Welcome to Guatemala

For one of the most captivating and diverse Central American experiences, visit Guatemala, a wonderland of Maya ruins, colonial history and architecture, national parks, whitewater rafting, ziplining, diving and more.

Here, you can visit traditional Maya villages deep in the jungle, tour Guatemala’s stately cathedral, dive into the renowned Semuc Champey swimming hole and sway in a hammock on the Pacific Ocean or Caribbean Sea. Get your fill of adventure, culture, cuisine and a laid-back, friendly local atmosphere in Guatemala.

Unique Facts

• Guatemala’s official language, Spanish, has evolved over the years into 21 dialects, thanks to its Mayan, Xinca and Garifuna roots.
• The first chocolate bar came from Guatemala – learn more at the ChocoMuseo, a museum dedicated to the cacao tree and its fruits.
• Guatemala has more than 30 volcanoes, the most famous of which is Tajumulco, the highest peak in Central America. The three active volcanoes are Fuego, Pacaya and Santiaguito.
• Guatemala is home to the first mixed UNESCO World Heritage Site – Tikal National Park, which is so noted for both its cultural and natural attributes. It’s Tikal National Park.
• The biggest export business in Guatemala is coffee, known for its fully body and rich chocolate flavors.

Language

Guatemala’s official language is Spanish.

When To Go

The best time to go to Guatemala is November to April (the dry season). The Pacific Coast experiences a slightly longer dry season.

Airports

La Aurora International Airport

Passport Validity

Passport must be valid at time of entry.

Visa Required By US Citizen?

None required for stays under 90 days

Vaccinations

The CDC recommends the following vaccines for most travelers when visiting Guatemala: Hepatitis A and Typhoid. Depending on where you are traveling, you may also need Hepatitis B, Malaria, Yellow Fever and Rabies vaccines.

Electrical Outlets

Power plugs and sockets: types A and B. Standard voltage: 120V. Frequency: 60Hz.

Currency

Official local currency: Guatemalan Quetzal

Getting Around

Use caution when driving as road hazards are common. Be vigilant of pedestrians crossing the road. Secondary and rural roads have little to no illumination.

Public transportation options include public local and inter-city buses (recognizable as bright-red, recycled school buses) and radio-dispatched taxi service.

Driver’s License

An international driving permit is required.

US Embassy Info

U.S. Embassy Guatemala
Avenida Reforma 7-01, Zona 10
Guatemala City, Guatemala
Telephone: +(502) 2326-4000
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(502) 2331-2354
Fax: +(502) 2331-3804
AmCitsGuatemala@state.gov

Local Visitor Info

n/a

Local Emergency Phone Numbers

General Emergency: 1500

Safety and Security

Theft, armed robbery and carjacking are the most common crimes. Pickpockeing and purse snatching happens often in major cities and at tourist sites.