budget for travel guatemala

The Cost of Travel in Guatemala: A Detailed Budget Breakdown

I can’t speak highly enough of the time I spent travelling in Guatemala.

Home to volcanoes, lakes, rainforests, colourful architecture, and ancient ruins, there’s an unbelievable amount to see here for such a small country. Throw delicious street food and lovely locals into the mix, and you’ve got all the ingredients for a life-changing adventure.

From the colourful city of Antigua and the awe-inspiring Tikal to the beauty of Semuc Champney and the adrenaline rush that comes from hiking up an active volcano, Guatemala truly has something for everyone. I couldn’t get enough of this country and can’t wait to return.

I found Guatemala to offer up great value for money, too — much cheaper than Belize and Costa Rica — with an array of accommodation to suit all budgets. My husband and I stuck to hotels and guesthouses on a mid-range budget, which worked out to between $25 and $50 a night, and we stayed in some truly wonderful properties.

In this post, I’ll be referencing costs in U.S. dollars, purely because most readers are from the States. The Guatemalan Quetzal (GTQ) is the local currency, and at the time of writing this in early 2024, $1 is worth around 8 Quetzales – so it’s not too tricky to convert. 

A quick note before we continue: I paid for everything in the article myself – this is a comp- and press trip-free post.

Guatemala came near the start of my year-long travel extravaganza, in October. Like I mentioned earlier, we’d been in Nicaragua beforehand, and the States before that, which is where the whole adventure began.

It’s a joy to be able to write about my travels: it brings back such happy memories. But I have to say, our journey into Guatemala from Nicaragua was not my most favourite part of those 12 months. We opted for a small, cheap shuttle van (along with six other people), and what should have been an already punchy 20-hour journey turned into a 29-hour slog.

So when we got to Guatemala City, we weren’t in the best of spirits to say the least. But that changed quickly after a sleep. A long, long sleep.

Now we’ve got the basics and some scene-setting covered, let’s get started. Here’s a quick rundown of how I recommend spending two weeks in Guatemala:

• Guatemala City: 2 nights
• Antigua: 4 nights
• Lake Atitlan: 3 nights
• Semuc Champney: 2 nights
• Flores: 2 nights

What’s Included in This Post

The budget breakdown that follows covers accommodation, transportation, activities, food, and miscellaneous costs.

Flight costs will vary of course, depending on where you travel in from. I recommend using Skyscanner to check availability and costs.

We booked some transport and activities online, but found local travel agencies offered much cheaper prices if we were prepared to shop around and haggle a little. But equally, online booking works well, too.

We got a lot for our money in Guatemala and managed to fit loads in without breaking the bank.

Carry on reading to get the Guatemalan lowdown!

How to Save Money on the Cost of Accommodation in Guatemala

As always with travel, it’s possible to cut your accommodation costs down to zero if you have the time and patience to seek out an offer.

Housesitting  is a great option for  free  accommodation. This is where you’ll take care of somebody’s house while they’re away, and usually look after their pets, too. It’s best for long-term travellers or retirees as you can’t pick and choose dates and destinations, so you need to have a lot of flexibility as to where you go and at what time of year. If you  do  have that freedom, it’s a wonderful way to cut down your travel expenses, soak up some home comforts, and live like a local for a while. I have friends who have housesat in castles before! For free!  Trusted Housesitters  is the best site for getting started with housesitting, as they have the highest number of listings.

I’m suspecting, though, that for most of you, you’re not interested in the free accommodation and just want somewhere clean, safe, and affordable to rest your head each night. If that’s the case, there are several options available for you.

The first of these are  hostels . In Guatemala, you’ll come across hostels all over the country, finding them on tiny islands, in large cities, and even in the national parks. They’re one of your best options for saving money.

And, of course, there are always hotels. While you can spend hundreds of dollars a night on high-end places if you want to, you don’t have to: good clean, basic rooms go for as little as $25 , and I often found really nice mid-range places in good locations for around $70-90. I always use  Booking , as they have the most accommodation options for the cheapest prices.

The Cost of Accommodation in Guatemala

Like I mentioned earlier, places to stay in Guatemala were top value. From lakeside properties to city pads, we experienced an eclectic mix.

For the most part, the hotels and guest houses we stayed at didn’t include breakfast, instead offering it as an extra for between $5-$10 per person . As a result, we generally just picked something up while out and about instead, which was cheaper and gave us more opportunity to try some of the great local breakfast and coffee places!

To break it down, these are the specific places we stayed in Guatemala:

Guatemala City: We pushed the boat out here and stayed at this stylish boutique hotel for $89 a night . There are cheaper options, but one of the main reasons we chose this one was safety. Let’s get that bit out of the way first.

Virtually every visitor to the capital has the same question in their head: “Is Guatemala City safe or not?” Historically not so much, but these days there’s no reason not to check it out as long as you have your wits about you and stick to the “safer” zones.

On that, the city is divided into many zones. We opted for Zone 10, one of the “safe” ones. We headed into Zone 1 – the historic centre – during the day for a wander, but don’t recommend staying there, as it can be a little sketchy, especially at night. It’s fine to explore during the day, though.

Back to our snazzy boutique digs. Just a couple of kilometres from Museo Popol Vuh with its collection of Mayan art, and quite close to the airport, our double room was lovely and modern, with wooden floors and little touches of exposed brickwork. There were just 15 bedrooms in the whole place, split across two levels, plus a bar and a cute little garden area. The staff were friendly and super-helpful as well, with all sorts of useful tips and advice for exploring the city.

Antigua: For our four nights here, we stayed at this colourful and happy spot for $89 a night . Super central, it was just one avenue away from Parque Central (Plaza Mayor), the bustling hub of this UNESCO-listed city. Service levels from all the staff really was above and beyond, and I loved the vibrant murals on our bedroom walls and throughout the property so much. It made for such a fun and uplifting stay, and I wish we could have stayed even longer!

Lake Atitlan: Our first two nights were spent at this eco-friendly hideaway in San Marcos on the shores of the lake. With 10 individually designed rooms, we opted for Luz, and despite being the cheapest option for a couple at $67 , we wanted for nothing. We enjoyed a large, cool space with funky wooden furniture, high ceilings, and a cute little sitting area. And we were surrounded by thriving gardens filled with colourful flowers and banana trees: it was such a beautiful spot!

For our third and final night by the lake, we hopped on a boat eastwards for the 45-minute ride to Panajachel. Our onward travel to Lanquín was from here, so we thought it made sense to stay there for a night, and we also wanted to check out another part of the magical lake.

Just outside the centre of town and very reasonable at $28 a night , we checked in at this value-for-money hotel , where our room had tiled floors and a, shall we say, eye-catching bedspread. Simple, clean, and only a few minutes from the lake, it was ideal for one night.

Semuc Champey: Okay, so prepare yourself for a bit of a mission to get here, but it’s worth it. We travelled to Lanquín via shuttle: it had been a long – and bumpy – day. And then, another bus ride, plus a half an hour guided hike to get to this peaceful rainforest getaway . But, we had help with our luggage, and when we finally made it, we were so pleased we made the effort. And just $27 a night , too. Think rustic charm, and if that floats your boat, this place is for you.

This tranquil spot in the Guatemalan jungle had a communal kitchen and a well-stocked pantry full of ingredients for guests to buy, both a rarity in Guatemalan hostels. But there was also an on-site chef if you prefer your meals made for you, making the most of the abundant fruit and veg grown in the gardens.

A quick housekeeping note: check the latest time the hostel will let you arrive. As it gets darker, that hike gets more dangerous. You’ll need to factor that into your travel schedule.

We could get to the river directly from the hostel, and a waterfall and natural swimming pool were nearby to enjoy (season dependent). And the glorious aqua pools of Semuc Champney were just 2.4 kilometres away.

If that half-hour trek doesn’t appeal and you’d rather stay in Lanquín instead, a couple we met had stayed at this lovely homestay and couldn’t say enough good things about it. The beds and rooms were apparently very comfortable, there’s a restaurant onsite that’s open all day and has tasty and inexpensive food, and the owner (David) runs great day trips out to Semuc Champney. Best of all, it’s a bargain at $25 a night.

Flores: This cute little town is situated on the edge of Lago Peten Itza, about an hour and a half south of Tikal. We chose to stay just across the lake from Flores at this waterside property , and loved the peace and tranquillity, while still being only a short boat ride from town. It was great value as well, at $39 a night .

When we arrived in Flores we were boated across to the hotel for free, and the super hospitable staff just couldn’t do enough for us, going the extra mile to help us with trips and give us info. Our room was colourful (there seems to be a theme!) and comfy, and we loved being right by the water.

The Cost of Transportation in Guatemala

We travelled by shuttle bus through Guatemala, and while it perhaps wasn’t the most comfortable option, it was certainly cheap. These small white buses were for tourists, and different to the colourful chicken buses and collectivos that predominantly transported locals around.

That’s not to say you can’t use chicken buses and collectivos as a tourist, mind you – we did now and then. They were even cheaper than the tourist shuttles, but less comfortable and with little room for luggage. We found them best for shorter journeys or day trips when we didn’t have our bags with us.

To reiterate something I mentioned at the start: shop around for transport prices – there were deals to be had. In general, we booked our transport through travel agents (there were plenty), but in some of the more remote places like Semuc Champney, our hostel booked shuttles for us. It wasn’t a case of simply jumping on: we booked specific days and times in advance.

Also, something we were becoming used to by that point in our travels was to keep in mind that the shuttles often took much longer than advised. The roads were in quite poor condition at times; it was slow going and bumpy.

The trick? Don’t rush, and build lots of extra time into your itinerary. If you try to cram too much in too quickly and are relying on onward connections (and shuttles arriving when they say they will), you’re going to feel stressed, and will inevitably miss connections.

Here’s a breakdown of our journey costs:

• Shuttle bus from Guatemala City to Antigua: $15 per person .
• Shuttle bus from Antigua to Lake Atitlan (Panajachel): $20 per person .
• Boat from Panajachel to San Marcos: $3.30 per person
• Return boat from San Marcos to San Pedro: $3.60 per person
• Boat from San Marcos to Panajachel: $3.30 per person
• Shuttle bus from Panajachel to Lanquín: $45 per person
• Shuttle bus from Lanquín to Flores: $44 per person

There are other modes of transport if shuttle buses aren’t for you, such as taxis and private cars. It’s also worth firing up the Uber app: the ridesharing service is available in an increasing number of places in Guatemala, and in some cases can be cheaper than a shuttle bus for two or more people traveling, even between cities.

The Cost of Activities and Entrance Fees in Guatemala

Oh my, Guatemala has some great activities on offer, from volcano trekking and swimming in the jungle to exploring ancient ruins. Here are some of the things we particularly loved doing, with prices:

Museo Popol Vuh , Guatemala City: $6 per person . Home to a major collection of Mayan art, we took in pre-Columbian and colonial pieces.

Pacaya volcano trek, Antigua: $20-30 per person (included transportation, the entrance fee, and obligatory guide). This walk was so worth it, with amazing views throughout, plus petrified lava! Touching it felt hot, and we toasted marshmallows on it! Carry plenty of water, and if you do a sunset tour like we did, make sure you have a torch, or at least plenty of battery life left on your phone – it was dark by the time we walked back down. Also, we found the hike to be medium difficulty, in case you’re wondering if it’s for you. As always, shop around the travel agencies when you get to Antigua. Oh, and just a note that tours don’t always run, depending on volcanic activity.

Finca Filadelfia coffee plantation tour , Antigua: $20 per person . We enjoyed a tour of the plantation just north of the city, where we heard all about the bean and roasting process, and sampled some of their rather wonderful products.

Mayan Kitchen Cooking Class , San Pedro Lake Atitlan: $35 per person . Westwards around the lake from San Marcos, we learned all about Mayan cooking. This was right up our street – we love to cook and we love to eat. Venturing to the local market to buy ingredients with our guide Anita, we then went back to her kitchen. There, our group whipped up regional plates such as pepián, tortillas, and guacamole.

Natural pools, Semuc Champney: $20 per person for a day trip from Lanquín, including Q50 ($6.50) entrance fee to the National Monument. Cascading down one after the other, the turquoise pools were begging to be jumped into – and we did. It’s a 45-minute uphill trek through lush jungle from the carpark to the scenic natural wonder, and I’d definitely recommend you wear proper shoes for it (not flip flops like we foolishly did). We walked via an impressive viewpoint (‘El Mirador’) before spending a few hours chilling and swimming down at the water. We decided against tubing, but that was on offer for Q50 ($6.50) if the mood takes you.

Jorge’s Rope Swing, Flores: $3.30 entrance per person . Eastwards of our hotel, we chilled on the hammocks and braved the swing into the lake – a fab way to spend an afternoon.

Tikal Mayan citadel : $20 per person entrance fee. We marvelled at these ancient ruins as we toured the site, exploring the archaeological remains of the ancient Maya civilization. A cultural and natural preserve, the area was declared a National Park in 1955 and designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1979. Get there early for dramatic views over the jungle and to beat the heat later in the day.

We also loved a range of free activities, including: 

Wandering the cobbled roads of Antigua: Despite the city’s somewhat touristy feel, we loved, loved, loved it. It was just so attractive, with a real holiday vibe to it, and we wiled away a lot of time strolling the maze of streets, dipping in and out of the many chocolate shops.

Cerro de la Cruz, Antigua: Up we went to the ‘Hill of the Cross’ viewpoint, and boy were we hot by the time we reached the top 20 minutes later! The spectacular vistas were worth it, though.

Ambling the shores of Lake Atitlan: North west of Antigua, this crater lake was surrounded by natural beauty. Hills dotted the landscape and volcanoes loomed in the background. The word Atitlan is Mayan for ‘the place where the rainbow gets its colour’.

The Cost of Food in Guatemala

Being total foodies, my husband Ryan and I are always excited to try new cuisines. Guatemalan food ticked that box – it was a whole new experience for us, one that we found to be both cheap and tasty. We mainly ate street food and at budget-friendly local restaurants, but of course, if you have the cash to splash, there are more expensive options.

In Guatemala, Mayan culture merges with Spanish heritage, making the local cuisine interesting and flavourful. Here are a handful of dishes we ate across our fortnight in the country, along with the average price.

Known for its coffee culture, we started most days with a brew. There were many cafés to try; we generally picked a different one each day. Fernando’s Kaffee – also a roastery and chocolate shop – was our favourite place in Antigua where we paid $2 per cup for an Americano and $2.50 for a latte. We pulled up a pew in the pretty courtyard garden, or got a takeaway and sipped as we strolled.

Some days we didn’t feel especially hungry at breakfast time, so a coffee did the job. On other days, we opted for tasty fresh fruit, which set us back just a dollar or so from a local market, while if were feeling hungry, a traditional Guatemalan brekkie of ‘desayuno chapin’ did the job nicely.

Desayuno chapin: This filling meal consists of scrambled eggs with tomato, red or black beans, plantain, cheese, and tortilla, usually with a side of avocado and cream, and it’s a cheap and delicious way to start the day. We usually paid $3-4 for it.

Other breakfasts we enjoyed were:

Huevos Motuleños:  Originally from the eastern part of Guatemala, it includes black beans, fried plantains, sausage, chopped tomatoes, avocados, and fried eggs on a bed of tortillas. This typically set us back $3-5.

Tamalitos:  If you’ve ever had a tamale in Mexico or elsewhere, these are the Guatemalan equivalent. Typically smaller than their Mexican cousins, these steamed parcels of corn masa and fillings come wrapped in banana leaves. You can get them for any meal, but a typical breakfast version has vegetables, chicken, or pork, plus a sauce of some kind. They cost $1 or less from street vendors.

Noodle tostadas: This street food dish was an unusual mix of cuisines, consisting of a crisp tortilla topped with guacamole, chopped tomatoes, salsa, onions, and noodles – double carb me up! These came in at around $1 and were super tasty. One of the most authentic places we enjoyed the snack was Lake Atitlan, where a young boy carrying a cooler stopped us as we wandered the narrow maze of pathways surrounding San Marcos. He offered to make us a portion from scratch while we watched – enterprising or what? A flavour bomb, too.

Pupusas: Half-moon shaped tortillas filled with shredded meat, beans, and cheese, then fried, these filling snacks came in at about $1.50 each a portion and were yum. Served with salsa and cabbage, they served us well for dinner sometimes, too.

Empanadas: You can’t travel in Latin America without enjoying a (un)healthy dose of empanadas, and we didn’t even try! Crisp pastry filled mainly with veggies such as potato and spinach, and topped with guacamole, tomatoes, onion and coriander, these were moreish and gone in seconds. Price-wise, they were around $1.50 a portion.

Chicken pepián: Super delish, this spiced stew fuses Spanish and Mayan cuisine, and was packed with fruit and veg such as squash, carrot, and pear alongside the chicken. I really loved the sauce it came in: it was slightly different each time, but always great! Served with rice or tortilla, it set us back $4-6 a portion.

Kak’ik: We loved this dish of Mayan spiced turkey soup sprinkled with coriander. I’m a sucker for achiote and there’s plenty of it in this dish, which is what gives it its distinctive red colour. Costing around $4 a pop, it was a cheap and flavoursome bowl. The spiciness level varied quite a bit, though: sometimes it had only a mild heat, other times there was a real chilli kick to it!

Grilled meats: We regularly devoured the likes of chorizo and thin slices of steak on the street and in budget restaurants for no more than a couple of dollars a portion, although you can certainly pay more in higher-end places. Filling and delicious: what more needs to be said?

Tap water generally isn’t safe to drink in Guatemala, so we drank lots of bottled water throughout our stay, plus coffee, beers, and the odd mezcal here and there.

A large water cost us about $1 from a convenience store, while large bottles of local beer came in at about $1.50 , and mezcal around $5 a shot – sip, don’t slam! One recommendation that I have to mention: Café No Sé in Antigua for mezcal, and the fab staff who let me get behind the bar after I’d had a few!

Tasty and excellent value for money, we thoroughly enjoyed the food and drink of Guatemala.

Cost of Travel Insurance in Guatemala

If you’ve read any other posts on Never Ending Footsteps, you’ll know that I’m a great believer in travelling with travel insurance. I’ve seen far too many Go Fund Me campaigns from destitute backpackers that are unexpectedly stranded in a foreign country after a scooter accident/being attacked/breaking a leg with no way of getting home or paying for their healthcare. These costs can quickly land you with a six-figure bill to pay at the end of it.

In short, if you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel.

Travel insurance  will cover you if your flight is cancelled and you need to book a new one, if your luggage gets lost and you need to replace your belongings, if you suddenly get struck down by appendicitis and have to be hospitalised, or discover a family member has died and you need to get home immediately. If you fall seriously ill, your insurance will cover the costs to fly you home to receive medical treatment.

I use  SafetyWing  as my travel insurance provider, and recommend them for trips to Guatemala. Firstly, they’re one of the few companies out there who will actually cover you if you contract COVID-19. On top of that, they provide worldwide coverage, don’t require you to have a return ticket, and even allow you to buy coverage after you’ve left home. If you’re on a long-term trip, you can pay monthly instead of up-front, and can cancel at any time. Finally, they’re more affordable than the competition, and have a clear, easy-to-understand pricing structure, which is always appreciated.

With SafetyWing, you’ll pay  $1.50 a day  for travel insurance.

How Much Does It Cost to Travel in Guatemala?

After adding everything up, here are our daily per-person costs for our time in Guatemala!

• Accommodation: $63.70 per day between two ( $31.85 each)
• Transport: $8.90 per day
• Activities: $12.70 per day
• Food and drink: $13.40 per day
• Miscellaneous: $4.50 per day

Grand total spent in Guatemala: $71.35 per person per day .

Our Guatemalan expedition was full of fun and adventure and great value for money, to boot. With varied and beautiful landscapes, a wide range of interesting sights and activities, flavourful food, and a mixture of quality and reasonably-priced places to stay, I can’t wait to go back!

Related Articles on Guatemala 🐒 Sunrise at Tikal: A Travel Highlight 😂 The Belize-Guatemala Border and the Worst Bribe Attempt Ever

Lauren Juliff

Lauren Juliff is a published author and travel expert who founded Never Ending Footsteps in 2011. She has spent over 12 years travelling the world, sharing in-depth advice from more than 100 countries across six continents. Lauren's travel advice has been featured in publications like the BBC, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Cosmopolitan, and her work is read by 200,000 readers each month. Her travel memoir can be found in bookstores across the planet.

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This cost breakdown is so helpful! I’ve always wanted to go to Guatemala :)

Hi, I think Guatemala is one of the best places for tourists to visit again and again. Next year I’m going to visit there. Thank you & keep traveling.

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Guatemala Travel Guide

Last Updated: September 1, 2023

The rugged mountains and jungles offer adventurous travelers a chance to get off the beaten path and explore pristine landscapes for a fraction of what you’d pay elsewhere in the world. And the ruins are underrated and a must-see for history buffs, including the impressive Tikal, an ancient Mayan city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

I love this country and have always had an incredible time here. (One of my favorite memories involves camping in Tikal National Park)

In this travel guide to Guatemala, I’ll show you how to make the most of your trip, save money, and stay safe in one of Central America’s most popular destinations!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Guatemala

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Guatemala

1. Visit Lake Atitlán

This spectacular lake is actually a massive volcanic crater. The lake sits 1,500 meters (4,921 feet) above sea level and is also one of the deepest lakes in Central America. It should come as no surprise that it’s one of the best spots to watch the sunset in Guatemala. On the northern coast of the lake lies the tourist village of Panajachel, a good base to arrange lake and volcano tours (there are two volcanoes here you can explore, Toliman and San Pedro). The village offers incredible views of the surrounding volcanoes and you can also enjoy restaurants, bars, and nightlife in a rustic lakeside setting here too. Boat tours are available as well.

2. Head to Antigua

Antigua is a picturesque colonial city in a highland valley between three volcanoes. It’s full of colonial Spanish architecture, including cobbled streets, what’s left of the centuries-old San Francisco church, houses, and ruins. There’s a vibrant market with colorful Guatemalan blankets and fabrics as well as lots of crafts and souvenirs. Head to the Plaza Mayor to take in the city’s amazing garden and don’t miss a hike up the Fuego volcano (which is active). There are two routes to choose from: La Soledad and the super high, extremely steep Alotenango Route. Conversely, you can hike the difficult (yet super popular) Acatenango volcano, which offers well-earned views of Fuego spitting lava, fire, and ash into the air. The best time for these hikes is during the dry season from the end of November to early April.

3. Explore Tikal National Park

Tikal is home to the most popular Mayan ruins in the country . Located in Petén Province in the north of Guatemala, this enormous national park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and spans nearly 600 square meters (6,500 square feet), housing centuries of Mayan history and archeology covered in lush vegetation. It is famous for rare animals like pumas, toucans, snakes, monkeys, and many species of birds. Arrive early and stay late as the park empties out in the afternoon when tour groups leave. I also recommend sleeping over in the park to catch the sunrise. You will need to pay extra for a guided tour if you want to see the sunrise or sunset. Ticket prices vary depending on if you buy day tickets, sunrise tickets, or sunset tickets. Admission is 150 GTQ for day hiking before sunset. You can reach Tikal from Flores by shuttle bus or even from neighboring Belize .

4.Visit Semuc Champey

This natural attraction outside the town of Lanquin near Coban consists of 300 meters (984 feet) of limestone bridges over the Cahabòn River that form natural lagoon-like pools. Take a candlelit tour through the Kamba caves, go tubing down the Cahabòn, or swim in the turquoise pools along the bridge. Keep in mind that the caves can only be visited with a guide. It’s possible to get here with local transport, private shuttles, or on a day trip. Go early in the morning to beat the crowds. To avoid getting rained on or risk that the area is flooded, visit during the dry season (December-April). Day trips cost 250-300 GTQ.

