Guatemala has a rich and distinctive culture from the long mix of elements from Spain and the native Maya people. This diverse history and the natural beauty of the land have created a destination rich in interesting and scenic sites.
Cities and Towns
Guatemala City — Capital and largest city with many amenities
Antigua Guatemala — Colonial Spanish capital of Central America, a World Heritage site, and the most popular among tourists
Flores — Island capital of Petén, good starting point to access Mayan ruins of Tikal.
Melchor de Mencos — Border town which is the main crossing point to Belize
Panajachel — Gateway to Lake Atitlán, a beautiful and busy tourist area
Puerto Barrios — Caribbean seaport with speedboats to and from Belize
Puerto San José — Pacific seaport
Quetzaltenango — Second largest city, in the western highlands. Commonly called "Xela".
Sayaxché — River gateway in Petén
Coban — Town with a rich culture and a great launching point to travel to Semuc Champay
Destinations
Lake Atitlán — Beautiful lake region in the mountains surrounded by many picturesque villages and volcanoes, which is becoming more and more touristic
Monterrico — The beach closest to Guatemala City and Antigua, volcanic sand.
Semuc Champey — Stunning natural monument in the heart of the Mayan world, located about 11 km from the town of Lanquín. Trips usually include a few hours in the local river cave system, a hike to the lookout point above Semuc Champey, and the opportunity to swim in the pools.
Rio Dulce — Known as "a ‘one of a kind’ ecological and cultural heritage for humanity", and home of one of the largest bridges in Central America, the area surrounding this emerald "Sweet River" has many sites to see and things to do. From jungle hikes to the Hot Springs Waterfalls (Rio Dulce is home to Finca Paraiso), visiting Castillo San Felipe de Lara, sailing & water sports, seeing the colourful, friendly surrounding villages & landscapes to taking a Lancha tour through the Majestic Canyon from Livingston. There are plenty of places to stay, including some sweet spots right on the water. Rio Dulce is also a huge hub of access to not only places within Guatemala, such as Antigua, Tikal, Cobán, Semuc Champey and more, but is equally a point of access to the surrounding countries of Belize, Mexico, Honduras, Nicaragua, and El Salvador.
Maya Ruins
El Mirador — massive early Maya site, perhaps the cradle of Maya civilization. Still being uncovered and studied; less developed for visitors than the other largest Maya sites.
Tikal — long considered the largest of Maya ruins (although the ongoing investigations of El Mirador may challenge this claim), this huge and impressive ancient Maya site is probably worth the trip to Guatemala by itself. Stay in the park or in nearby Flores the night before in order to organise a early morning trip to Tikal, to see the sun rise over the ruins. Tours are easily organised from the surrounding areas.
Aguateca — some of the best-preserved Mayan ruins in Guatemala where you are more likely to encounter archaeologists at work than tourists with cameras
El Peru (Waká) — a three day trek/boat trip from Flores and identified as the source of many looted Maya artefacts
Iximché — ruins in the Central Highlands, an easy day trip from Guatemala City or Antigua.
Nakúm — an impressive Classic Maya site
Yaxhá — ruins with more than 500 structures, between Flores and Melchor de Mencos
Entering Guatemala
Valid passports are required, except for citizens of Central American countries.
People producing valid passports from the following countries do not need a visa to visit Guatemala: Andorra, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Belize, Brazil, Canada, Costa Rica, Chile, Denmark, El Salvador, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Honduras, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Mexico, Monaco, Netherlands, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Norway, Panama, Paraguay, Portugal, Russia, Singapore, South Korea, Spain, San Marino, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan,Turkey,United Kingdom, United States of America, Vatican City, Venezuela.
Entering By Air
Guatemala's main airport, La Aurora International Airport (GUA), is in Guatemala City. International flights arrive mostly from other Central American countries and North America. The airport recently underwent modernizing reconstruction. It is now a glass-and-concrete edifice with modern shops and duty-frees that you might expect in any large city. Food options may be somewhat still limited, however.
Guatemala's secondary airport is situated in Flores, Petén. This small airport receives flights from a small number of close destinations including Belize, Honduras, and Guatemala City.
It is sometimes cheaper to fly into Cancun and take buses through Belize or to fly into Mexico City and continue to Guatemala City on another ticket with Interjet.
From the United States, Spirit Airlines offers great ticket prices from a number of US destinations (normally connecting through Miami/Ft. Lauderdale).
