Guatemala travel tips for first timers: what to know

Guatemala is often called the “Land of Eternal Spring,” thanks to its year-round mild climate. It’s home to more than 30 volcanoes (some still active), one of the most scenic lakes anywhere—Lake Atitlán—and ancient ruins like Tikal, one of the largest Mayan cities ever uncovered. It’s easy to see why so many people are drawn to this part of Central America. If you’re planning a trip, here are some practical Guatemala travel tips to help you make the most of it.

When is the best time to visit Guatemala?

The dry season runs from November to April, and that’s when it’s easiest to get around and see things. You’ll get warm days—around 77°F (25°C) on average—and very little rain. It's one of the best times to visit Guatemala. Great time for hiking, checking out ruins, or just wandering around towns like Antigua. December through February usually has the steadiest weather, but those months also tend to be the busiest—especially around the holidays.

If you’re trying to avoid crowds, November and April are good bets. You’ll still get decent weather, and it’s usually a little quieter. From May through October, it rains more—mostly in the afternoons—but the countryside is greener and fewer travelers are around. Just try to plan hikes and outdoor stuff for the morning, and bring a rain jacket. August and September see the most rain and the occasional storm, but honestly, Guatemala’s climate stays pretty comfortable—it just depends on what kind of experience you want.

Is Guatemala expensive?

Not really. Compared to other countries in the region, it’s one of the more affordable ones to travel in. Costs go up in more touristy places like Antigua or around parts of Lake Atitlán, but overall, you can do a lot during your Guatemala itinerary without spending much.

• Budget travel ($20–$80 / Q150–Q600 per day): That gets you a dorm bed or basic guesthouse, meals at markets or small local diners (called comedores), chicken buses for transport, and a few simple activities.
• Mid-range ($80–$230 / Q600–Q1800 per day): With this, you’re looking at private rooms in small hotels or boutique places, meals at regular restaurants, shared shuttles between towns, and entry to more attractions or tours.
• Luxury ($230–$480+ / Q1800+ per day): You’ll have access to upscale stays, nicer restaurants, private drivers or car rentals, and bigger experiences—like guided hikes or a helicopter ride over the volcanoes.

Prices vary depending on where you are, and bargaining is part of the culture in markets and with some services. Just keep it respectful—rounding up a few quetzals won’t matter much to you, but it can mean a lot to someone working locally.

Is Guatemala safe for travelers?

About 1.8 million people visit Guatemala each year, and most trips go off without a hitch. Still, crime is something to be aware of—some areas are riskier than others, and travelers aren't always exempt.

You don’t need to be paranoid, but it’s smart to be selective about where you go. Places like the San Marcos and Huehuetenango departments, Zone 18 in Guatemala City, and Villa Nueva are known for higher crime levels. If they’re not on your must-see list, it’s best to avoid them.

If you're hiking, go with a guide. Some trails have seen thefts, even popular ones, so it’s safer to have someone local with you. They’ll know what routes are fine and which ones to skip.

Guatemala travel tip: Lake Atitlán draws a lot of travelers, especially hikers. It’s worth visiting, but take a bit of care—stick with certified guides and use chartered boats when moving between villages. Some of the public docks and paths aren’t great if you’re unfamiliar with the area.

Plenty of people travel around Guatemala without running into trouble. Just use your judgment, get a guide when it makes sense, and try to stay on well-used routes.

You can also check the latest travel updates from the UK government or the US Department of State before your trip.

Practical safety tips include:

• Don’t flash valuables—especially in crowded places
• Use ATMs during the day and preferably inside banks or malls
• Skip street taxis—use registered cabs or rideshare apps
• Travel between cities during the day
• Keep documents safe and back up digital copies
• Register with your embassy or consulate in case anything comes up

Understanding Guatemala's laws

Laws in Guatemala might be a bit different from what you're used to. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Drugs: Possession of any illegal drugs—even small amounts—can lead to long prison sentences.
• Artifacts: Don’t take or buy Mayan artifacts. It’s illegal to trade or remove them.
• Behavior: Public drunkenness or causing a scene can get you detained.

