Guatemala Travel Essentials - 12 Things you should know before you go
1. Visa and Entry Requierments
Guatemala welcomes visitors from around the world. Most nationalities can enter visa-free for up to 90 days. Check the official government website for the latest information on visa requirements and entry regulations.
Please note that the 90 days are a C4 Visa which includes four countries: Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua and El Salvador. This Visa can be extended (online or in person) if needed.
2. Currency and Banking
The official currency is the Guatemalan Quetzal (GTQ). You probably won't be able to get any Quetzales before arriving in Guatemala. ATMs are widely available in urban areas and credit cards are accepted in major establisments. There can be quite a waiting time to get to an ATM or sometimes they don't have any money left, which is why I advise to have a few USD with you. Please not that most ATMs don't allow you to withdraw more than 200-250 USD. In many touristic places they'll charge you 5-10% fees for paying by card. Currency exchange is also available in many places, but be sure to check the exchange rate online before.
Fun fact: The Quetzal is Guatemalas national bird. This very colorful bird can be spotted at a minimum altitude of 1'600 meters over sea.
3. Local Transportation
Explore Guatemala's diverse landscape with various transportation options. While renting a car can be a solution, you need to ensure which roads are accessible and where you should be driving. The local transportation system works very well and I would suggest using them instead of renting a car. Public buses (often called Chicken-bus), tourist shuttles, taxi or UBER (in some places) are common. In between touristic places you'll easily find shuttles. Please consider that some of the roads seem to be short but due to their conditions the road might take a few hours more than you are used to.
Fun fact: One time we actually crossed a river on a cow transporter. This honestly was the only way to go futher as the river overfloaded the road and normal cars and shuttles weren't able to move anymore.
4. Safety Tips
When travelling it is always important to stay vigilant. Be cautious with valuables, especially in crowded areas. Check travel advisories and avoid risky areas. Using official tourist transportation and letting your hotel/hostel or airbnb know when you are travelling and when you should be arriving can be helpful.
While travelling over three months in Guatemala in no situation we felt unsecure or in any kind of danger. The people where increadibly helpful.
5. Health & Vaccinations
Ensure a healthy trip by checking recommended vaccinations before traveling to Guatemala. Up to today there are no obligatory vaccinations to enter the country but be sure to check this. Depending on the places you like to visite vaccinations or specific medicaments would be useful. Local pharmacies are available for minor health concerns. It is advisable to have travel insurance covering medical emergencies.
Based on multiple discussions with locals the medical service in Guatemala is one of the best in Central America.
6. Weather and Packing Tips
Guatemala experiences diverse climates. Coastal areas are warm year-round, while mountainous regions can be cooler. Pack accordingly, including comfortable clothing, hiking gear and essentials like sunscreen and insect repellent.
You might didn't think about going to the mountains but belive me you will. The beautiful colonial town of Antigua is at over 1'500 meters in altitude.
7. Language and communication
Spanish is the official language. While many locals in tourist areas may speak a little English, learning a few basic Spanish phrases will enhance your experience and interactions. In multiple situation with local guides you might won't understand anything if you don't speak Spanish.
Be aware that not everybody in Guatemala speaks Spanish. There are a total of 25 languages of which 22 are ancient Mayan languages.
8. Cultural Etiquette
Respect local customs and traditions. Greetings are important and a friendly "Buenos días" goes a long way. Dress modestly, especially when visting religious sites.
9. Must-Visit Places
There are endless things you can visit, but some places are a must when going to Guatemala.
The beauty of Antigua's colonial architecture, the ancient Mayan ruins of Tikal, the picturesque Lake Atitlán, the natural pools of Semuc Champey, and the fascinating activ volcanos "El Fuego" or "Pacaya".
More about some of the places to visit and a ideal itinerary can be find in my other Guide: "Ultimate Guatemala Adventure".
10. Local Cuisine
Savor the flavors of Guatemalan cuisine, featuring staples like tamales, pupuas, pépian, el desayuno typico and delicious street food. Don't miss out on trying the local cofee and chocolate. Especially the chocolate nibs tea is delicious and a real discovery.
11. Emergency Contacts
In case of emergencies, dial 110 for police assistance and 122 for medical emergencies. Locate the nearest embassy or consulate for your country and keep their information handy. Some countries have an official governement app where you can let them know you are at the moment in Guatemala.
12. Additional Resources
And finally enjoy Guatemala!
Instituto Guatemalteco de Turismo - INGUAT Guatemala
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