Another idea from the American west coast is to fly into San Diego and continue to Guatemala City from Tijuana on another ticket with Interjet (via Mexico City) or with a number of other carriers (United, Avianca, American, Taca, Copa, Aeromexico) from Los Angeles. Alternate route is fly Tijuana to Villahermosa (check out Palenque) then transfer to Tikal. Also flying back through Tapachula to Tijuana.
Entering By Road
From Mexico, Honduras and El Salvador access is via the Pan-American Highway. Road access is also possible with more difficulty from Belize. If you've rented a car in Belize and wish to drive into Guatemala, the immigration officials will require a you to produce a letter of from the rental agencies authorizing you to take the car outside the country.
From Belize. There are regular tourist buses from Belize City to Flores or Guatemala City via the border town of Benque Viejo, passing through San Ignacio and Xunantunich. From Benque you get a taxi to the border for around 3 Belize dollars, and from there a colectivo to Flores or Guatemala. Walk across the bridge to the Colectivo van headquarters to get better deals.
From El Salvador. Buses are available from San Salvador and Santa Ana.
From Honduras. Services run from Copan, San Pedro Sula, La Ceiba and Tegucigalpa.
Mexico. Buses are available from Tapachula, Palenque, Chetumal, Tulum, Cancun and Mexico City.
From further afield, it is possible to reach Guatemala from Nicaragua, Costa Rica and Panama.
Tica Bus is a bus company that has newer buses and mainly travels between Central American countries with limited stops.
By Sea
There are several ferries to and from Puerto Barrios and Livingston, and Punta Gorda, Belize.
Moving Around
By Bus
Guatemala has several first-class (or Pullman) inter-city bus companies:Adrenalina Tours, Linea Dorada, ADN, Fuente del Norte, Galgos, and Alamo. In addition, the international companies Tica Bus and King Quality provide service in Guatemala. See the " By Bus" entry in the Guatemala City chapter for a list some major national and international bus companies and their Guatemala City addresses as Guatemala City is the principal transportation hub for the whole country. Each bus company maintains their own bus terminals in Zona 1 (central Guatemala City) and/or other parts of the city.
It's hard to miss the colourfully decorated buses that crowd the streets of major cities and highways of Guatemala. These are chicken buses, or camionetas in Guatemalan dialect Spanish, and are a common form of travel for Guatemalans and a travel adventure for tourists. They are much cheaper than tourist vans or taxis and are usually very crowded, with three people squeezed into seats barely big enough for two children, and more people standing in the aisles.
The buses are often used North American school buses with the "Blue Bird" (brand of school bus) and "Ford" logos clearly visible. In addition to the driver there is usually a conductor standing in the door. The conductor collects fares, and from time to time jumps out to direct the bus through a blind intersection or around a tight turn and to climb up to the top to retrieve or put in luggage & cargo people bring along. On the highways, the chicken bus drivers are aggressive, not hesitating to overtake in the face of oncoming traffic. Riding these buses on the steep highways of the Western Highlands is especially harrowing, but may be the most quintessential Guatemalan experience there is. It is recommended you don't use these buses though, as thieves usually operate in their routes and may assault them.
Bus conductors may sometimes charge out of country tourists more than the going rate. If you look to see what other travellers are paying you can usually avoid this problem, however, they often charge you the same as everyone else. Sending a message to the Guatemala tourism department, Inguat , will let them know of this problem.
You can board a chicken bus almost anywhere along its route. If you put out your arm, it will stop. You board and find a space to sit or stand. The conductor will come back to you after the bus is under way, and collect your fare. You need to recognize where your stop is, and move to the door in time. You ask the bus to stop, more or less wherever you want to get off.
Chicken buses are not common throughout the country. They are, rightly, in the locations where populations warrant their necessity. The south-central, and south-western region of Guatemala- Guatemala City, Antigua, Lago Atitlan, Chichicastenango, and Quetzaltenango contain plentiful amounts of busses. However, the middle region of Guatemala, Las Verapaces does not provide many buses.
By van
Prepare to travel by van around central and north-western Guatemala, especially the Ixil Triangle region and the area surrounding Coban. The Ixil Triangle lacks any real infrastructure, and what is there is unkempt. As well, Central Guatemala's population does not warrant chicken bus existence.
Public transportation van rides are only slightly more expensive than bus fare. However, be warned, the equality in price rule of buses does not apply to vans. Public buses are truly public transportation, the vans are not; they are privately owned. Plan to pay more than the domestic next to you in these vans. This price difference will be obvious and the assistant will blatantly ask for it. Attempting to haggle is worthless, you might as well pay the requested fare.
