Guatemala

Country information Guatemala

Nestled in the heart of Central America, Guatemala is a fascinating country renowned for its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty.

From the towering volcanoes that dominate the skyline to the ancient Mayan ruins scattered throughout the lush rainforests, Guatemala offers a diverse array of attractions for visitors to explore. As the cradle of Mayan civilization, Guatemala is home to some of the most impressive archaeological sites in the world, including the iconic Tikal with its towering temples, a UNESCO World Heritage site located deep within the jungle. Additionally, Guatemala boasts a wealth of biodiversity, with lush rainforests teeming with exotic wildlife and diverse ecosystems waiting to be discovered.

Guatemala's appeal extends far beyond its natural and historical wonders: the country's indigenous cultures, colorful markets, and delicious cuisine invite travellers to a fully immersive experience. Whether you're exploring the cobblestone streets of Antigua, sailing on the serene waters of Lake Atitlán, trekking through the rugged landscapes of the Western Highlands, or learning more about the exotic wildlife and those who are dedicated to protecting it, Guatemala promises an unforgettable adventure for all who visit.

Our Guatemala trips

Volunteering Wildlife Protection

Highlights in Guatemala

This volcano in Guatemala is one of the most active volcanoes in Central America and attracts tourists and scientists alike. With a height of 3,763 metres, it is part of the La Horqueta volcanic complex and is located near the city of Antigua. Its regular eruptions produce spectacular lava fountains and ash clouds that light up the sky and shape the landscape.
This charming island town in the Petén Region is the perfect base from which to explore nearby Tikal. Known for its colonial architecture and relaxed atmosphere, Flores offers a picturesque place to stay and a wealth of activities, including boat trips on Lake Petén and visits to the surrounding Mayan villages.

Geography of Guatemala

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Guatemala covers an area of around 108,890 square kilometres and is located in the heart of Central America. The country's geographical diversity is impressive: from the majestic volcanoes of the Sierra Madre, such as the Tajumulco volcano, the highest peak in Central America, to the dense rainforests of the Petén in the north, Guatemala offers a landscape of breathtaking landscapes in every direction.

Picturesque beaches and coastal towns stretch along its Pacific and Caribbean coasts, inviting visitors to relax and explore. The famous Lake Atitlán, surrounded by impressive volcanoes and picturesque villages, is another jewel of the Guatemalan landscape. Moreover, the Petén rainforest in the north of the country is home to a rich variety of animal and plant species, and is where visitors will find the ancient Mayan city of Tikal, which also belongs to the list of UNESCO World Heritage Site.

This geographical diversity creates a rich ecosystem that is home to a great variety of species, from exotic birds to endangered mammals. Guatemala is therefore not only a paradise for nature lovers but also a country with a rich cultural and historical past waiting to be discovered.

Geomorphology of Guatemala

In the west of the country, the majestic volcanoes of the Sierra Madre dominate the landscape, including the Tajumulco, the highest mountain in Central America. To the north is the lush Petén rainforest. Along the coastline in the south, picturesque beaches on the Pacific and Caribbean offer a breathtaking backdrop.

In between are fertile valleys and high plateaus, which are used primarily for agriculture, providing the country with a vast array of fruits, vegetable, and key crops such as coffee and sugarcane. This diverse geomorphology not only characterises the landscape but also the culture and way of life of the people of Guatemala.

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Travelling tips and interesting facts about Guatemala

Buses:
Buses are the main means of transport for the city centre and inter-regional travel. Often overcrowded and time-consuming, this is generally the most affordable and popular way to travel long-distances within Guatemala and beyond. They offer a variety of destinations and are often comfortably equipped.

Trains:
Guatemala has a limited rail network, which is mainly used for freight transport. Passenger transport services are rare and do not play a significant role in the country's public transport system. Travellers should instead rely on other means of transport to get around.

Taxis:
Taxis are a ubiquitous and convenient option for inner-city transport as well as for shorter journeys within Guatemala. They are easy to hail on the street or request by phone. Many taxis have meters, but it is advisable to negotiate the fare in advance, especially for longer journeys or if you are going outside the city centres.

Car hire:
Hire cars offer independent travel and the opportunity to explore the country. The roads can be challenging so drive carefully but there is a good selection of car hire companies.

Flight connections:
Regular flights to various destinations throughout the country provide an efficient option for longer journeys. Guatemala is home to several major airports, including La Aurora International Airport in Guatemala City, which is considered the largest and busiest in the country, and Flores airport, the closest to sights such as Tikal.
• New Year (Año Nuevo) – January 1st
• Day of the Revolution (Día de la Revolución) – October 20th
• All Saints' Day (Día de Todos los Santos) – November 1st
• Independence Day (Día de la Independencia) – September 15th
• Armed Forces Day (Día del Ejército) – June 30th
• Labour Day (Día del Trabajo) – May 1st
• Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos) – November 2nd
• Good Friday (Viernes Santo) - variable
• Easter Monday (Lunes de Pascua) - variable
• Christmas (Navidad) – December 25th

Please note: Some public holidays in Guatemala have a deep religious significance and are celebrated by large public ceremonies. For these periods, it is advisable to book accommodation and transport in advance to avoid bottlenecks during the holidays.

