7 Reasons to Travel to Guatemala with Llama Travel
At Llama Travel, our group size averages 11 people, with a maximum of 18, making it easier to get around Guatemala’s cities, lively markets and remote jungle locations. Smaller groups mean less waiting around, more flexibility during visits, and a smoother overall experience. You also have more opportunities to interact with your guide, ask questions and gain a deeper understanding of Guatemala’s history, culture and landscapes.
All of Llama Travel’s Guatemala itineraries include the country’s most important Maya site of Tikal, as well as the chance to explore the lesser-visited, but equally beautiful, sites. The carefully paced and expertly guided tours lets you fully appreciate their history and setting. From vast jungle cities to quieter, lesser-visited ruins, each visit is well planned, allowing time to explore without feeling rushed and have a comfortable experience.
Wander the jungle temples of Tikal
Tikal is Guatemala’s most iconic Maya site, set deep within dense rainforest. Ancient temples rise from the jungle, with howler monkeys and birds creating a dramatic soundtrack. With Llama Travel, you are accompanied by expert guides on a guided tour, giving you time to explore the main plazas and temples while learning about the city’s role as a powerful Maya stronghold and enjoying the atmosphere of this remarkable site.
Discover lesser-known Yaxha
Yaxha offers a very different experience to Tikal and is often far quieter. Surrounded by jungle and overlooking a lagoon, the site has impressive temples, causeways and plazas that can be explored at a relaxed pace.
At Llama Travel, we balance Guatemala’s historical highlights with time to experience its culture. Our itineraries include historic towns, lively markets and everyday life, all explored at a relaxed pace to give you an insight into local traditions and heritage.
Wander the cobblestoned streets of Antigua
Antigua is one of Central America’s most beautiful colonial cities. Explore its cobbled streets and historic landmarks at your own pace, or join our optional Colonial Antigua excursion. Visit the ruins of Santiago Cathedral, La Merced Church and the iconic Santa Catalina Arch, with views of cloud-shrouded volcanoes rising up behind the charming, colourful streets.
Visit the thriving Chichicastenango market
Chichicastenango is home to Guatemala’s most famous market and offers a vivid insight into local life. On our guided market excursion, you explore stalls selling textiles, handicrafts, flowers and produce, while learning about the traditions behind the crafts and the cultural importance of this long-established market. You also visit Santo Tomas church, where Maya-Quiche rituals are conducted.
Explore the villages on the shores of Lake Atitlan
Apart from being one of the most picturesque areas of Guatemala, Lake Atitlan is home traditional villages and ancient traditions. One of the towns on Lake Atitlán’s shore, Santiago Atitlan, is most commonly associated with the folk saint of Maximon. The origins of Maximon are not very well understood. One idea is that he a catholic priest who looked after aboriginals in the 17th century. Another belief is that he is the incarnation of the Maya god of sexuality.
At Llama Travel, we include Guatemala’s natural highlights alongside its cultural and historical sights. From peaceful lakes to dense jungle landscapes, our itineraries allow you to experience the country’s diversity.
Sail on beautiful Lake Atitlán
From Antigua, travel by road to Lake Atitlán, a beautiful volcanic lake set in Guatemala’s highlands and surrounded by steep hills and volcanoes. Take a boat across the lake to visit traditional Maya villages such as San Juan La Laguna and Santiago Atitlán, each offering a glimpse into local life and culture.
Listen to the howler monkeys in the jungle of Tikal
The jungle surrounding Tikal is alive with sound, especially from the howler monkeys that live in the treetops. Their deep calls echo through the forest, adding to the atmosphere as you explore the ancient temples. It is a memorable way to experience Guatemala’s wildlife alongside its Maya heritage.
Our Guatemala holidays are flexible, letting you combine your trip with the natural wonders of Costa Rica for an even more rewarding adventure. Visit San Jose, the lively capital surrounded by coffee plantations, cruise the jungle waterways of Tortuguero, where you may spot sloths, monkeys and colourful birdlife and relax in the volcanic hot springs of Arenal, then end your holiday unwinding on the white-sand beaches and calm waters of Manuel Antonio. You can also extend your trip to the Corcovado Coast for unique wildlife in one of the world’s most biodiverse habitats.
After exploring Guatemala’s ancient sites, colourful towns and natural landscapes, you can extend your journey with a visit to Panama for a contrasting experience. Begin with a half-day guided city tour in Panama City, visiting the Miraflores Locks and visitor centre to watch ships pass through the famous Panama Canal and learn about its history and significance. Continue to Casco Viejo, the historic old town, where you can stroll through cobbled streets and admire its colonial architecture.
Having seen the canal from the shore, you can then join our Partial Panama Canal Transit excursion, taking a boat ride through the locks to experience first-hand how the canal system operates.
Our travel experts have experienced Guatemala first-hand, so when you speak to us, you’re getting advice from people who’ve actually been there. With our knowledge and experience, we’ll help you create a holiday that’s planned perfectly for you, and filled with memories to last a lifetime.
