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.
Basic Greetings
- Hello: « buenos días » (in the morning) or « hola » (informal, all day)
- Good evening: « buenas tardes » (afternoon) or « buenas noches » (evening)
- Thank you: « gracias » (standard) or « muchas gracias » (thank you very much)
- Please: « por favor »
- You're welcome: « de nada »
Guatemalan Particularities
Guatemalans particularly appreciate politeness. A simple « hola » accompanied by a smile is sufficient in most informal situations. In rural areas, greetings can be warmer with a handshake.
Key Points to Remember
Although Spanish is omnipresent, Guatemala has more than 20 Mayan languages. In indigenous communities, an effort to say hello in Spanish will always be appreciated, even with an English accent.