The tourist can always pay the USD price for tourist-oriented van rides. These rides are non-stop transportation to cities. Public van and bus rides will always stop at multiple bus stops and for anyone else wishing to board. These van rides are much more expensive than normal van fare, often 5 to 7 times the price.
By Picop
Private "picops" (pick-up truck) operators will drive around the rural areas of Guatemala. These are small Toyota (mostly), Hyundai or Ford trucks that have a metal frame placed in the bed so people can hold on during travel while standing. For a very low fee, cheaper than bus and van, you can travel to remote locations. Like bus and van, people are packed in tight. In some places these are the only thing available for public transportation.
Rental Car
One great advantage of renting a car is that you can visit many of the secluded beaches and mountain areas. And with the power of the Internet, you can now rent just about any vehicle online and have it waiting for you when you arrive.
For USD150-500 a week you can rent a econocar/mid size 4WD. Insurance is the majority of this cost and it is not optional. Four-wheel-drive is good for extensive travelling outside the main tourist centres, especially in the wet season.
You have to exercise caution when renting a car in Guatemala; where it is not uncommon for rental companies to claim "damage" they insist you inflicted on the vehicle. It is by far the best policy to rent a car through a Guatemalan travel agent. Make sure to check the car carefully before you sign off on the damage sheet. Check the oil, brake fluid, fuel gauge (to make sure it's full) and that there is a spare tire with good air pressure and a jack. Look up the Spanish word for "scratches" (rayas) and other relevant terminology first, so you can at least scrutinize the rental company's assessment. Ask them to write down all the minor damages, not just check on the drawing, and keep a copy of this document on you.
Rental car companies such as ""Hertz"", ""Budget"" and ""Tabarini"" offer GPS navigation systems for rent on a daily basis. The maps are provided by GPSTravelMaps and can be purchased before arrival through http://www.gpstravelmaps.com/guatemala.php and will save you money by loading to your own Garmin GPS instead of renting from the car rental company.
By Plane
Regular domestic flights only operate between Guatemala City and Flores. Service is provided by Avianca (Merged from Grupo Taca which included Taca Regional and Aviateca) and TAG (Transportes Aereo Guatemaltecos)
By Trolley
The closest thing to having a trolley for regular public transportation are the green Transmetro buses in Guatemala City that run on dedicated lanes to bypass the parallel traffic and stopping at a limited number of stops along the road. There's also has a local trolley tour (actually a bus made to look like trolley) service aimed at tourists.By train
There is a rail network but, aside from the occasional steam charter aimed at tourist groups, no trains - neither freight nor passenger - have run since 2007.
Language
Spanish is the official language of Guatemala, and the most commonly spoken. Over twenty indigenous languages are still spoken throughout, but many of the Maya people have at least a working knowledge of basic Spanish as well, except in the more remote areas. For the Garifuna people in Livingston, Garifuna and an archaic form of British English are the main languages (but Spanish is spoken as well).
The most familiar form of Spanish spoken among good friends is the "tú" and "vos" form, but varies between regions. It is considered rude and very informal if used with someone that you do not know. As a tourist, it is safer to stick with the "usted" form. However, don't be surprised if some homestay families and some language teachers jump right into using the "tú" or "vos" form. If they do, you may respond in kind.
Maya ruins are the key attractions in the country and the most notable are El Mirador, perhaps the cradle of Maya civilisation, and Tikal.
Volcanoes
Guatemala has a lot of volcanoes, many of them over 3,000 metres high.
Volcán de Pacaya (2500m) - this is an active volcano about 30 minutes outside of Antigua. Some days it will not be accessible as the volcano may be too active to observe safely. Bring a jacket since it will be windy and cold at the top (although the ground will feel warm) and wear long pants as the volcanic rock can easily give you a nice cut. Tour guides can be organised from Antigua. Up until its most recent significant eruption in late May of 2010, you were able to walk right up to see real lava and even roast hot dogs and marshmallows over it. Although trips are still common and travel agencies still boast this possibility with pictures of tourist doing so in the past, this is no longer possible.
