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Фотогалерея ‒ Guatemala

Guatemala

Maya's Heart
Guatemala—heir to the Maya civilization, a land of volcanoes, the birthplace of instant coffee, one of the world’s leading producers of jade, and simply a land of hundreds of myths and legends.

It is home to the deepest lake in Central America, and the local weaving craft is simply mesmerizing. Even the currency here is named after the sacred quetzal bird. A vacation in Guatemala will offer a truly incomparable experience.
FURTHER
Acquaintance with the country
Where to go
When to go
Visa
Tips for tourists
Transport
Events and holidays

Guide to Guatemala

Basic Information

Guatemala is located in Central America and is bordered by the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. The country is characterized by great natural diversity—from tropical forests and volcanoes to mountain plateaus and lakes.

Guatemala’s history is closely tied to the Maya civilization, traces of which remain in its architecture, culture, and traditions. Spain’s colonial legacy is evident in the old towns and religious monuments. The economy relies on agriculture and tourism, and natural resources remain an important part of the nation’s wealth, which is why they are truly cherished here.

Photos of Guatemala

Capital
Guatemala
Language
Spanish
Currency
Guatemalan quetzal
Time zone
GMT -6
Population
19 000 000
Territory
108,889 km²

Dishes worth trying:

Pepián — a hearty meat stew with tomatoes, spices, and seeds—a national dish.

Kak'ik — traditional turkey soup with a spicy broth and Mayan herbs.

Tamales — corn dough with filling, steamed in banana leaves.

Jocón — chicken in a green sauce made with tomatillos, cilantro, and spices.

Chuchitos — tightly rolled pouches filled with meat and sauce, wrapped in corn husks—a popular street food.

Things to do in to Guatemala

  • Go shopping at the Chichicastenango market, one of the largest in Central America.
  • Explore the Aktun-kan caves near Lake Peten-Itsa.
  • Sunbathe on the black volcanic sand of Monterrico Beach.
  • Take a walk along the designated trails near the active Pakaya volcano.
  • See the rotunda and admire the architecture of Kesaltenango’s central park.
  • Visit the Spanish colonial fort of San Felipe de Lara, which once protected the region from pirates.

Tips

When planning a trip to Guatemala on your own, keep in mind the distances and road conditions. Traveling between cities may take longer than it appears on a map. It’s best to check travel times in advance and plan for day trips.
In many parts of the country, it is important to follow basic safety precautions. Use official transportation services, avoid carrying valuables in plain sight, and ask locals which areas are best visited only during the day.
Respect for local traditions is very important. In small towns and villages, it is customary to dress modestly and ask permission before taking photos of people. By observing these simple courtesies, you can ensure that nothing spoils your trip to Guatemala.

Articles on the topic

Central America from Costa Rica to Guatemala: country rankings and why you should come here

Sights

Just a glance at a guidebook on Guatemala gives you a sense of its complex history and natural beauty. Here you can explore ancient Mayan cities, colonial streets, and stunning natural landscapes. Many of the most interesting spots are still off the beaten path, so don’t miss your chance.

It’s more interesting to explore the city’s sights on foot, but it’s more convenient to book guided day trips as a package.
Tikal
One of the largest Mayan archaeological sites in the tropical jungle. The massive pyramids, plazas, and temples allow you to immerse yourself in the ancient world and experience history firsthand.
Antigua Guatemala
This colonial town, surrounded by volcanoes, is renowned for its architecture. Its narrow streets, churches, and historic houses come together to create a cohesive historic atmosphere.
Lake Atitlán
This mountain lake of volcanic origin is surrounded by villages, each with its own character and traditions. It is considered one of the most beautiful lakes in the world.

Tours to Guatemala

Tours to Guatemala are centered around culture, nature, and active experiences. Tourists come here to explore the heritage of ancient civilizations and to enjoy the stunning views of hiking trails, volcanic landscapes, and authentic towns. Excursions to archaeological sites are popular, including day trips and multi-day excursions with licensed guides.

