Guatemala travel guide

Find out what to see and do when travelling or backpacking around Guatemala.

Guatemala highlights

	Destination	Make a reservation
	Tikal One of the largest Mayan sites, it is worth arriving early in Flores so you can see the sun rise over the ancient ruins. Numerous sites have been uncovered, including Central Acropolis, Jaguar Temple and the Great Plaza. You will also have a great opportunity to see spider and howler monkeys, toucans and even a jaguar if you are lucky.	Flights Hotels Hostels Tours
	El Mirador This ancient site of Mayan ruins is deep in the jungle and difficult to access but is well worth a visit. Take a tour by horseback and visit sights including the 55m tall pyramid of El Tigre, the Danta complex and Nakbe.	Flights Hotels Hostels Tours
	Antigua An old colonial capital, Antigua has an amazing setting, based between three volcanoes. A walking tour of this World Heritage site is a great way to see the many ruins, monuments and old colonial buildings.	Flights Hotels Hostels Tours
	Guatemala City There is so much to see and do in the country's hectic capital city. Visit the many churches and museums or explore the surrounding areas where you can climb volcanoes or enjoy all types of water-sports at Lago de Atitlan.	Flights Hotels Hostels Tours
	Chichicastenango This small highlands town is best known for the markets where it is possible to buy anything from traditional Mayan fabrics and crafts to livestock. The local indigenous population still follow Mayan religions and hold regular processions.	Flights Hotels Hostels Tours
	Monterrico This coastal town is close to the capital and is Guatemala's main beach resort. The volcanic black sand beach is amazing and there are usually decent surfing waves. Many visitors just relax on the beach but there are also mangrove swamps and wildlife centres dedicated to hatching and releasing sea turtles and caimans.	Flights Hotels Hostels Tours

Map of Guatemala

Main travellers routes

• La Aurora International Airport is near Guatamala City and receives flights from mainly Central and North America. There are also limited internal flights, mainly between Guatemala and Flores.
• There are several bus routes into the country through Belize, El Salvador, Honduras and Mexico. To get around the country �chicken' buses are the main option. These don't generally have set stops and you can usually jump on and off wherever you need.
• Car rental is widely available throughout Guatemala and is probably an experience for the braver traveller, due to the road network and driver etiquette.
• Guatemala has borders with Mexico, Belize, Honduras and El Salvador.

Capital and main cities

• Guatemala City
• Other main cities include Antigua, Flores, Panajachel.

Languages

• Spanish
• Many indigenous languages.
• Some English.

Currency

• Quetzal
• US Dollars accepted in main tourist areas.
• Currency converter

Visas (always check with your embassy)

• British citizens do not require a visa for trip to Guatemala.

Foreign Office Advice

• Guatemala foreign office advice

Flights and accommodation

• Flight prices to Guatemala
• Hotel and hostel prices

Tours and day trips in Guatemala

• Responsible Travel in Guatemala - Trips and accommodation from the main tourist routes to off-the-beaten track places.

Next: Planning a trip to Guatemala

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