Guatemala has anti-discrimination laws that cover sexual orientation and gender identity, but in rural or more conservative places, attitudes can still vary. In bigger cities, you’ll find more openness, but outside those areas, it’s sometimes safer to keep a low profile.
 

Do you need a visa for Guatemala?

For most people, no visa is needed if you’re just visiting for a short stay. Travelers from the U.S., Canada, the UK, most European countries, Australia, and several others can enter with just a valid passport—as long as it doesn’t expire for at least six months after your trip ends. When you arrive, you’ll get a stamp that allows you to stay up to 90 days.

Guatemala is part of the CA-4 agreement, along with El Salvador, Honduras, and Nicaragua. So that 90-day limit applies to the whole region. If you enter any of those countries, your time starts from that first entry, and it doesn’t reset when you cross into the next one.

Staying longer

If you decide you want to stick around past the 90 days, you can apply for a one-time extension. It gives you up to another 90 days, but you’ll need to take care of it before your original stay runs out. The process goes through Guatemala’s immigration office (Dirección General de Migración) in Guatemala City, and you’ll need to bring some paperwork and pay a fee.

Guatemala travel tip: Planning to stay longer-term? There are visas for things like studying, retiring, or working remotely. These take a bit more effort with proof of income, school enrollment, or local sponsorship depending on the type—but it’s manageable if you know what to expect. Just make sure to start early and have your documents in order.
 

How to stay healthy while traveling in Guatemala

You don’t need to stress too much about getting sick in Guatemala, but there are a few basic things that help. First, don’t drink the tap water. Use bottled or filtered water instead—even for brushing your teeth. Skip the ice unless you know it’s made from purified water.

Street food can be great if you’re careful. Stick to places where the food is hot and cooked in front of you, and avoid anything that’s been sitting out. Fruit is usually fine if it’s something you can peel yourself. Try to avoid raw vegetables, since they’re often rinsed in tap water.

Guatemala’s elevation changes a lot from place to place. Guatemala City and Antigua sit around 4,900–5,250 feet (1,500–1,600 meters), but some areas in the highlands go over 9,800 feet (3,000 meters). If you’re heading somewhere higher up, give yourself a day or two to adjust. Drink water, take it easy, and pay attention if you start feeling off—things like headaches or nausea can be signs of altitude sickness.

Pharmacies and medical care

Pharmacies (farmacias) are easy to find, especially in cities and tourist-heavy areas. You’ll see big chains like Farmacias Carolina or Farmacias Batres, which tend to have more consistent products. A lot of medications that need a prescription elsewhere are sold over the counter here, but quality can vary depending on where you go.

Healthcare also depends on where you are. In places like Guatemala City or Antigua, private clinics and hospitals are generally reliable for everyday issues, and you’ll often find staff who speak English. Centro Médico in the capital and Hospital Privado in Antigua are two of the better-known private hospitals. That said, for anything serious or complex, you might need to be evacuated to a country with more advanced care.

Travel insurance that covers medical treatment and evacuation is a must. It’s also a good idea to have the number for your embassy or consulate in case you need help finding a doctor. 

Guatemala travel tip: For emergencies, dial 911 or 1500 (that’s ASISTUR, the tourist support line) from a local phone.

Are there any vaccinations needed for Guatemala?

You won’t be asked for any vaccinations at the border, but there are a few you should consider before your trip:

• Routine vaccines like MMR, tetanus, flu, etc.—make sure you're up to date
• Hepatitis A—a common one to get through food or water
• Typhoid—especially useful if you’ll be eating street food or heading to smaller towns
• Hepatitis B—recommended if you might get a tattoo, see a doctor, or have new sexual partners
• Rabies—worth considering if you’ll be spending time around animals or doing lots of outdoor stuff
• Yellow fever—only required if you’re arriving from a country where it’s present

Food and water safety

Water and food are the most common things that trip people up. Tap water isn’t safe to drink anywhere in the country, so stick to bottled or filtered water—even for teeth brushing or ice.