Climate in Guatemala

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Guatemala's climate varies according to altitude and region. The coastal regions tend to be hot and humid, while the highland areas are milder. The dry season runs from November to April, while the rainy season lasts from May to October. Temperatures are pleasant all year round, with averages between 25°C and 30°C in the lower altitudes and cooler temperatures in the mountain regions.

The capital Guatemala City lies at an altitude of over 1,500 metres and enjoys a temperate climate with mild temperatures all year round. The best time to visit Guatemala is usually during the dry season from November to April when the weather is stable and the roads are easier to drive on.

Flora and fauna in Guatemala

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The flora and fauna of Guatemala is as diverse as it is fascinating: the country's various ecosystems, including rainforests, highland areas, and coastal regions, are home to a rich variety of species. The dense rainforests of the Petén region in the north of the country are home to numerous plant species, including giant tropical trees such as the mahogany tree, the kapok tree, and the gumbo limbo tree. These forests are also home to a variety of animal species, including spider and howler monkeys, and predators such as jaguars and the ocelots.

The highland regions of Guatemala are characterised by lush forests and fertile valleys where pines, oaks, and cypresses thrive. Animals such as deer, coyotes, and various species of rodents also live here. Along the coastal regions, mangrove forests and coral reefs provide habitats for a variety of marine life, including sea turtles, manatees, and a variety of fish and coral species.

In addition, Guatemala is famous for its diverse birdlife, especially in the highlands and in Tikal National Park, where ornithologists can observe a wealth of species, including the hummingbird, the harpy eagle, and, of course, the quetzal, the sacred bird of the ancient Maya.

Cuisine in Guatemala

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Guatemalan cuisine is full of flavours and diversity: culinary highlights include traditional dishes such as pepian, a savoury stew with meat, vegetables, and spices, and kak'ik, a spicy turkey soup. Corn is a staple food and is used in many dishes, such as tamales and tortillas. In Guatemala, tacos are popular snacks or even main dishes, served with various fillings such as grilled meat, chicken, or vegetables. Black beans are another main ingredient and are used in gallo pinto, a rice and bean side that accompanies almost every main dish. The traditional Guatemalan breakfast is often savoury and includes beans served with eggs, cheese, avocado, and tortillas.

Coffee from Guatemala is known worldwide and is sometimes served with cinnamon and brown sugar. Alongside coffee, cacao is a major drink in Guatemala, traditionally made into a rich and flavoursome drink. In terms of fruit, mango is a widely consumed and highly abundant fruit, often eaten freshly-picked or used in salads and desserts. Pineapple, papaya, and passion fruit are other tropical fruits that are common in Guatemalan cuisine and are a refreshing addition to many dishes.

Social geography in Guatemala

With an estimated population of around 17 million people, Guatemala is the most populous country in Central America. The average age is quite young, with most of the population under the age of 30. Urbanisation is steadily increasing, with around 50% of the population living in urban areas, particularly in Guatemala City and other larger cities.

Traditional indigenous communities continue to characterise the social and cultural fabric of the country, while at the same time, modern trends and influences are increasingly making inroads. The ethnic diversity in the country is high, with a majority of Mestizos, followed by indigenous peoples such as the Maya and a small but significant Garifuna population on the Caribbean coast.
Guatemala's economy is strongly characterised by agriculture, with coffee, sugar, and bananas being the most important exports. In addition to agriculture, the textile industry, tourism, and the service sector also play an important role. Despite high economic growth, Guatemala remains a developing country with challenges such as high unemployment and poverty. The official unemployment rate is only around 2.6%, while a considerable proportion of the population is employed in the informal sector. While efforts to diversify the economy are underway, social inequality and infrastructure deficits remain major concerns for the country.
The political situation in Guatemala has improved in recent years, although challenges such as corruption and social unrest persist. In terms of safety, the country does face crime, but with caution and proper planning, tourists can enjoy their trip as visitors rarely fall victim to petty crime.

By taking basic precautions and showing some situational awareness, the risk is greatly reduced, and Guatemala is one of the safest countries in Central America and a favourite destination for backpackers and tourists alike.
People in Guatemala practice a variety of religions, with most of the population belonging to Christianity. About 60-70% are Roman Catholic, while 25-40% are Protestant or Evangelical. In addition to Christianity, there is also a significant indigenous population that has retained its traditional religious beliefs and practises. These often mix elements of the Catholic faith with indigenous traditions. Despite the dominance of Christianity, indigenous religions, such as the Mayan cosmos and the worship of nature deities, play an important role in the cultural and spiritual life of many Guatemalans.