About Guatemala
KEY FACTS
- When to Travel: November to March
- Population: 15 million
- Area: 108, 890 km2 (less than half the area of the UK)
- Capital City: Guatemala City (population 4 million in the greater metropolitan area)
- Languages Spoken: Spanish
- Time Difference: GMT - 6 hours
- Flying time from UK: Approximately 16 hours including changing planes
- Bordering Countries: Mexico, Belize, Honduras, El Salvador
- Key Destinations: Tikal, Antigua, Lake Atitlan
Guatemala is a small country with a fabulous history and incredible geographic diversity. In an area around half the size of the UK, Guatemala contains beautiful mountains and volcanoes, lakes, jungle, and Caribbean and Pacific coastlines. It borders Mexico to the north, Honduras and Belize to the east, and El Salvador to the southeast, with the Caribbean Sea to the east and the Pacific Ocean to the west.
Guatemala Highlights
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Guatemala Gallery
FAQs
Before You Go
A: British citizens can visit Guatemala for up to 90 days without a visa as part of the Central America-4 border agreement shared with Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador and Nicaragua. Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date and have at least two blank pages.
A: It is recommended that routine UK vaccinations are up to date before travelling to Guatemala. Depending on your itinerary, your GP or travel clinic may also recommend additional vaccinations. For the latest advice, visit TravelHealthPro or speak to your GP before travelling.
Stomach aches can occasionally occur while travelling due to changes in diet and climate, so we recommend drinking bottled or filtered water and avoiding ice or uncooked foods if you are unsure how they have been prepared.
We also recommend bringing any prescription medication you may need from the UK. If you have a medical condition or disability and would like to discuss whether a holiday is suitable for you, please contact us and we will be happy to help.
If you become unwell while travelling, your guide or hotel staff can help arrange medical assistance if needed. Medical facilities are generally good in major cities, although they can be more limited in remote areas.
A: Temperatures in Guatemala vary considerably depending on where you travel. In the jungle lowlands of Tikal, daytime temperatures can exceed 35°C, while evenings around Lake Atitlán can feel much cooler due to the altitude. Packing layers is therefore recommended.
Lightweight clothing is ideal for warmer regions, although a jumper or fleece is useful for cooler evenings in the highlands. Rain is possible throughout the year, so a lightweight waterproof jacket is also recommended. Comfortable walking shoes are important, particularly for visiting archaeological sites and exploring colonial towns.
Insect repellent is important, especially in jungle areas. Electricity in Guatemala is 110V and flat two-pin plugs are used, so you will need an adapter.
We also recommend bringing any prescription medication you may need from the UK, a photocopy of your passport and a small day bag for excursions.
A: Guatemala can be visited year-round, although the dry season from October to April is generally considered the best time to travel. During these months, days are usually sunny and clear, making conditions ideal for exploring Antigua, Lake Atitlán and the Mayan ruins of Tikal.
A: Yes. Guatemala is an excellent introduction to Central America thanks to its combination of colonial cities, volcanoes, Mayan culture and rainforest. Travelling on a Llama Travel tour also makes exploring the country straightforward and comfortable.
Practical Information
A: Guatemala is located in Central America, bordering Mexico, Belize, Honduras and El Salvador. Llama Travel holidays typically include destinations such as Antigua, Lake Atitlán, Flores, Tikal and Guatemala City, offering a mixture of colonial cities, volcanoes, lakes and rainforest.
A: Guatemala has a population of around 18 million people.
A: Guatemala City is the capital and largest city in the country. It is the economic and cultural centre of Guatemala and acts as the main international gateway to the country.
A: Guatemala is 6 hours behind the UK during winter months (Greenwich Mean Time), between late October and late March. During British Summer Time (BST), Guatemala is 7 hours behind the UK.
Most Llama Travel holidays to Guatemala operate during the winter months when the UK is on GMT, so you will likely be 6 hours behind the UK during your holiday.
A: There are currently no direct flights from the UK to Guatemala. Flights usually involve a connection in the USA or Europe, with total journey times typically around 15 hours or more depending on the route.
A: Spanish is the official language of Guatemala, although many indigenous Mayan languages are also spoken throughout the country. English is spoken in many hotels and tourist areas, and all Llama Travel guides speak English.
A: The currency in Guatemala is the Quetzal (GTQ). Credit and debit cards are accepted in many hotels, restaurants and larger shops, although cash is useful for markets, smaller cafés and rural areas.
A: Yes. While cards are widely accepted in tourist areas, cash is useful for local markets, smaller shops and more rural destinations. ATMs are widely available in Antigua, Guatemala City and Flores.
A: Guatemala has a varied climate due to its geography and altitude. Highland areas such as Antigua and Lake Atitlán usually enjoy spring-like temperatures, while lowland rainforest areas such as Tikal are much hotter and more humid.
