Guatemala Travel Essentials

Guatemala is a country full of volcanoes, mountains, and beaches along the Pacific Ocean. It is a place worthy of religious pilgrimages and a multi-faceted destination for families. Guatemala has a strong indigenous culture, with forty percent of the population being indigenous Maya. The country is known for its stunning natural assets, such as the misty blue volcanoes surrounding Lake Atitlan and the colossal Maya ruin of Tikal. Guatemala City is considered one of the most dangerous cities in Central America, but the country offers many inland attractions and is a favourite destination for Central America travellers.

It's safe to visit

Guatemala is a vibrant and fascinating country in Central America, known for its rich culture, stunning natural landscapes, and friendly locals. While it has been flagged as a risky location by various embassies and there are some safety concerns to be aware of, it is possible to have a safe and enjoyable trip to Guatemala by taking some necessary precautions.

Crime and Personal Safety

Guatemala has a high level of gun and gang-related violence, but these incidents rarely involve tourists. To stay safe, it is recommended to avoid going out late at night, getting intoxicated, or walking alone in the dark. It is also important to be aware of your surroundings and keep your valuables secure at all times, especially in crowded areas or when using public transportation.

Transportation

When it comes to transportation in Guatemala, there are tourist and local options available. Tourist transport tends to be more reliable and comfortable but is more expensive. Local transport is more affordable and allows for a more immersive experience, but the roads can be dangerous, especially in mountainous areas. It is advised to use tourist shuttles for long-distance travel and only use local buses during the day, as stick-ups can occur at night.

Food and Water

Street food is a popular option in Guatemala, but it is important to be cautious when choosing where to eat. Prefer busy food stalls or restaurants with a high turnover of customers, as this indicates that the food is likely to be fresher and safer. It is not advisable to drink tap water in Guatemala, as it is not treated for human consumption. Instead, opt for bottled water or refill your water bottles from "garrafones" (large jars of water).

Natural Disasters and Wildlife

Guatemala is prone to natural disasters such as volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, hurricanes, and floods during the rainy season. It is important to stay informed about local weather conditions and natural hazards before and during your trip. The country is also home to dangerous wildlife, including street dogs that may carry rabies, mosquitoes that transmit diseases such as Dengue Fever and Zika, and venomous snakes. Take precautions such as wearing long sleeves and trousers, using insect repellent, and avoiding approaching or petting stray animals.

Health and Insurance

In the event of a medical emergency, it is recommended to seek treatment at a private hospital rather than a public one, as public hospitals are often under-resourced. Having comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical treatment, personal possessions, and emergency repatriation is essential.

While there are safety concerns in Guatemala, taking sensible precautions and staying vigilant can help ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. The country has much to offer in terms of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and friendly locals, making it a rewarding destination for travellers who are well-prepared and follow safety guidelines.

Guatemalan people are super friendly

Guatemalan people are known for their friendliness and hospitality towards visitors. One source notes that "friendships come easily" in Guatemala, and it doesn't take long to make connections and feel welcomed.

If you're travelling in Guatemala, you'll likely be impressed by how friendly and helpful the locals are. They are always happy to help if you're lost and are keen to assist travellers. In bars and clubs, you'll likely find yourself chatting with a friendly group of locals in no time. Guatemalans are also very patient with non-native Spanish speakers, making it a great place to learn and practice the language.

Guatemala is a great place to try Couchsurfing, as it's easy to find a welcoming host. The country also has a strong culture of greeting everyone you pass on the street. While this may take some getting used to if you're from a big city, it's a wonderful reflection of Guatemalan hospitality and kindness.

The friendliness of the Guatemalan people is one of the reasons why the country is so addictive to visitors, and why so many decide to extend their stay or even settle down there long-term.

Guatemalan people love to party

Guatemalans also love to celebrate their independence from Spain on September 15, with fireworks, dances, parades, football matches, cockfights, and the sale of Indigenous crafts. Independence Day is one of the most important holidays in Guatemala, and you can expect to see marimba bands and traditional dances such as the Christians vs the Moors and El Baile del Torito.

Other notable festivals include the Coffee Harvest Festival in Fraijanes, the Festival of San Pedro in San Pedro La Laguna, the Cobán National Folkloric Festival, and the Day of the Assumption in Joyabaj Quiche, which features religious ceremonies, a rodeo, a midway with a mechanical ride, processions, and traditional foods.