Food-wise, the general rule is if it’s cooked hot, freshly made, or something you can peel yourself, you’re usually good to go. Street food is fine if you choose stalls that are busy and turning over food fast. Locals are a good sign. Dishes like pepián, kak'ik, and tamales are usually cooked long and hot, so they’re lower risk.

Things like fresh salsas, salads, or unpeeled fruits are riskier unless you’re confident they’ve been prepped safely. Produce is great in Guatemala, but unless you wash it yourself with purified water, it’s better to skip anything raw. Stick with pasteurized dairy, and be cautious with seafood—especially inland, where it may not be as fresh.
 

Cultural etiquette to know before visiting Guatemala

Guatemala’s culture is shaped by both Indigenous Maya traditions and Spanish colonial influence, so it helps to know a few basics before you go. People generally appreciate formality and good manners—using titles like "Señor" or "Señora" goes a long way, and it’s polite to greet people with "Buenos días," "tardes," or "noches" when you enter a room, shop, or restaurant.

Photography is a sensitive issue in many Indigenous communities. Always ask before taking someone’s photo—especially children. Some people believe photos can capture part of the spirit, and in the past, there were real fears around child trafficking. In certain areas, especially around traditional markets or villages, you might be asked to pay a small fee to take pictures.

Dress tends to be more modest, especially outside tourist hubs. Antigua might be more relaxed, but in rural villages or at churches, it’s respectful to cover shoulders and knees. That’s especially important for women traveling solo or visiting traditional communities.

Guatemala travel tip: If you're invited into someone’s home, bring a small gift like chocolate or flowers, and be ready to take your shoes off at the door. During meals, keep your hands above the table, try a bit of everything, and say "Buen provecho" before you start eating. If there’s a toast, the word is Salud.
 

Is Guatemala a good destination for families?

Guatemala can be a great choice for families. It’s the kind of place where kids stay engaged—there’s a lot to see, do, and learn. The mix of history, nature, and hands-on activities makes it easy to build a trip that’s both fun and interesting for different ages.

Obviously, you’ll have to take a few extra precautions with your children. Dealing with the sticky tropical heat of Petén is likely to be one of the biggest difficulties, but elsewhere humidity is much less of a problem.

As young children are rarely enthralled by either modern highland or ancient Maya culture, you may want to plan some excursions: the giant Xocomíl water park, the Parque Xetulul theme park and Auto Safari Chapín make great days out for kids. The Museo de los Niños and Aurora Zoo in Guatemala City are a lot of fun too. Take extra care if you head for the Pacific beaches, as they are known for having a strong undertow (see our pick of Guatemala's best beaches).

Where to stay and getting around

There are plenty of places that work well for families, from hotels with pools to house rentals. Some areas in Guatemala are better suited for families than others, especially if you want access to nature, cultural activities, and basic comforts. Antigua is a good base—it’s walkable, easy to navigate with kids, and has a relaxed pace. There are plenty of cafes, parks, and open spaces where kids can burn off energy.

Around Lake Atitlán, the villages vary a lot. Panajachel has more shops and restaurants, while San Marcos and San Juan are quieter and better for downtime.

Getting around with children takes a bit of planning. Private shuttles are the most comfortable and reliable way to move between cities, especially if you're carrying a lot of gear or want to avoid the unpredictability of public buses. In Antigua, you can get around on foot or take short tuk-tuk rides. Around Lake Atitlán, small boats (called lanchas) connect villages. They're a practical way to travel—and often a highlight for kids.

Guatemala travel tip: Car seats aren’t widely available, even in private transport. If you’re traveling with a baby or toddler, it’s best to bring your own. Some hotels can help arrange childcare, but you’ll want to request that in advance.
 

