Guatemala

Guatemala City

Guatemala City

Guatemala


About Guatemala

Guatemala is a country in Central America with unique culture and beautiful landscapes. Its terrain is spotted with volcanoes, lakes, and rainforests. The indigenous Mayan culture dates back thousands of years in Guatemala, and its presence and influence is still strong today. Important ancient cultural sites like the Tikal stone pyramid offer visitors the chance to observe what was once the most powerful city-state in the Americas. Travelers can soak in hot springs, shop for handmade and naturally dyed textiles in markets, paddle across lakes, and explore colorful colonial towns.

Accessible travel Guatemala

While organizations have made progress in adapting some spaces in Guatemala to make them accessible, the country’s infrastructure has a ways to go. Cities like Antigua have cobblestone streets and colonial architecture that don’t always allow for smooth easy movement in a wheelchair. Certain accommodations and activities around Guatemala have accessibility features for people with disabilities, especially in Guatemala City.

Country Information

Health

Be sure to get appropriate health insurance to fit your personal and travel needs, and have funds available to cover any medical emergency. No vaccinations are required to enter Guatemala. Zika virus has been recorded, take care to prevent mosquito bites. The most modern hospitals are in Guatemala city.

Security

Theft, armed robbery, and carjacking can occur in Guatemala. Try to use ATMs in hotels or secure banks. Use hotel safes when possible for your valuable items, and don’t leave them in the car. Always keep an eye on your belongings and stay alert in large crowds and on public transportation. Keep a photocopy of your passport and other documents at hand in case of an emergency.

Documentation

Entry requirements to Guatemala depend on your nationality. Check the specific entry requirements with your embassy or consulate.

Weather

The weather in Guatemala depends on the altitude. At lower altitudes, the climate is tropical, humid and warm year round. It has a dry season that runs from November to April and a wet season that runs from June to October. Higher altitudes mean cooler temperatures.

Language

Spanish is the official and most spoken language in Guatemala. 22 Mayan languages and 2 other indigenous languages also have protected status.

Electricity

Guatemala uses 110 volt, 60 cycle electricity and sockets are generally type A and B.