5. Explore the Chichicastenango Market

Most people who come to Guatemala visit Chichicastenango, the largest indigenous market in North America. Every Thursday and Sunday, thousands of Quiché Mayans come to town to buy and sell handicrafts, flowers, poetry, trinkets, pottery, and colorful textiles. There are plenty of places to eat tasty street food and buy local fruits and veggies, try fresh juices or Guatemalan coffee, and buy delicious handmade tortillas. Don’t forget to bring smaller bills and remember to bargain for the things you buy. Go early in the morning to beat the crowds.

Other Things to See and Do in Guatemala

1. visit the national museum of archaeology and ethnology.

Located in Guatemala City, this museum houses the many artifacts uncovered from the Mayan archaeological sites around the country. Created in 1898, the museum holds over 20,000 items and artifacts and is a good place to visit so you can learn more about the Mayan culture. Admission is 60 GTQ.

2. See the Yaxha ruins

If Tikal is too touristy for you, consider the more secluded Yaxha ruins. Like Tikal, Yaxha is a massive Mesoamerican archaeological site. Located in the northeast, it was the third-largest Mayan city in the region. Home to several huge stone pyramids, the site was “discovered” in 1904 and dates to 250-600 CE. Spend a few hours looking at ancient drawings and intricately carved hieroglyphs. Admission is 80 GTQ.

3. Explore Quirigua

The archaeological site of Quirigua, located in the southeastern corner of the country near the border with Honduras, contains the largest stelae (upright stone columns covered in drawings or carved into shapes) ever discovered in the Mayan world. Nine stelae are arranged around a central plaza, accompanied by altars carved into zoomorphic shapes that date from the 2nd-8th centuries CE. Although the stelae are unrestored, they are a magnificent sight; the largest of these is a whopping 25 feet tall! Admission is 80 GTQ.

4. Hike the Volcán de Pacaya

This active volcano frequently erupts ash clouds over Antigua, however, it makes for a fun day hike (don’t worry, it’s safe). The trail is relatively easy (it’s not that steep) and takes around two hours to hike, giving you lots of time to admire the view before you actually get a chance to peer into the volcano’s cone. Pacaya can only be accessed with an authorized guide so you will need to book a tour. Be aware the cheap tours often just offer transportation and a Spanish-speaking guide. If you don’t speak Spanish you will need to ask for an English-speaking guide. Guided hikes start at 250 GTQ . Some of the tours also include a visit to a thermal spa where you can soak in the naturally warm waters as well as a chance to roast marshmallows over the volcano.

5. Wander Flores

A small island, Flores sits on Lake Peten Itza, a large lake in the north and the second-largest lake in the country. A narrow man-made causeway connects the island to the mainland and the region is perfect for hiking, swimming, and spotting wildlife. From here, you’re just a short drive away from some of the most untamed jungles in the country (it makes for a good base for exploring the nearby jungles). It’s also close to the ruins at Tikal.

6. Visit the ruins at El Mirador

El Mirador is one of the most undiscovered Mayan sites in Guatemala. Located near the border with Mexico in the northeast, the majority of its complexes lie in the depths of the jungle and remain relatively inaccessible to tourists. It’s the largest of all the Mayan ruins, rivaling even the pyramids in Egypt in size. Though discovered in 1926, researchers didn’t start studying it until 2003! Multi-day tours cost around 2,300-3,100 GTQ since it’s so remote.

7. Explore Rio Dulce

Rio Dulce is a gorgeous river and popular backpacker destination in eastern Guatemala. Two towns, El Relleno and Fronteras, lie on either side of the river and are connected by one of the largest bridges in Central America. The area is famous for its trekking and water activities, including the Finca Paraiso hike, which leads to a hot spring and a waterfall. The Quiriguá ruins (mentioned above) are also nearby and worth a visit.

8. Visit the Antigua Market

This sprawling market is colorful and somewhat chaotic. It’s open-air and filled with everything from fruits and vegetables to handmade crafts and poultry to fake DVDs and knock-off jeans. Come here to buy souvenirs, people watch, and take in the bustling chaos!

9. Relax at Monterrico

This is the most popular beach in the country. Located close to Guatemala City and Antigua, this laid-back beach town is a relaxing place to catch some sun and hit the waves. Between June-December, you can also see giant leatherback, green sea, and smaller olive ridley turtles. There are also lots of tours of the nearby mangroves.

10. Hike Acatenango

Located near Antigua, Acatenango is a stratovolcano standing almost 4,000 meters (13,000 feet). It’s the third-highest volcano in Central America and last erupted in 1972. It offers a strenuous 7-8-hour hike up to a campsite, where you camp overnight before summiting to watch the sunrise. Overnight hiking tours cost around 600-800 GTQ and include cold-weather gear, an English-speaking guide, and park admission.

11. Watch the sunrise from Indian Nose

The sunrise from the Indian Nose volcano is quite possibly one of the most magical sunrises you will ever experience. Located next to Lake Atitlan, you’ll get to look out across the water and the magnificent volcanoes before you (including the Atitlán and San Pedro volcanoes). You can do this hike alone but it is difficult finding the path in the dark so it is much better to go with a guide. Expect to pay around 465 GTQ.

12. Learn to surf

Guatemala isn’t known for its beaches but the small coastal town of El Paredon is a well-kept secret where you can hit the waves. The black sand beach is beautiful and the surf is great. A board rental is around 100-125 GTQ per day and surf lessons cost around 120 GTQ for a private class, including a board.

Guatemala Travel Costs

Budget hotels are plentiful in Guatemala and rooms cost as little as 235-250 GTQ for a double or twin bed with basic amenities. For a mid-range hotel with free breakfast, expect to pay closer to 500 GTQ

Airbnb is available around the country, with private rooms starting at 200 GTQ per night. For an entire home or apartment, prices begin around 300 GTQ per night though they average closer to 800 GTQ. Book early to find the best deals.

For those traveling with a tent, camping is not common and not recommended. You can camp in the parks of El Paredon and Tikal though. Camping there costs around 50 GTQ per night.

Food – Guatemalan cuisine leans heavily on traditional Mayan foods with a strong influence from Spain (the Spanish arrived here in 1524). Traditional foods use a lot of corn, chilies, avocados, and beans. Popular dishes include tamales, seafood soup, and meat stews (usually chicken or beef), which are readily available and usually quite affordable. Gallo en perro (spicy stew), tapado (seafood soup with green plantain and coconut milk), and fried rice are other popular dishes.

If you’re on a budget, you can get a large meal of beans, rice, corn, and meat for around 40 GTQ from a comedor (local eateries that usually offer large portions). Another local favorite is a tortilla with beans and eggs with sour cream and fried plantain on the side, which usually cost the equivalent of just a couple of dollars.

Lunch is the main meal of the day here, and many restaurants offer affordable set menus. These usually include soup and grilled meat.

Pre-made plates of food (usually chicken or beef, rice, and tortillas) are often sold on the buses during stops for about 25-30 GTQ. Street food, like hot dogs or tamales, can be found for less than 15 GTQ.

A three-course meal in a mid-range restaurant with a drink costs around 250 GTQ. Mexican-style dishes like tacos or enchiladas are a popular evening choice (since dinner is usually a lighter meal).

Fast food like McDonald’s costs around 45 GTQ for a combo meal. For a meal at a Western restaurant (think burger and fries or pizza), expect to pay at least 100 GTQ.

A beer costs 15 GTQ, bottled water is 6 GTQ, and a cappuccino/latte costs around 19 GTQ.

If you plan on buying your own groceries, expect to pay around 200 GTQ per week for staples like vegetables, rice, seasonal produce, and some meat.

Backpacking Guatemala Suggested Budgets

As a budget backpacker in Guatemala, expect to pay around 250 GTQ per day. This assumes you’re staying in a hostel dorm, cooking most of your meals, sticking to free activities (like hiking and the beach), limiting your drinking, and using public transportation to get around.

On a mid-range budget of 650 GTQ, you can stay in an Airbnb, eat out for all your meals, enjoy a few drinks, take some guided tours, use taxis here and there, and visit more attractions such as museums or ruins.

On a “luxury” budget of 1,750 GTQ per day, you can stay in a hotel, take taxis everywhere, book higher-end tours (including private tours and day tours), and eat out every meal at nicer restaurants. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in GTQ.

Guatemala Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

It’s easy to save money while traveling in Guatemala since the country isn’t that expensive. However, a good budget traveler always looks for ways to maximize value. Here are some of the best ways to save money in Guatemala:

• Take a free walking tour – In some of the larger cities (like Antigua) you can find free walking tours. They’re the best way to get introduced to a new destination. Freetour.com has options you can choose from. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end!
• Stay with a local – While accommodation is cheap here, staying with a local via Couchsurfing makes it free. Not only will you save some money, but you’ll get firsthand knowledge from a local!
• Visit the Mercado – Although eating out is cheap in Guatemala, it makes sense to shop at the markets for your food to take on day trips or to prepare at your hostel. Fruit costs mere pennies and everything is always fresh.
• Eat street food – The local street food is the cheapest food you can eat — and the tastiest. Stick to street food when it comes to eating out.
• Avoid flying – Bus rides are longer, but if you are trying to see the country on a budget you shouldn’t fly. An hour-long flight can cost hundreds of dollars. Avoid flying as much as possible!
• Avoid drinking – Sure, the beer here is cheap but a couple of beers every day will add up. Watch your drinking to keep your budget intact!

Where to Stay in Guatemala

Guatemala has plenty of hostels in all the major cities. Here are some of my suggested places to stay:

• Maya Papaya (Antigua)
• Barbara’s Boutique Hostel (Antigua)
• La Iguana Perdida (Santa Cruz, Lake Atitlan)
• Casa de Grethel (Flores)
• Hostal Los Lagos (Guatemala City)
• Hostal Guatefriends (Guatemala City)

How to Get Around Guatemala

Public transportation – The main method of transportation in Guatemala is las camionetas (“chicken buses”). They are old school buses from North America and are the most inexpensive way to get around. Expect to pay around 10 GTQ for a 1-2 hour journey. Shorter journeys can cost as little as 5 GTQ.

If you are traveling between places like Antigua and Lake Atitlan, shuttle buses are the most common form of transport for backpackers. Travel between Antigua and Guatemala City costs around 150 GTQ on a shuttle bus. On a chicken bus, it costs considerably less.

Train – There are no trains in Guatemala.

Bus – Because of the poor condition of the roads in Guatemala large coach buses aren’t available on many routes. You can find night buses between Guatemala City and Flores to take you to countries like Mexico , Belize , and Nicaragua . For most other places, you have to rely on shuttle buses.

You have two options for booking: asking in your hostel to call and book for you and pay in cash, or booking online through guatego.com. Unfortunately, websites like Busbud don’t operate in Guatemala as their transport infrastructure is still developing.

Keep in mind the shuttles are pretty basic. Most don’t have working AC and are not very spacious. Plan for delays as well.

Flying – There are regular flights from Guatemala City to Flores, usually costing around 1,000-1,400 GTQ per person for the one-hour flight. If you are short on time and have plenty of money to spend, I suggest flying. But for most travelers, the bus is the best option.

Car rental – Renting a car costs around 175 GTQ per day. Do take care if you decide to drive in Guatemala as the roads aren’t the best and landslides are common during the rainy season (which can often result in both accidents and road closures). Make sure you have an International Driving Permit (IDP) — you’ll need one for any car rental.

For the best car rental prices, use Discover Cars .

When to Go to Guatemala

Guatemala is a fantastic place to visit at any time of the year because of its spring-like climate. As many places are at altitude, you can expect cool mornings and evenings and warm days. Expect temperatures to sit between 18-28°C (65-82°F).

Many choose to avoid Guatemala during the rainy season (May-September) as the rain can be a bit disruptive, especially if you want to do things like hiking. That said, it is during these months that Guatemala is at its most beautiful as the country turns green and the flowers bloom. Prices also drop significantly during the rainy season.

To beat the crowds, visit in the shoulder season (the start or end of the rainy season). You’ll see fewer people and things will be a little cheaper. The weather won’t be perfect but it will still be sunny and warm most days so you’ll still be able to hike.

How to Stay Safe in Guatemala

While Guatemala is generally safe, there’s no denying that certain precautions should be taken as there is a lot of petty crime (and other safety issues) in the country. Avoid isolated areas, especially at night and in big cities. Keep your personal belongings on you while using public transit (especially chicken buses) and night buses.

Additionally, don’t wear flashy jewelry or leave your valuables out in the open. Petty theft is common here so you must be vigilant.

Violent attacks against tourists are rare. Most of the time it’s because the tourist was involved in something drug-related or was where they shouldn’t be at night.

Scams are common in the larger cities so be wary of any overly friendly strangers. You can read about common travel scams to avoid right here.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.). Whenever possible, share a taxi with friends and avoid walking around alone just to be safe.

Guatemala is home to 37 volcanoes so volcanic activity isn’t uncommon. Be sure to check for warnings before you embark on any hikes/activities (especially ones on or around volcanoes).

Additionally, due to its political instability, protests and demonstrations are common. If one is occurring near you, simply head back to your accommodation and avoid taking part.

If you experience an emergency, dial 110 for assistance.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Guatemala Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Guatemala Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Central America and continue planning your trip:

Do You Need Travel Insurance for Costa Rica?

The Best Tour Companies in Costa Rica

The 6 Best Hostels in Panama City, Panama

Is Belize Safe to Visit?

Is Central America Safe to Visit?

How to Get Around Central America on a Budget

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Guatemala Travel Budget: What Does a Trip to Guatemala Cost?

Planning a visit to gorgeous Guatemala, and curious about what a trip to Guatemala costs? 

Our real-life example for traveling Guatemala on a budget can help you estimate your costs!

Our Guatemala trip was not only tons of fun, but it also ended up having a very reasonable price tag: our Guatemala travel budget reflects the lowest trip cost per day of anywhere we have been since starting to travel full-time.

Though we did do several things to keep prices low, we didn’t hold back on the experiences!

Swimming in Semuc Champey , hiking (and camping on) Volcano Acatenango , going horseback riding around Lake Atitlan, and studying Spanish with private tutors for a week were all part of our Guatemala travel experience!

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The Guatemala trip costs outlined here represent our time spent backpacking Guatemala on what we would consider a flashpacker budget. Basically, no to dorm rooms, (mostly) yes to a/c, and no to major luxuries.

We spent 29 full days in the country, averaging a total Guatemala travel budget of $65.52/day for two people, or $32.76 per person, per day. This added up to a total cost of $1900.18 for our month-long trip.

All prices for our trip to Guatemala costs are listed in USD unless otherwise noted, and, as usual for our travel budget roundups, we don’t include the costs of entering or leaving the country here, as those expenses can vary so dramatically depending on your starting point.

In our case, we both entered and left Guatemala via bus, entering via Belize and exiting to Honduras.

Our Lodging Costs in Guatemala

Total: $745.39.

The best part about visiting Guatemala for 29 full days is that we can get a clear and easy look at “monthly” expenses.

$745.39 in “rent”, including all utilities, wifi, and some toiletries isn’t bad!

Our most expensive lodging (and food, and mere existence) in Guatemala was in Flores, where we spent around $40/night for a mediocre room.

Our most affordable was at Lake Atitlan, where we rented a stunning Airbnb for $20 a night in the tiny village of San Pablo.

Where We Stayed in Guatemala

Hotel Villa Margarita — If we had to sum this hotel up in a word, it would be “bland”. I

t wasn’t good enough to rave about (and the shower mildly electrocuting me a couple of times definitely dampened any goodwill I felt for the place), but there was nothing terrible about it either.

I would consider this a solid choice for a quick stay in Flores, but don’t expect to be wowed.

Vinas Hotel — Located less than a 10-minute walk from the center of town, the only issue we had here was with the lack of electricity for most of our stay–but there wasn’t anything the hotel could do about that.

The room was clean, the property well kept, and the restaurant had good food at low prices. We would not hesitate to stay here again if we returned to the area!

Antigua 

La Dolce Vita Guesthouse — Sadly, the hostel that we loved so much in Antigua has permanently closed.

Here are two similar properties we would consider staying at these days (highly rated, with private rooms, wifi, and an excellent location):

Casa Gitana (9.3 rating on Booking.com)  — Just 400 meters from Antigua’s central plaza, you can’t find a better location in Antigua. A shared kitchen is also available.

Un hotel en la Antigua (9.0 rating on Booking.com)  — Perfect for someone who’s looking for a quiet place to stay not far from the action, Un hotel en la Antigua is located a 7-minute walk from the main plaza, while still being located in the heart of downtown Antigua.

Lake Atitlan

Stuart’s Airbnb — We loved this bungalow on Lake Atitlan!

The views were incredible, there was plenty of hot water, there was decent enough wifi considering the location, and the host was wonderful.

This was an incredibly comfortable place to work and relax. The downside was that it’s in San Pablo, a tiny village on Lake Atitlan with no tourism infrastructure whatsoever.

To experience the best of what Lake Atitlan has to offer to tourists, you’ll need to visit some of the other villages by tuk-tuk or lancha.

Our Transportation Costs in Guatemala

Total: $117.34.

Most of this cost on our Guatemala travel budget came from the use of shuttles: just under $15 per person took us from Flores to Lanquin and from Lanquin to Antigua in bearable comfort.

Our shuttles from Antigua to Lake Atitlan and visa versa ran around $10 USD per person, each way.

The rest of our transportation expenses were made up of tuk-tuk rides, primarily in Lake Atitlan, where we commuted to San Marcos to study Spanish in Guatemala for five days and visited the larger village of San Pedro a couple of times.

Our Restaurant Travel Budget in Guatemala

Total: $362.95.

There is an enormous problem with this number in our travel budget for Guatemala: not only is it extraordinarily high for where we were, it includes way too much American fast food.

We’ll just chalk that one up to personal failures and giving in to temptation a few too many times.

Our Grocery Expenses in Guatemala

Total: $214.00.

Groceries in Guatemala were reasonable, particularly in the markets and at food stalls where we were able to get fruits, vegetables, and eggs for reasonable prices.

As in most places in the developing world, there was a premium on boxed goods and familiar Western brands, though we didn’t find the markup to be nearly as dramatic as what we saw in Belize .

Our total food cost on our Guatemala travel budget, including both restaurants and groceries, came to $19.89/day, or $9.95/person/day.

Our Tour + Excursion Expenses in Guatemala

Total: $377.60.

About $220 worth of this number in our travel budget for Guatemala is accounted for by our week attending Spanish school in Guatemala (including the tips that we gave our teachers at the end of our classes).

The rest of it is a hodgepodge of costs, notably including our hike up Volcano Acatenango, Jeremy’s hike up Volcano Pacaya, and horseback riding at Lake Atitlan (at under $15/person for 3 hours of riding, including tip, this was a fantastic deal!).

There’s a fairly obvious attraction missing from our travel budget for Guatemala: Tikal National Park.

We fully intended to visit (it’s why we went to Flores!), but by the time we got there, we had seen oodles of ruins in Mexico and were not remotely interested in paying around $30/person to drive two hours each way in a van and check out even more ruins–no matter how stunning they are supposed to be.

Who knows, maybe we’ll come back to see them one day!

We also didn’t pay for a tour at Semuc Champey , opting to explore independently instead.

Miscellaneous Guatemala Travel Budget Costs

Total: $82.90.

A little over half of our miscellaneous trip to Guatemala cost ($46.05, or $23.03/person) is from getting our teeth cleaned in Antigua–our first small foray into medical tourism!

The rest is made up of small odds and ends: laundry, hats, and walking sticks for our hike up Acatenango, and replacing the HDMI cable we lost a while ago, for example.

Tips for Traveling Guatemala on a Budget

Guatemala uses the Guatemalan quetzal, available at any ATM (our preferred method for getting cash abroad. Foreign debit cards are easy to use with ATM machines.

Guatemala is a very cash-based country, so don’t expect to use your credit cards for much of anything while on your trip.

Like in most developing countries, you can book tours and activities online in advance–but you will pay a steep markup.

If you’re comfortable with a bit of uncertainty and traveling Guatemala on a budget (or simply don’t like overpaying for things), consider negotiating all tours and activities in person once you arrive.

We are very satisfied with the cost of our Guatemala trip: this is the lowest per day cost we have recorded since we started tracking our full-time travels, beating out even Morocco and Bosnia.

The big reason for the low price tag? Slow movement. We spent a full 14 days of this time at an Airbnb in Lake Atitlan, where we not only snagged a discount for staying for two full weeks but also had access to a kitchen to lower our temptation to eat at restaurants.

Because of this, we didn’t go to every place we were interested in while in Guatemala … but the tradeoff was absolutely worth it.

While our next stop, Honduras, absolutely came at a higher price tag than Guatemala did (hello, scuba diving!), we would love to recapture numbers reminiscent of our travel budget for Guatemala again in several spots around the world!

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

12 thoughts on “Guatemala Travel Budget: What Does a Trip to Guatemala Cost?”

I loved Guatemala, it is a great country. Tikal was amazing but then I do love seeing ruins. Lake Atitlan I also loved and Antigua too and climbing volcanoes. A great part of the world 🙂

It is a beautiful country! We had a lot of fun there–climbing Acatenango was quite a challenge, but the views were remarkable.

Wow. This is some amazingly good budgeting for a month-long trip! I’m super impressed. I’ve wanted to go to Guatemala since I saw the movie ‘The Bird Cage’ with Robin Williams when I was little, haha!

You should definitely make your way to Guatemala! It’s a great country to explore. 🙂

$1900.18 for 29 days is pretty good!! I’m impressed given that you dined out and participated in tours as well! I’d love to do the horseback riding and hike up the volcano!!

Thanks, Cat! I was pleasantly surprised when we added up the final numbers. Both of those tours are definitely worth the price (and the inevitable pain, in the case of climbing Acatenango!).

That’s a pretty smart budget to spend $1900 both of you in Guatemala for a month. To me it looks like the brilliant ideal budget to look up to anytime in Guatemala.

Thanks, Promise!

I love your posts about Guatemala. We are headed there this Christmas eve. We will go for three weeks, and I am trying to get more info on Semuc Champey. I really want to go, but I keep on getting advice against it. Can you tell me more about how you got there? My biggest worry is the amount of traveling time. We must visit Tikal (I cannot get enough of the ruins). Besides Tikal we don’t have much of a plan.

Aw, how fun!

If you really want to go to Semuc Champey, I say absolutely go–especially with 3 weeks to work with. It is a bit of a journey (about 8 hours by shuttle from Flores and another 8 onto Antigua), but worth it.

Your best bet, especially if you’re concerned about travel time, is definitely to book a shuttle. They’re affordable, easy to find in Guatemala (all the tourist agencies in the major tourism centers will be selling them), and are direct–aka, much faster and more comfortable than taking chicken buses/public transport. It’s still an uncomfortable journey, don’t get me wrong, but it’s worth it. We booked our shuttle in Flores (the town you’ll likely use as a base to visit Tikal) and bought our ticket onward from Semuc Champey to Antigua at the same time. It all went very smoothly, but I recommend a motion sickness pill if you’re susceptible to it!

Hello Jeremy and Kate,

My boyfriend and I are traveling to Guatemala in two weeks! We currently have a car rented but I am wondering what shuttle services you used. Would you recommend using a shuttle to get from Flores to Antigua? Or would you say sticking to our car is a better idea? We are going from San Ignacio, Belize to Flores, staying a night in Flores, Antigua for 3 nights, then Lake Atilan for 5 nights (3 nights on the South end, 2 nights on West side) then back to Flores, to get back to Belize City. What do you recommend for our transportation?

Personally, we’d prefer to use a shuttle service for that trip (it’s actually very similar to the path that we took!). While you can drive, the roads are rough and directions can be iffy–plus some of those distances are quite long (Google maps tends to underestimate how long it takes to get to each spot in this region). If you’re experienced with driving in Latin America, you certainly CAN drive, but I’d consider it more trouble than it’s worth.

We didn’t use any specific companies for our shuttles–essentially, each one of the destinations you mentioned is pretty solidly on the backpacker trail in Central America, so it’s incredibly easy to head down to the local tourist office and book a “shuttle” to the next place a day or two in advance. The shuttles aren’t incredibly comfortable, but they’re easy to use and come with drivers who know the way. They’re more expensive than buses or chapas, but more comfortable and cater to tourists instead of locals (so you get there much faster, as chapas and buses make many, many stops).

