Guatemala Overview

Nestled in the heart of Central America, Guatemala is the region's most populous country. Its lush, tropical forests are the sight of several important Mayan ruins and are teeming with exotic wildlife such as jaguars, scarlet macaws, giant anteaters and more. The volcanoes in the Sierra Madre mountain range are Central Americas most active and are simply breathtaking when viewed from Lake Amatitlán, a popular tourist site. And when you're ready to relax and soak up some local color, head to the small towns along the Pacific coast. There you'll discover Guatemala's famous black sand beaches and friendly locals.
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Travel Facts

Capital
Guatemala City

Time Zone
U.S. Central Standard Time Minus 1 Hour

Currency
Quetzal

Weather
Called the “Land of Eternal Spring” because of its great weather year round, Guatemala's varying altitudes and five different ecosystems create a variety of climates. The coastal regions are warm throughout the year averaging 68 degrees (F). But be prepared, on occasion it gets significantly hotter, however nights are generally clear all year round. In the highlands, including Guatemala City and Antigua, the rainy season runs from May to September, and the temperatures cool off quickly after nightfall. The North's hot, tropical climate sees maximum rainfall between May and September.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Plaza Mayor, the city center of Antigua, comes alive each day (especially on weekends) with locals and street performers. Vendors also sell crafts there, although the nearby Mercado Central offers better quality souvenirs and the opportunity to practice your bartering skills. If you're up for dancing, you'll find plenty of places to cut a rug in the evenings. For a nice mix of locals and tourists, try Putters, just east of Dickensen Bay. Dine on the patio and then play a round of miniature golf on the attached course.

Restaurant and Cuisine Listings

Tamarindos, Guatemala City
The prices are reasonable, the décor is whimsical and the food is five-star. Half of the dishes are Thai and the other, Italian – all with a distinct Guatemalan twist. They call it Asian Fusion. For dessert try the chocolate surprise. Delicious!

El Portal del Angel, Guatemala City
Want to dine while overlooking the best view in all of Guatemala City? El Portal del Angel is set on a hill atop the entire city. At night, you'll enjoy the display of the lights below while dining on traditional cuisine like grilled meats and sumptuous grilled lobster.

Hacienda Real, Guatemala City
Hacienda Real is known for their steaks but the robálo and pork platters, served with fresh salsa, pickled carrots, and jalapenos are a big draw here, too. The dining room is charming and hot coals on pedestals keep the patrons warm and toasty. Top your meal off with a caramel flan for a truly authentic Guatemalan dining experience.

Culture & Heritage

Guatemala's culture is a unique blend of heritages and traditions. Roughly half of the population is what the Guatemalans call Ladino - people of mixed European and indigenous ancestry. The Ladino culture is dominant in urban areas and embraces the more modern, North American ways. But in the highlands, Guatemala still has a large indigenous population of the Maya who follow traditional village customs and also expertly weave beautiful textiles. The two cultures have made Guatemala a complex society that is distinctly divided between the rich and the poor.

Famous Guatemalans – Spotlight on Héctor Sandarti

Héctor is a popular Hispanic actor and television host currently hosting the show Vas o No Vas - the Spanish-language version of the American hit show, Deal or no Deal.