If you decide to travel to Pacaya alone the prices are quite reasonable. About GTQ50 (USD6) entrance to the park itself. At the entrance to Pacaya National Park you will be required to have a local guide, licensed by the park to take you to the top of the volcano. There are two separate entrances to the park, the first located in the town of El Cedro and the second in the town of San Francisco. The El Cedro route is an easier climb, around 2 hours up & 1 hour down the volcano. The San Francisco entrance is a few miles further past El Cedro. It's a bit of a steeper climb. The entire park is patrolled by local police as well as soldiers...it is quite safe. Locals also offer horses to bring you for around GTQ125 (USD15) which if you're not into hiking is a great alternative. These are offered to you when you begin your ascent. There are restrooms & snacks/drinks available for sale at both entrances as well. Secure parking is available for those travelling without a tour group.
Guatemala is rich in natural beauty and travel opportunities, it's a country that offers so much to those willing to step off the beaten track for a little while.
Antigua Guatemala is often regarded as the travellers hub, a crumbling, picture-perfect central american town ringed by volcanoes. From here you can take a hike up Volcano Pacaya, take a bus to the bustling market of Chichicastenango, or simply sip some coffee in a street-side cafe and watch the world go by.
Lake Atitlan (or Lago de Atitlán) is another frequent stop on any visitors itinerary. A volcano-rimmed lake with plenty of backpacker hostels and Mayan villages that dot the shores.
Flores in Guatemala's wild north is a tourist friendly island in the middle of Lake Petén Itzá. From here you can take a bus ride to one of best preserved Mayan ruins in the world, Tikal. Howler monkeys and dense jungle make walking around the ruins an adventure in itself.
Semuc Champey, Lanquin, near Coban, Alta Verapaz. Semuc Champey is a cascade of turquoise limestone pools created by the river plunging below ground for a stretch before rushing back out through a spectacular waterfall. Definitely worth making the trip to Lanquin for as well as the beautiful lodges that have sprung up from the captivating hilly landscape. edit
Rio Dulce The Rio Dulce is a majestic emerald river, sandwiched between Belize & Honduras, which sweeps out to the Caribbean. The Rio Dulce area consists of two towns on either side of one of the largest bridges in Central America, Fronteras & El Relleno. Rio Dulce is a haven for Sailors and Backpackers alike, with plenty to do and to see. Finca Paraiso is a hot springs waterfall which is like having a spa day in the jungle; Castillo San Felipe de Lara is a historical fort site and an inexpensive way to spend the afternoon touring the castle and swimming in Lake Izabal. The many species of Birds & Animals (including manatees) makes Rio Dulce a great spot for birdwatchers, animal lovers & fishing fans. Definitely a Must See!
In different parts of Guatemala can perform many adventure activities in island flores can make a 5-day hike to reach el mirador archeological site, or can rent kayaks on Lake Atitlan, climb the volcanoes that have Guatemala,cycling tours and others activities can be performed in any part of this country. in several cities tourists can contact community tourguide could ask for their services.
There are a lot of attractions that tourist can visit in Guatemala. For more information, visit the official website of tourism .
Akazul: Community, Conservation and Ecology, La Barrona, Jutiapa, Guatemala, ☎ +502 42604892, . AKAZUL – Community, Conservation, and Ecology is a grass-roots initiative focused on preserving the natural resources of Guatemala’s marine and coastal environments through community based activities. Population growth and economic needs are increasing the pressures on coastal ecosystems, and biodiversity is becoming threatened. Akazul works with community members to help secure a more sustainable and prosperous future for all coastal life. You can volunteer for Akazul and participate in all aspects of their work: night patrols to monitor the local sea turtle population, mangrove surveys to assess the various native species and various community programs such as English teaching. It is especially suitable for independent, hard working people of all ages.
Money
The local currency is the Quetzal (plural: quetzales), the national bird, with ancient and mythic connotations even today. This is symbolised internationally and in our guides by GTQ being placed before the amount with no intervening space.
One US dollar is equivalent to about GTQ7. US dollars are highly regarded and can be exchanged in most small towns at a rate unfavourable to travellers; you will most likely have difficulty using other currencies. ATMs can be found in the major towns but do not expect to find them in every tourist spot. It is fairly easy to find yourself in a town without an ATM or a place to change money. Banks are also very useful, such as Banrural, which is commonly found throughout Guatemalan cities and towns.
Do not expect to be able to easily exchange travellers cheques in Guatemala. You might find a few places willing to accept checks that are issued by American Express, but other types are universally turned down. Amazingly, even major banks in Guatemala City do not accept VISA travellers cheques.
The rate of exchange was approximately 7.65 Quetzales per US dollar in February 2015 and 8.64 per euro.
