£1 GTQ 10.25
Today
9:55 pm
-6h from you
Travel warning
There's a high risk of violent crime like muggings and sexual assault, including in tourist areas, and a 'State of Prevention' means there could be sudden restrictions on movement or gatherings.
Weather in Guatemala
Guatemala
24°
Overcast
Wed
12
24
Thu
13
24
Fri
14
24
Sat
15
22
Sun
14
23
SPF level in Guatemala
Recommended: SPF 50+ (extreme)
Spring
SPF 50+
Summer
SPF 50+ (extreme)
Autumn
SPF 50+
Winter
SPF 50+
Suncream is often more expensive in tourist zones. Pack your preferred SPF from the UK, especially for beach holidays. Always carry travel-size (100ml max) for hand luggage.
Getting around Guatemala
Tipping in Guatemala
Tipping is appreciated in Guatemala, especially for good service, but is not always expected. While not mandatory, rounding up or leaving a small tip is a nice gesture.
Restaurant
10-15% of the bill if service is not included. Check the bill, as some restaurants automatically add a service charge.
Bar/Café
Round up the bill or leave a small tip (5-10 GTQ) for good service.
Taxi
Round up the fare to the nearest Quetzal or offer a small tip (5-10 GTQ) for good service, especially if they help with luggage.
Hotel Porter
5-10 GTQ per bag.
Hotel Housekeeper
10-20 GTQ per night, left in the room.
Tour Guide
10-15% of the tour price for a good tour.
Safety in Guatemala
Tips for British travellers
Guatemala is tourist-friendly but has some key cultural and legal rules:
Do not display valuables like phones or cameras and avoid wearing a lot of jewellery.
Always carry identification, but in San Pedro La Laguna you must have your original passport or a certified copy to avoid a fine.
Avoid travelling on public buses due to a high risk of violent attacks, and use radio-dispatched or hotel taxis in cities.
Be cautious at ATMs and check for tampering, changing money in hotels or banks is safer.
It is illegal to sell alcohol between 1am and 6am, and drinking-driving is common but carries severe penalties.
Bonus tips:
Do not take photos of people, especially children, without permission as this can lead to violent attacks in remote areas.
Motorcyclists must wear an orange vest and a helmet with the registration number or face a fine of around £100.
Driving in Guatemala
A UK driving license is valid for tourists. If you plan to stay longer you should apply for a Guatemalan license.
Side of road
right
Motorway speed limit
100 km/h
Urban speed limit
40 km/h
Alcohol limit
0.0%
Remember: Guatemala drives on the right. Take extra care at junctions if you normally drive on the left.
Emergency numbers
Universal emergency
110
Ambulance
122
Fire
123
Save 110 in your phone before travelling.
Electrical in Guatemala
Voltage
120V / 60Hz
Plug types
Type A, Type B, Type G, Type I
UK adapter needed?
Yes
The voltage in Guatemala is 120V and the frequency is 60Hz. Plug types A, B, G, and I are used. British travelers will need a plug adapter and possibly a voltage converter.
Cards & payments
Card payments are becoming more common in Guatemala, especially in larger establishments in cities and tourist areas. However, many smaller businesses, local markets, and rural areas primarily use cash.
Visa
High
Mastercard
High
American Express
Medium
Lost card? Call Visa: +13039671096
ATMs in Guatemala
ATMs are available in major cities and tourist areas, but less common in rural areas. It's advisable to carry cash, especially when traveling outside of the main cities.
Local name
Cajero automático
Chip & PIN required?
Yes
ATMs dispense Guatemalan Quetzales (GTQ). Ensure your card is enabled for international use. Be aware of transaction fees charged by your bank and the local ATM.
Mobile & roaming
Post-Brexit, the EU roaming regulations no longer apply. Check with your mobile provider about roaming charges in Guatemala. Roaming charges can be high, so consider purchasing a local SIM card.
Local SIM data package
5 GB for 150 GTQ (~£15)
Network coverage
4G, 3G, 2G
Local carriers
Tigo, Claro
WiFi & internet
WiFi is available in many hotels, restaurants, and cafes, especially in tourist areas and larger cities. However, the quality and speed can vary.
Average speed
10 Mbps
Internet access is generally available in urban areas but may be limited in rural locations. Consider a local SIM for reliable connectivity while traveling.
Health & vaccinations in Guatemala
It is essential to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses, including repatriation, as healthcare in Guatemala may not be free for foreign visitors. Check that your insurance covers adventure activities you plan to undertake.
Vaccinations required?
No
Recommended
Hepatitis A
Consult your doctor well in advance of travel for advice on recommended vaccinations and malaria prevention. Dengue fever and Zika virus are present in Guatemala. Take precautions to avoid mosquito bites, especially during the day. Tap water is not safe to drink; use bottled or purified water.
Calling Guatemala
Country code
+502
To call Guatemala from the UK, dial 00 502 followed by the local number.
To call the British Embassy in Guatemala City from the UK, you would dial 00 502 2380 7300.
The country code for Guatemala is 502. When calling from abroad, dial your international exit code, then 502, then the local number. Mobile coverage is generally good in urban areas.
UK Embassy in Guatemala
British Embassy Guatemala City
Edificio Torre Internacional Nivel 11, 16 Calle 0-55, Zona 10, Guatemala City
Airport in Guatemala
Frequently asked questions
While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, AtoBeach cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies. We recommend verifying details with official sources before travelling.