Guatemala Traveler Essentials
- Capital
- Guatemala City
- Currency
- Guatemalan Quetzal (GTQ Q)
- Best time to visit
- November to April, the dry season, offers clear skies for volcano hikes and ruins; the highlands are pleasantly cool year-round.
Visa requirements
US, EU, Canadian, and many other passport holders enter visa-free for up to 90 days under the CA-4 regional agreement.
Getting around
Colorful chicken buses serve locals cheaply, while tourist shuttles, private drivers, and domestic flights to Flores connect the main destinations.
Safety
Popular spots like Antigua, Lake Atitlán, and Tikal are well-traveled and generally safe, but petty theft is common and some highland routes carry risk. Avoid intercity travel after dark and use reputable shuttle services.
Tipping customs
Tipping 10% in restaurants is standard, and small tips for guides, drivers, and hotel staff are appreciated.
Travel tips
Carry quetzales in cash, especially in markets and villages where cards are rarely accepted. Altitude in the highlands can affect visitors, so acclimatize before strenuous hikes. Bargaining is expected in markets but should stay respectful.