Shopping
It is common to bargain for most purchases in the open air market. Though you may be able to bargain in other places, be aware that chain-owned shops have fixed prices (you are no more likely to bargain in a Guatemalan Radio Shack than an American one).
These are some characteristically Guatemalan things you might consider buying here:
Ron Zacapa Centenario — Guatemala's prize-winning rum
Fabrics and traditional textiles — Traditional Mayan blouses are known as huipiles (whi-peel) and skirts as cortes. Be aware that these are almost always entirely handmade and prices for a high-end huipil may be as high as Q1000. There are also some fair trade options available to ensure that your purchase fairly benefits the indigenous communities that make the products. Trama Textiles and Y'abal Handicrafts[4] both have fair trade stores in Quetzaltenango.
Jade — there is large jade working factory in Antigua, but it is course a very stone.
Coffee — touted as one of the best-tasting varieties in the world
Cardamom — Guatemala is the largest exporter in the world and Coban is the main centre of this trade.
Typical food:
Kaq Ik
Pepián
Jocon
Quichom
Tortillas and tortillas de harina. Maize tortillas are served with most meals.
Frijoles negros - stewed black beans
Caldos - beef broths
Tamales — steam-cooked corn meal, with a variety of fillings, wrapped in banana leaves
Rice 'n beans (Garifunafood in Puerto Barrios)
Tapado, ceviche and other fishmeals
Churrascos
A typical breakfast is Frijoles, eggs and bread with coffee of course.
The type of food really depends on how much you want to spend and what type of place you want to spend it at. You can get almost any type of food at the main tourist locations. In the aldeas (small towns) your choices are mostly limited to those items listed above. Most Guatemalan food differs from Mexican food in that it is a lot less spicy, and chillies are generally served in a separate dish from the main course to be added as desired, rather than included in the food. However, as one gets closer to Mexico, the food does get more spicy.
There exist "comedores" throughout the country. A comedore is a small house-restaurant. Normally, a family will set up 3-4 tables in a portion of their household and this well act as a makeshift restaurant. Comedores are known for providing a cheap lunch-sized portion of food. They will offer one or two options to choose from. This is not a real restaurant, there will not be a bathroom, menu, or real server; however, eating in these locations can provide one of the most efficient ways to experience Guatemalan culture first hand.
Drink
Atole de Elote is a popular warm corn drink. This sweet concoction must be drunk while warm; when cold, it becomes much too dense.
Popular Guatemalan beers are Gallo (lager, by far the most popular with Guatemalans), Victoria, Brahva (a light pilsner style), Moza (dark bock), Cabro, Monte Carlo (premium), and Dorada. Don't be surprised if you get salt and lemon with your beer. It's a custom to put some salt on the toes of the bottle, and screw out the lemon in the beer. Sometimes it is mixed with V8 vegetable juice, and the concoction is called michelada.
Guatemala produces a number of rums, including the superb Ron Zacapa Centenario which is aged up to 30 years.
Tequila is a very popular drink in Guatemala.
Guatemalans usually dress up when they go out.
If you order a bottled drink, you will normally get a tissue to clean the bottle. Coca-Cola and Pepsi-type products are available, plus many from local soft drink manufacturers.
Accomodation
You will likely find cheap hotels "hospedajes" in every town or village in Guatemala. Hospedajes normally provide either a bed in a communal room with a communal bathroom, or private rooms with a communal bathroom. Private bathrooms in hospedajes are not found very often. In the main tourist areas, there are also many high quality hotels. You can find and book many of these accommodations in most major travel websites and also in other smaller on-line directories
Safety
Do not go to areas known to be hotbeds of drug trafficking activity (ie: some parts of the Peten), and do not go to the most dangerous neighborhoods in Guatemala City (zones 3, 6, 18, and 21). Be careful in Zone 1 in Guatemala City, especially after dark, and do not stay in any hotels there. Using the slightly more expensive hotels in Zone 10 or Zone 13 (near the airport) is a better idea if you intend to visit Guatemala City.
Women should be especially careful around men, even if the men present themselves as local hotel employees. Over the last year, several tourists have been the victims of brutal sexual assaults in the beach community of Monterrico and the town of Panajachel. In one case, a local man pretended to be a hotel employee before torturing, raping, and attempting to kill a young woman staying in the area.
Do not use buses at night in Guatemala City, as buses are frequently robbed by gangs. Instead, radio-dispatched taxis (Taxi Amarillo) are a safer way to get around the city. Another note is that when traveling by chicken bus, beware of anyone sitting next to you.
