Guatemala is one of the distinctive countries of Central America. In pre-Columbian times, the territory of today’s Guatemala was the southern border of the Mayan empire. Tikal, located in the northern part of the country, is one of the most impressive remnants of the Mayan civilization. Several shots of the oldest, 1977’s Star Wars Part IV were taken in Tikal.
It’s worth mentioning that a total of 60,000 structures, roads and other infrastructures have been discovered in the dense jungle of Peten province thanks to Lidar technology. It is very difficult to reach the sites, and even when you manage to, you only see mounds covered with dense vegetation, as exemplified by El Mirador.
Guatemala is home to one of the world’s most beautiful lakes, Lago de Atitlán.
Tourists are also attracted to the mountains and mountain villages where Mayan descendants live. Instead of staying in the large and dangerous current capital, I recommend accommodation in Antigua. Antigua is the starting point for virtually all of Guatemala’s attractions, including trekking to the volcanoes.
Guatemala does not have the beautiful and endlessly stretching white beaches. Surfing and huge waves fans can go to the small and very relaxing towns El Paredan or Monterrico.
It is difficult to find a cheap direct flight from Europe to Guatemala. The best options are to fly to Mexico, Colombia or the US from Europe and take a flight to Guatemala City.
The local currency is Quetzales. In 2024, the exchange rate of US$1 was Q 7.8 and 1 zloty was Q 2.0.
Local cuisine is not the best in the world, but you can eat reasonably well. Guatemalans like pizzas, hamburgers, chicken, etc. Food prices are cheaper than European ones.
Accommodations. Accommodation prices depend on location. The most expensive was in Antigua. Prices for a double room with bathroom ranged from 20 to 40 USD.
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