I’m not sure how set your itinerary is, but you might want to consider pricing out the cost of a flight from Antigua or Guatemala City to Belize City, as it would save you a ton of time backtracking and buy you a bit more time to spend in Guatemala. Not sure if the cost would be worth it, but it might be worth checking on! 🙂

Hope you guys have an amazing time! Guatemala is an incredible place.

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Guatemala Travel Guide

Known as Central America’s Mayan heart, you will find yourself enchanted by the beauty that Guatemala has to offer. There are dozens of historical sites found in this country. With its rich Mayan heritage, indigenous culture, and colonial charm, you will find yourself unable to resist all the adventure found in this welcoming and accessible country.

Travel Guide Contents

Important Info    |    Best Time to Visit    |    Things to Do    |    What to Eat    |    Typical Budget

Travel Tips    |    What to Pack    |    Guatemala Articles    |    Book Now

Important Info About Guatemala

Guatemala at a Glance: Guatemala is famous for its colonial cities, ancient ruins, incredible lakes, active volcanoes, and dense jungles. This is truly a place that no traveler can resist.

Most popular places to visit in Guatemala:

Antigua : Most travelers have this colonial masterpiece on their bucket list. With its stunning streetscapes and awesome restaurants, you’ll easily find yourself lost in its beauty. Plus, if you plan to hike volcanoes, you can use Antigua as a base.

Lake Atitlán : No one can resist the blue waters and volcano backdrops of Lake Atitlán. You can also easily find some great places to stay in the villages surrounding the lake.

Chichicastenango: Near Atitlán, you will find this small town in the Guatemalan highlands known for its open air craft markets. Each one is filled with a plethora of colors, traditional weavings, artifacts, knick-knacks and a whole lot more.

Tikal : If you love exploring archeological sites, Tikal has one of the most impressive ancient ruins. It is huge in size and abundant in stunning scenery.

Semuc Champey : After the jaw-dropping markets and archeological sites, find yourself in the middle of the jungle in Semuc Champey. Swim in freshwater swimming pools, go rafting or experience caving.

Currency in Guatemala: Guatemalan Quetzal | 2019 Conversion Rate: 1 GTQ = $0.13 USD

Tipping in Guatemala: It is not your obligation to tip in Guatemala. Only tip when you find the service exceptional. In restaurants, you can give a customary 10% tip. Maids and bellhops only expect tips in the country’s most expensive hotels. Round up your taxi fare as a tip but this is not expected either. For guards and tour guides, you can give small tips to show your appreciation.

 Language & Helpful Phrases: Spanish 

Hello = Hola

Thank you = Gracias

Beer = Cerveza

Delicious = Delicioso

Bathroom =  Baño

How much? = Cuánto cuesta?

Too expensive = Muy caro

Don’t want = No quiero

Religion and Culture: Guatemala’s culture is influenced by strong Spanish and Mayan culture. The country’s religion is mainly indigenous Mayan religion combined with Roman Catholicism.

Transportation around Guatemala: You can easily find several transportation options in Guatemala. The best ways to get around are via buses, taxis, private cars, and domestic flights. However, it can be hard to rent a car since a lot of the country’s roads are in poor condition.

Best Time to Visit Guatemala

Climate in guatemala.

Guatemala’s year-round climate is pretty mild. The seasons are pretty much made up of the dry season and the wet season. During the wet season, you can expect only a few hours of rain per day.

Dry season: November to April

Wet season: May to October

Peak season for tourists is October through April. Expect that most prices during these times are higher.

Times to avoid traveling in Guatemala

The dry season is peak season in Guatemala, however, since tourism isn’t exactly booming in Guatemala, there really is no bad time to visit.

Major Festivals in Guatemala

Semana Santa/Holy Week, the week leading up to Easter (March/April):  Every Semana Santa, Antigua’s cobblestone streets are covered in colored sawdust. These form carpets of dust that feature designs with Christian and Mayan symbolism. 

Festival Folklórico de Cobán / Cobán Folkloric Festival, last week of July: During this festival, there are tons of rodeos, parades, and traditional art expositions, as well as, the Rabin Ajau competition. In this contest, girls from all over the country will compete to become the Mayan princess.

Día de la Independencia / Independence Day, September 15: During Guatemala’s independence day, runners will relay a lit torch all the way to the old colonial capital of Costa Rica, Cartago from Guatemala City.

Dia de los Muertos/Day of the Dead, November 1-2: You will find here giant kites made from bamboo and paper erected in local cemeteries. These are done to ward off evil spirits and communicate with loved ones who died. Now, there are several competitions held to find the best kite.

*These festivals follow the Lunar calendar, so the exact dates vary each year.

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Top Things to Do in Guatemala

Wander around antigua’s charming streets.

Antigua, Guatemala is bursting with old world colonial charm. Buildings are painted in bright colors with a touch of Spanish design. The streets are all cobblestone and there are ancient ruins waiting for you to explore all around the city.

Explore Mayan ruins

Central America is full of Mayan ruins to explore, but one of the most loved sites is Tikal. Located in the jungle of northern Guatemala near the borders of Belize and Mexico, this used to be one of the most powerful cities in Mayan civilization.

Visit the turquoise pools of Semuc Champey

Spend the day in Semuc Champey swimming, splashing and taking photos of the dream-like turquoise pools. Oh, and don’t forget to go up to the mirador for the most beautiful view.

Hike an active volcano

With 37 volcanoes in the country, Guatemala is a great place to see these natural wonders. Three of the country’s volcanoes are still active—Pacaya, Fuego, and Santiaguito—with the first two being the most popular for tourists to visit.

Ride a chicken bus

A chicken bus is not a bus for chickens. It is a colloquial English term to mean a decorated, modified and colorful bus that is used as a public transport. It is one of the most authentic ways to experience the culture of Guatemala.

Kayak Lake Atitlan

Lake Atitlan is a place that will suck you in and you might just end up staying longer than expected. There is so much to do here, but we highly recommend kayaking along the shores. It is also a great place to just relax.

Foods to Eat in Guatemala

You will soon find that Guatemala has some of the most delicious foods. Just ask anyone who has traveled there before! The local cuisine is influenced by Spanish traditions and Mayan culture so you will find that the dishes here are packed full of flavor.

Here are some of our favorites:

Chicken pepián: Guatemala may not have a national dish but chicken pepián might as well be it. It is a spicy stew that’s comes from a mix of the Mayan and Spanish cultures.

Kak’ik: Craving for some soup? This turkey soup has several spices such as chilies, achiote, and coriander to tickle your taste buds.

Pupusas: You will find these everywhere (and I mean everywhere!). If you are on a budget, these thick corn tortillas stuffed with fillings such as pork, cheese or beans, are a great way to get your money’s worth.

Hilachas: Roughly translated to ‘rags’, hilachas is a sort of stew made from boiled shredded beef, and served with carrots, potatoes, tomato sauce, tomatillo, and Guajillo chiles.

Desayuno tradicional: Don’t forget to try this traditional breakfast when in Antigua. It is simply scrambled eggs with some mashed beans, tomato, onion, tortillas, avocado slices, and sweet plantains.

Chocolate: Since Guatemala is considered to be the origin of chocolate, you will find that the chocolates sold here are of the highest quality. If you have a sweet tooth, don’t forget to take a bite of these delicious sweets.

Typical Budget for Guatemala

Guatemala is one of the best countries to visit if you are on a budget. You can easily find delicious meals and beautiful accommodations for a very affordable price.

Good to know: Save a lot of money on transportation by traveling via chicken bus. These are the cheapest method of transportation out there.

How Much to Budget in Guatemala Per Day

Budget traveler: If you are on a tight budget and watch your spending closely, $25 – $30 could be a sufficient budget. 

Mid-range traveler: If you want to have a few splurges and stay in nicer accommodation, plan to budget $90 per day.

Dorm bed = $8-$10

Budget room = $15-$20

Mid-range = $30

Luxury hotel = $40+

Street food = $0.75-$2

Mid-range restaurant = $15-$30

Fancy restaurant = $40+

Local beer = $1-$2

Chicken buses – $1 (for one to two-hour ride)

Coach Bus Routes:

Panajachel to Chichicastenango = $1.50

Antigua to Panajachel = $3.50

Flores to Antigua = $30

Tikal Archeological Site = $350 

Pacaya Trip = $x

Rio Dulce Kayak = $15

Responsible Travel Tips for Guatemala

We are passionate about sharing tips anyone can use to travel more responsibly . Here are some easy ways you can travel better in Guatemala.

1. Explore indigenous cultures

When you trek in remote areas or visit rural markets, dress respectfully. The cultures here are more conservative than others. 

2. Be considerate when taking photos

Before you take a photo of the children and the locals, be sure to always ask first. 

3. Bargain respectfully

Most often, when you ask for prices, you will be given a tourist price. You can bargain if you want to but always remember that a few dollars for you can make a big difference in the seller’s lives. 

4. Volunteer

There are a lot of places and opportunities in Guatemala if you want to volunteer. Most schools have affiliated volunteer opportunities. You can also help educate street children or support agriculture.

Find volunteer projects here.

5. Support local businesses

Instead of booking from foreign operators, use local businesses to leave some money for the communities. This is important if you want to travel responsibly. 

Related Article: 36 Responsible Travel Tips

What to Pack for Guatemala

As much as you can, pack light with carry-on baggage only. This will help you during your travels around the country. There are poor roads so it’s not really recommended to rent a car. Most often, chicken buses are your transportation. And if you have a massive suitcase with you, it will just be on the way. Your luggage will be put above the bus, too.

Here are some specific items we’d recommend packing for Guatemala:

bug repellant (solids are the way to go)

reef-safe sunscreen

insulated water bottle

reusable straw & reusable bag ( say no to single-use plastic! )

comfortable and basic clothing that you can layer (modest and casual clothing)

rain jacket

travel towel

Chaco sandals (we’d recommend these instead of hiking boots as they are less bulky and are good for walking through water)

Guatemala Travel Articles

If you’re planning a trip to Guatemala, we’ve got you covered with the articles below including travel guides and tips on where to go and what to do while you’re there.

Lake Atitlan, Guatemala: Ultimate Guide + Things to Do

Lake Atitlan, Guatemala is a magical place. With volcano peaks towering over the glassy lake, and tiny villages settled on the shores, you’ll never want to leave. In this guide we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to plan your visit.

25 Unforgettable Things To Do in Guatemala

With active volcanoes, a vibrant indigenous culture, and colorful markets, there are so many incredible things to do in Guatemala. You’ll find adventure, culture, history, and warm locals all in one place. Traveling in Guatemala is not always easy, but if you come with an open mind, this country is...

Tikal National Park & Flores, Guatemala Travel Guide

Situated in the jungle near Flores, Guatemala, the Tikal ruins are some of the best Mayan ruins in Central America. In this guide, we’ll go over everything you need to know to plan your trip to Tikal National Park, including how to get there, where to stay and things to...

Semuc Champey Guatemala: How to Visit + Essential Tips

Deep in the Guatemalan jungle lies a paradise known as Semuc Champey with stepped turquoise pools excellent for swimming. In this guide, we’ll go over everything you need to know to plan your trip to Semuc Champey Natural Monument, including how to get there, where to stay and things to...

27 Best Things to Do in Antigua, Guatemala

Visiting the historic center of Antigua should be on every traveler’s bucket list. With deep cultural roots and adventurous activities nearby like hiking Acatenango Volcano, there are so many exciting things to do in Antigua, Guatamala. Be careful, you may fall in love with this city and never want to...

Hiking Acatenango Volcano in Guatemala: What to Know + Insider Tips

Watching Volcan Fuego erupt is one of the highlights of any Central America trip. Hikers will make their way to the base of Guatemala’s most famous volcano and will climb the adjacent (and dormant!) Volcan Acatenango for an unforgettable overnight experience. This article has everything you need to know to...

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GUATEMALA TRAVEL BUDGET BREAKDOWN

• Last updated on: March 29, 2020
• First published on: March 31, 2020

This post may contain affiliate links, meaning we will receive a tiny commission if you choose to click through and make a purchase. But don’t worry, clicking on them won’t cost you a penny more – it just means we can keep creating free content for you – and that our furry companions can keep living their best life with all their fancy toys.  

Guatemala is a country in Central America which, together with Honduras, El Salvador and Nicaragua, forms a single customs territory. Among travelers, it has the reputation of a country where can you get by with a really low budget . Hey, we were surely looking forward to that! Well, er – spoiler alert, we were kinda (negatively?) surprised that certain things were more expensive than in Mexico. Nevertheless, you won’t need to try too hard to keep your Guatemala travel budget within a backpacker’s limit. 

Wanna know how much we spent or plan your travel budget? Ok, keep on reading then!

Nope, you won’t need to count every penny. How awesome is that?

OUR GUATEMALA TRAVEL BUDGET BREAKDOWN

Travel time: 20 days

Travel costs:  $1285

Average costs per day: $64,2 or $32,1 /person

(All prices are in USD)

ACCOMMODATION: $545 (42,5%)

While in Guatemala, we spent an average of $27,3 per night on accommodation , which is practically the same as in Mexico (you can read more about our travel budget for Mexico here ).

However, in comparison to Mexico, accommodation represented a higher % of our daily travel budget.

The most expensive accommodation ($35/night) was the one in Flores , but hey – we did have a rooftop room with a terrace for New Year’s Eve. 🙂

But our Airbnb apartment with a view over lake Atitlan was more than worth its price ($30/night)!

While planning your Guatemala travel budget, we’d recommend you anticipate somewhere between $8-12 for a dorm bed, around $30/night for a budget accommodation and between $40-60/night for a midrange accommodation.

⇨ Not on Airbnb yet? Book through this link and you’ll get up to $44 off your first trip! 

TRANSPORTATION: $143 (11,1%)

During our trip to Guatemala, we traveled slowly and only moved three times, which significantly contributed to lowering transportation costs.

The biggest expense was the transfer from Flores to Guatemala City , and then with a taxi to Antigua (approx. $85 for 2 people). This is, er – because we left the bus at the wrong bus station in the middle of the night. 😀 We stopped at the outskirts of Guatemala City, woke up with a startle from a deep sleep and jumped from the bus….only to realize that wasn’t our stop. 🤦‍♀️ We somehow managed to find another lost traveler  and we shared an overpriced taxi to Antigua. 🙂

Good to know:  In Flores book a whole trip to Antigua and not just the bus in one of the travel agencies (the one at Green Monkeys Hostel is ok). Make sure to ask which bus company you’ll be traveling with – one of the best in Guatemala is Maya de Oro .

A shuttle from Antigua to Lake Atitlan cost less than $12 , which is super cheap for a 4-hour drive!

FOOD AND DRINKS:  $440 (34,3%)

Out of this:

• GROCERIES: $83
• RESTAURANTS: $272
• ADDITIONAL BEER/COFFEE : $85

Hey, we did well in Guatemala! Only 7% of our travel budget went to coffee and alcohol which is kinda unbelievable! I think I’m gonna pat myself on the back for that one.

But in general, when we spent less money on food and drinks in Mexico than we thought we would, we spent more than we expected in Guatemala .

Obviously, street food is dirt cheap and you’ll be full and ready to get going for a couple of dollars. It just depends on how much you love tacos and fried stuff.

I, for instance, am a pasta addict and therefore cannot just pass by an Italian restaurant and NOT go in there – no matter where am I. And since in Antigua there is an abundance of choices, we didn’t end up eating street food as many times as Bojan would have liked to. 🙂 But on the other hand, he knows the mantra “ Feed her pasta and she is happy” , so he is smart enough to play along. Ah, and there’s another mantra called “Feed him steak and he is happy” , and, er – there was plenty of that in Antigua as well. Good news – you’ll get one for less than $10 in Guatemala! It’s not Argentinian, but hey, can’t complain either.

Anyway, since such a meal in an international restaurant costs from $15 up for two (I know, not exactly backpacker’s budget) we did keep our budget within limits by eating out just once per day and cooking our own food when we were at Atitlan lake.

AVERAGE PRICES OF FOOD & DRINK IN GUATEMALA:

Avocado: $0,3

Small watermelon: $1,3

Breakfast in a coffee shop : $5

Lunch/dinner in a cheaper restaurant: $7-10

Coffee: $2,2

Beer: national approx. $2,2, craft beer $6 😫

TOURS AND ENTRANCE FEES: $121 (9,5%)

It’s easy to save money on tours and entrance fees in Guatemala, especially since one of the best things to do in Guatemala is unwinding by the shores of Atitlan lake and wandering the cobblestone streets of Antigua. Both amazing, both for free!

The biggest expense in Guatemala was the visit of the Mayan archaeological site Tikal , which amounted to $27 / person (of which the entrance fee was around $20).

The hike to the Pacaya volcano (including the entrance fee) cost approx. $22 per person and soaking in hot tubs cost us $6,5/ person.

Want an excellent workout? Go kayaking in Lake Atitlan ! Not only is it a lot of fun, it’s also cheap – less than $2,5 per person/hour. Yep, Bojan did most of the work. Nope, he didn’t realize it, I’m great at pretending to paddle as hard as possible.  

⇨ Wanna know what else to do in Guatemala? Here’s our 2-week Guatemala itinerary to help you plan your trip! If you’re tight on time, it can be shortened to 10 days as well, or you can add some of the places we suggested in Guatemala backpacking tips and spend more time in Guatemala. In the latter article, you’ll find practical tips about visiting Guatemala, so you’ll want to read it before you go there!

MISCELLANEOUS : approx. 33$ (2,6%)

I’m sooo proud of myself I didn’t spend money on all those amazing things at Guatemalan craft markets.

OK, let me rephrase that. WAS proud. Cos we had like 10 months of travel (a yearlong honeymoon , remember?) in front of us and wouldn’t be able to carry them around. Now, I regret I didn’t buy all the cushions, belts and blankets. They would fit so nicely in our apartment, I swear! 

Anyhow, other costs include laundry ,  SIM card for Guatemalan number, a magnet and postcards . Humble, s í ? 

Um, actually, perhaps we should include an additional $33 to our Guatemala travel budget breakdown – since our Maestro debit cards weren’t working (never regretted not having a Visa card with me before!), so we had to withdraw cash with a credit card twice (MasterCard) and that was fu**ing expensive!

A FEW EXTRA TIPS

The Guatemalan currency is quetzal (Q) and the ratio is: $US 1 = approx.  7,6 Q (March 2020)

You can actually pay with dollars in many places , but as a backpacker, you’ll want to skip this, since you’ll end up paying more for that lunch than your Italian friend who paid in quetzals.

ATMs are available in major tourist resorts, buuuut …. they are out of order sometimes (this applies to Flores especially)! Or they work, but transactions can not be performed for some who-knows-what reason. Fun fact: if you’re persistent and try multiple times per day, maybe your third or fifth attempt will be successful. It’s like an ATM would feel sorry for you or get fed up with you lurking around it all the time.

In Flores, no ATMs accepted the Maestro card , and in addition, you can withdraw a very small amount of money. There was no problem whatsoever in Antigua and the Maestro debit card was working normally. Credit cards are usually accepted in some hostels and major restaurants . However, the terminal may not work from time to time.

Bottom line? Have enough cash with you. 🙂

SO… DID WE STICK TO OUR GUATEMALA TRAVEL BUDGET?

Despite the fact that prices in Guatemala (especially after arriving in Flores) were a somewhat, er – “unpleasant surprise”, the final average cost per day was even lower than expected ! Yasss! 🙂

We know, that’s mainly due to the fact that we did not move around a lot and that we cooked our own meals for a whole week. But hey, there’s no such thing as homemade baked potato and guacamole. And avocados in Guatemala are s-u-p-e-r-b.

Guatemala is surely a great country for a backpacker’s budget and if you’re willing to stretch your budget a bit more (we couldn’t since we were on long-time travel 😬), you’ll get a lot for your money and have an amazing time there. I know for sure we’ll spend a bit more money there when we return. 😉

You may also like…

• Mexico travel budget breakdown
• Nicaragua travel budget breakdown

If you already visited Guatemala, we’d love to hear what your travel budget was and if you felt you got a good value for your money. Let us know in the comments! 

And don’t forget to pin this for the time you’ll be planning your travels!

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Guatemala Travel Budget: My Experience

Published: September 9, 2023

Modified: December 27, 2023

by Horatia Yong

• Central & South America
• Travel Destinations
• Travel Guide
• travel tips

Introduction

Traveling on a budget doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice amazing experiences and destinations. With careful planning and some insider tips, you can explore the beautiful country of Guatemala without breaking the bank. From Mayan ruins to breathtaking landscapes, vibrant markets to delicious cuisine, Guatemala offers a multitude of budget-friendly options for the savvy traveler.

Located in Central America, Guatemala is a treasure trove of rich history, diverse cultures, and stunning natural beauty. The country boasts a wide range of attractions, from the ancient Mayan city of Tikal to the mesmerizing volcanic peaks of Antigua. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a history enthusiast, or simply looking to soak up the local culture, Guatemala has something for everyone.

But how can you make your dream trip to Guatemala fit within a limited budget? Fear not, as in this article, I will share my personal experiences and insights into budget travel in Guatemala. I’ll provide tips on choosing the right time to visit, transportation options, affordable accommodations, budget-friendly dining choices, must-see attractions, outdoor activities, shopping for souvenirs, budgeting for tours and excursions, money-saving tips and tricks, as well as safety considerations.

So, if you’re ready to embark on an adventurous journey through the vibrant landscapes and centuries-old history of Guatemala without emptying your wallet, read on!

Choosing the Right Time to Visit

When planning your budget travel to Guatemala, one of the first factors to consider is the best time to visit. The country experiences a tropical climate, with distinct wet and dry seasons. Understanding the weather patterns and tourist seasons can help you make the most of your trip while keeping costs down.

The dry season, from November to April, is generally considered the best time to visit. The weather is sunny and pleasant during this period, making it ideal for exploring the outdoor attractions that Guatemala has to offer. However, it’s important to note that the dry season also corresponds with the peak tourist season. This means that prices for accommodations and attractions may be higher, and popular destinations may be more crowded. If you’re looking to avoid the crowds and potentially save some money, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of May or October.

On the other hand, the wet season, from May to October, typically sees a higher chance of rain. Although it may deter some travelers, the wet season has its advantages for budget-conscious travelers. During this time, you can find discounted accommodations and travel deals. Additionally, the landscapes are lush and green, providing a unique and beautiful backdrop for your adventures.

Keep in mind that even during the wet season, the rain showers are usually short-lived and followed by clear skies. By planning your activities around the weather forecast and being prepared with rain gear, you can still enjoy the best of Guatemala while saving money.

Lastly, be sure to research any major festivals or holidays that may coincide with your travel dates. While attending these events can be a memorable experience, it’s important to note that prices for accommodations and transportation may be higher during these busy periods.

In summary, choosing the right time to visit Guatemala involves balancing weather conditions, tourist seasons, and your budget. Consider your preferences, prioritize flexibility, and aim to visit during the shoulder seasons or take advantage of discounted rates during the wet season to maximize your budget and enjoy all that Guatemala has to offer.