Although some say that travelers should always carry a bit of extra cash and be prepared to bribe a few police officers, most tourists will have no reason to give bribes to anyone. The most likely situations in which you might have to bribe police would be if you are driving a car or riding a motorcycle and are stopped for a false violation of traffic rules. Most North Americans and Europeans find it immoral to bribe but it is, unfortunately, almost a way of life in Guatemala and it is much easier to spend 50Q to avoid the headaches of being harassed by the police. Phrases such as "I'm sorry officer. Is there any way we can resolve this right now?" work well. Do not offer bribes directly to an officer because bribes are illegal, and if you encounter an officer who actually does follow the law, you could end up in more trouble.
Never take photos of children without permission. Some Guatemalans are extremely wary of this and will think that you are mixed in with kidnappers and planning to take the child for ransom. Kidnapping is a common occurrence in Guatemala. The country also has many problems with children being kidnapped and sold for adoption on the black market. Taking pictures of adults at a distance wth a few children included is generally fine. In the major cities, people are somewhat more open towards picture taking, but still avoid it.
It is dangerous to travel between cities after dark. Doing so significantly increases your risk of being the victim of an armed robbery.
Pickpocketing is common in markets, so never keep anything in your back pocket and take as little with you as possible.
Guatemala has an abundance of natural beauty and numerous treks. But some of these are notorious for robberies (Volcan de Agua, trails around Lago de Atitlan, Volcan de Pacaya). Always ask around about the situation before embarking blindly. Inguat, locals, and fellow travelers are safe bets for information. Traveling in groups during daylight sometimes decreases the risk, but not always.
Traffic can be dangerous. You will encounter many two-lane roads (one lane each way) and drivers are apt to swerve back and forth, avoiding potholes and bumps along the way. There are also various multiple lane highways. Traffic in Guatemala City and surrounding metropolitan areas during rush hour is very slow, but general driving everywhere is usually very fast (average speeds of up to 60 mph in some city roads).
Health
Stay healthy
Drink only purified water (Agua Pura Ecológica is recommended by most of hospitals and hotels).
CDC states that malaria risk exists in rural areas at altitudes lower than 1,500 metres, with no risk in Antigua or Lake Atitlán. Preventative anti-malarial medication can and should be purchased ahead of visiting malaria-endemic areas.
Dengue fever is endemic throughout Guatemala.
Hepatitis A&B vaccinations are recommended.
Behaviour
Address people you don't know in a formal manner (Señor, Señora, Usted), and greet people in the following way:
day - "buenos días" "feliz día"
night- "feliz noche" "buenas noches"
You'll encounter this in more suburban, rural areas. Native Guatemalans are raised to greet strangers formally.
Phone
Guatemala's international calling code is 502. There are no area codes. Phone numbers all have eight digits. On September 18, 2004, the phone system switched from seven to eight digits, and there is a scheme for adding specific digits to the front of seven-digit numbers (WTNG.info description [18]).
The phone system isn't great, but it works. Tourists can call abroad from call centers, where you pay by the minute. It is also easy to purchase a calling card to use at public pay phones. The phones there do not accept money, so to use a public phone on the street you must purchase a telephone card. Typically, the cost is around 8 quetzals for a 10 min call to North America. Cell phones are quite cheap and calling to the US through one can get as low as $0.08 a min. If you are planning to stay for a while and plan to use the phone, you should consider buying a cheap prepaid phone. Wireless nation-wide internet access for laptops is also available as a service from some companies. Telefonica has good coverage with their PCMCIA EV-DO cards.
Post
The post system is traditionally not reliable, but your post cards usually get through. A stamp for Europe is Q5. There are; however, many other alternative companies to the federal mail system that are reliable, though frequently somewhat pricey.
Internet
Internet access is widely available. Even most of the more remote areas have some type of internet access available. Many larger areas also have WiFi. All of the Camperos chicken/pizza restaurants (which are numerous) offer free WiFi, as well as many other restaurants and cafes. Some hotels may also offer computer banks with internet access. Just ask and you eventually will find some sort of free access.
Mobile (3G/GPRS) internet access
If you have an internet capable mobile phone such as iPhone, Google Android, Nokia N95 etc or USB dongle for your laptop, you just need a local SIM card (roughly Q25) and can start enjoying the prepaid access plans, which generally come in lots of an hour, a day, or a week.
