Your questions about Guatemala

How long does a flight France-Guatemala take?

A France-Guatemala flight takes approximately 15 hours of travel time with a mandatory stopover. No airline operates a direct flight between France and Guatemala City.

How do you say hello and thank you in Guatemala?

In Guatemala, people say hello with "buenos días" or "hola," and thank you with "gracias." Spanish is the country's official language.

How to get around in Guatemala?

In Guatemala, you can get around by bus (private shuttles or local public buses) or by rental car with or without a driver. A car offers more freedom to explore remote sites, while shuttles efficiently serve the main tourist destinations.

How to use your phone and internet in Guatemala?

In Guatemala (country code +502), you can use your phone by activating the international option on your plan or by purchasing a local SIM card. Most tourist hotels and restaurants offer free Wi-Fi.

When should you travel to Guatemala?

The best time to visit Guatemala is from November to April, during the dry season. Temperatures are milder and rainfall is less frequent, ideal for exploring archaeological sites and discovering the country.

What should you pack for a trip to Guatemala?

For Guatemala, pack light and warm clothing (climate varies by altitude), hiking shoes and sandals, swimwear, comprehensive first aid kit, flashlight, spare battery, small backpack, and binoculars for wildlife observation.

What is the climate like in Guatemala?

Guatemala has a tropical climate with two distinct seasons: the dry season from November to April (ideal for traveling) and the rainy season from May to October. Mountainous regions enjoy a cooler, temperate climate.

What is the time difference between Guatemala and France?

Guatemala is 7 or 8 hours behind France depending on the season. It is 7 hours earlier during French summer (March–October) and 8 hours earlier during French winter, as Guatemala does not observe daylight saving time.

What type of government runs Guatemala?

Guatemala has a presidential system with a head of state elected by direct universal suffrage for a four-year non-consecutive term.

What is the capital of Guatemala?

Guatemala City, the capital of Guatemala, is also known as Ciudad de Guatemala or Nueva Guatemala de la Asunción. This metropolis of over 2 million inhabitants is the country's political and economic center.

What is the language spoken in Guatemala?

Spanish is spoken by nearly 70% of Guatemala's population, but there are over 20 Mayan languages such as Kaqchikel and K'eqchi', spoken by indigenous communities representing approximately half the population.

What is Guatemala's currency and its exchange rate?

The official currency of Guatemala is the quetzal (GTQ). Exchange rates fluctuate, so it's recommended to check the current rate before departure on currency exchange websites or with your bank.

What is the main religion practiced in Guatemala?

In Guatemala, 60% of the population is Catholic and 39% Protestant. Ancient Mayan beliefs have disappeared but still influence local cultural traditions.

What is the area of Guatemala?

Guatemala covers a total area of 108,888 km². This Central American country is thus slightly smaller than Greece and approximately 5 times smaller than France.

What are the endemic animals of Guatemala?

Guatemala is home to rich wildlife including the quetzal (national bird), jaguars, pumas, toucans, parrots, several monkey species, tapirs, and marine species such as hammerhead sharks and blue whales in its coastal waters.

What are the mandatory and recommended vaccinations for Guatemala?

No vaccinations are mandatory for Guatemala, but hepatitis A is strongly recommended. The Pasteur Institute also advises hepatitis B, rabies, and typhoid for extended stays or remote areas. Malaria prevention is essential below 1,500 meters altitude.