Our guide on the most common Mistakes to Avoid in Guatemala and how to avoid them for your next trip.
Guatemala is a beautiful and diverse country with ancient Mayan ruins, colonial cities, active volcanoes, and stunning highland lakes. Despite its relatively small size, Guatemala offers travelers a wealth of cultural and natural attractions to explore. However, to fully enjoy what this Central American gem has to offer, it’s essential to be aware of a few common pitfalls.
Guatemala is a country of vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and warm people. Avoiding these common mistakes will help you experience the best of what this incredible destination has to offer, ensuring a safe, enjoyable, and unforgettable trip.
Here’s a guide to the mistakes travelers often make in Guatemala and how to avoid them.
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Mistakes to Avoid in Guatemala
1. Only Visiting Antigua and Lake Atitlán
Mistake: Sticking only to the tourist hotspots of Antigua and Lake Atitlán and missing out on the rich variety of destinations Guatemala has to offer.
How to Avoid:
Explore Beyond the Usual Itinerary: While Antigua and Lake Atitlán are must-visit destinations, there are other incredible places worth adding to your itinerary:
Tikal: The ancient Mayan city of Tikal, nestled deep in the jungle, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the largest and most impressive Mayan ruins in Central America.
Semuc Champey: A stunning natural wonder with turquoise pools and limestone bridges in the middle of the jungle.
Quetzaltenango (Xela): A less touristy city with a strong indigenous culture and beautiful surrounding highlands.
Rio Dulce and Livingston: For a Caribbean feel, head to Rio Dulce, where you can enjoy boat trips, hot springs, and a unique Afro-Guatemalan culture in Livingston.
Tip: Consider a two-week itinerary that includes Tikal and Semuc Champey to get a broader sense of Guatemala’s diverse landscapes and history.
2. Underestimating Travel Times
Mistake: Assuming travel between cities and attractions is quick and straightforward due to the country’s relatively small size.
How to Avoid:
Factor in Road Conditions and Geography: Guatemala’s roads can be winding, mountainous, and often in poor condition, making travel times longer than expected. Landslides and road closures are common during the rainy season (May-October).
Choose the Right Transportation: Use shared shuttles or private transfers for comfort and safety. Local chicken buses are an option for budget travelers but are slower and can be crowded.
Plan Buffer Time: Don’t schedule activities too tightly, especially if traveling between Antigua, Atitlán, and Tikal.
Tip: Use domestic flights to save time if you want to visit distant locations like Tikal (Flores), which can be an 8-10 hour drive from Antigua or Guatemala City.
3. Not Taking Safety Precautions Seriously
Mistake: Being overly cautious or, conversely, not cautious enough about safety in Guatemala.
How to Avoid:
Stay Informed About Safety: Some areas in Guatemala, like parts of Guatemala City, can be unsafe for tourists due to crime. Research which areas to avoid, and stay alert in major cities.
Use Trusted Transportation: Use reputable shuttle services, hotel-arranged taxis, or licensed private drivers instead of hailing taxis off the street.
Avoid Walking Alone at Night: Even in popular tourist areas like Antigua, avoid walking alone at night. Use a tuk-tuk or taxi instead.
Tip: Be discreet with valuables. Keep cameras, phones, and jewelry out of sight when not in use, and use a money belt for cash and cards.
4. Ignoring Altitude and Climate Changes
Mistake: Not preparing for the significant changes in altitude and climate when visiting different parts of Guatemala.
How to Avoid:
Check the Altitude: Many of Guatemala’s top destinations, like Antigua (1,533m/5,030 ft), Xela (2,333m/7,654 ft), and Lake Atitlán (1,562m/5,125 ft), are at high altitudes. If you’re not used to high elevations, take it easy for the first few days to acclimate.
Pack for All Climates: Bring layers for cooler highland areas and lightweight clothing for lower, more tropical regions. Evenings in the highlands can be chilly, while the jungles around Tikal can be hot and humid.
Tip: Stay hydrated and avoid heavy meals and alcohol when adjusting to higher altitudes.
5. Not Learning Basic Spanish Phrases
Mistake: Assuming English is widely spoken and not making an effort to learn basic Spanish.