Anecdotal: when I passed through Guatemala in May 2010 I bought a TIGO Guatemala SIM and automatically received an SMS within a day or two offering me 30 days of free internet access without any need to do anything, which was variable in its reliability but very useful all the same. With a program such as PDANet you can create a mini Wifi network that follows you around as you travel. I asked around and apparently the normal way to activate the internet after putting in the right configuration settings I was supposed to send the SMS message "WAP" to the shortcode 805, but I didn't need to do this. The APN (access point name) was internet.tigo.gt
Here is a table for the settings and activation options for various providers, including approximate costs.
Destinations
Guatemala: 7 regions that amaze the world.
The historic, natural, and cultural heritage of Guatemala may be discovered throughout the whole territory. The magic and mystery of the Mayan world subsist in the millenary cities such as Tikal, Yaxhá, Aguateca, and Quiriguá among others. The faces, the colorful regional costumes, and the kindness of the people from the highlands are like an echo of an impressive colonial past that may be heard in the churches and convents of Antigua Guatemala. Such resonance is also the contact with an exuberant nature which is the origin and destination of a unique biodiversity in the world.
Guatemala, modern and colonial
Guatemala CityGuatemala City is the most flourishing city in Central America with its modern buildings and business centers that contrast with La Antigua Guatemala, colonial and romantic city, with a combination of ancient buildings and rooted customs and traditions.
Guatemala City is the most modern and cosmopolitan city of the Central American region. It is the ideal place to organize conferences and conventions, play golf, make medical check-ups, and visit shopping centers among other activities. Visiting the Historic Center of more than 200 years of existence is mandatory. Its cathedral, emblematic buildings, churches, and museums are a reflection of the historic evolution of the country.
Entertainment and distraction sites are also present in Guatemala; for example, Zona Viva where its exclusive hotels, restaurants and discotheques enhance the city.
Very close to the capital city is located the picturesque and enchanting City of Antigua Guatemala, main icon of the Hispanic colonial heritage. It is localized in the Panchoy Valley and is surrounded by three volcanoes, mountains, and coffee plantations. It was declared Cultural Heritage of Humanity Site by UNESCO in 1979. Its cobblestone streets and ancestral buildings conform a scenery where splendorous cultural and religious traditions emerge. Romanticism floats in every corner of the city; therefore, it is the perfect place to celebrate weddings and special events. Visitors may choose among beautiful, colonial hotels, boutique hotels, and charming hotels with first class facilities for conferences and business meetings in an inspirational environment.
Antigua Guatemala is the ideal destination for religious tourism during Holy Week, especially for its catholic awareness, faith, and the beauty of its processions and colorful rugs.
Explore this region
Highlands, living Mayan culture
Highlands, living Mayan cultureIt is a region that offers the perfect combination of natural beauties, spectacular mountain landscapes, and traditions of a living Mayan culture.
The most rooted indigenous culture can be found in the highlands. The pine forests and active volcanoes allow visitors to practice hiking, canopying and, ecotourism. The Western region provides a folkloric display that unifies the pre-Columbian cosmogony and the customs of the conquerors. Such region is a perfect combination of the natural beauties, like Lago de Atitlán and the traditions, like the market of Chichicastenango, famous for its colorfulness and extension.
A representation of the millenary traditions and the experiences of the Mayans are reflected in every ambit of the historical, ancestral diversity of the region where the sacred book of Mayans, The Popol Vuh, was born. This region also offers numerous options of personal encounters with its communities. It is the ideal space to enjoy the cultural diversity, to learn languages, and to live the traditions. This region promises visitors a unique experience.
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Petén, adventure in the Mayan world
Adventure in the Mayan worldPetén is the biggest department of Guatemala. Its territorial extension is of 35,854 squared kilometers. The municipality is the island of the city of Flores and it is also the starting point for different tourist attractions.
This department holds a unique historic value for its archeological richness, its fauna, and its biosphere reserve. Its numerous archeological sites make this region the most important one of the Mayan world.
Also, all the legends about one of the most amazing cultures of the world are born here. Its fascinating archeological sites are surrounded by jungle. One of such sites is Tikal, which was declared Cultural Heritage of Humanity Site by UNESCO in 1979. Besides, there may be found Yaxhá, Ceibal, Aguateca, San Bartolo and El Mirador where the biggest pyramid, for the size of its base, of the Mayan world is found. Another interesting site is Uaxactún that had an astrologic observatory in one of the most important buildings of the area. These places were the scenery of the Mayan culture development.