Transportation Options

Getting around Guatemala on a budget is both convenient and affordable, thanks to the various transportation options available. Here are a few options to consider when planning your trip:

• Public Buses: Public buses are the most common mode of transportation in Guatemala. They are not only affordable but also provide a chance to interact with locals and experience the authentic culture of the country. Buses operate on fixed routes and are available in most cities and towns. They are a great way to travel between different destinations within the country.
• Shared Shuttles: Shared shuttles are a popular choice for travelers who prefer a more comfortable and convenient option. These shuttles operate between major tourist destinations and offer door-to-door service. While they are slightly pricier than public buses, they are still a cost-effective way to travel, especially if you’re traveling in a group or have limited time.
• Chicken Buses: If you’re looking for an adventurous and unique transportation experience, hop on a chicken bus! These converted American school buses are colorful and decorated, providing a fun and lively atmosphere during your journey. While they may not be as comfortable as other options, they are extremely budget-friendly, making them a favorite among backpackers and adventurous travelers.
• Taxis and Tuk-Tuks: Taxis and tuk-tuks can be found in most cities and towns in Guatemala. While they are more expensive than buses, they provide a convenient and quick way to get around, especially for shorter distances or when you have heavy luggage. Make sure to negotiate the fare before getting into a taxi or tuk-tuk to avoid any surprises.
• Rental Cars: If you prefer having more flexibility and independence, renting a car is an option to consider. However, keep in mind that driving in Guatemala can be challenging, especially in busy cities with heavy traffic. Additionally, you’ll need to factor in the cost of fuel, parking fees, and any additional insurance coverage. Compare prices from different rental agencies and consider the added costs before making a decision.

Regardless of the transportation option you choose, always prioritize your safety and be cautious of your belongings. It’s also a good idea to check online forums and travel blogs for updated information and recommendations on reputable transportation providers.

By utilizing the various transportation options available in Guatemala, you can navigate the country efficiently while staying within your budget. Whether you opt for public buses, shared shuttles, chicken buses, or taxis, getting around Guatemala is an adventure in itself!

Accommodation Choices

When it comes to finding affordable accommodation in Guatemala, there are plenty of options to suit every budget and travel style. From budget hostels to cozy guesthouses and even homestays, here are some accommodation choices worth considering:

• Hostels: Hostels are a popular choice for budget travelers. They offer affordable dormitory-style or private room accommodations and provide opportunities for socializing with fellow travelers. Many hostels also have communal kitchens where you can cook your meals, helping you save on dining expenses.
• Guesthouses: Guesthouses are another great option for budget travelers. These are small, family-run accommodations that offer private rooms at affordable prices. While they may have fewer facilities compared to hotels, guesthouses often provide a more personal and authentic experience.
• Apartments and Vacation Rentals: If you’re traveling with a group or plan to stay in one place for an extended period, renting an apartment or vacation home can be a cost-effective choice. Websites like Airbnb and VRBO offer numerous options for affordable rentals, allowing you to have more space and the flexibility to cook your meals.
• Homestays: For a truly immersive cultural experience, consider staying with a local family through a homestay program. This allows you to learn about the local customs and traditions firsthand while enjoying comfortable accommodations. Homestays are not only affordable but also provide a unique opportunity to connect with the local community.
• Eco-lodges and Farm Stays: If you’re interested in sustainable and eco-friendly accommodations, Guatemala offers various eco-lodges and farm stays. These accommodations allow you to experience the natural beauty of the country while supporting sustainable tourism practices. While they may be slightly higher in price compared to other options, they often include meals and activities, making them a great value for money.

When booking your accommodation, be sure to read reviews, compare prices, and check for any additional fees or hidden costs. It’s also a good idea to inquire about the location and nearby amenities to ensure convenience during your stay.

Lastly, consider staying in less-touristy or smaller towns to find more affordable accommodation options. These areas often offer a more authentic experience and lower prices compared to popular tourist destinations.

With a wide range of accommodation choices available, you can find a comfortable and budget-friendly place to stay in Guatemala, no matter your preferences or travel style.

Food and Dining Options

Sampling the delicious local cuisine is an essential part of any travel experience, and Guatemala is no exception. Thankfully, there are plenty of affordable food and dining options that allow you to indulge in the flavors of the country without breaking the bank.

Here are some tips to help you navigate the food scene in Guatemala on a budget:

• Street Food: One of the best ways to experience the local flavors of Guatemala is through street food. From mouth-watering tacos and tamales to freshly grilled meats and flavorful snacks, street vendors offer a wide variety of delicious and affordable options. Just make sure to choose vendors with clean and hygienic practices.
• Local Markets: Explore the local markets in Guatemala, such as Mercado Central in Guatemala City or Chichicastenango Market, to find fresh produce, spices, and traditional ingredients. Many markets also have food stalls or small eateries where you can enjoy affordable meals, such as typical Guatemalan stews and grilled meats.
• Comedor: Comedors are small, family-run restaurants that offer budget-friendly meals. These establishments serve traditional Guatemalan dishes at reasonable prices, making them a popular choice among locals and budget-conscious travelers. Look for places frequented by locals for an authentic dining experience.
• Picnic Style Meals: Enjoy the beautiful landscapes of Guatemala while having a picnic-style meal. Visit local grocery stores or markets to pick up fresh fruits, bread, cheese, and other snacks. Pack a blanket and head to a scenic spot, such as a park or a lakeside, to savor your budget-friendly meal.
• Menu del Día: Many restaurants, especially in tourist areas, offer a “menu del día” or a daily set menu. These affordable fixed-price meals typically include a soup or salad, a main course, a beverage, and sometimes a dessert. It’s a great way to try a variety of dishes without breaking your budget.

When dining out, keep in mind that local, traditional dishes tend to be more budget-friendly than international cuisines. Embrace the local flavors and try dishes like “Pepian” (a hearty meat and vegetable stew), “Chiles Rellenos” (stuffed peppers), or “Platanos Fritos” (fried plantains).

Lastly, avoid dining in tourist hotspots where prices tend to be higher. Venture into local neighborhoods to find authentic and affordable dining options frequented by locals.

By exploring street food, local markets, comedors, and embracing the traditional cuisine, you can savor the delicious flavors of Guatemala while managing your budget.

Sightseeing and Attractions

Guatemala is a country rich in historical sites, cultural landmarks, and natural wonders. Exploring these sights and attractions is a highlight of any trip to Guatemala. Fortunately, many of these attractions are accessible and affordable for budget travelers. Here are some must-see sights that won’t break the bank:

• Mayan Ruins: Guatemala is home to some remarkable Mayan ruins, such as Tikal, Yaxha, and El Mirador. These ancient archaeological sites offer a glimpse into the fascinating history and culture of the Mayan civilization. Entrance fees to these sites are relatively low, and you can explore them on your own or hire a local guide for a more enriching experience.
• Lake Atitlán: Surrounded by majestic volcanoes, Lake Atitlán is one of the most picturesque spots in Guatemala. You can take a boat ride across the lake, visit the charming lakeside villages, or hike up the volcanic peaks for stunning panoramic views. The cost of boat rides and transportation is affordable, and you can even find budget-friendly accommodations around the lake.
• Antigua Guatemala: The colonial city of Antigua is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-visit destination in Guatemala. Walking through the cobblestone streets, admiring the well-preserved architecture, and exploring the colorful markets won’t cost you a fortune. You can also hike up to Cerro de la Cruz or visit nearby coffee plantations for a unique and affordable experience.
• Chichicastenango Market: Known for its vibrant colors and extensive variety of handicrafts, Chichicastenango Market is a paradise for souvenir hunters. This market offers a fascinating insight into the indigenous culture of Guatemala, and you can find unique textiles, crafts, and traditional clothing at affordable prices. Bargaining is common, so don’t be afraid to negotiate for a better deal.
• Pacaya Volcano: For an unforgettable experience, hike up the Pacaya Volcano, located just outside Antigua. The trek to the summit gives you a chance to witness the volcanic activity up close, with stunning views of lava fields and surrounding landscapes. Many tour operators offer guided hikes at reasonable prices, and it’s an adventure that shouldn’t be missed.

Remember to check the opening hours, entrance fees, and any additional costs associated with these attractions beforehand. Some sites may offer discounted rates for students, so don’t forget to bring your student ID if applicable.

Additionally, take advantage of free or low-cost activities such as exploring local parks, visiting art galleries, and attending cultural festivals or events. Immerse yourself in the local culture and interact with the friendly Guatemalan people to truly make the most of your sightseeing experience.

By prioritizing these affordable and captivating sights, you can explore the best of Guatemala without straining your travel budget.

Outdoor Activities

Guatemala is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a plethora of exciting and budget-friendly activities amidst its stunning natural landscapes. From hiking volcanoes to exploring lush jungles, here are some outdoor activities that won’t break the bank:

• Hiking: With its volcanic terrain and diverse ecosystems, Guatemala offers fantastic opportunities for hiking. Climb one of the country’s volcanoes, such as Pacaya or Acatenango, for breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences. Many hikes can be done independently, but if you prefer guidance, there are affordable guided hiking tours available as well.
• Swimming and Kayaking: Guatemala is home to many beautiful lakes and water bodies, perfect for swimming and kayaking. Enjoy a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters of Lake Atitlán or take a kayak out for a peaceful paddle on Rio Dulce. These activities are relatively inexpensive and offer a chance to cool off while surrounded by natural beauty.
• Exploring National Parks: Guatemala has several stunning national parks that are ideal for outdoor adventurers. Semuc Champey, for example, offers opportunities for hiking, swimming in natural pools, and exploring limestone caves. The entrance fees for national parks are usually affordable, and you can spend an entire day immersed in nature’s wonders.
• Bird-Watching: With its abundance of diverse ecosystems, Guatemala is a haven for bird-watchers. Whether you’re an avid birder or just starting out, you’ll be amazed by the array of bird species you can spot. Grab your binoculars and visit places like the Mayan Biosphere Reserve or the Laguna del Tigre National Park for a memorable bird-watching experience.
• Zip-lining and Canopy Tours: For an adrenaline rush, try zip-lining or canopy tours in Guatemala. Soar through the treetops, zipping from one platform to another, and catch breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. Many adventure parks and tour operators offer these activities at affordable rates, providing an exhilarating and memorable experience.

As with any outdoor activity, it’s essential to prioritize safety. Research the trails or activities beforehand, bring necessary equipment and supplies, and consider hiring a local guide if you’re unsure about the terrain or conditions.

Remember, some outdoor activities may require permits or equipment rentals, so it’s important to factor these costs into your budget. Additionally, check for any seasonal restrictions or weather conditions that may affect certain activities.

By taking advantage of Guatemala’s natural beauty and diverse landscapes, you can enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities without putting a strain on your travel budget.

Shopping and Souvenirs

Exploring the markets and shops of Guatemala is an exciting part of any trip, allowing you to bring back unique souvenirs and handicrafts that reflect the country’s rich cultural heritage. From vibrant textiles to intricate pottery, there’s something for everyone. Here are some tips for shopping and finding affordable souvenirs:

• Local Markets: Visit local markets such as Chichicastenango Market, Mercado Central, or Mercado de Artesanías in Antigua to find a wide variety of traditional Guatemalan crafts and souvenirs. These markets offer a treasure trove of handmade textiles, colorful fabrics, hand-carved wooden items, and vibrant woven goods. Bargaining is common, so don’t be shy to negotiate for the best price.
• Cooperatives and Fair Trade Shops: Support local artisans and communities by shopping at cooperatives and fair trade shops. These establishments ensure fair wages and sustainable practices while offering high-quality handicrafts. Not only will you find unique and authentic products, but you’ll also contribute to the local economy.
• Street Vendors: Keep an eye out for street vendors selling handmade items and souvenirs. From jewelry to keychains, you’ll find a variety of affordable options. Engage with the vendors, learn about their crafts, and choose items that capture the essence of Guatemala.
• Textiles and Embroidery: Guatemala is renowned for its stunning textiles and intricate embroidery. Look for traditional huipils (blouses), colorful belts, or beautifully woven scarves. These items make for wonderful souvenirs, showcasing the artistry and craftsmanship of the indigenous communities.
• Coffee and Chocolate: Guatemala is famous for its coffee, so consider bringing back a bag of locally roasted beans. You can also find delicious Guatemalan chocolate, which makes for a sweet and affordable gift. Look for sustainable and fair trade products to support local farmers.

When shopping for souvenirs, keep in mind that quality and authenticity can vary. Take your time to compare prices and check the craftsmanship of the items. If you’re unsure about the authenticity of a product, don’t hesitate to ask the vendor for more information or recommendations.

Lastly, consider the size and weight of the items you plan to buy, as well as any restrictions or customs regulations in your home country. It’s always a good idea to leave some space in your luggage or consider shipping larger items to avoid any hassle.

By exploring local markets, supporting fair trade shops, and choosing unique handmade items, you can bring home a piece of Guatemala’s vibrant culture and create lasting memories of your trip.

Budgeting for Tours and Excursions

While exploring Guatemala on your own is a great way to save money, there are certain tours and excursions that offer unique experiences and insights into the country’s culture and natural beauty. Here are some tips for budgeting and finding affordable tours and excursions:

• Research and Compare: Before booking any tours or excursions, do thorough research and compare the prices and offerings from various tour operators. Read reviews, check their reputation, and inquire about any hidden costs or additional fees. By comparing options, you can find the most value for your money.
• Group Discounts: Many tour operators offer group discounts, so consider traveling with a group of friends or joining other travelers to take advantage of these savings. Group tours often include transportation, guides, and sometimes meals, making them a convenient and cost-effective option.
• Local Guides: Hiring a local guide can enhance your experience and provide valuable insights into the history, culture, and natural surroundings of Guatemala. Local guides are often more affordable compared to international tour companies, and they can personalize the tour to your interests and budget.
• Combine Multiple Activities: Some tour operators offer combination packages that include multiple activities or attractions in one tour. By bundling activities together, you can save money compared to booking each activity individually. Look for packages that align with your interests and make the most of your time in Guatemala.
• Off-Peak Discounts: Consider traveling during the off-peak seasons or weekdays, as tour prices are often lower during these times. Tour operators may offer discounts or promotions to attract more customers during quieter periods, allowing you to enjoy the same experiences at a lower cost.
• DIY Excursions: Some excursions and attractions can be done independently with a little bit of planning and research. For example, visiting the stunning Semuc Champey or exploring the colorful markets of Antigua can be done without a guide, saving you money on tour fees. Just ensure that you have the necessary information, maps, and transportation arrangements beforehand.

Remember to consider additional costs such as transportation to and from the starting point of the tour, entrance fees, and any meals or equipment rentals that may be required. It’s also a good idea to set aside some extra cash for unexpected expenses or optional activities that may come up during the tour.

By budgeting wisely and doing your research, you can find affordable tours and excursions that allow you to experience the best of Guatemala without overspending.

Money-saving Tips and Tricks

When it comes to budget travel in Guatemala, every penny counts. Here are some money-saving tips and tricks to help you stretch your budget and make the most of your trip:

• Eat Like a Local: Opt for local street food and eateries instead of tourist restaurants. Not only is the food delicious and authentic, but it’s also more affordable. Look for comedor-style restaurants or stalls frequented by locals for the best deals.
• Stay in Budget Accommodations: Choose budget-friendly accommodations such as hostels, guesthouses, and homestays. These options are not only cheaper than hotels but also provide opportunities to connect with fellow travelers and locals.
• Use Public Transportation: Utilize public buses or shared shuttles to get around the country. They are cheaper than taxis and private transfers and offer a chance to experience the local culture. Chicken buses, though basic, are an adventure in itself.
• Travel in Off-Peak Seasons: Consider visiting Guatemala during the shoulder seasons or low-demand periods. Prices for accommodations, tours, and flights tend to be lower, allowing you to get more value for your money.
• Bargain at Markets: When shopping at local markets, don’t be afraid to negotiate prices. Bargaining is common practice in Guatemala, and you can often get a better deal by haggling with the vendors.
• Carry a Reusable Water Bottle and Filter: Instead of buying bottled water, bring a reusable water bottle and a portable filter. You can fill up your bottle from tap water (if it’s safe) or use the filtered water to reduce unnecessary expenses and plastic waste.
• Take Advantage of Free Activities: Guatemala offers several free or low-cost activities. Wander through local parks, visit art galleries, or explore nature trails without spending a dime. Research free walking tours or community events happening during your visit.
• Plan and Book in Advance: By planning your itinerary and booking accommodations, transportation, and tours in advance, you can take advantage of early bird discounts and secure better deals, ultimately saving money.
• Learn Basic Spanish Phrases: Knowing a few basic Spanish phrases can go a long way in Guatemala. It can help you communicate and negotiate better, as well as avoid any misunderstandings that might lead to unnecessary expenses.
• Withdraw Cash Wisely: While credit cards are widely accepted in tourist areas, it’s advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and local markets. However, be mindful of ATMs and withdraw cash from reputable establishments to avoid excessive fees or scams.

Remember, budget travel is all about making conscious choices and prioritizing your spending. By implementing these money-saving tips and tricks, you can make your trip to Guatemala more affordable without compromising on the quality of your experience.

Safety and Security Considerations

While Guatemala is a beautiful and welcoming country, it’s important to prioritize safety and take necessary precautions to ensure a hassle-free and enjoyable trip. Here are some safety and security considerations to keep in mind while traveling in Guatemala:

• Stay Informed: Before your trip, research the current safety situation in Guatemala. Stay updated on travel advisories and consult reliable sources for information on the areas you plan to visit. It’s also advisable to register your travel plans with your embassy or consulate.
• Blend In: To avoid drawing unnecessary attention, dress modestly and try to blend in with the local culture. Avoid displaying expensive jewelry, gadgets, or large amounts of cash. Always be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts.
• Transportation Safety: Use officially licensed taxis or ride-sharing services for transportation within cities. If using public buses, keep an eye on your belongings and beware of pickpockets. Avoid traveling alone at night, especially in unfamiliar or poorly lit areas.
• Secure Your Belongings: Keep your valuable belongings, such as passports, cash, and electronics, locked in a hotel safe or secured in your accommodation. When out and about, carry only necessary items and keep them close to your body. Use a money belt or a hidden pouch to store your valuables.
• Be Cautious with ATM Usage: Use ATMs located within reputable banks or secured areas. Be cautious of your surroundings and shield your PIN when entering it. If possible, withdraw cash during daylight hours when the surroundings are more visible.
• Health and Hygiene: Ensure you are up to date on routine vaccinations before traveling to Guatemala. Drink bottled or filtered water, and be cautious with street food to avoid food-related illnesses. Carry hand sanitizer and practice good hygiene to minimize the risk of infections.
• Cultural Sensitivity: Respect the local customs and traditions of Guatemala. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and be mindful of cultural norms. Seek permission before taking photographs of individuals or religious ceremonies.
• Learn Basic Spanish Phrases: Learning a few basic Spanish phrases can help facilitate communication and navigate unexpected situations. It not only shows respect for the local culture but also allows you to seek assistance or ask for directions if needed.
• Travel Insurance: Purchase comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses, trip cancellations, and personal belongings. Read the policy carefully and ensure it covers activities and destinations you plan to undertake in Guatemala.
• Local Advice: Seek advice from locals, hotel staff, or reputable tour operators about safe areas to visit and any potential risks. They can provide helpful tips and insights to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience in Guatemala.

Remember, these safety considerations are general guidelines, and it’s important to assess risks based on your personal travel style and preferences. By staying informed, using common sense, and being aware of your surroundings, you can minimize potential risks and have a worry-free trip to Guatemala.

Traveling on a budget doesn’t mean compromising on the quality of your experience, and Guatemala is the perfect destination to prove just that. With its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture, Guatemala offers a plethora of affordable options for the savvy traveler. By following the tips and insights shared in this guide, you can make the most of your budget while exploring all that this beautiful country has to offer.

From choosing the right time to visit and utilizing various transportation options to finding budget-friendly accommodations and enjoying delicious local cuisine, there are countless ways to save money without missing out on the best experiences. Whether you’re exploring ancient Mayan ruins, immersing yourself in breathtaking natural wonders, or shopping for unique souvenirs, Guatemala caters to every interest and budget.

As with any travel destination, it’s important to prioritize safety and take necessary precautions. By staying informed, blending in with the local culture, and ensuring the security of your belongings, you can navigate Guatemala with confidence and peace of mind.

So, pack your bags, prepare your itinerary, and get ready for an unforgettable budget travel adventure in Guatemala. Immerse yourself in the vibrant colors, indulge in the flavors, and embrace the warmth of the Guatemalan people. With careful planning and an adventurous spirit, you’ll create memories to last a lifetime without breaking the bank.

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Things to know before visiting Guatemala

Nov 2, 2023 • 7 min read

Guatemala is a fascinating country with so much to see – here are tips that will help you make the most out of your trip © Fernanda Reyes / Getty Images

Guatemala has been my second home for nearly two decades, and the country still captivates me: the landscape with its volcanoes and coffee trees, the lakes and rivers and tropical beaches, Mayan ruins peeking out above the treetops. 

Mayan traditions are still alive and well, and the weather’s almost always fine in the Land of Eternal Spring. However, there's information travelers to Guatemala should know before visiting if you really want to enjoy all it has to offer. 

Get your shots before you leave

If you come in from a country where yellow fever is endemic, you’ll need to be vaccinated against this mosquito-borne disease. It’s also recommended that you’re up to date with your typhoid, hepatitis A and B, rabies, flu and TDaP (tetanus, diphtheria and whooping cough) shots. It’s best to visit a travel clinic at least a month before your trip if you need to get vaccinated so there’s enough time to give you full protection. Some vaccines, like hepatitis B and rabies, require follow-up doses.

Bring your own bug spray if you like it DEET free

Most of the things you may have forgotten at home are available in Guatemala, but some items are more difficult to find or very expensive. Bug spray is easy to find but usually contains DEET. The locally produced DEET-free repellents aren’t very effective, so you’ll want to bring a good brand from home. The mosquito-borne diseases of malaria, zika, dengue fever and chikungunya are all endemic in parts of Guatemala. 

Don't go without sunscreen

Sunburn is a real risk if you spend time outside. Some of the larger stores and pharmacies sell chemical sunscreens, but these generally don’t have an SPF higher than 25. The stronger stuff and natural mineral sunscreens are normally only available in a handful of specialty health stores, with limited options and much higher prices. Pack enough of your favorite sunscreen, and remember to use it.

Your preferred feminine hygiene products might be hard to find

In terms of feminine hygiene products, most shops stock pads only. Some larger stores and pharmacies stock tampons with applicators. You might find the kind without an applicator, as well as menstrual cups, in specialty health stores, but the price will reflect the fact that they’re imported.

Pack lightweight clothing

Because Guatemala’s weather is mainly warm and humid, light clothing that dries quickly is more useful than jeans, which are heavy, too warm for the climate and take forever to dry. For cooler days, a light sweater or jacket is generally sufficient. If you need more clothes than you brought or just a wardrobe revamp, most towns have a paca , a place where you can buy secondhand clothing for as little as Q5 (less than US$1). 

When in doubt, cover up

Guatemalans tend to be religious: practicing Catholic, evangelical or, to a smaller extent, traditional Mayan belief systems. That deep-rooted faith also means that they are generally more socially conservative, especially in Maya-dominated communities. 

Men don’t go shirtless unless they’re at the beach. Women prefer knee-length shorts and oversized T-shirts to bathing suits. In the large cities and Ladino-dominated areas, people are more open to shorts, shorter skirts and tank tops. In the Maya communities, however, the women usually wear traditional clothing in public, and their cortes – a garment worn as a skirt – always fall below the knee.

If you’re not sure whether your clothing is appropriate, it’s best to cover up: put on a shirt and don’t wear anything shorter than mid-thigh. If you visit a church or other spiritual site, it’s respectful to cover your shoulders and arms.  

Avoid illegal drugs

Some bars and hostels turn a blind eye to the use of marijuana and other illegal drugs. However, police raids on bars and hostels aren’t uncommon, and if you’re found with any illegal substances in your possession, you will be arrested. 

Don’t drink the water

Tap water in Guatemala is not safe to drink. To reduce your risk of getting parasites, stick to purified water: bottled water is readily available everywhere. Hostels and restaurants will usually let you refill your water bottle, sometimes for a small fee. You may also want to skip the raw salad unless you’re sure that purified water was used for washing produce. 

If you do contract parasites, a trip to the pharmacy is often all you need to get the right treatment.

Guatemalans can get personal but don’t mean harm

It’s not unusual in Guatemalan culture to call people by some physical attribute. Being called guapo or guapa (attractive one) can feel uncomfortable at worst, but being called gordo or gorda (fat one) may sting. If you don’t like the nickname you’ve been given, try not to act offended; the trick is to let it slide and to tell the person your name instead. 

