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General Informationen and Tips for Travelers Land of volcanoes, cloud forests and the resplendent quetzal. From coast to coast, Guatemala is a country, full of unexpected adventures and the vital experience of visiting a natural paradise. Visitors will find an abundance of ecosystem, mystical Maya cities and a country rich in heritage, folklore and culture. No matter where the traveler's interests lie, Guatemala manages to provide every imaginable scenario. Hikers and naturalists may marvel at the tropical forests that grow in a variety of climates spanning aprox. 109,000 square kilometers of mountains, plains and coastline. The name Guatemala comes from the word Goathemala, which is in Tolteca Maya and means Land of the Trees. Among its natural wonders are the Caribbean and Pacific coasts, virgin tropical jungles, majestic volcanoes, and remarkable mountain lakes. This diversity of nature combined with impressive colonial cities. Some of the most outstanding places in the Mayan world, and the warmth of the people give us the portrait of Guatemala; a paradise of tradition, color and friendship. Take the time to get to know our rich culture and diverse heritage as you travel through the Land of Eternal Spring. Discover the natural beauty of our mountains clad in misty cloudforest and our rushing rivers. Lazily kayak through winding mangroves and estuaries in search of exotic birds and recharge your solar batteries on one of our many black sand beaches. Let our traditions and folklore enhance your journey through Guatemala. Our people offer their wide smiles and hospitality and hope to make your visit as unforgettable as possible. INMIGRATION REQUIREMENTS Imigration requirements vary according to the visitor's country of origin, but a valid passport is mandatory. In general, all European nationals do not require visa; a valid passport is enough. Other nationals should check with the nearest Guatemalan Embassy or Consulate, or with their travel agent. LOCAL CURRENCY Guatemala's national currency is the Quetzal, but US dollars are widely accepted, as are major credit cards like Master Card, Visa, American Express and Diners Club. LANGUAGES The official language is Spanish, but more than 23 indigenous languages, including Quiché, Cakchiquel, Mam and Kekchí are spoken by the various indigenous communities. English is spoken in almost all tourist areas, in the majority of hotels and in many of the restaurants. CLIMATE Weather conditions vary from season to season and region to region. The dry season is from October to early May and the rainy season from May until the end of September. Temperatures are usually very mild and vary little during the year. The average high temperature is 77 F and the low 55 F. CLOTHING While in Guatemala City and the highlands area, it is recommended to wear spring clothing and a sweater at night. Comfortable walking shoes are a must. At archeological sites, beaches and the low-lands, light-colored, lightweight, all-cotton clothing is recommended. Sunglasses and a hat are recommended while on tours or at the beach. POPULATION The population is approximately 10.1 million, Guatemalans are a mix of indigenous, Ladinos and Garifunas. Theres is also a population of U.S., Canadian and European residents. DEPARTURE TAX Air passengers pay US$ 30.00 when leaving by airplane. Land and sea departures vary according to the area. TOPOGRAPHY Guatemala is aprox. 109.000 square kilometers and is at the northern end of the Central American isthmus. It borders Mexico to the north, the Pacific Ocean to the west, the Caribbean Sea and Belize to the east and El Salvador and Honduras to the south. The country is comprised of majestic mountains and volcanoes, temperate plateaus, tropical plains, near-desert river valleys, lowland jungles and swamps.
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