Travel Essentials › Guatemala
Travel Essentials
Plugs: Types A and B; 120 V, 60 Hz. Emergency: Police 110, Ambulance 122, Fire 122. Tipping: 10% in restaurants is customary and sometimes added to the bill; tip guides and drivers. Tap water: Drink bottled or treated water.
Types A and B; 120 V, 60 Hz
| Police | 110 |
| Ambulance | 122 |
| Fire | 122 |
10% in restaurants is customary and sometimes added to the bill; tip guides and drivers.
Greetings. A handshake is standard; in indigenous communities, a soft handshake or slight nod may replace a firm grip, and rushing greetings is seen as impolite.
Bargaining. Haggling is expected at markets but not in shops or restaurants; keep it friendly and good-humored.
Respect for indigenous dress and sites. Ask permission before photographing people, especially in Maya communities, and dress modestly at religious ceremonies.
Risk is moderate and uneven: main tourist circuits (Antigua, Lake Atitlán, Flores/Tikal) are generally manageable with basic precautions, while Guatemala City and some highway routes see higher crime, especially after dark.
Distraction and bag theft. An accomplice distracts you (spilled substance, fake 'bird mess') while another grabs your bag; keep bags close and walk away from unsolicited contact.
Fake tour guides/police. Unlicensed 'guides' or people posing as police may target tourists for extortion; use official guides and ask for ID from anyone claiming to be police.
ATM skimming/robbery. Standalone street ATMs are targeted by thieves and skimmers; use ATMs inside banks or hotels.
Women travelers. Machismo culture means catcalling and unwanted attention can occur; there have been reports of drink spiking in Antigua bars, so watch your drink and travel with others at night.
Legal · Use Caution
Same-sex activity is legal, but there is no marriage or partnership recognition and no strong anti-discrimination protection; social conservatism means discretion is advised outside Guatemala City's small LGBTQ+ scene.
| Coffee (café) | Q15 | $1.95 |
| Local bus or metro ride | Q6 | $0.80 |
| Mid-range restaurant meal | Q90 | $11.50 |
| Hostel bed / budget room (night) | Q100 | $13 |
| Mid-range hotel (night) | Q450 | $58 |
| Daily budget, mid-range traveler | Q550 | $70 |
2026-09
The dry season (November-April) is best for travel and volcano hikes; January-February offer the most stable, clear weather. The rainy season (May-October) brings afternoon downpours but lower prices and fewer crowds.
Basic Spanish phrases · Basic K'iche' phrases · Basic Q'eqchi' phrases