You may also find that Guatemalans like to ask personal questions: how old you are, how many children you have, where you are going. If you answer in the negative as to whether you have a spouse, this may even lead to questions about the status of your virginity, no matter your age. If you feel uncomfortable, remain polite, joke, and change the subject. 

Politeness goes a long way – most of the time

Guatemalans appreciate politeness. A friendly buenas  (good morning/afternoon/evening) or hola  (hello) creates a good first impression. Por favor  or simply porfa  (please) and gracias  (thank you) show that you were raised right. If you learn to say thank you in the Mayan dialect spoken at your destination, it’s guaranteed to elicit a smile. Ask locals how to say thank you in their language, repeat the phrase back to them and then use it for as long as you’re in that town.

One area where being too polite will do you no good, though, is standing in line. People will patiently wait in line in a more formal setting, such as at the clinic or a government office. At the market or in a neighborhood tienda (corner store)? If you don’t speak up, somebody may very well step in front of you as if it’s the most normal thing in the world – and in Guatemala, it is. 

The travel experience might be different for female visitors 

The culture of machismo is rife in Guatemala. Local women generally don’t frequent bars and cantinas on their own because of the risk of sexual harassment and violence. Even in pairs, women may face harassment. If you want to go out drinking, it’s best to do it in a mixed group: the presence of men in your group will deter those who won’t take no for an answer.

Women travelers may also encounter micro-aggressions like being talked over or ignored in favor of the men in their group. They’re also held to a higher standard than male travelers when it comes to dress or how they behave in bars and at parties. Sexual harassment and violence are real risks, and the conviction rate for offenders is low. 

However, as a woman traveler, you may find real solidarity – local women tend to be protective of female tourists traveling on their own. If a situation makes you feel uncomfortable, try to move closer to groups of other women. And who knows: you might make some real connections and make some new friends!

The LGBTQI+ scene is small   

Same-sex relationships are legal in Guatemala but frowned upon. The LGBTIQ+ scene in the country is small and mostly confined to the largest cities and tourist areas. While violence against LGBTIQ+ tourists is rare, local activists have been attacked. Take your cues from your surroundings and watch how the local community behaves towards transgender people or public displays of affection between same-sex couples, for instance. If you’re unsure, err on the side of caution. 

Always hike with a local guide

Some tourists who come to Guatemala climb volcanoes on their own with no issues. However, hiking alone is not a good idea because of the risk of getting robbed, injured or lost. Use local guides and follow their instructions: if they say they’re not going any farther, turn around with them. Guides know what the risks are, and the risks are very real – Guatemala has seen several high-profile deaths of hikers in recent years. Rescue teams are normally made up of volunteers using donated gear. When they have to risk their lives to rescue you, the decent thing to do is to reimburse them for their trouble.   

To stay safe, don't take unnecessary chances

Is Guatemala safe? As a tourist, you’re unlikely to run into serious trouble. That said, listen to local advice about areas to avoid, always be aware of your surroundings and never leave your belongings or your drinks unattended. 

Guatemala has a reputation for corruption and poor enforcement of laws. You may hear of travelers who bribed officials and got away with it. You may also hear of travelers who weren’t so lucky, so just don’t do it. 

This article was first published March 2022 and updated November 2023

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Guatemala on Budget: How to Save Money Traveling

Central america, destinations, family travel.

Guatemala is a beautiful country in Central America that offers a rich diversity of landscapes, cultures, and experiences and is also a great destination for travelers who want to enjoy an authentic and affordable vacation.

You can explore ancient Mayan ruins , hike up active volcanoes, relax on stunning lakes, and immerse yourself in colorful markets and festivals .

Despite being an affordable destination, traveling on a budget can be challenging, especially if you don’t know how to do it.

That’s why I have created this guide to help you save money on your Guatemala vacation, as well as discuss costs and budget options.

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Table of Contents

How to travel to Guatemala on a budget?

Traveling to Guatemala on a budget is possible, if you follow some tips and tricks to save money and avoid unnecessary expenses.

Here are some of the key ways to travel to Guatemala on a budget:

Travel in the low season

The low season in Guatemala runs from May to October, which is the rainy season. This is the best time to travel if you want to save money, as the prices are lower, the crowds are fewer, and the scenery is greener.

However, you should also be prepared for the weather, which can be unpredictable and wet, and the roads, which can be muddy and slippery.

You can find cheaper flights, accommodation, tours, activities, discounts, and deals.

Book in advance

Booking in advance can help you save money and secure your spot, especially for flights, accommodation, and activities.

You can find cheaper and better options , as well as avoid last-minute fees and surcharges. Make sure to compare prices and reviews, and choose the best value for your money.

Use different online platforms, to find and book your flights, accommodation, and activities , or contact local agencies to book your transportation, tours, and packages.

Compare flight prices

Guatemala has two international airports: La Aurora in Guatemala City and Mundo Maya in Flores.

Depending on where you are flying from and where you want to go, you may find different options and prices.

Use a flight comparison website or app to find the best deals and book your tickets as early as possible.

You can also save money by flying on weekdays, avoiding holidays, and choosing flexible dates.

Research visa requirements and travel insurance

Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa to enter Guatemala. Check the official website of the Guatemalan Ministry of Foreign Affairs to find out if you need one and how to apply.

You should also get travel insurance that covers medical expenses, theft, loss, and cancellation.

Make sure to compare different plans and prices online and choose the one that suits your needs and budget.

Negotiate and bargain

Negotiating can help you get a better price and a better deal for local transportation, at the moment accommodation, tours, and souvenirs.

You can always ask for a discount, a free upgrade, or a free extra, and you can always walk away if you are not satisfied with the offer.

Use your skills, like speaking Spanish, volunteering, or reviewing, to get a lower price or a free service.

But remember, you should also always be respectful and fair, and not try to rip off the locals or the vendors, who are trying to make a living.

Use public transportation

Using public transportation can help you save money and experience the local culture, especially in Guatemala, where the buses are colorful, lively, and super affordable.

You can find buses that can take you to almost any destination in the country, for a fraction of the cost of a shuttle, o a car.

However, you should also be careful and vigilant, as the buses can be crowded, uncomfortable, slow, and sometimes unsafe.

Avoid renting a car or hiring a driver

Renting a car or hiring a driver should be avoided unless you have a specific reason or need.

While it may be more comfortable, it’s pricier, and it’s wise to consider alternatives to save costs and maximize convenience.

Renting a car can be very expensive, as you have to pay for the rental fee, gas, insurance, and parking sometimes. Hiring a driver can also be very expensive, as you have to pay for the driver’s fee, the tip, and the expenses.

Moreover, driving in Guatemala can be very stressful and dangerous, as the roads are often in bad condition, the traffic is chaotic, and the drivers are reckless. You can save money and hassle by using

Stay in hostels or VRBO

Staying in hostels or VRBO can help you save money and meet other travelers, as well as the locals.

You can find plenty of hostels in almost every destination in the country, for a reasonable price and good quality.

Many accommodations, like hostels are affordable and still offer good amenities, like free breakfast, wifi, kitchen, laundry, and even tours.

Make sure you also check the reviews of the location, and the rules, if there’s a common area for several travelers, you should always respect the space and the people.

Tip: Guatemala is a safe place for tourists, but be aware!

The biggest issue is theft.

Get travel insurance before starting your journey.

I recommend Visitors Coverage .

Look for discounts and deals

You can save money by looking for discounts and deals on your accommodation . For example, you can use a coupon code, a loyalty program, or a referral program to get a lower price.

You can also book for longer periods, such as a week or a month, to get a better rate.

Additionally, you can negotiate with the owner or manager of your accommodation, especially if you are traveling during the low season or staying in a less popular area.

Avoid peak seasons and touristy areas

You can also save money by avoiding peak seasons and touristy areas, as they tend to have higher prices and lower availability.

For example, you can avoid staying in Guatemala City, Antigua, or Lake Atitlan during Christmas, Easter, or national holidays.

Instead, you can look for alternative destinations or areas that are less crowded and more affordable, like Quetzaltenango , Livingstonm, or Coban .

Use the shuttle only when needed

Shuttles are small vans or minibuses that run on fixed routes and schedules, they are popular in tourist areas and are a good option to get to attractions that are far away from the place you’re staying.

They have air conditioning, they pick you up and drop you off at your hotel or hostel, and they have better drivers and maintenance, but all of that comes with a higher price and regular buses.

If you want to save money while traveling in Guatemala , I recommend you book shuttles in advance and only for attractions you can do in a day, for example, a day trip from Antigua .

Eat Like a Local

Guatemala has a delicious and diverse cuisine that reflects its history and culture. You can enjoy a variety of dishes, from traditional cuisines like pepian, kakik, to street food , like tamales, and chuchitos.

Or try some exotic fruits, like zapote, maranon, and jocote.

Avoid restaurants near popular attractions

Another way to save money on food is to avoid restaurants near popular attractions, as they tend to be more expensive and lower quality.

For example, you can avoid eating in restaurants near Central Park in Antigua, or avoid eating at Tikal National Park .

Instead, you can look for restaurants that are further away from the main tourist spots, or ask locals for recommendations.

Cook your meals if possible

If you have access to a kitchen, you can also save money by cooking your meals. Food ingredients in Guatemala are super affordable and you can buy ingredients from supermarkets or markets and prepare your breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

You can also make your coffee, tea, or juice. Cooking your meals can also be a fun and rewarding experience, as you can learn new recipes and skills.

Try street food and markets.

One of the cheapest and most authentic ways to eat in Guatemala is to try street food and markets. You can find stalls and vendors selling snacks, meals, and drinks on the streets, plazas, and parks.

Visit local markets, where you can buy fresh and organic produce, meat, cheese, and bread.

Some of the most popular street foods and markets in Guatemala are shucos, tostadas, atol, and the Chichicastenango market .

Guatemala has a lot of activities to offer , you can find activities that are fun, adventurous, cultural, educational, or relaxing.

You can also find activities that are cheap or free, or that offer great value for money.

Here are some tips on how to have fun and explore the amazing attractions of Guatemala :

Guatemala is a land of volcanoes , with more than 30 of them, some of which are active, dormant, or extinct.

Volcanoes are one of the main attractions and challenges for travelers who visit the country, as they offer stunning views, thrilling hikes, and unique experiences. Some of the most popular and accessible volcanoes are Pacaya , Acatenango , Agua, and Atitlan.

Unfortunately, you can’t visit these volcanoes on your own, you’ll need a guide or a tour. You can expect to pay a minimum of $59 for a volcano hike , but that will depend on the volcano, the duration, and the service.

Tip: A good tip to save money on volcano hikes is to look for group discounts, or to join other travelers who are going to the same volcano.

Lakes are one of the most beautiful and relaxing attractions for travelers, they offer scenic views, refreshing swims, and peaceful moments.

Some of the most popular and stunning lakes to visit in Guatemala are Lake Atitlan , Peten Itza, Izabal, and Amatitlan.

You can visit these lakes on your own, or with a guide or a tour. How much you spend here will depend mostly on the distance and transportation you choose, also, you need to take into consideration the cost of activities and food there.

I personally recommend you visit lakes only when checking out other attractions , unless want to visit Lake Atitlan (which is its attraction). For example, you can visit Peten Itza Lake if you visit Tikal National Park .

Tip: A good tip to save money on lake visits is to look for public transportation, like buses or boats, that connect the lakes with the nearby towns or villages.

Look for the free or cheap activities that you can do on or around the lakes, like kayaking, swimming, fishing, or hiking.

Markets offer a chance to experience the local culture, cuisine, and crafts and you can find markets in different towns and villages of the country, especially in the highlands, where the indigenous communities live.

Markets sell different types of products, from fruits, and vegetables, to flowers, and textiles, as well as pottery, or souvenirs.

The price for a market visit is not that much, probably only the transportation if you decide to visit the Chichi Market . Now, how much you spend buying is completely up to you.

Tip: Look for local and seasonal products, which are usually cheaper and fresher than imported or preserved ones.

You can also look for the best time and day to visit the markets, as some of them may be more crowded or expensive during the weekends, holidays, or festivals.

Festivals are a fun way to experience the cultural side of the country, they offer a chance to witness the traditions, customs, and celebrations of the local people.

There are festivals in different towns and villages, especially in the highlands of Guatemala , most of those festivities celebrate different events, like Easter, Christmas, Independence Day, or All Saints Day.

Again, how much you spend here will depend a lot on which festival you decide on, the transportation, and the activities you will be doing at the festival. Most festivals are completely free.

Some of the most popular and colorful festivals to visit are:

• Semana Santa
• Fiesta de Santo Tomas
• Festival de Barriletes Gigantes

Ruins are one of the most fascinating and historical attractions, they offer a glimpse into the ancient and complex civilizations that once inhabited the region.

You can find ruins in different regions of the country, but some of the most famous and impressive ruins to visit are Tikal, Yaxha, Quirigua, Iximche, and El Mirador .

To visit most of the ruins you don’t need a guide or a tour, but it’s highly recommended you get one since you’ll be learning a lot more.

You can expect to pay between 20 and 150 quetzals (3 and 20 USD) for the entrance fee if you decide to go with a tour or a guide prices can go a lot higher.

Tip: Look for the combined tickets, or the boletos combinados, which usually offer access to several ruins for a lower price than buying them separately. They are rare, but it’s a possibility. For example, you can visit Tikal and Uaxactun in one go.

Essential Travel Resources

❗Don’t forget travel insurance

This company is the one I trust, it’s one of the most essential things for any trip. It has your back in case you get sick abroad, or have an accident.

🎒Pack smarter, not bulky

Check out this vacation packing list , including all the essentials you need to pack when traveling, from travel clothing to backpacks and more.

🏡Where to Stay – Here are Suggestions

This is my favorite place to look for accommodations , it offers different types, a ton of locations, and good price options.

🗺️Get Around Hassle-Free

This one is the perfect option to look for different transportation options between cities, from flights, buses, and taxis to minivans and more.

🛫Find Cheap Flights

Whenever I need to fly, I head to this website for low-cost flights.

How to find cheap and comfortable places to stay in Guatemala

In case you’re traveling to other areas like Lake Atitlan or Tikal, you’ll most likely need to find a place to stay. Fortunately, there are several ways to find cheap and comfortable places to stay in Guatemala .

You can use online platforms, like:

• Booking.com
• Hostelworld

Search and compare different types of accommodation and check out the online reviews, ratings, and recommendations from other travelers to help you choose the best option for you.

If you are already in the place you can also ask locals, like taxi drivers, bus drivers, or shop owners, for suggestions and directions to cheap and good places to stay.

Walk around and look for signs that say “hospedaje”, “hotel”, or “hostal”, and check the prices and conditions of the rooms.

Note: I highly recommend that you DON’T go to a new place without getting a room beforehand, tourist areas can get packed during high season and you may end up stressed out looking for a place.

Tip: A good tip to save money on accommodation is to always book in advance, especially during high season, holidays, or festivals, when the prices and the demand are higher.

Best areas and towns to base yourself in Guatemala

Guatemala has a lot of places to visit and explore, but you may not have enough time or money to see them all.

Therefore, you need to choose the best areas and towns to base yourself in Guatemala, depending on your interests, preferences, and itinerary.

Here are some of the best areas and towns to base yourself in Guatemala:

Guatemala City

Guatemala City is the capital and the largest city of Guatemala. It is also the main gateway to the country, as it has an international airport and the main bus terminals.

A modern and cosmopolitan city, with a lot of attractions, like museums, parks, markets, restaurants, bars, and nightlife.

However, it is also a chaotic and crowded city, with a lot of traffic, pollution, and crime.

That’s why many travelers prefer to avoid or skip Guatemala City, and head to other destinations in the country.

But, if you decide to stay in Guatemala City , you can find some decent places, especially in Zone 1, the historical center, or Zone 10, the upscale area.

Antigua is hands down the best option to stay in while visiting the country, one of the most popular and beautiful destinations in Guatemala .

It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved colonial towns in Central America. Antigua is a charming and colorful town, with a lot of attractions, it’s also a great base to explore the surrounding area.

Antigua is a touristy and expensive town, compared to other places in the country, but you can still find some affordable and cozy places to stay, especially on the outskirts or in nearby towns, like Jocotenango.

Lake Atitlan

Lake Atitlan is another great option to stay, and you can find several affordable accommodations in the area, you have several villages to try and search for places to stay.

Lake Atitlan is a peaceful and relaxing place, with a lot of attractions, like kayaking, hiking, swimming, and more.

Each village has its character and culture, and you can find different types of accommodation, some of the most popular and accessible villages are Panajachel , San Pedro, San Marcos, and Santa Cruz.

The downside is that Atitlan is kinda far away from other attractions of the country and you may find it difficult to explore the country from there without expending a lot of money.

How much does a trip to Guatemala cost?

The cost of a trip to Guatemala can vary depending on many factors, like the season you chose, the duration of your trip, the destination you decided on, accommodation, food, and activities.

However, here are some of the average costs of traveling to Guatemala, based on a one-week trip for one person:

Transportation

This can cost between 500 and 1000 quetzals ($65-$130), depending on the type of transportation, distance, and tour operator.

The cheapest way to get around Guatemala is by bus, which can cost between 10 and 50 quetzals ($1.3-$6.5) per trip.

The most expensive way to get around Guatemala is by renting a car, which can cost between 300 and 800 quetzals ($27-$104) daily.

Accommodation

Accommodations can cost between 350 and 2100 quetzals ($45-$273), and it will depend on the type, location, and season.

The cheapest option for accommodation in Guatemala is camping, which can cost between 20 and 100 quetzals ($2.6-$13) per night, and hostels that can cost anything from $9 to $45 per night.

The most expensive option is a hotel, which can cost between 100 and 1000 quetzals ($13-$130) per night.

Food can cost between 350 and 700 quetzals ($45-$91), depending on what and where you eating or how are you doing it.

Cooking your food can cost between 10 and 30 quetzales ($1.3-$3.9) per meal is the cheapest way to eat in the country.

The most expensive way is to eat at a restaurant , which can cost between 50 and 200 quetzals ($6.5-$26) per meal.

Activities are complicated, but it can cost between 500 and 1500 quetzales ($65-$195), it will heavily depend on what type, location, or tour operator you are using.

The cheapest activity to do in Guatemala is to visit Antigua and check out its surroundings, hike, and explore, which can cost between 0 and 100 quetzals ($0-$13) per day.

While the most expensive activity to do is to discover Tikal , which can cost between 200 and 500 quetzals ($26-$65) per day. (If you’re staying in Antigua, you’ll need at least 2 days, staying in Tikal or Flores to explore the Mayan ruins)

Therefore, the total cost of a trip to Guatemala can range from 1700 to 5300 quetzals ($221-$689), depending on your preferences and choices.

This is an average estimate, and it can be higher or lower, depending on the exchange rate, and personal spending.

How much does it cost to eat out in Guatemala?

Eating out in Guatemala can be very cheap or very expensive, depending on where and what you eat. You can find a variety of options, from street food to fine dining, and from local to international cuisine.

Here are some of the average costs of eating out in Guatemala:

• Street food: This is the cheapest and most authentic way to eat, you can find many stalls and vendors selling delicious and fresh food, and it can cost between 5 and 20 quetzals ($0.65-$2.6) per item, and it can fill you up for a meal or a snack.
• Comedores : This is a small and simple restaurant mostly visited by locals, where you can find home-cooked and traditional food, like soups, stews, salads, rice, beans, and meat. Comedores can cost between 20 and 50 quetzals ($2.6-$6.5) per meal, and it usually includes a drink.
• Restaurant: This is a more formal and fancy restaurant, where you can find more variety and quality of food, from local to international cuisine. A restaurant can cost between 50 and 200 quetzals ($6.5-$26) per meal, and it usually does not include a drink or a dessert.

📖 Recommended Reading: If you’re looking for more useful information, check out 23 Restaurant In Guatemala: Best Places To Eat .

Best time to visit Guatemala

Guatemala has a tropical climate, with two main seasons: the dry season, from November to April, and the rainy season, from May to October.

The dry season is the best time to visit Guatemala if you want to enjoy the sunny and clear weather and visit the natural and historical attractions, such as the volcanoes, the lakes, or the ruins.

However, the dry season is also the high season, which means that the prices and the crowds are higher, and the availability and bargains are lower.

Rainy Season

The rainy season is the best time to visit Guatemala if you want to avoid the crowds and the heat and enjoy the green and lush scenery, and the festivals and celebrations.

While it may be more affordable to visit the country during the rainy season, you must know that the weather and the roads are unpredictable and unstable, and some attractions and activities may be closed or canceled.

Therefore, you need to weigh the pros and cons of each season and choose the best time for you.

Is Guatemala safe to visit?

Guatemala is generally safe to visit for tourists, but it has some issues and risks that you need to be aware of and prepared for.

The crime in the country can be high, especially in Guatemala City. You need to be careful and avoid walking alone at night, carrying valuables, or venturing into unfamiliar or isolated places.

Be careful and respectful, stay cautious of natural hazards, and keep an eye on health issues like food poisoning, or water contamination (tap water is not safe to drink).

How Long Should You Stay in Guatemala?

Guatemala is a relatively small country, but it has a lot to offer, so you should plan to stay at least a week to see the main attractions.

However, if you have more time, you can easily spend two weeks or more in Guatemala, and explore more of the country, like the Caribbean coast, its Western Highlands, or the Peten region .

You can also combine your Guatemala trip with a visit to neighboring countries, such as Belize, Honduras, or Mexico, which are easily accessible by bus or plane.

What is the currency and the exchange rate in Guatemala?

The quetzal is the official and the most widely used currency in Guatemala , and it is divided into 100 centavos. The US dollar is also accepted and exchanged in some places, like airports, hotels, or tourist areas, but it is not as common or convenient as the quetzal.

The exchange rate between the quetzal and the US dollar varies depending on the market and the location, but it is usually around 7.5 quetzals for 1 US dollar.

Do I need a visa to travel to Guatemala?

It depends on your nationality and the purpose of your visit. Most visitors from North America, Europe, Australia, and New Zealand can enter Guatemala without a visa for up to 90 days, as long as they have a valid passport and a return or onward ticket.

However, some visitors from Asia, Africa, and the Middle East may need a visa to enter Guatemala, which can be obtained from the nearest Guatemalan embassy or consulate. You can check the visa requirements for your country here.

Looking for More Inspiration?

I have been traveling and living in Guatemala for over 25 years Check out these Hand-Tested GUIDES

If you want to travel without the hassle and confusion – check out a complete guide for traveling to Guatemala .

For more travel ideas to add to your bucket list, check out a complete guide to all the best places to visit in Guatemala .

Guatemala has a huge variety of food, check out the guide to the top 15 Guatemalan Food and Dishes .

Disclosure: This blog post may contain affiliate links, which means that I may receive a commission for any purchases made through the links. Your trust is important to us, and we ensure that all products or services we recommend meet or exceed our editorial standards .

Last Updated on December 16, 2023

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Guatemala trip cost: how much budget do you need?

• February 12, 2024

Table of Contents

Are you going to travel to Guatemala and would you like to know how to keep costs for backpacking in Guatemala low + how much Guatemala budget you need? Then you are on the right page, here you can read how much a trip through Guatemala costs and how much daily budget you need for Guatemala, depending on the type of traveler.

We spent $53 per day during our trip through Guatemala, in this article you can read in detail how we were able to keep our costs so low.

Guatemala is one of the cheapest countries in Latin America to travel through. How much Guatemala travel budget you need for a trip through Guatemala ultimately determines whether you will travel through Guatemala.

Our tips, categories, and personal Guatemala trip cost are based on our trip. When you visit other areas in Guatemala, this can affect the travel costs.

Tip: it is possible to use US dollars at certain places. We advise you not to do this because they calculate with a bad exchange rate. Pin your money yourself at the ATM so you always have the best exchange rate.

