Guatemala

Between Mayan ruins at Tikal, picturesque pools in Semuc Champey, Lake Atitlan’s stunning vistas, and colonial Antigua, Guatemala truly has it all. A beautiful country filled with wonderful things to do, you surely won’t regret a trip here!

November - April
The dry season from November to April is generally the best time to visit due to the good weather and sunshine, ideal for outdoor activities. However, prices are higher and tourist attractions can get quite busy.

Do I need to know Spanish to visit Guatemala?

You certainly don't need to be fluent, but we HIGHLY recommend learning some basic phrases as you will run into lots of people who do not speak English.

Is Guatemala safe to travel to?

While petty theft and scams can occur, Guatemala is generally safe for tourists who exercise caution and common sense. Be aware of your surroundings, particularly in crowded areas and on any public transportation.

What currency is used in Guatemala?

The official currency is the Guatemalan Quetzal (GTQ).

How to Get Around Guatemala

The best way to get around Guatemala is with shuttle buses or the public (chicken) buses. The shuttle buses are more expensive than traveling by chicken bus, but they’re also more comfortable and you won’t have to worry about switching buses along the way. When we were in Guatemala, we used shuttle buses if the transfers were going to be very long (i.e. getting to and from Semuc Champey), but tried to stick to chicken buses for shorter transportation.

Check out our Guides on Traveling around Guatemala by Chicken Bus:
Antigua to Lake Atitlan
Antigua to El Salvador