Spotlight Q&A: Guatemala travel tips from a local expert

The mountainous land of Guatemala, swathed in pristine rainforests, lapped by Pacific and Caribbean waters, and steeped in ancient Mayan culture, is a joy to discover. Mysterious abandoned cities lie tangled among the jungles of the north, while colonial architecture adorns historic towns. Indigenous highland villages retain their Mayan roots with rainbow-hued fabrics and religious rituals. Natural beauty abounds too, with soaring mountains and volcanoes, rushing rivers, wide lakes and deep caves. In this article, we chat to our local expert Tristan, whose intimate knowledge and passion for his home country has helped him craft many memorable trips for our travelers. Read up on his Guatemala travel tips, and be sure to reach out to for even more ideas and inspiration…

Guatemala travel tips from a local expert

What do you love most about living in Guatemala?

The weather is wonderful almost all year round. The country is known as the Land of Eternal Spring because of its very temperate climate in the Altiplano. It is fantastic when you like outside activities.

What is one thing you would recommend someone visiting your country should do?

Spend time in Guatemala’s markets! These markets are colorful and vibrant. You can feel the real local life, see traditional outfits, hear people speak Maya, try the local food. Chichicastenango‘s has the reputation for being one of the most beautiful markets in Latin America, and there are many other small markets that we can recommend depending on your interests.

What top Guatemala travel tips would you give someone for their first trip?

Traditional handicrafts can change a lot from one region to the next. Don’t wait until the last day of your trip to look for souvenirs, as you might not find what you are looking for. As well, try to buy your souvenirs from market stalls and small shops owned by local people, rather than in tourist shops, in order to support the local economy.

Read more: The best things to do in Guatemala: a guide for first-timers

When’s the best time to visit Guatemala, in your opinion?

November to April is Guatemala’s dry season, with almost no rain. That’s probably the best time to visit, although you can travel all year round in Guatemala, even during the wetter “green” season.

What are three top highlights you’d recommend exploring in Guatemala?

• Tikal: One of the most impressive sites of the Mayan world. You can sleep in the jungle and visit the site next day at sunrise.
• Antigua: This pretty colonial city is great for leisure time. It’s also the perfect place from which to explore the volcanoes of the area. Treat yourself with a spa session after a nice hike!
• Lake Atitlan: It’s home to beautiful landscapes and small Mayan villages with a strong identity. Travel from one village to another by boat and enjoy the view.

Read more: The Day of the Dead traditions in Guatemala

Make it happen

If these insider tips have inspired you to find out more about this gem of Central America, get in touch with our local experts today. They’ll be on hand to provide you with plenty more Guatemala travel tips and help you plan out a dream itinerary suited to your needs and budget.