Trip to Guatemala cost per day?

It is good to know that if you are going to travel through Guatemala on a tight budget, you can still have a great trip. This is because many activities can be done independently. The difference in costs mainly lies in the places you are going to stay and where you eat.

Budget traveler: if you have a tight budget and you pay close attention to what you spend, $24 – $36 per person per day may be sufficient.

Mid-range traveler: If you want it a bit more luxurious, for example doing a few more expensive activities or staying at nicer accommodations, plan a budget of $36 – $97 per person per day.

Luxury traveler: if you want comfort during your holiday in Guatemala, for example by staying in luxury accommodations, eating culinary delights, and following many private tours, you should count on a Guatemala budget of +$120 per person per day.

The amounts don’t include airline tickets. Flight costs are very diverse. We always use Skyscanner and recommend it!

Guatemala trip cost: accommodation

Accommodation costs are often a large part of your budget. In Guatemala, you do not have to spend a lot of money on this, but these costs can quickly increase without following the right tips. Fortunately, there are plenty of options in Guatemala for budget travelers. Guatemala is still a backpacking country where it is less developed compared to surrounding countries, so backpackers find it a great country to visit. For this reason, you will find many hostels. Guatemala is ideal for travelers who travel alone because you easily get to know other people in the hostels.

There are also plenty of hotels where you often get a little more luxury. Depending on your personal preference, a hostel or hotel is more suitable. We always try to do a mix during our trip, we like to meet other people in a hostel, but sometimes it is also nice to get some luxury in a hotel.

The price per night for a hostel and hotel is comparable to Southeast Asia. Spending the night in a dormitory costs about $6 to $9, a budget room $12 to $21 and a more luxurious room costs more than $50 per night.

To keep the Guatemala daily budget low, it is important to book all your accommodations in advance. As a result, the range is the largest, so the options that fit within your budget are still available. If you decide to book your accommodations late, you run the risk that choice is very limited.

Want to know about our favorite hotels and hostels in Guatemala ? Check it here.

Guatemala trip cost: food

Eating in Guatemala is awesome! Breakfast in Guatemala is simple, normally it consists of: egg, tortilla, beans, plantains, and fresh fruit. The main course consists mainly of: corn, beans, rice, pork, beef, chicken, cheese, and tortillas. Meat stews (caldos) and soups (sopas) are the most popular dishes among the locals. On average you pay about $12 to eat in an average restaurant. If you go to a local place or buy something on the street, it will cost you between $2 and $7.

If you want to keep food costs low, it’s recommended to buy food from the supermarket and prepare it yourself. In particular, buying fruit, snacks, and drinks in a supermarket, saves a lot of money.

You should try the following dishes: Chiles Rellenos, Chicken Pepian and guacamole. Chiles Rellenos are chili peppers filled with rice, cheese, meat, and vegetables. They are served with tortilla and tomato sauce. Chicken Pepian is chicken in a spicy pumpkin and sesame sauce. You must have tried this dish because it is the national dish of Guatemala. Finally, you have guacamole, which is mainly served with fries or as a topping with other Guatemala dishes.

Looking for a Guatemala itinerary ? Read more here.

Guatemala trip cost: transport

The distances in Guatemala between different destinations are big, so it is recommended to visit a select number of sights so that you have to travel less often, you do not lose a lot of time and transport costs do not become too high.

We have made a traditional trip to Guatemala where you discover the main highlights of the country. Due to its popularity, there is plenty to choose from, which keeps transport costs low. Read our Guatemala itinerary if you would like to read more about this.

All public transport tickets can be found at Bookaway . We used Bookaway to book all our bus tickets. They are easy to use and book, we have had good experiences with them.

If you want to buy your tickets for a bus in Guatemala, you can do this at the bus station. I.R.C. Travel Antigua and Linea Dorada are two bus companies that we have used and recommend. A long-distance bus ride costs about $24 to $36.

Other transport types that you can use in Guatemala are planes, cars, colectivo, chicken buses, and taxis. For average distances use a colectivo. This is a minibus that takes you quickly to your destination for an average of $12. You can often buy a ticket for a colectivo at an accommodation. For short distances, it is recommended to use a taxi or chicken bus. A chickbus is an old American bus where you can often travel to a place for $1.

If you travel to Guatemala by plane and you are looking for a car to rent, you can rent it through Rentalcars . We use Rentalcars when we want to travel by car to discover new destinations. They’re easy to use and book with.

Guatemala trip cost: activities

In Guatemala, you can do almost all activities independently. Two excursions are relatively expensive but well worth it. The visit to Tikal costs $70 and the mountain Acatenango $97. There are plenty of other activities you can do, such as taking cooking classes, taking a city tour of Antigua, kayaking in Lake Atitlan, and tubing in Semuc Champey. However, you do not necessarily have to do these activities.

Our advice is that usually the more expensive excursions, such as Tikal and Acatenango, are often very special. We always advise not to cut down on this because it is precisely these kinds of activities that make a trip unforgettable.

Guatemala trip cost: miscellaneous

A travel guide provides you with detailed information about the country, weather, culture, travel routes, advice on where to eat and sleep. We always use Lonely Planet and are very fan of this. It is best to order this book for Guatemala.

A water bottle is always handy to have with you. We use a Crazycap , this is a water bottle that kills all bacteria in the water using UV. This allows us to drink tap water anywhere in the world through this bottle. So we never have to buy water and can always drink tap water safely without bothering our stomachs. It is a one-time amount, but in the longer term you have this out.

Finally, you can also buy a sleeping/dry bag , the advantage of this is that you always sleep in “your bed”. If you find it annoying to sleep in unknown beds and do you like hygiene, sleeping in a sleeping bag is a good solution.

Travel insurance

World Nomads travel insurance policies offer coverage for more than 150 activities. Get a quote, make a claim, or buy or extend your policy while on the road.

How much did Guatemala travel cost us per day

• Transport $6
• Activities $8

Total: $53 per day (amounts have been rounded). This does not include airline tickets and other costs. The airline tickets were $970 for us. In total our trip costs per person: 21 (days) x $53 + $970 = $2083.

Accommodation : you can travel cheaper than us by saving on accommodations. When you stay in most hostels, your costs will be lower than $18. Just try not to stay at too cheap places. Cheap accommodations are usually located outside the center and the facilities are not as good.

Food : when you stay at the accommodations we recommend on this list , you won’t have to spend a lot of money on food because breakfast is included. You can reduce the costs of food by buying lunch and dinner at the supermarket and preparing it yourself. In addition, try to eat where the locals are, this is tasty, cozy, and often cheaper.

Transport : if you take a traditional trip where you discover the main highlights of the country, you will not spend a lot of money on transport. Buy your tickets in advance at Bookaway so that your transport costs do not become too high.

Activities : in our articles about Guatemala you can see that there is a lot to do. You also see that many activities can be done independently. It is better not to cut back on activity costs because the activities we recommend will make your trip unforgettable.

Trip to Guatemala cost FAQ

1. how much does it cost to go to guatemala.

Traveling through Guatemala is not expensive at all. When you travel as a middle-class traveler, a trip of 3 weeks where you visit the highlights of Guatemala, you fly from the United States to Guatemala City, costs you €1333 (if you travel as a couple).

You are on average 21 days x $53 = $1113 for accommodations, food, transport, and activities. Flight costs are on average $220 per person for Guatemala.

2. How much money should I take to Guatemala?

Bring $265 (about 5x the daily budget). This allows you to pay for the bus, taxi, food, and accommodation in the beginning. It is best to assume that you will not be able to withdraw money immediately upon arrival.

Once arrived at the destination (usually Antigua), you can withdraw money. It is not necessary to take a huge amount of money with you to Guatemala because you can withdraw money in every village or city.

3. How much does it cost to go to Guatemala for a week?

This depends on what exactly you are going to do. As a guideline, if you are an average traveler, a week’s trip in Guatemala will cost $661 per person (if you are traveling as a couple).

We spent $53 on accommodations, food, transportation, and activities. However, if you are going to travel through Guatemala for a week, the daily budget is a lot higher, because you want to see more in a short period. This increases the average costs. As a result, you will spend $63 per person per day.

For accommodations, food, transport, and activities you spend 7 days x $63 = $441. Flight tickets are on average $220.

4. How to visit Guatemala on a budget?

Making a trip through Guatemala on a tight budget is possible and great fun. You should follow the following travel tips to spend $30 per day.

Only stay in hostels and book them far in advance. As a result, the offer is the largest and the cheaper hostels are still available. If you do this you will spend $6 per day on accommodations.

Food is possible but does not have to be expensive. Stay in hostels where breakfast is included. In the afternoon and evening, you can eat at local places or go to the supermarket and buy and prepare your food. When you do this you will spend about $13 on food per day.

It is best to only use the buses for transport. These are less fast than a shuttle bus but cheaper. Another option is to visit a limited number of destinations, which keeps transport costs low. If you only use the buses it cost $4 per day.

You need tickets for certain sights, such as visiting Tikal. You can do most things independently, if you do this it cost +/- $7 per day.

Conclusion cost of travel in Guatemala

Guatemala isn’t expensive to travel to. Now that you know this, you come to the next point in preparation for your trip: drawing up your travel route through Guatemala. To help you on your way, we have put together a travel route through Guatemala in which you will see all the highlights. For each destination, there is an article in which you can read everything in detail if you want to know more. Click here to open it: Guatemala itinerary . You can combine this itinerary with places to stay in this article . All you have to do is follow the article and your preparation is done!

If you are looking for a complete overview that shows how to prepare yourself, we recommend that you read our Guatemala travel guide . Here you can read which period is the best to visit Guatemala, how safe Guatemala is, how to pack your bag, and much more useful information.

What do you think of our budget tips for Guatemala? Share your thought in the comments below!

Did you enjoy this article? Then save it to Pinterest for later!

Hello, we are Cynthia & Alexander, the team behind Travel Your Memories! Traveling is our passion. When it comes to exploration, we love sharing our tips and adventures to inspire you. Welcome to Travel Your Memories, where we share our love for travel with you! Read our story .

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Travel Budget for Guatemala City Visit Guatemala City on a Budget or Travel in Style

• Guatemala City Costs

• Guatemala City Hotel Prices
• Best Cheap Hotels in Guatemala City
• Best Pet-Friendly Hotels in Guatemala City
• Best Hotels for One Night in Guatemala City
• Best Luxury Hotels in Guatemala City
• Best Hotels for One Week in Guatemala City
• Best Business Hotels in Guatemala City
• Best Romantic Hotels for Couples in Guatemala City
• Best Hotels for a Weekend Getaway in Guatemala City
• Best Hotels for First Time Visitors in Guatemala City
• Is Guatemala City Expensive?
• How much does a trip to Guatemala City cost?
• Guatemala Costs
• San Pedro La Laguna
• Guatemala City
• Antigua Guatemala
• How much does it cost to travel to Guatemala City? (Average Daily Cost)
• Guatemala City trip costs: one week, two weeks, one month

Is Guatemala City expensive to visit?

• How much do I need for a trip to Guatemala City?
• Accommodation, Food, Entertainment, and Transportation Costs
• Travel Guide

How much does it cost to travel to Guatemala City?

You should plan to spend around $44 (Q343) per day on your vacation in Guatemala City. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

• $15 (Q119) on meals
• $6.17 (Q48) on local transportation
• $48 (Q374) on hotels

A one week trip to Guatemala City for two people costs, on average, $618 (Q4,799) . This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

• Travel Style: All Budget (Cheap) Mid-Range Luxury (High-End)
• Average Daily Cost Per person, per day $ 44 Q 343
• One Week Per person $ 309 Q 2,400
• 2 Weeks Per person $ 618 Q 4,799
• One Month Per person $ 1,324 Q 10,284
• One Week For a couple $ 618 Q 4,799
• 2 Weeks For a couple $ 1,235 Q 9,599
• One Month For a couple $ 2,647 Q 20,568

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How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Guatemala City cost?

A one week trip to Guatemala City usually costs around $309 (Q2,400) for one person and $618 (Q4,799) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to Guatemala City on average costs around $618 (Q4,799) for one person and $1,235 (Q9,599) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Guatemala City will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to Guatemala City on average costs around $1,324 (Q10,284) for one person and $2,647 (Q20,568) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.

Independent Travel

Traveling Independently to Guatemala City has many benefits including affordabilty, freedom, flexibility, and the opportunity to control your own experiences.

All of the travel costs below are based on the experiences of other independent travelers.

Guatemala City is a very affordable place to visit. Located in Guatemala, which is a reasonably affordable country, visitors will appreciate the lower prices of this destination. It falls in the average range in the country for its prices. Budget travelers enjoy spending long periods of time exploring Guatemala City in depth.

Within Central America, Guatemala City is a very affordable destination compared to other places. It is in the top 10% of cities in Central America for its affordability. Very few cities in the region are as affordable as Guatemala City.

For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Guatemala City Expensive?

How much money do I need for a trip to Guatemala City?

The average Guatemala City trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Guatemala City travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers.

Accommodation Budget in Guatemala City

Average daily costs.

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid for one person for accommodation in Guatemala City is $24 (Q187). For two people sharing a typical double-occupancy hotel room, the average price paid for a hotel room in Guatemala City is $48 (Q374). This cost is from the reported spending of actual travelers.

• Accommodation 1 Hotel or hostel for one person $ 24 Q 187
• Accommodation 1 Typical double-occupancy room $ 48 Q 374

Hotel Prices in Guatemala City

Looking for a hotel in Guatemala City? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

Actual Hotel Prices The average hotel room price in Guatemala City based on data provided by Kayak for actual hotel rooms is $65. (Prices in U.S. Dollars, before taxes & fees.)

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world.

Recommended Properties

• Casa Carmel Bed & Breakfast Budget Hotel - Kayak $ 68
• Hotel Real Intercontinental Guatemala Luxury Hotel - Kayak $ 121

Transportation Budget in Guatemala City

The cost of a taxi ride in Guatemala City is significantly more than public transportation. On average, past travelers have spent $6.17 (Q48) per person, per day, on local transportation in Guatemala City.

• Transportation 1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc. $ 6.17 Q 48

Recommended Services

• Private Ground Transfer Guatemala City To Panajachel, LakeAtitlan Viator $ 150
• Transfer from Airport to Antigua Viator $ 80

Flights to Guatemala City

Rental cars in guatemala city, food budget in guatemala city.

While meal prices in Guatemala City can vary, the average cost of food in Guatemala City is $15 (Q119) per day. Based on the spending habits of previous travelers, when dining out an average meal in Guatemala City should cost around $6.13 (Q48) per person. Breakfast prices are usually a little cheaper than lunch or dinner. The price of food in sit-down restaurants in Guatemala City is often higher than fast food prices or street food prices.

• Food 2 Meals for one day $ 15 Q 119

Recommended

• Cooking class/Pepian Workshop Viator $ 35
• Antigua Market, Cooking Class and Choco Museum from Guatemala City Viator $ 178

Entertainment Budget in Guatemala City

Entertainment and activities in Guatemala City typically cost an average of $1.21 (Q9.38) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.

• Entertainment 1 Entrance tickets, shows, etc. $ 1.21 Q 9.38

Recommended Activities

• Mountain Bike Tour through Guatemala Viator $ 125
• 4-hour Bike Tour Guatemala City South Center Viator $ 65

Scams, Robberies, and Mishaps Budget in Guatemala City

Unfortunately, bad things can happen on a trip. Well, you've just got to deal with it! The average price for a scam, robbery, or mishap in Guatemala City is $30 (Q233), as reported by travelers.

• Scams, Robberies, and Mishaps 1 $ 30 Q 233

Alcohol Budget in Guatemala City

The average person spends about $6.84 (Q53) on alcoholic beverages in Guatemala City per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.

• Alcohol 2 Drinks for one day $ 6.84 Q 53

Water Budget in Guatemala City

On average, people spend $0.97 (Q7.50) on bottled water in Guatemala City per day. The public water in Guatemala City is not usually considered safe to drink.

• Water 2 Bottled water for one day $ 0.97 Q 7.50

Related Articles

Guatemala city on a budget.

Neighborhoods

Food and dining, transportation, more related articles.

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Budget Guatemala: costs and prices of travelling through Guatemala!

How expensive is travelling through Guatemala? How much money to budget for Guatemala? The answer to these questions depends on the type of traveller you are, the activities you do and how long you will be travelling for. However, in this blog, I will tell you what we spend during our trip through Guatemala. Also, we will share with you what a realistic daily budget for Guatemala is and what the price levels in Guatemala are.

How much money to budget for a trip to Guatemala?

A realistic daily budget for Guatemala is 50 euros per person . If you are travelling through Guatemala for three weeks , then take into account a budget of approximately €1000 per person . This does not include flights and is a budget based on average expenses. It can always be cheaper or more expensive.

Disclaimer: we are no extreme budget backpackers. By this, I mean that we almost never sleep in a dormitory, do not cut down on activities and food. On the other hand, we certainly don’t travel luxuriously: we sleep in hostels, almost never take a taxi and try not to eat out too expensive. Everyone has different priorities and budgets while travelling. Just keep this in mind while you read this blog. It’s always possible to travel cheaper or more expensive than we do.

Is Guatemala a budget destination?

Guatemala is one of the cheaper countries in Central America. But it is certainly not as cheap as in Southeast Asia. We didn’t do extremely expensive things, but since we travelled a lot with other people, we were slightly easier than budgeted in advance. Meaning: we spent more money on eating out and Cuba libre’s than our budget allowed ;-). However, since we were in Guatemala during its shoulder season, some hotels were slightly cheaper than usual.

We combined this trip with a trip to Belize , from where we flew back to the Netherlands. Our plane tickets were therefore slightly more expensive than a return ticket to Guatemala. Are you flexible and not bound to a certain period then you already have flights from Europe to Guatemala starting at €350. Click here to directly see the current flights deals for Guatemala!

Guatemala expenses:

Total spend in Guatemala: GTQ 12708   / € 1454,46 / $ 1649 Average daily spending in Guatemala:  GTQ 978   /  €  111,88/ $ 127 Average dailing spedings per person: GTQ 489   /  € 55,94/ $63,5

All expenses are for 2 people and calculated on the basis of exchange rates during the trip. This amount is excluding our flights. The currency displayed are Guatemalateekse Quetzal (GTQ$), Euro (€) and USA Dollar ($).

How much money to budget for hotels in Guatemala?- 25% of the total budget Guatemala

Total spend:  GTQ 3179 / € 363,80 / $412 Number of nights: 13 Average amount per room for 2 pers:  GTQ 265/ € 30,32 / $ 34

We slept almost every night in a hostel, but always in a private room. A few times we have had some more luxurious ho(s)tels, such as in Lanquin, Tikal and Flores. The hostel we had in Lanquin, was really overpriced for what we got, not recommended. The last night in Flores was relatively expensive because I was sick and liked to sleep in a more luxurious air-conditioned room.

These are the hotels and guesthouses we stayed in Guatemala:

• Antigua:  Casa Blomston
• Lake Atitlan: Casa Madera
• Semuc Campey/ Lanquin: Zephyr Lodge (not recommended!)
• Tikal: Jungle Lodge hostel
• Flores: Casa Ula

Hotel guide: Here you will find a Guatemala hotel guide with hotels we can recommend!

How much to budget for transportation in Guatemala? – 14,2% of total budget Guatemala

Total spend: GTQ 1803 /  € 206,39/ $ 234 Taxi Guatemala airport – Antigua: GTQ 250/  € 28,03 / $ 32

We have almost always travelled with shuttle buses. This is faster than with chicken buses but is more expensive. Everywhere the transport costs were not that high in Guatemala.

How expensive is food in Guatemala? – 35,3% of total budget Guatemala

Total spend: GTQ 4484/ € 513,17 / $ 582 From which eating and drinking out: GTQ 3798/  € 434,68/ $ 493 Of which groceries: GTQ 617/ € 70,64 / $80 Other: GTQ 69 /  € 7,85/ $9

Ha, as almost always, the biggest expense for us. We went out for dinner very often, have never cooked ourselves and almost never ate food at street stalls. But the restaurants where we ate, were generally not very expensive. We often chose simple meals.

Read more about our favourite village San Marcos at Lake Atitlan in  this travel guide !

Are activities expensive in Guatemala? – 24,2% of the total budget Guatemala

Total spend: GTQ 3068 / € 351,12 / $ 398 Acatenango hike (inc tip & tax): GTQ € 1240 /  € 139/ $ 158 Visiting Tikal: GTQ 1020 / € 115,32   / $ 131 Semuc Champey (cave and pools): GTQ 370/ € 41,82 / $48 Other: GTQ 480/  € 54,98 / $62

Especially our visit to Tikal was expensive. We paid for the guides and three times for access (we saw both sunset, sunrise and just during the day). However, this was more than worth it.

Will you also be visiting Tikal ?  Click here to read more about this beautiful Maya village!

Exchange rate fee at the bank: 1,4% of the total budget Guatemala

Total spend:  GTQ 174/ € 19,97 / $ 23

What do food and general travel expenses cost in Guatemala?

Below you will find a selection of foods general travel expenses with corresponding prices.

• Cappuccino: GTQ 20 /  € 2,31 / $2,60 Despite the many coffee beans that grow in Guatemala, most of the coffee served is not great.
• 1 Kilo of banana’s: GTQ 7 /  € 0,81 / $0,91
• 1 Big avocado: GTQ 3/  € 0,35 / $0,39
• Bottle of Coca Cola (3L): GTQ 15 / € 1,68 / $1,91
• Yoghurt (1L) : GTQ 30/ € 3,43 / $3,90
• Bread (2pers ): GTQ 15 /  € 1,73 / $1,95 We often bought buns or a whole loaf in Antigua while hiking. Tasty and super cheap!
• Bottle of water (3,3L): GTQ 10 / € 1,12 / $1,27
• Glas of wine in a wine bar : GTQ 35 /  € 4,00 / $4,54 Guatemala does not produce wine itself but imports wine from Argentina and Chile. A good glass of wine is quite expensive.
• Cuba Libre in a bar : GTQ 20 /  € 2,31  / $2,60 The drink in Guatemala, delicious and especially during Happy Hour relatively cheap!
• Local beer in a bar: GTQ 15/  € 1,73  / $1,91
• Simple breakfast (1 pers) eating out: GTQ 30 /  € 3,43 / $3,90 We ate some delicious breakfasts consisting of beans, fried banana, egg and bread for this amount. And believe me, you’ll be full for all morning long!
• Simple lunch / evening meal (1 pers) eating out: GTQ 60 / € 6.87 / $ 7.80 Usually a simple meal consists of rice, chicken and beans. In general, we ate a bit more luxurious because I don’t eat meat and like to eat a bit more vegetables.

Is Guatemala an expensive destination?

No Guatemala is relatively not expensive compared to the rest of Central America. We could have spent less money (and stayed within our budget) but well, this was a holiday and that’s why we quickly decided to let go a bit more.

Pay attention, negotiation is normal and sometimes people try to make you pay too much money. We found the latter not so pleasant, however other travellers told us this has not always been the case. It’s something from the last few years, probably due to tourism itself. A pity, but good to be aware of as a traveller.

I thought Guatemala was great and I can recommend everyone to visit this beautiful country. The country is great to travel by backpack. If you are looking for a budget destination in Central America, then you are in the right place in Guatemala.

What is a realistic daily budget for Guatemala?

A realistic daily budget for Guatemala is between 45 and 55 euros per person. With this amount of money, you travel by public transport, eat at local restaurants but you do all kinds of fun activities. For this budget, you will stay in private rooms in hostels or nice guesthouses.

All my other blogs about  Guatemala .

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Itinerary guatemala: the ultimate two- and three-week itinerary for guatemala, why i wouldn't recommend semuc champey (lanquin) in guatemala, travel guide antigua: all you need to know about antigua in guatemala, hotel guide guatemala: the best, coolest and hippest accommodations in guatemala, leave a reply cancel reply.

