made of colored sawdust.

Best Destinations for Kids: The Ixpanpajul Natural Park offers canopy tours and nature trails that are perfect for families, while the interactive exhibits at the Children's Museum in Guatemala City provide educational fun for kids.

Hidden Gem: The Verapaces region, with its lush cloud forests, caves, and the tranquil Biotopo del Quetzal, is a hidden gem for nature lovers and those seeking off-the-beaten-path adventures.

Budget-Friendly Advice: Guatemala is a budget-friendly destination where travelers can enjoy a rich experience without breaking the bank. Hostels and guesthouses offer accommodations starting at $10 per night, while street food and local markets provide delicious meals for $3-$5. Transportation by chicken bus is an affordable way to travel between cities, typically costing less than $5 for shorter distances. Attractions like the Pacaya Volcano offer guided hikes for around $10, and many natural wonders, such as the beaches of Monterrico, are free to enjoy. By choosing local guides and family-run establishments, visitors can have an authentic experience while supporting the community.

Accessibility: Guatemala's rugged terrain and lack of infrastructure can make it challenging for older travelers to navigate, especially in more remote areas. Public transport options are limited and may not be equipped for those with mobility issues.

For the Solo Traveler: Solo travel in Guatemala can be a rewarding experience, but it requires caution and preparation. While many travelers explore Guatemala without incident, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in tourist areas and at night. It's recommended to learn basic Spanish, as English is not widely spoken outside of major tourist destinations. Solo travelers should use registered taxis or reputable transportation services, and it's advisable to join group tours for activities like h

Planning a 1 Week Stay: A week in Guatemala could include exploring the colonial charm of Antigua, climbing Pacaya Volcano, visiting the Mayan ruins of Tikal, and unwinding by the serene Lake Atitlán.

Planning a 1 Month Stay: For a month-long trip, immerse yourself in the diverse landscapes of Guatemala, from the volcanic highlands to the Caribbean coast, and engage with local communities to learn about Mayan traditions and crafts.

Delving into the Culture

Movies Set: The New Adventures of Tarzan, El Norte

Popular Foods: One of the most popular dishes in Guatemala is Pepian, a rich and hearty stew that combines meat, vegetables, and a blend of spices. Another favorite is Kak'ik, a traditional Mayan turkey soup seasoned with coriander, achiote, and chili peppers. For dessert, Guatemalans enjoy Rellenitos, which are plantains stuffed with sweetened black beans and fried, and Tres Leches Cake, a moist cake soaked in three kinds of milk.

Unusual Eats: One unusual food enjoyed in Guatemala is Iguana, which is often cooked in stews. Another is Caldo de Frutas de Mar, a seafood soup that includes a variety of sea creatures, some of which may be unfamiliar and strange to visitors.

Popular Sports: football (soccer), basketball, baseball

Popular Teams: CSD Municipal (football), Comunicaciones FC (football), CSD Xelajú MC (football)

Cultural Faux Pas to Avoid: When greeting someone in Guatemala, it is considered rude to not return a greeting or to ignore someone who is speaking to you. Additionally, pointing with your fingers is considered impolite; instead, Guatemalans often gesture with their lips or chin. It's also important to be punctual for business meetings, but social events may have a more relaxed approach to time.