Essentials for parents

Packing well can make all the difference when you’re traveling with kids in Guatemala. The sun is strong, especially at higher elevations, so make sure you bring high-SPF sunscreen, wide-brimmed hats, and sun-protective clothing. For jungle areas like Tikal or Semuc Champey, bring insect repellent with 20–30% DEET.

You’ll want to pack any medication you think you might need, including kids’ pain relievers, anti-diarrheals, and oral rehydration salts. It’s also a good idea to bring a small first aid kit with band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and tweezers. Tap water isn’t safe to drink, so pack refillable bottles with filters to cut down on single-use plastic and keep everyone hydrated.

Guatemala travel tip: For babies, you’ll find baby milk and disposable nappies (diapers) are widely available in supermarkets and pharmacies; take an extra stock if you’re visiting really remote areas.

What are the best places to visit in Guatemala?

There are truly so many places to visit in Guatemala. You’ll find volcano hikes, highland lakes, Mayan ruins, Caribbean beaches, and bustling cities.

Cities

Guatemala’s cities each have their own character.

• Antigua (La Antigua Guatemala): Antigua is an easy place to settle into, with cobblestone streets, volcano views, and old colonial buildings all around. You’ll find churches like La Merced, and the Santa Catalina Arch, which you’ll probably walk under a dozen times without trying.
• Guatemala City (Nueva Guatemala de la Asunción): Guatemala City is worth visiting even though it is big and a little chaotic. Zone 1 has historic buildings like the Metropolitan Cathedral and National Palace. Zone 10 is more modern, with restaurants, bars, and hotels. If you're interested in archaeology or Mayan history, the Popol Vuh Museum and the National Museum of Archaeology are both worth a stop.
• Quetzaltenango (Xela): Xela is up in the western highlands, surrounded by mountains and volcanoes. It’s not a big tourist draw, which makes it a good place to get a feel for everyday life in Guatemala. People come here to learn Spanish, hike in the surrounding mountains, and hang out for a while.

Beaches and islands

Guatemala’s beaches are mostly on the Pacific coast, where the sand is dark and the waves are strong. These areas are more laid-back and less developed than in some neighboring countries. On the Caribbean side, beaches near Livingston are smaller and calmer.

• Monterrico: This beach on the Pacific coast has dark volcanic sand and strong waves—not the best for swimming, but good for relaxing. Just be careful walking barefoot; the sand gets extremely hot during the day. From June to December, you might see sea turtle hatchlings being released into the ocean at the conservation center.
• Livingston: You can only get to Livingston by boat, which makes it feel a little removed from the rest of the country. The culture here is shaped by the Garifuna community, with African, indigenous, and Caribbean influences. The beaches right in town are fine, but it’s worth heading to Playa Quehueche or hiking out to Siete Altares, where you’ll find seven small waterfalls and pools surrounded by forest.
• Playa Blanca: Playa Blanca is about an hour by boat from Livingston. It’s privately maintained, so there’s a small fee to access it, but it’s a clean, quiet beach with white sand and calm water. Coconut palms line the beach, and there’s plenty of shade if you bring a hammock or just want to rest.

Nature and adventure

Guatemala’s landscape includes lakes, mountains, volcanoes, caves, and rainforest. Many natural areas are used for hiking, swimming, or guided tours, which are some of the best things to do in Guatemala.