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Backpacking Guatemala: The Ultimate Budget Guide 2024

Come find out what you need to know about backpacking Guatemala on a budget! I fell in love with this Central American Gem and can’t wait for you to do the same.

I will share with you my best travel tips, money, important information, top places to see, and more in this guide on one of my personal favorite destinations, Guatemala!

Guatemala is a country that offers a rich and diverse experience for travelers. Whether you are interested in exploring its ancient Mayan ruins, hiking its active volcanoes, learning Spanish in its colonial cities, or immersing yourself in its vibrant culture, this country has something for everyone.

And the best part is, you can do all this without breaking the bank, making backpacking Guatemala a rewarding experience!

Also thanks to the fact Guatemala is along the Gringo Trail you will find plenty of other travelers also visiting this scene. If you are like me and travel on a budget you will be happy to know there is an assortment of hostels and affordable foodie options.

Guatemala is not a huge country, though you will certainly find yourself having a few travel days if you are planning to explore the whole thing. There are numerous incredible destinations worth checking out, though I will get into this more down below.

Nevertheless, you will find the majority of travelers generally spend 2 to 3 weeks backpacking Guatemala .

I will cover for you everything you will never need to know about backpacking Guatemala on a budget travel guide. From money matters, visas, when to go, accommodation, getting around and so much more before finally getting into where exactly you should go and do during your adventure.

I will also share some of the best places to visit in Guatemala, from the stunning Lake Atitlan to the impressive Tikal. By the end of this guide, you will be ready to pack your bags and embark on an unforgettable adventure in Guatemala!

Backpacking Guatemala On A Budget: All You Need To Know

What is the currency in guatemala, entry requirements for backpacking guatemala, travel budget for backpacking guatemala, best time to travel guatemala, sleeping in guatemala on a budget, getting around guatemala on a budget, food & drink in guatemala, internet access in guatemala, buying a sim card in guatemala.

• Best Places To Visit While Backpacking Guatemala On A Budget

🚗 How I Book Cheap Transport In Guatemala: GuateGo

The local currency in Guatemala is the quetzal. The Quetzal is divided into 100 centavos and has the symbol Q.

Check online exchange rates.

The quetzal bills feature the national bird, the resplendent quetzal, and historical figures, while the coins carry the Guatemalan coat of arms. The quetzal was introduced in 1925 by President José María Orellana and was pegged to the U.S. dollar until 1987.

Guatemala is a welcoming country that does not require a tourist visa for most visitors who want to stay up to 90 days. All you need is a passport that is valid for at least six months and a blank visa page.

You will receive a stamp on arrival that grants you access to Guatemala and the other Central American countries that are part of the CA-4 agreement (El Salvador, Honduras, and Nicaragua).

You can extend your stay for another 90 days at the immigration office in Guatemala City for a fee of 10 Quetzales ($1.30 USD).

If you are arriving by air, you will most likely land at La Aurora International Airport in Guatemala City, the capital. There is no entrance or exit fee for Guatemala, but some airlines may charge you a departure tax of $30 USD which is included in your ticket price.

Arriving by air it is likely you will be asked to show proof of departure when arriving at the airport. This is because many people travel here and end up overstaying. If you do not have proof of onward travel many travelers use such services as Onward Ticket .

The company books a legitimate ticket in your name and cancels it after a certain period. You just need to pay a small service charge. This provides you with an actual ticket for proof of onward travel.

If you are arriving by land, you can cross the border from Mexico, Belize, or Honduras by bus or car. The border crossings are usually straightforward and hassle-free, but you may encounter some delays or unofficial fees depending on the time and location.

Personally, I didn’t experience this, though I did get asked what country I am really from when I presented my New Zealand passport and had to convince immigration it is a legit place.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tasha Amy | NZ Travel Blogger (@backpackerswanderlust)

Before my life of travel took over I actually spent many years studying to become an accountant. Therefore don’t be overly surprised to learn that I actually kept track of all my costs while backpacking Guatemala .

This includes transportation, food, accommodation, activities, and even some souvenir shopping. I tracked all my expenses to make sure I kept on budget and it has also allowed me to hold onto that information to share with you.

All in all, I ended up spending $57.00 per day and honestly it could have been done cheaper. I did all the activities on offer, booked transport through hostels rather than shop around for prices, stayed in nice and modern hostels as well as eating at cafes and restaurants at least once a day.

Also, there are some quite pricey activities in Guatemala such as a Tikal tour , Pacaya Volcano, and Acatenango Volcano. Though these are bucketlist experiences and something that is well worth splurging on!

For me, the most expensive part of my budget was actually accommodation, averaging $17.50 per night, closely followed by food at $16.00 per day, and activities at $12.90 per day.

Usually in the majority of travels food is my most expensive category, though I was able to save money by booking hostels with a communal kitchen and cooking.

Overall the cost of backpacking in Guatemala depends on your travel style, preferences, and activities. However, a general estimate is that you can travel comfortably on $45.00 – $70.00 per day as a backpacker. This will cover your accommodation, food, transportation, and some tours.

Guatemala is a country that can be visited year-round, thanks to its pleasant climate and diverse attractions. However, some months may be more suitable than others depending on what you want to see and do. Here are some factors to consider when planning your trip to Guatemala:

The dry season vs the rainy season: The dry season in Guatemala runs from November to April, and is generally considered the best time to visit. The weather is sunny and warm, with clear skies and mild evenings.

The rainy season lasts from May to October and brings afternoon showers and thunderstorms that can last for a couple of hours. The rain can make some roads muddy and slippery, especially in the highlands and the jungle regions.

Also, you will likely miss out on those incredible Volcano views in Antigua due to clouds. However, the rain also brings lush greenery and fewer crowds, so it’s not a bad time to visit if you don’t mind getting wet.

The festivals and events: Guatemala has a rich and colorful culture that is expressed through various festivals and events throughout the year.

Some of the most popular ones include…

• Day of the Dead (November 1st), when people visit cemeteries and fly kites to honor their ancestors
• Christmas (December 25th), when towns and cities are decorated with lights and nativity scenes
• Holy Week (March or April), when Antigua hosts elaborate religious processions and ceremonies
• Independence Day (September 15th), when people celebrate with parades, music, and fireworks.

Wildlife spotting: Guatemala is home to a variety of wildlife, from colorful birds and butterflies to monkeys and jaguars. The best time to spot them depends on their habits and habitats.

For example, if you want to see the resplendent quetzal, the national bird of Guatemala, you may have a better chance between March and June, when they are nesting in the cloud forests.

If you want to see sea turtles nesting on the Pacific coast, you may want to visit between July and December, when they lay their eggs on the beaches. If you want to see howler monkeys in the Peten jungle, you may want to go early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when they are most active.

Personally, I was in Guatemala from May until June which is considered the rainy season. Though we didn’t have one day of rain at all, so my raincoat stayed dry in my backpack.

The only downside of visiting from this time that I found was you couldn’t really see Fuego or Acatenango from Antigua, as well as sometimes the Acatenango tours would go up and not see anything the entire time making it risky.

Lastly, I missed out on experiencing the turtle release at Playa El Paredon.

You can actually find such an assortment of accommodation options when backpacking Guatemala. It is a popular destination for travelers who want to experience Central America without breaking the bank.

However, finding a cheap and comfortable place to sleep can be challenging, especially in the high season. Here are some tips on how to sleep in Guatemala on a budget.

Hostels: Hostels are the most common and affordable option for backpackers and solo travelers. They offer dorm beds or private rooms, usually with /shared bathrooms and common areas.

Hostels are also great places to meet other travelers and get local tips. You can find hostels in most towns and cities, ranging from $7 to $20 per night.

This is what I stayed in during my travels in the country and you could easily find basic budget hostels for those looking to save money, as well as more luxe hostels for those happy to spend a bit more.

Guesthouses: Guesthouses are another option for budget travelers who want more privacy and comfort than hostels. They are usually family-run businesses that offer basic rooms with private or shared bathrooms. Some guesthouses also have kitchens, gardens, or terraces.

Guesthouses are more common in rural areas and smaller towns, where they can cost from $10 to $20 per night. This is a great option if you are friends or a couple traveling together.

Couchsurfing: Couchsurfing is a platform that connects travelers with locals who offer free accommodation in their homes. Couchsurfing is a great way to experience the local culture and make new friends in Guatemala.

However, Couchsurfing requires some planning and communication in advance, as well as respect and gratitude for your hosts. Couchsurfing is not very common in Guatemala, but you can still find some hosts in major cities and tourist areas.

Honestly, there are no super fancy ways to travel around Guatemala. There are no trains, and if you choose to fly you are limited on destinations. Nevertheless, there are always a couple of choices for how to travel from point A to point B.

Here is a little overview of the types of transport you may find yourself taking while backpacking Guatemala:

Fly: Flying is the most popular way to get to Guatemala from abroad, especially if you are coming from the US or Europe. There are regular deals for direct flights to Guatemala City, the capital and main airport of the country.

You can use Skyscanner to compare prices and find the best deals. In terms of domestic cities at this stage, on the tourist trail, you can take a domestic flight between Guatemala City and Flores , and unfortunately, that’s it.

Shuttle: If you prefer to travel by land, shuttles are a great option for getting around Guatemala on a budget. Shuttles are shared vans that offer door-to-door service between popular tourist destinations, such as Antigua, Lake Atitlan, Semuc Champey, and Flores.

Shuttles are comfortable, convenient and affordable, ranging from $10 to $40 per person depending on the distance. You can book shuttles online at GuateGo or once you are in the country through your accommodation or local travel agencies.

Bus: Buses are another way to travel in Guatemala on a budget, but they are less comfortable and reliable than shuttles. There are two types of buses in Guatemala: chicken buses and Pullman buses. Chicken buses are old American school buses that have been painted and decorated in bright colors.

They are cheap and frequent, but also crowded, noisy, and sometimes unsafe. Pullman buses are modern coaches that offer more comfort and security, but also cost more and run less often.

Buses are a good option for short distances or if you want to experience the local culture, but not for long journeys or remote areas.

Train: Train is not a common mode of transport in Guatemala, as there are no passenger trains operating in the country. The only exception is the FEGUA train that runs between Guatemala City and Puerto Barrios on the Caribbean coast.

This train is mainly used for cargo, but it also offers a few seats for passengers who want to enjoy a scenic ride through the countryside. The train runs once a week on Saturdays and costs $3 per person.

In Guatemala, you can easily find a wide assortment of food. This is even more true in the tourist hot spot of Antigua and Flores. From vegan, Italian, Mexican, and more. There is a variety of cuisines here for foodies.

Though wherever you find yourself in the country good food will not be far behind. I am a fussy eater and a vegetarian, luckily I had no issues whatsoever finding something suitable in Guatemala.

Some common local dishes include Tortillas, Tostadas, Tamales, Pepián, Kak’ik, Jocon, Platanos en mole, and the drink Pinol. These are some of the most delicious and representative dishes of Guatemalan cuisine. By trying them, you will discover the diversity and richness of this country’s food culture.

Though being vegetarian I didn’t eat too much street food simply because a lot of it contained meat. Being a vegetarian in Mexico was a lot easier when it came to street food. Though I was happy to find communal kitchens were common here so I could save money by cooking.

If you are planning to visit Guatemala, you may wonder about the availability and quality of internet access in the country. The answer is that it depends on where you go and what you need. Internet access in Guatemala is not very widespread or reliable, especially in rural and remote areas.

However, as a tourist, you will mainly be sticking to the main backpacker trail. In this area, the only place I had issues with internet access was in Semuc Champey, though we also had limited power throughout the day as well. Luckily I did have cell phone reception so I was able to use my mobile data to keep connected.

If you are a backpacker who wants to stay connected while traveling in Guatemala, you may want to buy a local SIM card for your phone. By buying a local SIM card, you can avoid expensive roaming charges and enjoy cheaper rates for calls, texts, and data. Though be aware you will need an unlocked phone to use a sim card abroad.

There are two main mobile providers in Guatemala: Claro and Tigo. Both of them offer prepaid SIM cards that you can buy and top up with different plans and packages.

I purchased a Claro SIM card for $23.00 which includes 10G of data over 30 days as well as unlimited use of social media during my stay. Though you can get this cheaper by going to an official Claro or Tigo store, I was lazy and just bought it from a random corner store.

Top Places To Visit While Backpacking Guatemala On A Budget

Guatemala offers a variety of places to visit , from natural wonders to cultural and historical sites. Whether you are interested in ancient Mayan ruins, volcanic landscapes, colonial towns, or indigenous villages, you will find something to suit your taste and budget.

Here are some of the best places to visit in Guatemala that you should not miss.

Guatemala City

Guatemala City is the capital and largest city of Guatemala, and a gateway to many attractions in the country. However, a lot of travelers just use it as an arrival point before exploring the rest of the country.

Most people may stay a night before or after a flight to rest before heading off on their adventures. Though Antigua is a quick 40-minute to 1-hour drive away so the majority of travelers head there straight for the airport.

Antigua is a charming city in the central highlands of Guatemala, known for its well-preserved colonial architecture, colorful houses, and cobblestone streets. It was the capital of Guatemala until 1773 when it was severely damaged by an earthquake and abandoned.

Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular destination for travelers who want to experience the history, culture, and beauty of Guatemala.

Some popular things to do in Antigua include:

Learn Spanish: There are so many places in Guatemala you can learn Spanish, though I choose Antigua and found it was perfect. You could be studying in the morning and exploring in the afternoon. One day I even hiked a volcano after school!

Acatenango Volcano Hike: This is the longer and harder of the two volcano hikes you can do. It’s an overnight adventure where you can watch Fuego Volcano erupt right opposite your camp. No doubt this is one of the most spectacular things I have ever done.

Pacaya Volcano Hike: The easier of the two volcano hikes just takes a couple of hours. Though this volcano is nowhere as active so don’t expect rushing lava rivers. Though you can eat a pizza cooked on the hot rocks.

Shopping: I loved the handicrafts in Guatemala and Antigua is an excellent place to purchase them. If you don’t like haggling and prefer to buy somewhere with fixed prices I can recommend Nim Po’t. Seriously I could spend hours exploring this place.

Hobbitenango : Being from New Zealand I thought the idea of Hobbitenango was kind of strange, and it is, but still it’s worth a visit. Here you still find Instagram spots, incredible views, and many games. Just best not to visit on a weekend.

Explore The Ruins: Now prior to visiting I never knew Antigua was full of incredible ruins. My favorites were Convento Capuchinas and Convento La Recoleccion. Though there are numerous spots dotted around the city worth checking out.

Flores is a small island town in northern Guatemala, surrounded by Lake Petén Itzá. It is famous for being the gateway to the ancient Maya city of Tikal, one of the most impressive archaeological sites in Central America.

However, Flores itself is also a charming and colorful place to visit, with many things to see and do.

One of my favorites to do here was take a boat over to the nearby Jorges Rope Swing , which is like backpacker heaven. Grab a beer, enjoy the refreshing waters, and try out some of the jumps. It’s a great way to spend an afternoon if you have a spare day in Flores while you are backpacking Guatemala.

Semuc Champey

Semuc Champey is a natural wonder in the Alta Verapaz region of Guatemala, near the town of Lanquín. It is a 300-meter-long limestone bridge that covers the Cahabón River, creating a series of turquoise pools on top of it.

It is a popular attraction for travelers who want to enjoy the beauty and adventure of this place.

Some of the things to do in Semuc Champey are:

Hike to the viewpoint: The best way to appreciate the stunning scenery of Semuc Champey is to hike to the viewpoint, called El Mirador. It is a 45-minute uphill walk through the jungle, but the reward is worth it.

You will see the entire limestone bridge and the pools from above, as well as the surrounding mountains and forest.

Swim and slide in the pools: The pools of Semuc Champey are inviting and refreshing, especially after the hike. You can swim, relax and slide from one pool to another, enjoying the clear water and the fish. Some pools are deeper than others, so be careful.

Explore the caves: Near the entrance of Semuc Champey, there is a cave system that you can explore with a guide and a candle. You will walk, swim and climb through the dark passages, seeing stalactites, stalagmites, and bats.

This must be booked as part of a tour and have a guide, it is not something you can do yourself.

Just be aware Semuc Champey is a full travel day from the nearest other towns on the backpacking Guatemala travel route. Therefore if you are short on time, or want to avoid long travel days, think twice about this one.

El Paredon is a small beach town on the Pacific coast of Guatemala, known for its surf, sand, and sun. It is a perfect place for travelers who want to enjoy a relaxing and laid-back atmosphere, away from the crowds and the noise of the city.

El Paredon has a lot to offer for backpackers who are looking for a seaside spot to relax.

El Paredon is one of the best surf spots in Guatemala, with consistent waves all year round. You can rent a board or take a lesson at one of the many surf camps or hostels that line the beach. Though if this doesn’t sound like you, you can simply relax on the beach or by the pool.

There are some excellent hostels in El Paredon that are set up like mini resorts with a pool, bar, restaurant, and basically everything you could ever need.

Lake Atitlan

Lake Atitlan is a stunning lake in the highlands of Guatemala, surrounded by three volcanoes and several Mayan villages. It is one of the most popular and beautiful destinations in the country, attracting travelers who want to enjoy the nature, culture, and adventure of this place.

Some of the things to do in Lake Atitlan are:

Visit the villages: Lake Atitlan has many villages that are accessible by boat, each with its own character and charm.

You can visit San Pedro La Laguna, a backpacker hub with many bars, restaurants, and hostels, San Marcos La Laguna, a hippie haven with many yoga and meditation centers, Panajachel, the largest and most developed town with many shops, markets, and hotels, Santiago Atitlan, a traditional town with a famous church and a shrine to Maximón, a folk saint, and many more.

Hike the volcanoes: Lake Atitlan is flanked by three volcanoes: San Pedro, Tolimán, and Atitlán. You can hike up one of them and enjoy the views of the lake and the landscape. You will need a guide and a good level of fitness to do this, as the hikes are challenging and long.

You can also hike to Indian Nose, a viewpoint that resembles a human profile and offers spectacular sunrise views.

Kayak or paddleboard on the lake: Lake Atitlan is a great place to kayak or paddleboard, as you can explore the lake at your own pace and see different perspectives of the volcanoes and the villages.

You can rent a kayak or a paddleboard at some of the hostels or hotels on the lake, or join a tour that will take you to different spots.

Learn about the Mayan culture: Lake Atitlan is home to many Mayan people who have preserved their traditions, languages, and customs. You can learn more about their culture by visiting their markets, museums, churches, and ceremonies.

You can also take a weaving or cooking class, or volunteer at one of the many projects that support the local communities.

Relax and enjoy the scenery: Lake Atitlan is a place where you can relax and enjoy the scenery, as it is one of the most beautiful lakes in the world. You can find many places to stay that offer stunning views of the lake and the volcanoes, from cozy cabins to luxury villas.

Xela, or Quetzaltenango, is the second-largest city in Guatemala and a cultural and historical hub in the western highlands. It is a great place to visit for travelers who want to experience a more authentic and traditional side of Guatemala, as well as enjoy the nature and adventure that surrounds it.

Xela is one of the best places in Guatemala to learn Spanish thanks to its affordability. You will find many language schools that offer affordable and quality courses. You can also stay with a local family and practice your Spanish with them.

Learning Spanish in Xela will help you communicate better with the locals and understand their culture better.

Also, Xela is close to several volcanoes that offer amazing hiking opportunities. The first is hiking up Santa Maria. This is a dormant volcano that offers stunning views of the city and the nearby active volcano Santiaguito.

Next up we have Chicabal, a sacred volcano that has a crater lake where the Maya people perform ceremonies. Lastly, there is Tajumulco which is the highest peak in Central America and a must-do for those interested in hiking.

Rio Dulce is a river and a national park in eastern Guatemala, connecting Lake Izabal with the Caribbean Sea. It is a place of natural beauty, wildlife, and culture, where you can enjoy the scenery, the adventure, and the history of this region. This is no doubt a must-do for any nature lovers backpacking Guatemala.

Some of the things to do in Rio Dulce are:

Take a boat tour: The best way to explore Rio Dulce is by boat, as you can see the impressive canyon, the mangroves, the islands, and the villages along the river. You can take a boat tour from Fronteras or Livingston, two towns that are located at opposite ends of the river.

You can also stop at some attractions along the way, such as Castillo de San Felipe, a colonial fort that defended the river from pirates, Finca El Paraiso, a hot spring waterfall that mixes with a cold river, or El Boqueron, a narrow gorge with rock formations and birds.

Visit Livingston: Livingston is a unique town in Guatemala, as it is home to the Garifuna people, an Afro-Caribbean community that has its own language, music and cuisine. You can learn more about their culture by visiting their museum, their church, and their festivals.

You can also enjoy their food, such as tapado, a seafood soup with coconut milk.

Hike to Quirigua: Quirigua is an ancient Maya city that is famous for its carved stone monuments, called stelae. You can hike to Quirigua from Rio Dulce through banana plantations and rural villages.

You can also visit the archaeological site and see the stelae that depict Maya rulers and gods. Quirigua is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important Maya sites in Guatemala.

See the manatees and crocodiles: Rio Dulce is home to many animals, such as manatees, crocodiles, monkeys, turtles, and birds. You can see them in their natural habitat by taking a boat tour or kayaking on the river.

You can also visit a manatee rescue center that rehabilitates injured or orphaned manatees and releases them back into the wild.

Work For Accommodation In Guatemala

Give working for your accommodation a try. Many hostels in Guatemala offer those who are staying a free place to rest their head. Though in exchange you must be willing to help with cleaning, front desk, and other general duties.

Another option is WWOOFing or Helpx.

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Want more Guatemala Inspiration? Check out….

• ACATENANGO VOLCANO HIKE: TOP TIPS TO SUCCEED
• BEST HOSTELS IN EL PAREDON
• ANTIGUA TO EL PAREDON TRANSPORT GUIDE
• CAN YOU SWIM IN LAKE ATITLAN?
• EL PAREDON BACKPACKING GUIDE
• BEST HOSTELS IN LAKE ATITLAN
• PANAJACHEL TO SAN PEDRO & THE TOWNS BETWEEN: WATER TAXI LAKE ATITLAN
• ANTIGUA TO LAKE ATITLAN

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. So, if you click on it and purchase something, I get a small percentage at no extra cost to you. As always all opinions are my own and your support is much appreciated.

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Tasha Amy is a true backpacker at heart and has been discovering the world on a budget since 2015. Based in Gisborne, New Zealand she will spend many months each year traveling overseas as a solo female traveler before coming home and sharing her adventures online with you.

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Budget Travel in Guatemala: How much do you need

By: Author Ruben Arribas

Posted on September 1, 2023

Categories Guatemala

Guatemala is a country famous for its beautiful landscape, magical ruins, and real cultural involvement that you can experience. These are the reason why many tourist chooses to pick Guatemala to visit for their vacation.

Most people traveling the country are from Western countries, but many people are from all over the world. With this post you’ll be able to prepare a minimum daily budget for your stay in the country. Hope you enjoy and this can be a big help for your next trip. Budget travel in Guatemala and how much do you need per day.

Read here the best what to wear in Guatemala , Guatemalan breakfast , vegetarian food in Guatemala , drinks in Guatemala , Instagrammable places in Guatemala and Guatemala travel tips

Table of Contents

Is it safe/difficult to travel in Guatemala?

You can never tell about the safety that may go in the country. Guatemala has known a country where violence erupt frequently this is because of gang wars and narco-trafficking. I would recommend to you that when being robbed by gangs you should not resist because they tend to be violent.

In my experience as I’ve backpacked in Guatemala for almost a month. I’ve met some people who had experience with armed robberies but I didn’t have any problem myself but my advice to you would have to ask local’s for guide so you’ll be confident about the places you would want to visit. So yes, it is safe to travel in Guatemala you just have to be careful with your environment!

