The presence of the Maya people, both past and present, is evident throughout Guatemala in many ways. Guatemalans are considered direct descendants of the Maya, and vibrant traditional clothing—still commonly worn today—is just one facet of this enduring cultural heritage.
Unlike other Latin American and Central American countries, colonialism never fully took hold here. Although Spanish is the official language, many local dialects are still spoken. Even the name Guatemala comes from the Mayan word “Goathemala“, meaning “land of trees.”
This is a country whose ancient history has valiantly withstood both the hardships of colonialism and, more recently, three decades of civil war. The country’s rich folklore and history come alive in places like the bustling market of Chichicastenango, where marimba musicians and craft stalls create an unforgettable atmosphere, or in the Tikal Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing magnificent Maya architecture and awe-inspiring temples.
Don’t miss Guatemala La Antigua, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This charming city is filled with baroque churches and, during Holy Week, hosts colorful religious celebrations. The country’s landscape is dotted with volcanoes and breathtaking lakes—the Lake Atitlán area is particularly stunning. While predominantly mountainous, Guatemala also features tropical lowlands where pristine jungles, home to local Indigenous communities, represent an invaluable biological and cultural wealth.
Guatemala Facts
- Country: Guatemala
- Area: 108,809 km²
- Capital: Guatemala City
- Population: 14,655,189
- Language: Spanish
- Religion: Mostly Catholic, about 40% Protestant, 1% Maya religion
- Government: Presidential Republic
- Main cities: Guatemala City, Mixco, Villa Nueva, San Juan Sacatepeque, San Pedro Carcha
Essential Information for Traveling in Guatemala
- Currency: quetzal
- International dialing code: +502
- International license plate code: GCA
- Driving side: right
- Entry documents: passport
- Vaccinations required: Guatemala’s public health situation is one of the most precarious in Latin America. Most issues are related to nutrition, the spread of AIDS, tuberculosis, and malaria. Proper medical care is available only in the capital. It’s advisable to consult a physician about vaccines against hepatitis A and B, as well as anti-malarial prophylaxis for those traveling to the northern regions.
- Time zone: -7 hours (compared to Italy)
- Climate: predominantly tropical, varying by region. Dry winters and rainy summers.
- Average temperatures: between 21°C and 27°C; in the highlands and mountains, temperatures range from 10°C to 16°C
- Ports: Puerto Barrios, San José, Champerico on the Pacific coast; Puerto Quetzal, Puerto Santo Tomas de Castilla on the Caribbean coast.
- Airports: There are no direct flights from Italy. The Spanish carrier “Iberia” offers a direct Guatemala-Madrid connection. Other European airlines operate flights with stopovers in Europe, the US, and Mexico.