How to Avoid:
Learn Some Key Phrases: Outside of major tourist areas, many locals speak little to no English. Learn basic Spanish phrases like “Hola” (Hello), “Gracias” (Thank you), “¿Cuánto cuesta?” (How much does it cost?), and “¿Dónde está…?” (Where is…?).
Consider a Spanish Class: Antigua is famous for its Spanish schools, offering affordable lessons that can greatly enhance your travel experience.
Tip: A phrasebook or language app like Google Translate can be a lifesaver when you’re in more remote areas.
6. Overlooking the Importance of Local Markets
Mistake: Missing out on local markets, which are vibrant hubs of culture, cuisine, and craftsmanship in Guatemala.
How to Avoid:
Visit Traditional Markets: The markets in Guatemala are some of the best places to experience the country’s indigenous culture. Don’t miss:
Chichicastenango Market: The largest and most famous market in Central America, known for its colorful textiles, traditional masks, and handicrafts.
Sololá Market: An authentic indigenous market with fewer tourists.
Santiago Atitlán Market: A bustling lakeside market on Lake Atitlán.
Tip: Arrive early to see the markets at their most lively, and bring cash (preferably small bills) to make purchases.
7. Drinking Tap Water
Mistake: Assuming the tap water is safe to drink and risking stomach issues.
How to Avoid:
Stick to Bottled or Purified Water: Always drink bottled or filtered water, even in restaurants. Use bottled water for brushing your teeth as well.
Bring a Reusable Bottle: If you want to reduce plastic waste, bring a reusable water bottle with a built-in filter, like a Lifestraw or Grayl.
Tip: Be cautious with ice, as it may be made from tap water in some places. Ask if the ice is purified before consuming.
8. Not Factoring in the Rainy Season
Mistake: Overlooking how the rainy season (May to October) can affect travel plans and activities.
How to Avoid:
Plan Your Activities Accordingly: During the rainy season, rain typically falls in the afternoon and can disrupt outdoor activities. Schedule hikes and tours for the morning when the weather is more predictable.
Check Road Conditions: Some roads can become impassable or dangerous due to landslides, especially in mountainous areas. Always check local weather and road conditions before traveling.
Tip: If you’re visiting in the rainy season, bring a waterproof jacket, quick-dry clothing, and sturdy shoes.
9. Missing Out on Guatemala’s Coffee Culture
Mistake: Failing to sample Guatemala’s world-renowned coffee and overlooking the coffee culture.
How to Avoid:
Visit a Coffee Plantation: Take a tour of a local coffee plantation in Antigua or Lake Atitlán to learn about the coffee-making process, from bean to cup. Try a tasting session to appreciate the distinct flavors of Guatemalan coffee.
Support Local Cafés: Instead of grabbing a quick cup at an international chain, try local cafés like Fernando’s Kaffee in Antigua or Café La Voz near Lake Atitlán.
Tip: Buy a bag of beans as a souvenir to support local farmers and enjoy a taste of Guatemala back home.
10. Not Preparing for Active Volcanoes
Mistake: Underestimating the activity of Guatemala’s many volcanoes and not preparing properly for hikes or tours.
How to Avoid:
Research the Volcanic Activity: Guatemala is home to 37 volcanoes, 3 of which are active: Fuego, Pacaya, and Santiaguito. Check current volcanic activity and safety advisories before planning hikes.
Pack the Right Gear: If you’re hiking, especially up Acatenango or Pacaya, bring warm layers, a headlamp, sturdy shoes, and a mask or bandana to protect against volcanic ash.
Hire a Guide: Always use a reputable guide for volcano hikes, as trails can be challenging and weather conditions unpredictable.
Tip: For a unique experience, camp overnight on Acatenango for a chance to watch the neighboring Fuego volcano erupt under the stars.
11. Not Having Cash On Hand
Mistake: Assuming you can use credit cards everywhere and not having enough cash for daily expenses.
How to Avoid:
Use ATMs in Major Cities: Cash is king in Guatemala, and many small businesses do not accept cards. Use ATMs in cities like Antigua or Panajachel, and avoid isolated ATMs to reduce the risk of skimming.
Carry Small Bills: It can be difficult to break large bills in rural areas, so carry a mix of denominations for transportation, tipping, and market purchases.
Tip: Always notify your bank before traveling to Guatemala to avoid having your card blocked.
About the Author: Ruben, co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues sharing his travel experiences with his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.