Nature lovers will appreciate guided hikes to volcanoes, including active ones. Lakes, rainforests, and national parks offer opportunities for wildlife viewing, kayaking, and peaceful relaxation. Beach vacations in Guatemala are possible along the Pacific and Caribbean coasts, but they are less developed than in neighboring countries and cater more to those seeking seclusion.

Guatemala is also interesting from a culinary perspective. Local markets, traditional restaurants, and family-run cafes allow visitors to experience local cuisine in its natural setting. In many regions, tourists are offered cooking classes for national dishes and opportunities to learn about local crafts. 

Accommodation significantly affects the cost of a trip to Guatemala. Options range from simple guesthouses to boutique hotels in colonial buildings and eco-lodges. The level of service varies by region, but it is consistently high in tourist centers.

Where to go to Guatemala?

Tourist trips to Guatemala usually begin in Antigua, where it’s easy to acclimate to the local customs and climate while planning your itinerary. From there, it’s easy to reach the volcanoes and coffee plantations.

Mayan heritage can also be seen at the Quiriguá Archaeological Park and El Mirador. The town of Flores attracts visitors with its indigenous settlements and caves. The town of Livingston is home to the fascinating Garifuna people and offers excellent opportunities for beach vacations and fishing.

When to go to Guatemala

The best time to visit Guatemala is during the dry season, from November through April. During this period, the weather is more stable, and roads and tourist routes are fully accessible.

The high season falls in December, January, and during the Easter holidays, but the cost of a trip to Guatemala is higher during this time. The rainy season lasts from May through October. Rainfall is more common in the afternoon but significantly complicates travel.

Guatemala in the spring

Spring in Guatemala is considered the hottest time of the year, with daytime temperatures reaching 33 degrees Celsius. Precipitation gradually increases, but rainfall remains moderate. Humidity also rises. This is a good season for a beach vacation, but it’s best to plan active excursions for the morning.

Guatemala in the summer

Summer in Guatemala coincides with the rainy season, when rainfall increases to 150–300 mm per month, especially in the southern and mountainous regions. Air temperatures remain stable, ranging from 25 to 30 degrees Celsius, but high humidity intensifies the sensation of heat. Nature appears more vibrant, and rivers and waterfalls become full-flowing.

Guatemala in the fall

Autumn remains rainy, especially in September, but by November rainfall decreases significantly, and temperatures range from 23°C to 28°C. Water temperatures remain high, around 27°C. Autumn is considered a shoulder season, with fewer tourists and more affordable prices.

Guatemala in winter

Winter in Guatemala is considered the dry season, when the average daytime temperature is around 77°F, and in the south it reaches up to 86°F. It is cooler in the mountains. Traveling in Guatemala during the winter is comfortable and predictable. The water temperature in the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea is around 80°F.

Usefulness

This collection of useful facts will help make your trip to Guatemala even more enjoyable by taking into account all the logistical details and local customs.

Visa to Guatemala

Citizens of the United States, EU countries, and the United Kingdom do not need a visa for tourist travel to Guatemala. The maximum stay is 90 days, and a valid passport is required for entry. However, just to be safe, please check the latest information before your trip.

Customs & Tax Free

You may bring personal belongings into the country within standard tourist allowances. It is prohibited to export archaeological artifacts without permission from the authorities. There is no official tax-free system for tourists in Guatemala.

Travel by car

You can rent a car in major cities and at airports. An all-wheel-drive vehicle is recommended. Roads in tourist areas are in satisfactory condition, but you may encounter difficulties in rural areas.

Phrasebook for tourists

In tourist areas, many people understand basic English, but outside of these areas, it is rarely spoken. It’s helpful to know some basic Spanish phrases. Hotels and tour agencies often provide translation assistance.

Public transport and prices

The main forms of public transportation are buses and minibuses. Tourists often use shuttles between popular destinations, as they are safer and more convenient. Schedules can be unreliable, so plan your trips in advance.

Events

The most popular event is Semana Santa in Antigua, featuring large-scale religious processions. All Saints' Day is also worth seeing, with its traditional kite-flying. In any case, it’s always a good idea to check the calendar before planning a trip to Guatemala.

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