Group trips to Guatemala

If you are a UK citizen, to find out the entry requirements for Guatemala, you can check this informational page from our partner Sherpa. If you need a visa, you can apply for it through Sherpa. If you are not a UK citizen, you can still use Sherpa by changing the nationality in the 'Passport' section.

Before traveling, always remember to check the government website of your country of origin for updates on the entry requirements for Guatemala – you wouldn’t want to stay home due to a bureaucratic detail!

• UK residents: review the FCDO Travel Advice.
• US residents: consult the US Department of State Travel Advice.
• Other residents: refer to your government or local consulate's travel advice.

Guatemala is in the Central Standard Time (CST) zone, which is 6 hours behind the UK. So, if it's 12pm in the UK, it will be 6am in Guatemala. For the USA, Guatemala is generally:

• 1 hour behind Eastern Time
• 2 hours ahead of Pacific Time

If it's 12pm on the East Coast, it will be 11am in Guatemala, and if it's 12pm on the West Coast, it will be 10am in Guatemala. Guatemala does not observe daylight saving time, so these differences stay consistent throughout the year.

Guatemala uses the Guatemalan Quetzal as its currency. The exchange rates are approximately:

• 1 GBP to 10 GTQ
• 1 USD to 7.5 GTQ
• 1 EUR to 8.5 GTQ

You can exchange your currency at banks, exchange bureaus, or at the airport in Guatemala. Always check for the latest rates before exchanging money.

Cash is widely accepted, but credit and debit cards are commonly used in cities and tourist areas. Be sure to carry some cash for smaller towns or markets where cards might not be accepted. ATMs are available in larger cities, and it's wise to notify your bank about your travel plans to avoid any issues.

In Guatemala, tipping is appreciated but not always expected. In restaurants, a tip of 10 percent is generally considered polite for good service, though check if it's already included in your bill. For taxi drivers, rounding up the fare is common. Hotel staff, porters, and tour guides would also appreciate a small tip, usually a few quetzals. It's a nice way to show gratitude for good service.

In Guatemala, internet access can vary based on where you are. In cities, you'll find Wi-Fi readily available in hotels, cafes, and restaurants, but rural areas may have limited connectivity. It's a good idea to buy a local SIM card or an e-SIM data plan if you want reliable internet access on the go. Major providers like Tigo and Claro offer prepaid plans with decent coverage. This way, you'll stay connected wherever your adventures take you in Guatemala.

In Guatemala, the official language is Spanish. However, you'll also encounter a rich tapestry of 21 Mayan languages spoken throughout the country. Here are some useful Spanish expressions you might hear or use:

• Hello: Hola
• Thank you: Gracias
• Please: Por favor
• How much is it?: ¿Cuánto cuesta?
• Excuse me: Perdón

These phrases can be handy while traveling and interacting with locals.

Guatemala uses Type A and Type B plugs, which are the same as those used in the USA. The voltage is 120V with a frequency of 60Hz. If you're coming from a country that uses different plugs, we suggest you bring a universal adapter to ensure you can charge all your devices without any issues.

Guatemala's main religion is Christianity, with the majority being Roman Catholic, but there's also a significant Protestant community. Additionally, Mayan spiritual practices are woven into the culture. Important religious holidays include Semana Santa (Holy Week) and Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead). If you're visiting during these times, you'll experience vibrant and unique celebrations that reflect a mix of traditions.

Guatemala's diverse climate and terrain mean you'll need a variety of items in your backpack. Here's a list to help you prepare:

• Clothing:
  • Light shirts and T-shirts
  • Long-sleeve tops for cooler evenings
  • Lightweight pants or shorts
  • A rain jacket or poncho for wet weather
  • Swimwear for beaches and hot springs
• Shoes:
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Sandals for casual outings
  • Hiking boots for exploring mountainous regions
• Accessories and Technology:
  • Sunglasses and a sun hat
  • A camera or smartphone with a charger
  • A power bank for extra battery life
• Toiletries and Medication:
  • Sunscreen and insect repellent
  • Basic toiletries like toothpaste, toothbrush, and shampoo
  • Common travel medication, such as pain relievers and motion sickness pills

Be prepared for both warm and cooler climates, especially if you're visiting different regions.

Guatemala's weather varies by region due to its diverse topography. Here's a quick breakdown to help you plan:

• Highlands: Cool and mild, with temperatures ranging from 10-20°C, best visited from November to April.
• Coastal and Lowland Areas: Warm and humid, temperatures around 25-30°C, rainy season from May to October.
• Guatemala City: Mild year-round, temperatures between 15-25°C, drier months are November to April.

For the best experience, we suggest visiting during the dry season, from November to April, when the weather is most pleasant.