OPEN // February 2025 // Guatemala - A Cultural Tapestry of Mayan Heritage // with Gaby Huberty

As the heartland of Central America, Guatemala offers travellers a remarkable range of impressive historical, natural and cultural sights. The Maya ruins are undoubtedly the highlight of these attractions, most notably Tikal, a designated archaeological UNESCO World Heritage Site which is so remarkable as to defy belief. Maya communities continue to thrive in the lush Guatemalan rainforests where their traditional cultural and religious practices have combined with colonial traditions and modern Latin and North American influences to form a fascinatingly rich hybrid culture. Sacred Pagan temples are located alongside extravagant colonial architecture and traditional markets co-exist alongside massive state-of-the art shopping complexes. Despite its small size, Guatemala is a surprisingly geographically diverse country. From the verdant jungle-clad lowland areas to the highlands dotted with towering mountains and an abundance of volcanoes, there is plenty to keep nature enthusiasts blissfully engaged. With its warm and welcoming locals, its ancient cultural heritage and its breathtaking natural attractions, Guatemala never ceases to amaze.

Currency 

Local currency: Guatemalan Quetzal 
Symbol: Q 
ISO code: GTQ 
Subunit: Centavo 
Banknotes: Q1, Q5, Q10, Q20, Q50, Q100, Q200 
Coins: 1, 5, 10, 25, 50 centavos; Q1 

Banking 

Card Transactions: Yes 
ATMs: Yes 
Mastercard: Yes 
Visa: Yes 
American Express: Yes 
Diner’s club: Yes 

Banking Hours: 
Weekdays: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM 
Weekends: Closed 
Public Holidays: Yes 
Foreign exchange services: Yes 

Air: 

Main airlines: Avianca, TAG Airlines 
International Airports: La Aurora International Airport 
Domestic Airports: Mundo Maya International Airport, Quetzaltenango Airport 

Road: 

Driving on the: Right 
Tar roads: Yes 
Gravel roads: Yes 
Valid International Driver's License needed: Yes 
Car hire available: Yes 
Taxis: Yes 
E-hailing services: Yes 

Bus: 

Inter-city bus services: Yes 
Local city bus networks: Yes 

Rail: 

Railway system: No 
Subway System: No 

Water: 

Ferries: No 
Water taxis: No 
Leisure cruises: No 

Food and water safety: 

Can you drink the tap water: No 
Fresh fruit and veg: Yes 
Ice: Yes 
Meat: Yes 
Street food: Yes 

Local cuisine: 

Guatemalan cuisine reflects the country's diverse culture, with influences from Mayan, Spanish, and African traditions. Common dishes include tamales, chiles rellenos, and pepian. Beverages like atol de elote (corn-based drink) and horchata (rice-based drink) are popular.

 
Tipping: 10-15% 

Annual rainfall: 1,000 - 2,500 mm 
Average temperature: 22°C 

Summer: 

Average highs: 27°C 
Average lows: 18°C 

Winter: 

Average highs: 25°C 
Average lows: 15°C 

Best time to visit: 

The best time to visit Guatemala is during the dry season, from November to April, when the weather is typically sunny and pleasant. 

Spring and Summer 

Cool, light, breathable and comfortable: Yes 
Lightweight warm clothes: No 

Winter and Autumn 

Jerseys, cardigans, sweaters, jackets: Recommended 
Heavyweight clothing and boots: No 

General 

Umbrella and raincoat: Yes 
Warm gloves, hat and scarf: No 
Swimming costume (bathing suit): Yes 
Hat, sunglasses and sunblock: Yes 
Walking shoes: Yes 
Casual: Yes 
Smart-casual attire: Yes 

Plug Type: Type A, Type B 
Voltage (V): 120V 
Frequency Hertz (Hz): 60Hz 

*Travel plug adapter and voltage converter might be necessary depending on your appliances.