A: If you receive good service, you may want to leave a tip. This is completely at your discretion. For general excursions, if you want to tip guides, US$3 – 5 per person per day is usual if you are in a group. Approximately US$2-3 is usual for drivers or transfer staff. 10% is usual in restaurants. Please give any tips directly to the person you would like to tip to ensure that they get it.
A: Markets are an important part of daily life in Guatemala and are known for colourful textiles, handicrafts and local produce. Chichicastenango Market is one of the most famous in Central America and offers a fascinating insight into indigenous culture and traditions.
A: Guatemala is home to some of Central America’s most impressive Mayan ruins, including Tikal and Yaxhá. Visits often involve walking through rainforest and climbing steep steps, so comfortable footwear, lightweight clothing and insect repellent are recommended.
Health and Safety
A: Most visitors to Guatemala experience no problems during their stay, particularly in popular tourist areas such as Antigua, Lake Atitlán and Tikal. As with travel anywhere, it is sensible to remain aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure.
A: Good medical facilities are available in Guatemala City and Antigua. If you fall ill while travelling, your guide or hotel staff can help arrange medical assistance if needed.
A: Some areas of Guatemala are located at moderate to high altitude, including Antigua and Lake Atitlán. Most travellers adjust without difficulty, although mild symptoms such as shortness of breath or tiredness can occur during the first couple of days.
A: Yes. Comprehensive travel insurance is essential and should cover medical treatment, cancellation and emergency repatriation if required.
A: Yes. Guatemala is well suited to solo travellers, particularly on organised tours where transport, accommodation and excursions are arranged in advance.
A: Wildlife excursions are led by experienced local guides and are designed to be as safe as possible. However, as with any activity involving wild animals and remote natural environments, there is always some level of risk.
It is important to follow your guide’s instructions at all times, both for your safety and for the welfare of the animals. In wilderness areas, conditions can sometimes be unpredictable, and unexpected delays or changes to excursions may occasionally occur.
Connectivity & Communication
A: Local SIM cards are inexpensive and easy to buy in Guatemala, with providers such as Tigo and Claro offering prepaid data packages.
Many travellers also choose to use an eSIM provider such as Airalo or Holafly before departure, allowing mobile data access as soon as they arrive.
Wi-Fi is available in most hotels, cafés and restaurants in tourist areas.
A: To call Guatemala from the UK, dial 00502 followed by the local number.
A: To call the UK from Guatemala, dial 0044 followed by the UK number, leaving out the first zero in the area code.
Getting Around
A: On Llama Travel holidays, all transport is arranged in advance, including airport transfers, excursions and journeys between destinations. Travel is typically by private, air-conditioned vehicle with your guide and fellow travellers.
During free time, taxis can usually be arranged through hotels, while boat journeys are commonly used around Lake Atitlán to travel between lakeside villages.
Food & Drink
A: Guatemalan cuisine combines indigenous Mayan traditions with Spanish influences. Meals often include tortillas, beans, grilled meats, rice and fresh vegetables. Popular dishes include Pepián, a rich meat stew, and tamales. Antigua is particularly known for its excellent restaurants, cafés and street food.
A: Guatemalan food is generally milder than Mexican cuisine, although spicy sauces are often served separately.
A: Yes. Guatemala produces some of the world’s finest coffee, particularly in the volcanic highlands around Antigua and Lake Atitlán. Fresh local coffee is widely available throughout the country.
A: No. Bottled or filtered water is recommended throughout Guatemala, including for brushing your teeth.
A: Yes. Alcohol is widely available in Guatemala, including local beers, rum and imported wines.
A: Guatemala is well known for its local beers and rum, particularly the premium rum Zacapa. Fresh fruit juices and excellent local coffee are also widely available.
What to See
A: Guatemala combines colonial cities, volcanoes, lakes and ancient Mayan ruins in one relatively compact country. Highlights include Antigua, Lake Atitlán and the jungle temples of Tikal.
A: Around 9 to 14 days is ideal for a first visit to Guatemala, allowing time to experience colonial cities, lakes, volcanoes and Mayan archaeological sites at a comfortable pace.
A: Antigua is one of Latin America’s most attractive colonial cities, known for its cobbled streets, colourful buildings and historic churches. Surrounded by volcanoes, it is also a great base for markets, coffee farms and volcano excursions.
A: Lake Atitlán is surrounded by volcanoes and traditional Mayan villages, each with its own character. Visitors can explore lakeside towns by boat, visit local markets and enjoy spectacular scenery.
A: Tikal is one of the most impressive Mayan archaeological sites in Central America. Huge stone temples rise above the rainforest canopy, while monkeys, toucans and other wildlife can often be seen among the ruins.
A: Yes. Guatemala has more than 30 volcanoes, several of which are still active. Volcán de Fuego near Antigua is one of the most active volcanoes in Central America and can sometimes be seen releasing ash or glowing lava from a distance.