Written by:undefined undefined
Published: 28-03-2023
Guatemala is the Maya heart of Central America. Home to ancient historical sites and incredible ruins, dense jungles, colorful architecture, lively markets, and towering volcanos, Guatemala is a diverse and beautiful country ripe for budget travel. The rugged mountains and jungles offer adventurous travelers a chance to get off the beaten path and explore pristine landscapes for a fraction of what you would pay elsewhere in the world. And the ruins are underrated and a must-see for history buffs, including the impressive Tikal, an ancient Maya city, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about travel to Guatemala.
Guatemalan Volcanos
Should I bring cash or bank cards?
Cash is the easiest to exchange and many tourist places accept US dollars in addition to the Guatemalan Quetzal. Credit or debit cards are also easy to use at most establishments for larger amounts (Visa, MasterCard, and American Express). Be sure to check with your bank prior to your departure to inform them that you will be using your card in a foreign country. Traveler’s checks are less efficient and may take extra time and documentation to use.
Are ATMs available?
Yes. There are ATMs in the main cities such as Guatemala City, Villa Nueva, and Antigua. We recommend using the ones located inside some hotels, stores, restaurants, or banks. Be cautious as some thieves may watch these machines and target tourists and others who take out large amounts of cash. Consult with your guide for safety recommendations on ATMs or exchanging money.
Guatemalan Currency
What will the weather be like?
Being a tropical country, Guatemala has both wet and dry seasons. Some regions get year-round rain, while others are dry and sunny for most of the year. Generally speaking, the rainy season is May through October and the dry season is November to April, although the Atlantic coast is less predictable with possible rain year-round. The rainforest of the Petén area gets the most rainfall, with rainy days well into November. Depending on elevation, rather than seasons, temperatures will vary: the coastal areas are hot all year (can reach 100°F during the day), whereas the highlands will present cool temperatures at night and on overcast days any time of the year. Expect frost at higher elevations (above 11,500ft), but nice 70°F during the day if it’s sunny. The best time to visit Guatemala weather-wise is December and January, with clear skies and lush vegetation, although traveling either near the end or the beginning of the rainy season will help avoid large crowds of visitors.
Rainy Guatemalan Mountains
Do I need any vaccinations?
No vaccinations are required for travel to Guatemala from the USA or Canada to Guatemala. Hepatitis A, Measles, Tetanus, and Typhoid vaccines are recommended but not required. Yellow fever vaccinations are required if arriving from some countries in South America or Sub-Saharan Africa. See the CDC website for details.
What language is spoken in Guatemala?
The official language in Guatemala is Spanish
Is English spoken in Guatemala?
English is spoken in most tourist destinations however, it is not commonly spoken outside of that.
What currency is used in Guatemala?
The official currency of Guatemala is the quetzal (Q). US Dollars are accepted in most places but be sure to have local currency on hand.
Guatemalan Currency
Do I need a visa to travel to Guatemala?
A visa is not required when traveling as a tourist from Canada and the United States for up to 90 days. Passports are required to have 6 months of validity from the date of entry.
Is there transportation within Guatemala?
The main forms of local transportation within Guatemala include buses, tuk-tuks, taxis, and shuttle mini-buses.
Guatemalan Bus
Is Guatemala a family-friendly destination?
Guatemala is a great destination for a family and the tourist-centric areas are well accustomed to interacting with families. Guatemalans are a friendly and welcoming community willing to share with their guests their customs and traditions.
My children are food "fussy", are there special menus for children?
Most of the restaurants and hotels have kids' menus. Guatemala is child-friendly, everywhere you will find something to eat for your children, if not ask the waiter they will do something special for your little ones.
Guatemalan Sweets
How welcoming is Guatemala to LGBTQ travelers and families?
In Guatemala, non-commercial, private same-sex sexual activity is legal but there are no laws protecting it from discrimination or harassment. Guatemala City and Antigua are the two best places to find LGBTQ bars and parties. It is recommended to use discretion, especially in more rural areas.
Electricity
In Guatemala, the common voltage is 120 V. The standard frequency is 60 Hz. The power plugs and sockets are A / B type
Tipping
Tipping is expected in some places such as restaurants. 10% is common and is sometimes automatically added to the bill in tourist areas so it is recommended to check your bill before paying. Tipping is also common for hotel staff like doormen and housekeeping. Tour guides do not expect tips but it is appreciated.
Tips Jar
What happens if I have a food allergy?
Please inform us about allergies and food restrictions. All hotels and restaurants have options for any dietary restrictions and cater for special dietary requirements.
Are we provided with safe drinking water?
We provide 2 bottles of purified water daily in the vehicle. All the hotels have bottled water or filter in the rooms or corridors. We recommend bringing reusable water bottles to fill up as needed.
What happens in the event of a medical emergency?
We will call an ambulance and bring the injured to the nearest hospital or medical facility. Please remember it is vitally important to have comprehensive travel insurance.
Guatemalan Clinic
How much should I bring for non-included meals?
How much money to bring to Guatemala, of course, depends on how much you like to shop! To give an idea of general prices bear the following in mind: Breakfast is always included on our tours, Lunch $15-$18, Dinner $15-$20, Expensive Dinner $30-$40, Beer $3 - $4, Wine $4 - $6 per glass. Bottle of Wine $20 & upwards.
Semuc Champey
If you have a question about travel to Guatemala that doesn't appear here, please feel free to contact us at Va Expeditions, here!
