Guatemala Tips

We know that planning a vacation can be time-consuming and exhausting, but we're here to help! Making the most of your trip is important to us, which is why we've compiled a list of things to consider before traveling to Guatemala.

Passport and Visa Provisions
Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended date of entry into Guatemala. Most nationalities do not require a visa for stays of 90 days or less.
Your passport must be valid for at least six months after your intended date of entry to Guatemala. Most nationalities do not require a visa for stays of 90 days or less.
Guatemala is part of the Central America-4 Border Control Agreement alongside El Salvador, Honduras and Nicaragua. This agreement allows citizens and tourists to travel freely between these four countries without additional checks or restrictions.
For information on Guatemala's visa requirements in Spanish, please follow this link provided by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. However, please contact your embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date visa information specific to your nationality.

Getting Around
Private transportation: We strongly recommend using private transport instead of public shuttles and buses. Although travelling on the 'chicken bus' can be an authentic experience, it is important to be aware that Guatemalan roads can be in poor condition, particularly during the rainy season.

Domestic Flights
Many tourists choose to fly from Guatemala City to Santa Elena (Flores, Petén) to visit Tikal. While this is a quick option, it is not the most environmentally friendly. To reduce your environmental impact and experience more of Guatemala's stunning landscapes, consider extending your trip by a couple of nights and travelling overland.

Public Transportation
Although bus travel is the most affordable option in Guatemala, it is not generally preferred by locals or tourists. While taxis can be unreliable, the yellow cabs operated by Amarillo Express are a safer option as they are registered and monitored.
Important note: due to safety concerns, we advise exercising caution when using public transport in Guatemala.

Water
Water quality is a significant concern in Guatemala, where approximately 90% of natural water sources are contaminated. This primarily affects rural areas.
Fortunately, a local social enterprise called Ecofiltro provides water purification filters, benefiting thousands of families and reducing the risk of waterborne illnesses. Many hotels and restaurants also use Ecofiltro systems to minimise their reliance on single-use plastic bottles.
Tip: Always carry a reusable water bottle and refill it at locations with Ecofiltro systems wherever possible.

Cuisine
Guatemala boasts a vibrant culinary scene. Major cities such as Guatemala City and Antigua offer a wide variety of dining options, ranging from street food and local specialities to international cuisine. Prices for meals will vary depending on the restaurant and the dish chosen. However, Guatemalan portions are usually generous.

Packing
Guatemala has more than 300 distinct microclimates, so the weather can vary greatly from one area to another. Make sure you bring clothing suitable for both hot and cold climates. Depending on the route you will travel while on holiday in Guatemala, bring comfortable shoes, layers of clothing and a light jacket. Essential travel items include sunscreen, a swimsuit, a camera and mosquito repellent, especially during the rainy season.

Power Adapters
Guatemala uses the same plugs as the US, with a standard voltage of 120 V. Depending on where you live, you will need to carry a Type A or Type B plug adaptor. To charge multiple devices at once, a universal power strip is ideal.