• Lake Atitlán (Lago de Atitlán): Lake Atitlán sits in a deep basin surrounded by volcanoes and small Maya towns. Each one has its own feel—San Pedro’s popular with backpackers, San Marcos is more about yoga and wellness, and Santiago Atitlán gives you a sense of everyday life in the highlands. If you’re up for an early start, the Indian Nose sunrise hike has wide views over the lake and mountains. Or take a kayak out in the morning while the water’s still calm.
• Semuc Champey: Getting to Semuc Champey takes time—it’s about a six-hour trip from Antigua—but what you find is a series of clear limestone pools above a river, surrounded by jungle. The trail to the El Mirador viewpoint takes about 30 minutes and gives you a full view of the pools from above. Afterward, it’s easy to spend a couple of hours swimming and relaxing.
• Tikal National Park: Tikal is in the northern lowlands of Petén, surrounded by thick rainforest. The ruins are spread out, and some of the temples rise above the treetops. Climbing Temple IV before sunrise gives you a wide view across the canopy, and you’ll probably hear howler monkeys in the distance. The main plaza has two facing temples and great acoustics—clapping in the center creates an echo that sounds a bit like a bird call. 

Historic and religious sites

Guatemala has many archaeological sites and religious landmarks. Maya ruins are found across the country, ranging from large complexes to smaller ceremonial sites still in use. Colonial-era churches and public buildings are common in towns and cities. Some locations combine Catholic and Maya traditions.

• Tikal: Tikal is one of the biggest and oldest Maya cities, and even if you’ve already seen other ruins, this one stands out. It was a major city for more than a thousand years, and many of the temples are still climbable. Temple IV is the tallest, at around 230 feet (70 meters), and has a wide view over the surrounding jungle.
• Chichicastenango Market and Church (Santo Tomás): Chichicastenango’s market is held every Thursday and Sunday and spreads out from the white church of Santo Tomás, which is over 400 years old. You’ll see a mix of Maya and Catholic traditions here—shamans performing rituals on the steps with incense and candles, while mass is going on inside.
• Iximché: Iximché is about a 90-minute drive from Antigua or Lake Atitlán and makes for a manageable day trip. The site was the last capital of the Kaqchikel Maya before the Spanish arrived. It has a few plazas, ball courts, and pyramid structures, and it’s still used today for ceremonial gatherings.
• Yaxhá: Yaxhá doesn’t get as much attention as Tikal, but it’s still one of the larger Maya sites, with tall temples, stelae, and quiet forest paths. It’s set between two lagoons, and if you climb Temple 216 at the end of the day, you’ll get a wide view over the jungle and water. Nearby Topoxté sits on a small island you can reach by boat—it’s quiet and often empty, so you can take your time walking around. 

How long to spend in Guatemala?

How many days to spend in Guatemala? If it’s your first time in Guatemala, try to give yourself 10 to 14 days. That’s usually enough to get a good feel for the country—Antigua, Lake Atitlán, and Tikal are all doable without feeling like you’re rushing from place to place. You’ll be able to explore a few different regions, like the central highlands, the lakeside villages, and the jungle in the north.

Things move a little slower here, and that’s part of the appeal. Guatemalans often refer to la hora chapina—basically, local time runs on a looser schedule. It’s not about ticking off a list; it’s about giving yourself space to really experience each place. Leaving extra time in your itinerary lets you be more spontaneous and makes the whole trip feel more grounded.

If you only have a week long Guatemala itinerary, focus on one area. A loop through Antigua, Lake Atitlán, and maybe a quick trip to Chichicastenango keeps things manageable. You’ll get a mix of history, markets, and mountain views without spending all day in transit.

Trying to squeeze too much into a short trip usually backfires. The roads are winding and slow, especially in the highlands, and even short distances can take longer than expected. More time on the move means less time actually enjoying where you are.

What’s the best way to plan a Guatemala itinerary?

How to plan a trip to Guatemala? You’ll want to start with a rough list of the places you want to see. You don’t need to plan out every detail—just get clear on your priorities. Think about how places connect on the map.

For example, Antigua and Lake Atitlán are a good pair since they’re only about 3 hours apart. Tikal’s up north and takes more effort to reach, so it’s worth building around. Pick two or three things you’re really excited about, then shape the rest of your route around them.
 

