The Basics
Country: Guatemala
Where is it?: Central America, bordering the North Pacific Ocean, between El Salvador and Mexico, and bordering the Gulf of Honduras (Caribbean Sea) between Honduras and Belize
Why do people go here?: Natural wonders and ruins are the main attractions here. Beautiful, untouched beauty blends with historic, crumbling ruins.
What are the main entry points?: Long bus rides or trains will get you there, but flying is a more common option
Currency used: Quetzal (GTQ), US dollar (USD), others allowed
Country Code: 502
Area codes for Major Cities: Guatemala City 2, Antigua 9
Religion: Roman Catholic, Protestant, indigenous Mayan beliefs
Population: 14 million
Ethnic Breakdown: Mestizo (mixed Amerindian-Spanish or assimilated Amerindian – in local Spanish called Ladino), approximately 55%, Amerindian or predominantly Amerindian, approximately 43%, whites and others 2%
Government: Presidential Republic
Languages: Spanish 60%, Amerindian languages 40% (23 officially recognized Amerindian languages, including Quiche, Cakchiquel, Kekchi, Mam, Garifuna, and Xinca)
Travel Information
Major Cities: Guatemala
Attractions: Mayan Ruins, Volcanoes, Nature
Accommodation: Guatemala Hostels, Guatemala Hotels
Tourism Office locations and links: Guatemala Chamber of Commerce 10a Calle 3-80, zona 1 Guatemala City, Guatemala +502-2-5478
Health Issues: A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required from travellers over 1 year of age coming from countries with infected areas. Malaria risk exists throughout the year below 1500 m. Chloroquine is recommended.
Tips for Visiting
When to go: Wet season = cheaper prices. Dry season = lots of travelers and increased prices. November and May are the shoulder months.
Specific Events/Holidays: Independence Day, 15 September (1821)
Getting Around: Buses are cheap and plentiful, but boats are the only way to get to some areas of the country
Good to know: Guatemala City is more unsafe than other parts of the country
Cheapest airport to fly into: The cheapest airports to fly into Guatemala are the Guatemala City Airport and the Flores Airport.
Need more information?: Check out the Guatemala travel guide for more on what to see, where to stay, and how to get there.
