Official information about Guatemala
What you need to know to make the most of your visit
Transfers
How to get around Guatemala
Before travelling to Guatemala, it's important to have official, up-to-date information on entry requirements, vaccinations, currency, climate, culture, and practical transportation advice.
This guide provides everything you need to prepare for your trip with updated information, following recommendations from official organisations and tourism authorities.
Remember that Guatemala is a mountainous country, which creates its stunning landscapes. Travel through mountainous areas usually takes longer than through valleys. For this reason, we recommend planning your transfers in advance, bringing water and snacks, and enjoying the beautiful volcanic scenery along every route.
If you're travelling with large luggage or valuable equipment, tourist shuttles are your best option. They offer secure, enclosed compartments for luggage, something that local public transport (vans) doesn't always guarantee. It's the most comfortable and stress-free way to travel between major destinations such as Antigua, Lake Atitlán, and Lanquín.
GUATEMALA
Entry requirements for Guatemala
To enter Guatemala as a tourist, you must meet some basic requirements:
- Valid passport with at least 6 months of validity
- Return or onward ticket
- Address of accommodation during your stay
Citizens of many countries—including those from the Schengen area in Europe, North America, much of Latin America, the United Kingdom, Australia, and Japan, among others, don't require a visa for tourist stays of up to 90 days.
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Health recommendations
Before travelling to Guatemala, it's recommended to:
- Have international travel insurance
- Be up to date with basic vaccinations
- Check health recommendations according to the region of the country
Currently, there is only one mandatory vaccine in specific cases:
- *Yellow fever: mandatory only if you're coming from a country with a risk of transmission. This includes travelers from countries such as Brazil, Colombia, Peru, Bolivia, Venezuela, and some countries in Africa.
- *In these cases, you must present the international vaccination certificate.
Tips:
- In tropical or jungle regions, mosquito protection is recommended.
- Tip: drink bottled water instead of tap water.
Currency, payments and practical information
The currency of Guatemala is the quetzal (GTQ).
- Payments can be made by card in hotels and tourist restaurants
- Cash is required in markets and rural areas
- ATMs are available in major cities
Tip: Carrying a combination of cash and card is the best option for travelling in Guatemala.
Language, culture, and customs
The official language is Spanish, although more than 20 Mayan languages are spoken in Guatemala.
In tourist areas, it's common to find people who speak basic English.
Cultural aspects to keep in mind:
- Punctuality can be flexible in some contexts
- It's customary to leave a tip in restaurants
- People are generally friendly and approachable
Climate in Guatemala and best time to travel
Guatemala has a varied climate depending on the region:
- Dry season: November to April (best time to travel)
- Rainy season: May to October
- Temperatures are mild year-round in areas such as Antigua, while regions like Petén are warmer and more humid.
Contacts and official organisations in Guatemala
For up-to-date information during your trip, you can consult:
- Guatemalan Institute of Tourism, by calling 1500 (tourist assistance hotline)
- Other contact lines: +502-22902810 and +502-51881819 (WhatsApp)
- Guatemalan immigration authorities
- For immediate tourist assistance, contact ASISTUR 24 hours a day
- In case of emergency, it's recommended to contact your embassy or consulate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a visa to travel to Guatemala?
Most travellers don't need a visa. Citizens from Europe (Schengen area), the United States, the United Kingdom, much of Latin America, Australia, and Japan can enter Guatemala as tourists without a visa.
Is it safe to travel to Guatemala?
Yes, Guatemala can be explored safely, and thousands of travellers visit the country every year without issues, especially along tourist routes such as Antigua, Lake Atitlán, Flores, and Semuc Champey. It's recommended to follow basic precautions and use authorised services.
Is travel insurance mandatory?
No, Guatemala currently doesn't require mandatory travel insurance to enter the country as a tourist in most cases. However, it's highly recommended, especially if you plan to do adventure activities such as climbing Volcán Acatenango, visiting Semuc Champey, or exploring remote areas of Petén and the Verapaces.
What language is spoken in Guatemala?
Spanish is the official language, along with numerous Mayan languages. In tourist areas, you can find people who speak basic English.
What is the best time to travel?
The best time to travel to Guatemala depends on the type of experience you are looking for, but generally the dry season from November to April is ideal for most tourist destinations. If you're more focused on nature and adventure, the rainy season from May to October also has advantages, including greener landscapes, impressive rivers and waterfalls, fewer tourists, and lower accommodation prices.