Guatemala is the third largest country by size in Central America. Situated south of Mexico, the country also shares borders with Belize to the east and El Salvador and Honduras to the south. Guatemala has a small Caribbean coastline in the east and a much longer Pacific coastline in the west.
With oceans on either coast, a couple of international airports, and land borders with 4 countries, there are a lot of different ways to get to Guatemala. However, the mountains and jungles don’t always make it easy, so there’s not always a direct route to where you want to go.
Road – There are many border crossings between Guatemala and its neighbors. The one exception is Belize, where there is only a single land border crossing between Benque Viejo Del Carmen in Belize and Melchor de Mencos in Guatemala. The other underserved area is northern Guatemala, which borders the Mexican states of Tabasco and Campeche. The area is covered in heavy jungle and is protected by several national parks in Guatemala and Mexico. Therefore, the only way to drive to Guatemala from Mexico is via Western Guatemala. The border at Frontera Corozal is the easternmost border between the 2 countries.
Ferry – It is possible to travel to Guatemala by boat from neighboring Belize. A ferry service departs 2-3 times daily between Livingston in Guatemala and Punta Gorda in Belize. The service takes an hour to cross the Amatique Bay, which separates the 2 towns. The ferry only takes passengers, so you won’t be able to bring your vehicle. There are no ferry services between Mexico, Honduras or El Salvador.
Air – There are two international airports in Guatemala. The smallest of the two is Mundo Maya International Airport, which is located outside of the popular tourist towns of Flores and Santa Elena. The main airport is La Aurora International Airport in Guatemala City. It services flights to other Central American countries as well as offering services to North and South America. There are also a very limited number of direct flights to Europe operated by Iberia.
Driving in Guatemala is similar to driving in other Central American countries. This means you can drive in the country and bring your vehicle, provided you have all the correct paperwork and you intend to take your vehicle with you at the end of your trip. The key documents you will require are:
The other important rules to be aware of are that drivers must be at least 18 years old and Guatemalans drive on the right-hand side of the road. If you’re looking to rent a vehicle, you must be at least 21 years old.
Guatemala’s superb landscape provides most of the highlights for visitors to the country. Spectacular volcanoes, jungles, lakes, and a beautiful coastline make this a great outdoors destination. There are also some excellent cultural and historical towns to visit and some outstanding Mayan ruins.
Tikal – Lost to the jungle for hundreds of years, the ancient Mayan city of Tikal is a highlight of any trip to Guatemala. This UNESCO World Heritage Sight is home to towering pyramids and the remnants of the Mayan’s largest city. Its spectacular jungle setting makes the whole experience even better.
Antigua – Probably Guatemala’s prettiest town with cobbled streets, pretty churches, and plenty of colonial buildings. As if this wasn’t enough it’s also home to a great nightlife scene and a whole host of language schools. However, the real star attractions of the town are the towering volcanos that surround it and dominate the landscape. Agua Volcano is the most prominent and looms over the south of the town. It’s possible to climb most of the surrounding volcanos if you have a guide and are keen on a challenge.
Pacaya Volcano – The only active Volcano in the vicinity of Antigua, it attracts visitors who come to see its lava flows smoke, and to feel the immense heat. It’s a moderate climb to the top, but it’s worth the effort. Seeing an active volcano up close is a unique experience, and it’s hugely enjoyable at sunrise and sunset. If you’re after another novel experience, you can cook pizza or roast marshmallows using the volcano’s heat.
Rio Dulce – This spectacular river area close to Guatemala’s small Caribbean coast is popular for river cruises. The area has some spectacular gorges, dense jungle, plentiful bird life, and rich flora. You can also choose to explore some of the small water trails or even the El Golfete body of water or Lago de Izabel.
Guatemala’s proximity to the equator ensures the country enjoys a warm year-round climate. Rather than temperature, the big climatic variables in the country are altitude and the wet season. As much of Guatemala is at altitude, temperatures can be considerably cooler than surrounding countries, particularly at night. Guatemala does have more in common with its neighbors regarding the timing of the wet season. This typically runs from May through September, although it can start earlier and end later. The dry period, which extends from October/November through April, is the best time to visit. Days are warm and dry, and there’s little to no rainfall. This is also Guatemala’s peak season so accommodation can be scarce and prices slightly higher. May and October are considered shoulder months and are a good alternative time to visit. You’ll find a good balance between weather, price, and crowds in these months.
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