Guatemala Holidays
Guatemala is one of the most striking countries in Latin America, with a rich heritage of Mayan and colonial history and offering some spectacular natural scenery. Surrounded by impressive volcanic peaks and clear lakes in its central highlands, dense jungle and Mayan ruins in the north and Caribbean culture and music to the east, a holiday to Guatemala is a real celebration for the senses.
The city of Antigua retains the beauty of its colonial heritage and has a unique atmosphere, while Lake Atitlan and the villages surrounding it seem lost in time with locals wearing distinctive hand-woven costumes in vivid colours. Chichicastenango with its famous markets and Iglesia de Santo Tomas (a unique church with its own style of worship blended from pre-Colombian and Catholic practices) is definitely worth a visit. Another highlight of any Guatemala holiday must surely be Tikal, with probably the best setting of all the Mayan ruins - surrounded by undisturbed rain forest and home to howler monkeys and toucans. Or step off the beaten track to float down the Rio Dulce towards the Caribbean coast at Livingston and where you may be lucky enough to spot the elusive manatee.
Whatever part of this beautiful country appeals to you, South American Experience at Western & Oriental would be delighted to tailor- make your perfect Central American tour. Guatemala combines very well with neighbouring Belize and its delightful offshore islands. Alternatively take a side trip from Guatemala into Honduras to visit the well-preserved stelae carvings at the Mayan site of Copan. You can even venture into southern Mexico from the Tikal area towards Yaxchilan and Palenque if you have a keen interest in Mayan culture.
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Spanning across a large slice of Central America, Guatemala is filled with remarkable natural, historical, and cultural appeal. The birthplace and heartland of the Mayan culture, the country is in many different ways defined by the legacy of this early civilisation.
The food of Guatemala is influenced by the Spanish and Mayan cultures which dominate the country. In addition, international cuisines including Chinese, American, and the vegan movement have become popular in recent years as well.
Corn, beans cheese, and rice are the steadfast of most meals. Meat stews and soups also make for normal entrees.
The most popular beverage in the country is the limonada con soda: a fresh-squeezed lemonade made with soda water. If in the mood for an alcoholic drink, try the famous Gallo beer or Sol and Victoria.
Guatemala is a country of contrasts where historic riches meet with the modern current affairs. From nights at the Cinema to having a wander around looking at impressive museum exhibits, you will immerse yourself in the fun that radiates throughout this vast land.
UK citizens are not required to have a visa to enter the country. It is advised that you have proof of a return flight.
The electric current in Guatemala is 120 volts at 60 cycles per second. It is advised that you check with your hotel prior to travel to verify whether you will need a transformer or converter.
Guatemala is generally safe from violent crime. As with all travel destinations it is advised to always put your belongings in safe keeping when away from your hotel room and to remain aware of your surroundings when in crowds.
The main tourist season runs from December through March which is considered to be Guatemala’s dry season. The best time of year to visit if concerned about the weather is in December and January when the pastures are still very green from rainfall and the sky is a clear blue.
The beginning of the rainy season is the best time to travel to avoid crowds.
It is advised that all travellers make sure their Tetanus and Polio vaccines are up to date. Vaccines for Typhoid and Hepatitis A are strongly advised. Hepatitis C, Tuberculosis, and Rabies vaccines are suggested.
The flying time from the UK is 10.5 hours.
The official language of Guatemala is Spanish.
The official currency of Guatemala is the Quetzal.
The time difference from the UK is GMT -7 hours.
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Amanda SweeneyYou’ll find traces of the Mayan populations all over the markets, mountains and lots of sites around the country. Head down to Lago de Izabal or Nebaj to escape the tourist trail and then back on it to see the unmissable Lago de Atitlan.
Given its wealth in ancient history, there is too much to uncover in one trip, so I’ve promised myself to make another few :D!
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