Flores City has an international airport called Mundo Maya, a bus terminal, and independent companies of collective transportation, express transportation, taxis, and motorcycle taxis.
In the island of Flores it is located the lake Petén Itzá which is the second, largest lake of Guatemala. The natural park, the zoo of Petencito, and the Mirador of King Kanek are very close by.
To visit these places and the shores of the lake, there is a service of motor boats well-conditioned for tourists.
Close to Flores there is the city of Santa Elena, where the Actún Kan Caves and most of the commerce centers are located.
The region of Petén is like an archeological Mayan museum for its numerous sites from the pre-classic, classic, and post-classic periods of a great civilization found around the jungle.
Additionally, this region offers other attractions for tourists such as recreational centers in rivers, beaches, canopying, aquatic parks, natural reserves, customs, and traditions.
For its natural reserves, Petén is known as the lung of the region. It shelters hundreds of species of animals and vegetables. Such richness and forest diversity is perfect for adventure tourism, birdwatching and ecotourism.
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Izabal, a green Caribbean
Izabal, Caribbean GreenWith an original charm, rich ecosystems, and the happiness of the Garifuna culture, Izabal offers an encounter with a Caribbean of exuberant, natural beauty.
The diversity representation is greatly reflected in the green Caribbean for its rich ecosystems that are habitat for different species. Among its natural reserves are: Río Dulce, Bocas del Polochic, Punta de Manabique, and Biotopo Chocón Machacas. This region also owns Quiriguá, an archeological site declared Heritage of Humanity Site by UNESCO, where the famous “Estela E”, the biggest Mayan stela, of 10.5 meters high is found. Besides, the experience of visiting Castillo de San Felipe, built in the colonial era to avoid English pirates attacks, is offered to visitors.
The stunning Lago de Izabal, the largest in the country, the contrast among jungle, rivers and sea, and the mixture of the Garifuna and Mayan cultures make this a magic and fantastic paradise.
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The Verapaces, natural paradise
The Verapaces, Natural ParadiseThis region is characterized for its caves, its leafy forests, singular waterfalls, natural pools, and a variety of flora and fauna.
Its territory is ideal for those who like extreme sports, outdoor recreation, and communitarian tourism. From the hiking of the humid forest in the mountains; the visit to the Biotopo del Quetzal routes, in which one may participate in a photographic safari to capture the national bird, the Quetzal; the excursion to each of its extensive and long caves, among them Lanquín or Candelaria; to the practice of extreme sports like rafting in Cahabón River and Semuc Champey, one of the main attractions for its waterfalls of 40 feet high and a natural limestone bridge of great ecologic richness since more than 100 bird species have been identified. All these and more make this region one of the favorite destinations for adventure and ecotourism. It would be a unique experience inside the leafy forests with a varied fauna and flora that includes more than 800 orchid species.
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The Pacific Coast, exotic and diverse
The Pacific Coast, exotic and diverseExtensive coasts of volcanic sand will welcome visitors to a beautiful place of natural reserves.
Its splendid 300- kilometer- long beaches allow visitors to practice surfing and sport fishing, especially sailfish, sport that has been recognized as number one in the region and second in the world. The habitats of this region are great for the development of turtle hatcheries and mangroves, and facilitate the subsistence of the ecosystems for diverse species.
In this region it is also possible to climb volcanoes, to practice birdwatching, to visit important archeological sites like Takalik Abaj in Retalhuleu and El Baúl in Escuintla. In Retalhuleu the whole family may also enjoy important recreational and theme parks that allow the experiencing of harmony and entertainment.
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The East, mystical and natural
The East, mystical and naturalThis is one of the religious centers of most importance for its spiritual awareness and mysticism.
Sierra de las Minas is home of more than 885 species of mammals, reptiles, and birds being 20 of them endemic bird species that live in the cloud forest reserve, the most extensive of Central America.
Esquipulas is an important destination for religious meetings and its icon is the well-recognized Basilica Menor del Cristo Negro.
This region also offers trips around natural treasures like the Ipala Volcano and Lagoon and the Güija Lagoon. Its visitors are delighted with the ecologic excursions and the enjoyment of the parks and history of the Paleontology and Archeology Museum Ing. Roberto Woofolk Saravia in Estanzuela. Such museum keeps skeletons of mastodons and whales that are 50 thousand –years-old. Besides, this region possesses colonial churches and artistic treasures worthy of visiting.
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