Republic of Guatemala
North America
Guatemala combines Mayan heritage, lush landscapes, and authentic culture in a
captivating Central American journey.
Regions of Republic of Guatemala
| Region | Top Cities (by Hotels) |
|---|---|
|
Baja Verapaz
Baja Verapaz is a central Guatemalan department known for its forests and wildlife reserves.
|
|
|
Chimaltenango
Chimaltenango is a Guatemalan department located in the highlands west of Guatemala City.
|
|
|
Escuintla
Escuintla is a coastal department in southern Guatemala, important for agriculture and industry.
|
|
|
Guatemala
Guatemala department surrounds Guatemala City, the nation's capital.
|
|
|
Huehuetenango
Huehuetenango is a large mountainous department in western Guatemala.
|
|
|
Izabal
Izabal is a department in eastern Guatemala bordering the Caribbean Sea.
|
|
|
Jalapa
Jalapa is a department in southeastern Guatemala, known for coffee production.
|
|
|
Peten
Peten is the largest department in Guatemala, home to extensive rainforests and Mayan ruins.
|
|
|
El Progreso
El Progreso is a small department in central Guatemala.
|
No cities found
|
|
Quiche
Quiche is a department in western Guatemala with significant Mayan population and heritage.
|
|
|
Quezaltenango
Quezaltenango is a department in western Guatemala, also known as Xela, a cultural center.
|
|
|
Sacatepequez
Sacatepequez surrounds the city of Antigua, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
|
|
|
San Marcos
San Marcos is a department in western Guatemala along the Pacific coast.
|
No cities found
|
|
Solola
Solola is a highland department in Guatemala around Lake Atitlan.
|
|
|
Suchitepequez
Suchitepequez is a department in southwestern Guatemala on the Pacific coast.
|
No cities found
|
|
Totonicapan
Totonicapan is a mountainous department in western Guatemala.
|
|
|
Zacapa
Zacapa is an eastern Guatemalan department bordering Honduras.
|
|
|
Alta Verapaz
Alta Verapaz is a department in northern Guatemala, with mountainous terrain and rich indigenous culture.
|
|
|
Chiquimula
Chiquimula is an eastern department of Guatemala, bordering Honduras.
|
|
|
Jutiapa
Jutiapa is a department in southeastern Guatemala, bordering El Salvador.
|
|
|
Retalhuleu
Retalhuleu is a southwestern Guatemalan department, with important archaeological sites.
|
|
|
Santa Rosa
Santa Rosa is a southeastern Guatemalan department.
|
Apraksts
Guatemala is a country of striking contrasts—ancient Mayan ruins, colonial cities, active volcanoes, and rich indigenous culture. From the vibrant markets of Chichicastenango to the serene beauty of Lake Atitlán and the historic depth of Tikal, Guatemala offers a deeply immersive experience. Its heritage blends centuries of history with colorful traditions and stunning natural landscapes.
Regions and Resorts
**Key Regions:**
- **Antigua Guatemala:** A UNESCO-listed colonial city with cobblestone streets, baroque architecture, and cultural festivals.
- **Lake Atitlán:** Surrounded by volcanoes and indigenous villages, ideal for relaxation, kayaking, and cultural immersion.
- **Petén:** Northern rainforest region, home to Tikal and other significant Mayan archaeological sites.
- **Guatemala City:** The capital offers museums, modern infrastructure, and access to surrounding regions.
- **Pacific Coast:** Black sand beaches and surf-friendly towns like Monterrico.
Each region caters to different interests—from history and hiking to beach and village life.
Climate
Guatemala has a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons:
- **Dry season:** November to April – ideal for travel.
- **Rainy season:** May to October – lush landscapes but frequent afternoon showers.
- **Temperature:** Varies by altitude.
- Highlands (Antigua, Lake Atitlán): 15–25°C year-round.
- Lowlands (Petén, coast): 25–35°C, humid.
