A tranquil landscape at sunrise or sunset with a prominent mountain peak, surrounded by forests, mist, and foreground yellow wildflowers.

A Destination Travel Guide for

Guatemala

  • Language

    Spanish

  • Power

    120V, Plug A/B

  • Sim Card

    Airalo eSIM

  • Currency

    1 USD = 7.8 GTQ

Introduction

Guatemala, a country of timeless allure, lies in the heart of Central America, captivating travelers with its rich indigenous culture, dramatic volcanic landscapes, and ancient Mayan ruins. Known for its colorful markets, lush rainforests, and colonial cities, Guatemala offers a tapestry of experiences that blend the mystical past with vibrant present-day traditions. From the charming streets of Antigua to the sacred peaks of its majestic volcanoes, every corner of Guatemala tells a story.

What to See

In Guatemala, the essence of Mesoamerica comes alive. Visitors can marvel at the well-preserved Mayan sites, wander through cobblestone streets lined with colonial architecture, and immerse in the vibrant customs and traditions of its indigenous communities. The country’s natural beauty, from the highlands to the Pacific coast, is as diverse as its cultural heritage, offering breathtaking vistas and a chance to connect with nature in its purest form.

NomadFavorites

  • El Convento Hotel, Antigua Guatemala

    Antigua

    Colonial Charm and Cultural Richness

    Antigua, a UNESCO World Heritage site, enchants with its colonial architecture, vibrant street life, and panoramic views of surrounding volcanoes.

  • This image depicts a serene lakeside scene with colorful flowers in the foreground and a majestic volcano shrouded in clouds in the backdrop at sunset.

    Lake Atítlan

    A Serene Volcanic Lake

    Lake Atitlan, surrounded by volcanic peaks and indigenous villages, is a place of profound natural beauty and cultural significance.

  • A volcano erupts at night, spewing lava and ash into the sky, with a glowing red flow down its slopes against a dark blue backdrop.

    Acatenango

    A Hiker’s Volcanic Adventure

    Acatenango Volcano offers a challenging hike with rewarding views, overlooking the active Fuego Volcano and the stunning landscape below.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Guatemala is during the dry season, from November to April. This period is ideal for exploring the ancient ruins, hiking the volcanoes, and enjoying cultural festivals in comfortable weather.

The wet season, from May to October, though marked by rain, especially in the afternoons, brings a lush, green vibrancy to the landscapes. It’s also a less crowded time, offering a more authentic experience and the chance to see the countryside in its most verdant state.

Costs

Guatemala is known for being budget-friendly. With an average daily expense of around $30-50, budget travelers can enjoy comfortable backpacker hostels, taste delicious local dishes, and experience vibrant markets and historical sites. Guatemala’s natural beauty, like the hiking trails and lakeshores, offers endless, low-cost exploration opportunities.

Mid-range travelers can delve into Guatemala’s wonders with a budget of about $60-100 per day. This allows for stays in charming boutique hotels or eco-lodges, dining experiences that range from traditional Guatemalan cuisine to international flavors, and participation in enriching activities like guided tours of Antigua or boat trips on Lake Atitlan. This budget also facilitates deeper cultural immersion, such as participating in traditional cooking classes or textile weaving workshops.

Photos

  • A tranquil landscape at sunrise or sunset with a prominent mountain peak, surrounded by forests, mist, and foreground yellow wildflowers.
  • A breathtaking sunrise with golden hues breaking through a dense, cloud-filled sky above a silhouette of a mountain range and forested area in the foreground.
  • An archaic stone stairway with a person ascending, adorned with vibrant red flowers above. Sunshine illuminates the scene, suggesting a warm, historic setting.
  • A person is mid-jump on a cobblestone street beside a yellow wall, near a classic red car, under a bright blue sky.
  • Two tall palm trees frame a view of a majestic volcano with a cloud-laden summit, while birds and pigeons populate the foreground in a serene plaza.
  • This image depicts a serene lakeside scene with colorful flowers in the foreground and a majestic volcano shrouded in clouds in the backdrop at sunset.
  • An ornate stone fountain, adorned with fresh flowers, cascades water amidst lush greenery under a bright, sunny sky in a serene park setting.
  • A vibrant floral arrangement bursts with color around a window grille, atop a white pedestal. Below, a smaller bouquet complements the display against peach walls.
  • A panoramic view of a tranquil lake surrounded by mountains with a village in the foreground, under a partly cloudy sky at what appears to be dusk.
  • El Convento Hotel, Antigua Guatemala
  • Cafe Estudio, Antigua Guatemala