Currency
The Guatemalan quetzal (GTQ, symbol Q) is the local currency. The exchange rate against the US dollar is stable at roughly Q8 to US$1. Notes come in Q1, Q5, Q10, Q20, Q50, Q100, and Q200 denominations. US dollars are accepted at many hotels and tourist businesses, but you will need quetzales for markets, chicken buses, and smaller restaurants.
Withdraw quetzales from ATMs — they are widely available in Guatemala City, Antigua, Panajachel, Quetzaltenango, and Flores. ATMs in remote areas are scarce; carry cash if you are heading into the highlands or Petén. Most banks open Monday to Friday 09:00–16:00 and Saturday 09:00–12:00.
Language
Spanish is the official language. Guatemala has 21 recognized Mayan languages — including K'iche', Kaqchikel, Mam, and Q'eqchi' — spoken by a substantial portion of the population, particularly in highland villages. English is spoken in tourist centers but do not count on it outside them. A few words of Spanish go a long way everywhere.
Health
No vaccinations are required to enter Guatemala, but hepatitis A, typhoid, and up-to-date routine vaccinations are recommended. Malaria prophylaxis is advised if you are traveling to lowland areas such as the Petén or the Caribbean coast. Tap water is not safe to drink anywhere in the country — stick to bottled or filtered water. Altitude sickness is a risk for travelers arriving quickly in Antigua (1,500 m) or Quetzaltenango (2,333 m); allow a day to acclimatize.
Safety
Guatemala has significant crime, concentrated in Guatemala City and certain rural areas. Antigua, Lake Atitlán, and the main tourist corridors have heavy tourist-police presence (DISETUR) and are reasonably safe during the day. Avoid walking alone at night, use reputable taxis or Uber after dark, and do not display expensive cameras or phones in crowded areas. ASISTUR (tourist assistance) can be reached at 1500 from any phone.
Electricity
110V, 60Hz — the same as the US and Canada. Standard two-pin US outlets. European travelers will need adapters and possibly voltage converters.
Tipping
Tipping is not obligatory but appreciated. A 10% tip is standard in tourist restaurants. Round up taxi fares. VAT (IVA) of 12% is included in most quoted prices.
National holidays
| Date | Holiday | |---|---| | January 1 | New Year's Day | | March/April | Holy Week (Wed–Fri) | | May 1 | Labour Day | | June 30 | Army Day | | August 15 | Guatemala City Day (city only) | | September 15 | Independence Day | | October 20 | Revolution Day (1944) | | November 1 | All Saints' Day | | December 24 | Christmas Eve (afternoon) | | December 25 | Christmas Day | | December 31 | New Year's Eve (afternoon) |
Tourist information
INGUAT (Guatemala's tourism board) has offices at La Aurora Airport, in Guatemala City, Antigua, Panajachel, Quetzaltenango, and Flores. The website is visitguatemala.com.