Guatemala FAQs

Thinking of travelling to Guatemala?

Guatemala is one of Central America’s most rewarding destinations, combining colourful colonial cities, ancient Mayan ruins, volcanoes, rainforest and traditional highland villages. From the cobbled streets of Antigua and the dramatic scenery of Lake Atitlán to the jungle temples of Tikal, Guatemala offers a fascinating mix of culture, history and natural beauty.

Whether you’re planning your first visit or returning to explore further, our FAQs answer the most common questions about travelling to Guatemala from the UK.

Before You Go

Q: Do I need a visa to travel to Guatemala from the UK?

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.

Q: What vaccinations and health advice should I know before travelling to Guatemala?

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.

Q: What should I pack for a holiday in Guatemala?

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.

Q: When is the best time to visit Guatemala?

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.

Q: Is Guatemala good for first-time visitors to Central America?

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

Q: Where is Guatemala, and which part will I be visiting?

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.

Q: What is the population of Guatemala?

A: Guatemala has a population of around 18 million people.

Q: What is the capital city of Guatemala?

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.

Q: What is the time difference?

A: Guatemala is GMT -6 hours, depending on the time of the year.

Q: How long does it take to fly from the UK to Guatemala?

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.

Q: What language is spoken in Guatemala?

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.

Q: What is the currency in Guatemala?

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.

Q: Will I need cash in Guatemala?

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.

Q: What’s the weather like in Guatemala?

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.

Q: What is the tipping culture in Guatemala?

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.

Q: What should I know about visiting local markets in Guatemala?

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.

Q: What should I know about visiting temples in Guatemala?

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 & Safety

Q: Is Guatemala safe to travel to?

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.

Q: What happens if I get ill while in Guatemala?

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.

Q: Will I get altitude sickness in Guatemala?

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.

Q: Do I need travel insurance for Guatemala?

A: Yes. Comprehensive travel insurance is essential and should cover medical treatment, cancellation and emergency repatriation if required.

Q: Is Guatemala suitable for solo travellers?

A: Yes. Guatemala is well suited to solo travellers, particularly on organised tours where transport, accommodation and excursions are arranged in advance.

Q: Are wildlife excursions safe?

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 and Communication

Q: What are the options for mobile data and SIM cards in Guatemala?

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.

Q: How do I call Guatemala from the UK?

A: To call Guatemala from the UK, dial 00502 followed by the local number.

Q: How do I call the UK from Guatemala?

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

Q: How do I get around in Guatemala?

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 and Drink

Q: What’s the food like in Guatemala?

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.

Q: Is Guatemalan food spicy?

A: Guatemalan food is generally milder than Mexican cuisine, although spicy sauces are often served separately.

Q: Is Guatemala known for its coffee?

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.

Q: Can I drink tap water in Guatemala?

A: No. Bottled or filtered water is recommended throughout Guatemala, including for brushing your teeth.

Q: Can I drink alcohol in Guatemala?

A: Yes. Alcohol is widely available in Guatemala, including local beers, rum and imported wines.

Q: What drinks are available in Guatemala?

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

Q: What are the highlights of Guatemala?

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.

Q: How many days do I need to explore Guatemala?

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.

Q: What can I see in Antigua?

A: Antiguav 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.

Q: What can I see at Lake Atitlán?

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.

Q: What can I see at Tikal?

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.

Q: Are Guatemala’s volcanoes active?

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.

Still have questions about travelling to Guatemala?

Our team is happy to help. Call us on 020 7263 3000 or explore our Guatemala holidays to start planning your trip.