Plan your trip timeline

A common route starts in Antigua. It’s a good place to adjust to the altitude and get used to the pace, with enough to do that you won’t feel like you’re waiting around. After that, Lake Atitlán makes sense—it’s scenic, with a bunch of small towns you can explore by boat. If you’ve got more time, think about heading to Semuc Champey for swimming or making the trip up to the ruins at Tikal and Yaxhá. This way, you gradually move from cities and culture to nature and jungle and avoid doubling back too much.

Factor in travel time

Getting around takes longer than you might think. The terrain is mountainous, and the roads are full of curves, so even short distances can be slow. Tourist shuttles—usually shared minivans—run between most major destinations like Antigua, Lake Atitlán, Semuc Champey, and Flores (near Tikal). 

These usually pick you up at your hotel, but don’t expect short rides. Antigua to Lake Atitlán can take 3 to 4 hours, Semuc Champey can be an 8- to 10-hour drive, and getting to Flores is a long haul too—more than 8 hours by road, or about an hour by plane from Guatemala City.

Can I drive in Guatemala?

Driving yourself is doable, but it’s not for everyone. Renting a car gives you flexibility, especially if you’re heading to more remote areas or want to stop at random roadside places. The main highways between major destinations are in decent shape, and having a car makes it easier to go at your own pace.

That said, there are things to watch out for. In rural areas, road signs are limited, and maps aren’t always reliable. Traffic in Guatemala City can be overwhelming, and mountain roads often have sharp curves, steep drop-offs, and occasional landslides during Guatemala's rainy season. Some areas aren’t considered safe to drive through, especially at night, so it’s important to stay informed and plan carefully.

Book essentials first

Start with your flights. You’ll fly into La Aurora International Airport (GUA) in Guatemala City. From the U.S., direct flights from cities like Miami, Houston, Dallas, Los Angeles, and Atlanta usually take around 2 to 4 hours. 

If you’re coming from Europe, you’ll probably need to transfer in the U.S. or Panama. Book flights about 3 to 6 months ahead for the best rates, especially if you’re planning to travel between December and February.

When it comes to accommodation, it depends on when and where you’re going. In Antigua and Lake Atitlán, the good places fill up quickly during the holidays. 

Guatemala travel tip: Around Christmas, New Year’s, and Semana Santa (Holy Week), it’s smart to book 2 to 3 months in advance. If you’re traveling during the off-season or going to less crowded places, a few weeks’ notice is usually fine.
 

How to slow travel in Guatemala?

If you want to take your time and get to know Guatemala beyond the usual sightseeing, it makes sense to slow things down. Instead of hopping around the country, choose one area and stay for at least a week.

Lake Atitlán works well for this—you can stay in one village and take boat rides to visit others nearby. Each one has its own feel, and it’s easy to explore at your own pace.

A lot of places across Guatemala support this kind of travel. You’ll find eco-lodges and community-run stays in different regions.

Guatemala travel tip: If you want to connect more with local life, language schools in Antigua, Quetzaltenango, and around the lake often set up homestays.

Local experiences

There are plenty of ways to learn about local traditions while you’re here. Around Quetzaltenango and Lake Atitlán, you can join a backstrap weaving workshop run by Maya women. 

These small, hands-on classes give you some background on the meaning behind the colors and patterns, and then they teach you the weaving techniques themselves—methods that have been passed down for generations.

If you’re interested in local coffee, head to San Miguel Escobar near Antigua. There’s a local cooperative where farmers lead tours of their coffee process. 

You’ll walk with them through the fields, help with sorting or roasting depending on the season, and learn how they handle everything from bean to cup. At the end, there’s usually a tasting session where you can try different roasts grown right there in the highlands—some farms sit at elevations over 5,000 feet (1,500 meters).
 

How to handle money and payments in Guatemala?

Guatemala’s currency is the quetzal (GTQ), named after the national bird. You’ll sometimes be able to use US dollars in touristy areas, but for most things—like buses, markets, or small local restaurants—you’ll need quetzales.

