Travel Guide
Guatemala
A Central American country south of Mexico, Guatemala is known for its natural beauty, Mayan heritage and volcanic landscapes, with a whopping 30 volcanoes, three of which are active and many of which serve as the backdrop to busy towns. Guatemalan fare is modest but delicious. Recipes are based on Maya cuisine with Spanish influences and often highlight corn, chilies and beans.
West of the capital, Guatemala City, Antigua is home to preserved Spanish colonial buildings, a UNESCO World Heritage Centre that was the cultural, economic and political center of the region. Nearby, the gorgeous Lake Atitlรกn is a volcanic lake surrounded by mountains and villages filled with coffee fields and avocado orchards. To the north, Tikal features Mayan ruins and archaeological sites like pyramids, palaces and temples.
Map
Steph Marshall
When & How to Travel
Best Time of Year
Dry season (November to April)
Visa Requirements
Visa free up to 90 days (US citizens); Guatemala Tourist Visa needed by 112 countries
Currency
Guatemalan Quetzal (GTQ)
Key Phrases
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Hola/Adiรณs
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Sรญ/No
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Por favor/Gracias
Antigua's surrounding villages honor a rich cultural heritage with production of macadamia nuts, local textiles and authentic Guatemalan fare.