Guatemala also has its own unique twists on Christmas and New Year traditions. On December 7, Guatemalans burn papier-mâché effigies of the devil, along with their household garbage, in a ritualistic cleansing for the holy Christmas season. On Christmas Eve, families gather for gift-giving, midnight mass, and traditional food, and at midnight, fireworks explode in the streets, and people embrace with Christmas hugs.

The country is full of natural beauty

Guatemala is a country full of natural beauty. Located in Central America, just south of Mexico, Guatemala has impressive natural beauty, with 37 volcanoes, three of which are active. The country has experienced earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and floods.

Guatemala is a stunning highlight of the Central and South American backpacker trail. It's a place worthy of religious pilgrimages and a multi-faceted destination for the entire family. There are around thirty volcanoes in Guatemala, a few of which actively belch smoke and bubble lava daily. Some people simply gawk at them while lazing about in hammocks, while others climb them. The most common tour is to Volcan Pacaya, but the overnight trek up Acatenango may be the most mind-blowing.

The most famous ruins in Guatemala are those of Tikal, once a center of the southern Maya population and now a jungle-swathed series of sky-scraping pyramids. Tikal is a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site, as are the ruins of Quirigua, famous for their enormous stelae. However, there are many other Mayan sites to visit in the country, including the epic 5-day trek to El Mirador.

Formerly the official capital of Guatemala, Antigua is now the country's tourism hub. It's a colorful colonial collection of cobblestone streets, crumbling ruins, and cool hangouts. Many people come to Antigua for a week and wind up staying for years. It's got a great market, a picturesque central park, and countless other corners of interest.

Typically, Lake Atitlan is referred to as "The Lake," as its volcano-laden shores and distinctive villages make it the most popular among tourists. It's a wonderful spot for yoga, nightlife, and outdoor adventures. There is also a lot of culture to be found in Santiago. Grade-A relaxing can be done in hammocks strung up at just about any hotel or hostel.

Between Lake Izabal and the Caribbean Sea is Rio Dulce, a tropically hot place of extreme biodiversity. It's a great place for spotting wildlife. In the trees, you'll find monkeys and exotic birds, and there are manatees in the waters below. This area has a completely different vibe from the rest of Guatemala. It feels more Caribbean than Mayan. Livingston, located at the mouth of the river, is only accessible by boat and is home to a population of Garifuna people.

Despite the journey required to reach it, remote Semuc Champey often ranks as travelers' favorite place to visit in Guatemala. It's a mystical place, with a name that translates to "Sacred Water." It's aptly named, with a series of descending, impossibly blue pools in an amazing limestone formation created by the Rio Cahabón.

Guatemala is also home to black sand beaches along its Pacific coast and is a prime nesting site for Olive Ridley and leatherback sea turtles.

The locals love their fried chicken

Guatemala is a country rich in culture and history, with a diverse landscape that boasts mountains, jungles, and coastlines. When travelling to Guatemala, there are a few things you should know, especially if you're a solo female traveller. But one of the most important things to know about Guatemala is that the locals love their fried chicken.

Pollo Campero is a cultural icon in Guatemala and throughout Central America. The restaurant chain, which originated in Guatemala, is famous for its juicy, flavourful, and richly spiced fried chicken. The chicken is typically shallow-fried, ensuring a crispy, golden-brown texture without the need for excessive amounts of oil. The spice profile is a carefully guarded secret, but it is known to include white and black pepper, cumin, curry powder, chile pepper, and a small amount of MSG for that extra savoury kick.

The love for Pollo Campero fried chicken extends beyond the borders of Guatemala. In the United States, families with roots in Central America often associate the flavour of this fried chicken with home. It is not uncommon for travellers returning to the US from Guatemala to bring suitcases filled with boxes of Pollo Campero, eager to savour the taste of this beloved dish.

If you're travelling to Guatemala, be sure to indulge in the local favourite, Pollo Campero fried chicken. It's a delicious treat that reflects the culinary traditions and cultural significance of the region.

In addition to their love for fried chicken, Guatemalans are known for their friendliness and hospitality. They greet everyone with a warm "Buenos Dias" and are always eager to make new connections. The country also has a strong coffee culture, with some of the best coffee in the world grown in the highlands, particularly around Antigua.

So, if you're planning a trip to Guatemala, get ready to indulge in delicious fried chicken, immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture, and explore the breathtaking natural beauty this country has to offer.

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