ATMs (look for “cajeros automáticos”) are easy to find in cities and tourist towns, and they usually give you a better exchange rate than currency booths or hotels. Use machines inside banks or shopping centers during the day for extra security. Credit cards work at many hotels and restaurants, but it’s common to be charged an extra 3–5% if you pay by card.

Carrying a bit of backup cash in US dollars can also help in case your card doesn’t work or an ATM is out of service. If you need to change money, banks are usually your best bet.

Tipping isn’t a big deal here, but people do appreciate it. At restaurants, 10% is standard if it’s not already included in the bill. For guides, Q30–40 (about $4–5) per person per day is typical. Hotel staff usually get Q5–10 (around $0.65–1.30) per bag or for housekeeping

What are the most common scams?

There aren’t a ton of scams, but it’s good to know what to watch out for. At land borders, some unofficial “helpers” might approach you and say they can speed things up—for a fee. You don’t need them. The process is pretty straightforward, and there’s no extra charge for doing it yourself.

At tourist sites, you might meet people claiming to be guides. They’re not always legit, and they might charge too much or give you bad info. If you want a guide, it’s better to arrange one through your hotel or someone reliable.

ATM scams do happen, so use machines inside banks or malls, and check for anything that looks off—like loose parts around the card slot or keypad. Be cautious if a stranger invites you out for drinks or food and seems too eager. It’s sometimes a setup to overcharge you, or worse, mess with your drink.

Guatemala travel tip: In markets, double-check items before you buy. Occasionally, vendors will swap out what you picked for something of lower quality while wrapping it.

How to travel responsibly and ethically in Guatemala?

Traveling responsibly in Guatemala mostly means thinking about where your money goes and how your actions affect the communities and environment around you. Try to stay in locally owned places (see our guide to Guatemala accommodation), eat at small family-run restaurants, and book tours with guides from the area. That way, the money you spend actually helps the people who live there.

In San Juan La Laguna, for example, you can visit weaving collectives where women use traditional techniques and sell their work directly. In Antigua, the Chocolate Museum is a fun way to learn something and support fair pay for local producers.

When it comes to nature, try to leave things as you found them. In rural areas, waste disposal systems can be limited, so bring a reusable water bottle and avoid single-use plastics.

Respect also matters in cultural spaces. Ask before taking photos of people or religious sites. Many Indigenous communities are open to visitors, but some have customs or rules about ceremonies and sacred places.

You can also look for community-run tourism projects. These include homestays in San Juan La Laguna, tours with Maya guides in Chichicastenango, and visits to the Women’s Weaving Cooperative in Santiago Atitlán. These experiences are often more meaningful, and the money goes straight to the families involved.
 

What food should I try in Guatemala?

You could spend a weeklong Guatemala itinerary eating Guatemalan food. It is rooted in Mayan traditions, shaped over time by Spanish colonization. You’ll see a lot of familiar ingredients—corn, beans, chilies, and squash—but the way they’re used is distinct. Most meals come with freshly made corn tortillas, and while it’s not usually spicy, the flavors run deep thanks to herbs, seeds, and slow cooking.

• Pepián (Central Highlands): This is one of the country’s most traditional dishes. It’s a thick stew made with chicken, pork, or beef in a sauce that comes from roasted tomatoes, tomatillos, sesame and pumpkin seeds, and dried chilies. It takes time to make—there can be 20 or more ingredients—but the result is a rich, earthy flavor. 
• Kak'ik (Alta Verapaz): This turkey soup is originally from the Q’eqchi’ Maya region. The broth is bright red from annatto seeds and includes ingredients like tomato, tomatillo, cilantro, Cobanero chili, and mint. It’s not fiery, but it does have a bit of heat. You’ll usually get it with rice and small tamales wrapped in banana leaves. 
• Tamales Colorados (Nationwide): These are made with corn masa and filled with meat—usually chicken or pork—and a red sauce. They’re steamed in banana leaves and often topped with sliced peppers or olives. 
• Tamales Negros (Nationwide): These are usually saved for Christmas or special events. They’re made with a dark, mole-like sauce that includes chocolate and dried fruit, and are often filled with meat, raisins, almonds, or prunes. They lean a bit sweet and feel more festive than everyday tamales.
• Fiambre (Nationwide): Fiambre is only eaten once a year, on November 1st for All Saints’ Day. It’s a cold salad that can include dozens of ingredients—meats, cheeses, pickled vegetables, herbs, and more. Every family has their own version, and making it is often a group effort. 
• Paches (Quetzaltenango): These are potato-based tamales from the western highlands. Instead of corn, they use mashed potatoes and usually include a similar filling to other tamales. The word “pache” refers to their flattened shape.
   