Visa and Customs
- **Visa:** Visa-free for many countries up to 90 days.
- **Passport Validity:** At least 6 months.
- **Customs:** Restrictions on firearms, large amounts of cash, and agricultural products.
How to Get There
- **Main Airport:** La Aurora International Airport (GUA) in Guatemala City.
- **Flights:** Direct or one-stop connections from the U.S., Mexico, and parts of Latin America.
- **Land Crossings:** From Mexico, Belize, Honduras, and El Salvador.
Transport
**Transportation:**
- **Shuttles:** Common for tourists, especially between major sites.
- **Buses (Chicken Buses):** Colorful local transport, cheap but often crowded.
- **Taxis and ride-hailing:** Available in urban areas.
- **Domestic Flights:** To Petén (Flores) for Tikal access.
Car Rental
- **Requirements:** Valid driver’s license; international permit advised.
- **Roads:** Major highways are paved; rural roads can be rough.
- **Advice:** Use GPS or hire a local driver for remote travel.
- **Security:** Drive during daylight hours only.
Communication and Wi-Fi
- **Internet:** Available in hotels, cafes, and tourist areas.
- **SIM Cards:** Claro and Tigo are top providers; easy setup with passport.
- **Coverage:** Good in cities, limited in remote areas.
- **Wi-Fi:** Common in urban accommodations.
Viesnīcas
**Accommodation Options:**
- **Budget Hostels:** $10–30
- **Mid-Range Hotels:** $40–80
- **Boutique & Luxury:** $100–200+
Traditional guesthouses (posadas) offer local charm. Booking ahead is recommended in high season (Dec–April).
Money
- **Currency:** Guatemalan Quetzal (GTQ)
- **Cards:** Accepted in cities and major hotels.
- **Cash:** Essential in rural areas.
- **ATMs:** Widely available.
- **Budget Tips:** Street food and local buses are very affordable.
Useful Phone Numbers
- Emergency (Police, Fire, Ambulance): 110 / 122 / 123
- Tourist Police (Politur): +502 2290 2810
- U.S. Embassy: +502 2326 4000
Beaches
Guatemala’s Pacific coast offers volcanic black sand beaches like Monterrico and Sipacate. Not ideal for swimming due to strong currents but excellent for sunsets, sea turtle watching, and surfing.
Diving
Guatemala is not a major diving destination. Snorkeling and basic water activities are available at lakes and rivers, but nearby Belize is a better option for scuba enthusiasts.
Shopping
**Popular Purchases:**
- Handwoven textiles
- Jade jewelry
- Ceramics and wood carvings
- Coffee and chocolate
**Markets:**
- Chichicastenango (Thursdays and Sundays)
- Local markets in Antigua and Panajachel
Most shopping is cash-based; bargaining is common.
Cuisine and Restaurants
**Cuisine Highlights:**
- **Dishes:** Pepian, kak’ik, tamales, chiles rellenos.
- **Influences:** Indigenous and Spanish.
- **Where to Eat:**
- Local markets and comedores (cheap local diners)
- International and fusion restaurants in Antigua and Guatemala City
- Lakeside cafés around Atitlán
Top destinations from the country
El Salvador combines volcanic scenery, beaches, and cultural vibrancy in Central America.
Honduras combines Mayan heritage, Caribbean beaches, and untouched jungles—an adventurous escape with vibrant culture and nature.
Mexico blends ancient history, lively culture, and diverse landscapes, from beaches to deserts and urban centers.
Nicaragua features volcanic landscapes, colonial architecture, and vibrant culture for adventurous travelers.
The USA offers world-famous landmarks, natural wonders, and vibrant cultural experiences across its vast territory.
Explore Costa Rica’s lush rainforests, volcanic landscapes, and vibrant beaches, ideal for eco-tourists, families, and adventurers.
Panama features the iconic canal, lush rainforests, and a lively multicultural atmosphere.
None