Do I need a SIM card in Guatemala? How do I stay connected?

Staying connected is pretty simple in Guatemala. If your phone supports eSIMs, you can set one up before your trip. Apps like Airalo, Holafly, or Maya Mobile let you buy data plans that work through local networks like Tigo and Claro. It’s a convenient choice for shorter trips.

If you’d rather use a physical SIM, you can get one after you land—either at the airport or from an official carrier store. These can be a better deal for longer stays and often include local calls. It’s best to stick with branded stores instead of buying from market stalls or kiosks to avoid issues.

Wi-Fi is common in most tourist areas—especially in Antigua, Lake Atitlán, and parts of Guatemala City—but speeds can vary once you’re outside those places. Before you go, it’s smart to download offline tools like Google Maps or Maps.me. 
Most locals use WhatsApp for messaging and calls, so having it ready helps with making reservations or staying in touch.

Navigating the local transportation system

Getting around Guatemala can be an experience in itself, especially once you get the hang of it. You’ll see brightly painted “chicken buses” just about everywhere—these are old U.S. school buses that now serve as local transport. They're cheap and run between towns and villages all over the country. They can get pretty crowded, and pickpocketing sometimes happens, so keep your valuables close, sit near the front if you can, and avoid taking them at night.

For short trips within towns, tuk-tuks (those small, three-wheeled vehicles) are your easiest option. They usually fit one to three people and cost anywhere from Q5 to Q20 depending on how far you're going. Drivers often give higher prices to tourists, so it’s worth agreeing on the fare before you get in.

When you’re traveling between places like Antigua, Lake Atitlán, and Tikal, shared shuttles are a convenient in-between. These vans usually pick you up right from your hotel and are less chaotic than the chicken buses. Companies like Atitrans and Adrenalina Tours tend to run on time and keep things relatively organized.

Guatemala travel tip: If you want to make sure your money stays in the local economy, look for transportation companies that hire people from the area. 

Hiking volcanoes in Guatemala

Hiking Guatemala’s volcanoes is a memorable experience, but it takes a bit of planning. There are more than 30 volcanoes in the country.

Altitude is something to take seriously. Hiking Acatenango means reaching nearly 13,000 feet (about 4,000 meters), so plan to stay a day or two in Antigua—around 4,900 feet (1,500 meters)—before heading up. Drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol the night before, and don’t rush the climb. If you feel a headache, dizziness, or nausea, it’s best to head back down.

Weather is another thing to keep in mind. You’ll probably be warm during the day, but after sunset, temperatures on the summit can drop below 32°F (0°C). Bring layers—start with thermal underwear, add a fleece or warm mid-layer, and finish with something waterproof. You’ll also want a hat, gloves, and a decent sleeping bag if you're camping.

You don’t need to be an athlete, but some physical prep helps. Regular walking or cardio in the weeks before you go makes the hike more manageable. Eat energy-dense snacks along the way—don’t wait until you’re wiped out. The altitude will tire you faster than you expect.

Guatemala travel tip: Pack light, but don’t skip the essentials: a headlamp with extra batteries, hiking poles (you can usually rent them), proper hiking boots with ankle support, and a small first aid kit.