BOOK YOUR TRAVEL INSURANCE

You can read  Heymondo Vs Safetwing cheapest travel Insurance . You can get for  $135 USD  your  Heymondo   Travel Insurance  with Heymondo discount code  valid for 90 days. Read our full  Heymondo Travel Insurance Review

You can get  Safetywing Travel Insurance  for Digital Nomads valid for 28 days  Safetywing for $50 USD per month with kids until 10 years old included

Best time to visit in Guatemala

The weather in Guatemala would change from places to places. There are 2 seasons in the country this is the dry and wet season. The rainy season starts in May. The best time to visit Guatemala is from the months of November to April because it is the months of dry season.

However, lots of tourists prefer to travel from January to March. But you should be responsible enough to research more about the weather in the country.

Click here to know more about the weather in Guatemala

Visa in Guatemala

A great news for everyone! There are 90 countries that can enter the country visa free for 90 days. There are some country who have to apply visa before entering the county and upon arrival. A single-entry tourist visa can cost you $25 and for a multiple-entry tourist visa cost $50.

Click here to know more about the visa policy in Guatemala.

Cash in Guatemala

Guatemala has its own currency called the Guatemalan Quetzal. A $1=7.49 GTQ. There are lots of ATM’s and exchange currency in many part of the country. You don’t have to worry about changing your money. And you have to know the dollars is very common and well-accepted in the country.

Click here to know more about the exchange rate of Guatemala.

Internet in Guatemala

In our millennium WiFi is common because almost all people in the world have an account on any social media sites. WiFi has been improving in Guatemala. You can access free WiFi at hostels and hotels without an additional rate. There are lots of restaurants that are offering free WiFi, just ask the staff for the password.

There are 3 major network operators in Guatemala and these are Tigo, Claro, and Movistar. And these may be the one you are using when traveling the country. It is required that you have an ID or passport to be able to purchase a sim in the country.

Sim card are called chips and it is available in the official stores and some convenience stores. 

SIM CARD AT GUATEMALA AIRPORT

I wouldn’t recommend you buy a sim card at Guatemala airport. If you wish comfort you can buy eSim online and if you aren’t in a hurry just go around phone shops in the city and compare prices to buy the cheapest sim card in Guatemala. Read here  Guatemala sim card for tourist and best Guatemala eSim

You can find the cheapest Guatemalan eSim with Airalo Guatemala eSim prepaid for  $7 USD with 1 GB  data valid for 7 days ( USING DISCOUNT CODE GAMINTRAVELER 10% ). And for $21 USD with 3 GB data valid for 30 days.

MTX Connect eSim Guatemala for  €24  with  4 GB  data valid for 14 days. Holafly Guatemala eSim for $42 USD  if you use our code  GAMINTRAVELER  coming with 6 GB data valid for 15 days. GigSky Guatemala  eSim for $40 USD with 5 GB data valid for 30 days.

Food budget travel in Guatemala

Your daily budget could be a total of $3-5 for food  if you eat in local places . If you are in a budget you can go to the streets of Guatemala and find many available street food all around the country. You can buy one of the famous street food of the country named Pupusa it is a thick corn tortillas that is either suffed with bean, cheese, cocked food, or combo and it will only cost you $1.50 .

Accommodation budget travel in Guatemala

A total of $10-20 would be the range of your budget for accommodation in Guatemala. There are a lot hostels and hotels offering cheap accommodation. Guatemala City, has the highest prices for hostels.

This price may go drop to $6-10 on another place in the country in a dorm. The good thing in these hostels is that they offer free WiFi and this is pretty handy for us.

CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR ACCOMMODATION IN GUATEMALA BEFORE YOUR TRIP WITH BOOKING.

Tour/Entrance Fees in Guatemala

There are many things to do and many places to visit in Guatemala. It is a must to visit Tikal when you visit Guatemala. You may enjoy it with a total of $20 entrance fee, it is open 6am to 6pm. And mind you that it is considered one of the UNESCO World Heritage . You should wonder Chichicastenango Market in Guatemala you would experience to talk with the locals and ask about their culture!

Click this to know more about our guide in things to do in Guatemala.

Local transportation in Guatemala

There are much local transportations in all over Guatemala. You can ride the bus to the towns and cities outside Guatemala City. You can buy a bus ticket ranging from $8-$10 depending on the and just to remind you that buses will only stop on the direct destination.

When you are a constant traveler you may have encountered named Tuk tuk and you should expect to pay somewhere around $0.60-$1.20 You can ride a taxi and also expect to pay around $6 for a ten-minute ride. For more comfort there are vans to move around tourist places and their price is higher than the bus. Hostels are usually organized vans and prices are affordable.

Budget Travel in Guatemala per day

The budget travel in Guatemala per would cost you around $25-30. This budget consists of a total of $10 for accommodation if you choose to stay in a cheap hostel around the city. A total of $5-6 for food when you choose to try and eat street foods all throughout the streets of Guatemala.

And the remaining would be for your transportation and some entrance for some tourist spots. This suggested budget may vary depending on how much luxurious your travel would be. You just have to plan early and now where you want to go and what to do!

If you continue traveling around Panama and Southeast Asia, check our travel budget in the Philippines , Sri Lanka, Bolivia and Thailand .

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 to share his travel experiences alongside his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.

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Home » Central America » Guatemala » Backpacking Guide

Backpacking Guatemala Travel Guide (Updated for 2024)

People always ask me what my favourite country is that I’ve travelled to. It’s a tough question to answer, but I always say backpacking in Guatemala with no hesitation. This country really stole my heart.

Its steaming jungles, diverse highlands, active volcanoes, and crumbling Mayan temples will keep even the most adventurous travellers busy for weeks. It’s no wonder travellers (and hippies) have been backpacking Guatemala for decades.

My favourite part about Guatemala is the prominent, vibrant Mayan culture that is still alive and well (despite hundreds of years of persecution due to Spanish colonization and racism, but that’s another story). The local people are so unbelievably friendly and welcoming; they’re truly excited to share the beauty of their country with others.

I had the best day of my life in Guatemala. I trekked up an active volcano and watched repeated magical eruptions amongst the backdrop of an enchanting night sky.

If you haven’t travelled to Central America yet, Guatemala is a MUST-VISIT. Prepare for a culturally enriching and fruitful journey you’ll be recounting to your friends for years to come.

Are you ready for the adventure of a lifetime? Yes? Ok, let’s go to Guatemala!

Why Go Backpacking in Guatemala

Guatemala is a relatively small country, so you can cover a lot of ground with minimal time. That being said, many backpackers spend months in hotspots like Antigua, Xela, and  Lake Atitlan.

Whether you love or hate the remains of Spanish colonization, Antigua is one of the most beautiful colonial cities in the world. Staying in Antigua is an excellent to explore close by volcanos; a few are still active and it’s possible to watch Volcano Fuego erupt – a must-see on any Guatemala travel itinerary.

The highlands of Guatemala are home to many Mayan communities and some beautiful places. Lake Atitlan is the most famous destination in the highlands, thanks to the beautiful scenery and dozens of unique towns surrounding the lake. If you want to get off the beaten path, check out the Ixil Region , and consider participating in a home stay. Many expats and long-term backpackers base themselves in Xela  for Spanish lessons and an immersive cultural experience.

Finally, Guatemala grows some of the best coffee in the world! Make sure to visit a local coffee farm or another type of  finca  (farm) in Guatemala, and help support the local economy . You can also visit cacao farms and factories, as well as macadamia and avocado farms!

Best Travel Itineraries for Backpacking Guatemala

I have included 3 Guatemala Travel Itineraries below to inspire your next visit! It is possible to see a lot of the country in just a few short weeks of backpacking Guatemala.

Backpacking Guatemala 4 Week Itinerary #1: Guatemala’s Highlights

If you truly want to explore Guatemala, I suggest setting aside at least 4 weeks. There are a few backpacker spots that can easily captivate your heart and steal you away for months.

If you are flying to Guatemala, you will definitely start your trip in Guatemala City , the capital. I’ve spent a lot of time in the city, but I don’t recommend that tourists spend much time here. Head to the beautiful (though touristy) colonial city of Antigua  instead.

Only 45 minutes from the capital, Antigua feels a world away from the city. You can easily spend several days in Antigua, especially if you plan on visiting nearby  fincas  (farms), the great La Iguana Perdida hostel , and hiking a lot of volcanoes.

While it technically makes sense to head to  Lake Atitlan  first, I’m going to suggest you get a bus to the city of Xela next. Xela is another backpacker hang out, a bit grimier than Antigua, though more authentic and cheaper to live.

This is another great town to base yourself for nearby volcanoes and hikes! Many backpackers choose to live here for a couple of months for volunteer opportunities and Spanish lessons instead of Antigua (which is more expensive and touristy).

You can access the lesser-visited highland area of Guatemala, like the Ixil Region (the most targeted area during the Civil War), here.

From Xela,  hike to Lake Atitlan with the awesome crew at Quetzal Trekkers . This volunteer-based non-profit company guides various hikes out of Xela while raising money for the local schools.

The Xela to Lake Atitlan 3 day excursion is one of the coolest experiences you can have in Guatemala because you have the opportunity to hike through and spend the night in remote Mayan villages only connected by narrow footpaths.

Once in Lake Atitlan , you can spend weeks here, as many backpackers do. I suggest devoting at least 5 days if you have the time. The lake is rather large, and all of the surrounding towns are completely unique to one another.

From Lake Atitlan, you can visit Chichicastenango , home to the biggest market in Central America. The market is only open on Thursdays and Sundays, so plan accordingly.

Then we leave the Guatemalan highlands and head to Guatemala’s beautiful Cobán region, full of jungles, waterfalls, and Maya culture. The most famous backpacker hang out is Semuc Champey , near the town of Lanquin (where the hostels are located, thanks to the unreal waterfalls and pools. You’ll want at least 3 days here, especially since the journey to/from is tiring.

Next take an overnight bus to Flores , the gateway to the impressive Mayan ruins of Tikal . Flores is a laid-back town and backpacker hang out on the middle of an island in a lake. You only need a couple days to visit Tikal, but you can access other Mayan ruins like Yaxha . You can also arrange a 5-6 day hiking excursion to the newly discovered El Mirador ruins, which are still being uncovered by archaeologists today!

After visiting Tikal you can travel onward to Belize or Mexico by bus. Otherwise, you need to return to Guatemala City for an international flight.

If you are travelling south on the Central American gringo trail, you can bus to the Caribbean side of Guatemala. Most backpackers stop in Río Dulce and Livingston , where the river meets the ocean, for a few days, and then carry on to Honduras, specifically the Bay Islands for some diving.

Backpacking Guatemala 2 Week Itinerary #2: Guatemala Highlands

This is a great itinerary if you only have 2 weeks to backpack Guatemala. You will start your trip in Guatemala City and quickly head to Antigua  for 3-5 days. From here you can shop, explore the local  fincas , and climb volcanoes like  Volcano Acatenango and Volcano Santa Maria .

Next head to Lake Atitla n and base yourself for another 5 days. You can make a day trip to Chichicastenango for the biggest market in Central America.

Finish your adventures with 4 days in Xela , exploring the nearby volcanoes, hot springs, and villages. Catch a ride back to Guatemala City just in time for your flight.

Backpacking Guatemala 1 Week Itinerary #3: Jungles and Ruins

If you only have one week to backpack Guatemala I suggest two options. One, stay in Antigua and explore the nearby surroundings.

Or two, go on an adventure through Guatemala’s jungles and ruins. Catch a long bus to Lanquín and base yourself here for 3 days exploring the nearby caves and Semuc Champey. Next, take an overnight bus to Tikal and explore the ruins for two days before looping back to Guatemala City via an overnight bus, or moving on to backpacking Mexico for more Mayan ruins.

Places to Visit in Guatemala

Now that we’ve covered a few Guatemala itineraries, I’m going to expand on what you should do in the best places to visit in Guatemala , including Antigua, Xela, the Tikal area, and more.

Backpacking Antigua

Most first-time travellers who are backpacking Guatemala will start their trip in Antigua. This is a classic colonial town with beautiful neighbourhoods to stay at, and a great place to kick back or wander around the cobblestone streets. You’ll find quite a few hostels in Antigua as well, which makes it a great hang out spot for backpackers from all over the world.

During the day, explore the main square, do some shopping, or just chill out in one of the hundreds of cafes. There are plenty of great places to eat here, like Cafe Condesa and the organic Cafe Boheme. Don’t neglect the local food either! For something really special check out the amazing Casa Santo Tomas or Rainbow Café .

If you’re looking to party, check out the Terrace hostel’s rooftop bar or swing by the Snug. Cafe No Se is the best bar in Antigua, set up somewhat like a speakeasy. Try their homemade (illegal) mezcal, which is similar to tequila with a smoky flavour. Tropicana Hostel is the party hostel in the area, but there are hundreds of guesthouses to choose from for something more relaxing.

I can also recommend Tropicana Hostel for the nearby volcano climbs like Volcano Acatenango. They offer fair prices, decent gear, and a great view from their base camp.

For a real treat, head outside Antigua to Home Earth Lodge , an eco hotel and avocado farm.

There are plenty of other great farms to visit too. Make sure to visit a coffee farm for an afternoon, or better yet, volunteer at one. For a  unique experience, visit Valhalla Macadamia Nut Farm for the  best macadamia pancakes and to learn about their mission.

This farm is working to save the planet (macadamia trees are more sustainable than almonds and avocados) and give local families plots of land to provide a sustainable income (macadamia nuts grow year-round providing consistent income).

Visiting Antigua’s Nearby Volcanoes

There are a few awesome volcanoes you can summit near Antigua!

Volcán Pacaya is the easiest volcano to climb, and just takes a few hours. You can even roast marshmallows on the volcano. It is active, so you can’t climb to the top, but you can watch smoke arise from the crater and a somewhat safe distance! The last eruption – in 2014 – was catastrophic for the nearby villages.

My favorite volcano is Volcán Acatenango , which offers stunning views of the nearby Volcano Fuego (an active volcano erupting constantly). This is usually a 2 day climb where you spend the night near the top. (Although this volcano is extinct – meaning it will never erupt again – don’t  because of the intense wind and cold.)

You can also climb Volcán Agua  for spectacular views of Antigua. Hiking time is about 5 hours from Santa Maria de Jesús.

Backpacking Lake Atitlán

Just a few hours from Antigua, Lake Atitlán is an easy bus journey or hitchhike away. There are a number of villages surrounding the lake with completely different atmospheres and many amazing things to do . Many of them require a boat to reach them.

Panajachel is the most convenient town to base yourself because it’s connected to the main road. Many expats live here for its convenient shops, restaurants, and bars.

The most popular backpacker town around Lake Atitlan is undoubtedly San Pedro , thanks to its cheap bars, restaurants (check out Zoola!) and easygoing hostels. Mr Mullet’s offers one of the best valued dorms. I definitely recommend hanging out by the lake or renting kayaks. Make sure to hike up the nearby San Pedro Volcano. Bear in mind it takes 6 hours!

You can also summit Volcano Atitlán – the tallest of the three volcanoes – in 8 hours.

On the other side of the lake, you’ll find  San Marcos , a hippy enclave and mecca for yoga, massage, and spirituality. The Yoga Forest holds yoga retreats high above the main town. It’s pricey, but includes 3 meals and 2 yoga sessions a day.

My favorite town is Santa Cruz , next to San Pedro. You can visit local co-ops, take a weaving class, or visit the beautiful shops and cafés. It’s a quiet, laid-back atmosphere with plenty of authentic culture. You also have access to a coffee farm that serves their coffee on a nice patio!

Iguana Hotel (pictured below) is a great place to base yourself for a couple of days. Located in Santa Cruz, there isn’t much to do here except chill and admire the view, but that’s kind of the point. Hike up the steep hill to visit the locals!

Backpacking Chichistastenango

Chichi is home to the biggest market in North America! It’s an awesome place to explore and hunt for souvenirs and beautiful Maya textiles. Te market is only open on Thursdays and Sundays, so plan accordingly.

The local Santo Tomás Church blends both Maya rituals and Catholicism, and it’s well worth a visit. Most people just take a day trip to ChiChi.

Backpacking Xela (Quetzaltenango)

Quetzaltenango is commonly referred to as Xela (pronounced  Shela ). This bustling mountain town is a great city to organise 1 to 7 day treks in the stunning mountains, or base yourself for Spanish lessons, as many gringos do! Xela isn’t as clean or extravagant as Antigua, but it’s also not as expensive.

You can arrange a home stay with local families around here and see a side of Guatemala many travellers miss.

While visiting Xela, check out the local cemetery. Seriously! It’s colorful and fascinating. I also recommend indulging in the local street food, like pupusas , a delicious Salvadorian dish that is popular in Guatemala.

From Xela, you have access to hot springs and several volcanoes. Tajamulco Volcano is the highest point in Central America. You can hike for three days to Lake Atitlan via narrow footpaths in between remote Mayan villages. Another great multi-day hike is Nebaj to Totod Santos – four days of trekking through the stunning and varied scenery.

Backpacking Semuc Champey

Semuc Champey is an absolutely stunning series of waterfalls and limestone pools. Most people stay in the nearby town of Lanquin. It’s a bitch to get here, so allot enough time to chill and recuperate.

I recommend Greengo’s Hotel , there’s a lot to see out there.

You can also trek to a look-out point for panoramic views of the rain forest. If you’re feeling brave, head to the nearby caves and swim through the darkness with nothing but a candle. You can climb up waterfalls, scramble along walls, and just in deep, pitch-black pools. It’s actually not too dangerous, as long as you can swim properly!

Backpacking Flores and Tikal

From Semuc, you have a hell of a journey, 11 hours or so, to Flores. Most backpackers stay at the awesome Los Amigos Hostel, though I opted for the much quieter Dona Goya.

Flores itself is tiny; you can walk around it in about 20 minutes. It’s a chilled out little island and a good place to base yourself before you head to  Tikal or  El Mirador .

Make sure to visit the local night markets for amazing street food and deserts!

Tikal is a truly amazing place. Often times you will have the national park to yourself to wander around the massive temples with spider and howler monkeys swinging above you.

If you hike to  El Mirador , make sure to shop around for a proper guide!

You can hitch or take a public bus to Tikal, but consider hiring a guide with transport from Flores. It can actually end up costing the same price as a round-trip public bus ticket. We were able to get this deal, and our morning guide was quite knowledgeable. After the 2 hour tour, we left the group and explored Tikal on our own while still hitching a ride with one of their vans!

Backpacking Rio Dulce & Livingston

A lot of backpackers head to Rio Dulce, though it’s honestly not my favorite spot anymore. I used to love going there as a kid, but now it’s sort of expensive, especially the food, and the mosquitoes and cockroaches are heinous. Plus, everyone gets around via boat, so you kind of get “stuck” at your accommodation after hours (swatting away the mosquitoes and cockroaches).

That being said, it is a cool experience to grab a kayak or rent a boat and explore the river. The lush vegetation and mangroves are beautiful, and the houses built on stilts on the river are a sight to see. Still, I say 2 full days is plenty here.

Some travellers continue on to the Caribbean town of Livingston. I haven’t been, but I’ve heard mixed reviews. Some say it’s pretty dirty. Others say the Garifuna culture of Linvingston is fascinating! It’s a completely different cultural experience than elsewhere in Guatemala.

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Top Things to do in Guatemala

Whether you love the culture, the highlands, or the jungle, Guatemala has something incredible to discover in each of its distinctly different regions. Explore until your heart’s content and love every single minute of it.

I have listed the  top 10 most popular and best things to do in Guatemala below (but don’t worry, there are actually way more epic things to do ) to get your ideas flowing for your next Guatemala backpacking trip!

1 . Explore Tikal’s Mayan Ruins

Deep in the jungle, Tikal’s ruins were never discovered by Spanish invaders, so they remain remarkably brilliant and restored. This ancient city is impressive both in size and grandeur, and a testament to the cultural heights of the ancient Mayan civilization.

2. Visit the Beautifully Restored Colonial City of Antigua

Yes, Antigua is touristy (and expensive), but the vibrant, cobblestone city has everything you want in a backpacker hotspot: good restaurants and bars, epic volcanic scenery, an excellent base for multi-day hikes, coffee farms, and great shopping opportunities.

3. Shop for Traditional Mayan Textiles and Souvenirs

And speaking of shopping opportunities, Guatemala has endless opportunities to shop for amazing souvenirs. This is my favorite country in the world (along with Morocco) for shopping, thanks to the hand-woven, colorful Maya textiles.

If you want to go big (and not go home), visit Chichicastenango. On Thursdays and Sundays, this town is home to the largest marketplace in Central America. Lake Atitlan (the towns of San Juan and Panajachel, specifically) and Antigua have great shopping opportunities too.

4. Summit a Volcano

Guatemala is home to 37 volcanoes! This means you plenty of options to summit one! Keep in mind a few of them are active… and dangerous to climb. Favorites include Volcano Acatenango, Tajumulco, and San Pedro.

5. Hang out around Lake Atitlán

This might be my favorite destination in Guatemala, due to its amazing scenery (three volcanoes), and amazing villages and towns, each with something different to offer. There is a prominent Maya indigenous culture here too. Make sure to support the locals, visit some co-ops, and kick back with a cerveza on the lake!

6. Take Spanish Lessons in Quetzaltenango (commonly known as Xela)

This city blends mountain scenery, indigenous life, and wonderful architecture. It’s a great city (not as expensive or touristy as Antigua) to base yourself and learn another language! There are numerous language institutes to choose from. It’s also a great base to visit nearby volcanoes, Laguna Chicabal, and natural hot springs.

7. Swim in the clear blue pools of Semuc Champey

This series of limestone pools and waterfalls in the middle of the jungle is known as one of the most beautiful places in Central America.

8. Visit the lesser known beaches of Guatemala

While Nicaragua tends to steal the spotlight for the best beaches and surf in Central America, Guatemala’s raw, black sand beaches are cool in their own right, though the surf isn’t as good.

9. Hike to El Mirador

This six-day hike will lead you through steamy jungles, mud, and mosquitoes to the newly discovered Mayan site still being excavated.

10. Visit a  finca and local co-ops trying to better the local economy

One of my favorite things to do in Guatemala is visit the farms; think coffee, cacao, macadamia nuts, permaculture, etc.

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Backpacker Accommodation in Guatemala

Room costs vary wildly across the country. Antigua is easily the most expensive place to stay. In general, the good places fill up fast so you want to try and book in advance.

It’s possible to get a dorm bed for as little as $8-10. A double room will often cost the price of two beds in a dorm, so if there’s two of you, you can have a private room for no additional cost.

And as a quick insider tip: If you want to see all – and we mean ALL – hostel options in Guatemala, be sure to check out BOOKING.COM . You can even filter your personal travel needs to find the perfect place for you.

The Best Places To Stay in Guatemala

Backpacking guatemala travel costs.

A lot of Guatemala travel blogs will tell you that the country is extremely cheap, but the truth is costs have gone up quite a bit in the last couple years, and Mexico and Nicaragua are cheaper.

If you want to backpack Guatemala for less than $20 a day you need to really dirtbag it. Only take chicken buses, stay outside tourist areas, eat beans, rice, and tortillas, and do not participate in many tourist activities.

It is possible to backpack Guatemala for $20 a day by staying away from Antigua, and cooking all of your own food or eating street food.

A Daily Budget in Guatemala

Money in guatemala.

Cash is the only way to pay at outdoor markets, food stalls, small bakeries, and chicken buses.

ATMs are widely available everywhere, but you can expect a withdrawal fee for international bank cards, which is why I travel with a debit card that refunds me for transaction fees. (Americans, I recommend checking out Charles Schwab!)

Top Tips for Broke Backpackers

• Camp: With plenty of gorgeous places to camp, Guatemala can be a great place to camp in the rural areas. Just be safe! Most hostels will also let you pitch a tent for a small fee.
• Cook your own food: If you are on a tight budget, you can save money by cooking your own food – I recommend bringing a portable backpacking stove. if you are camping.
• Couchsurf: While there isn’t a huge couchsurfing community in Guatemala, it’s still an option.
• Pack a travel water bottle   and save money every day!

Why You Should Travel to Guatemala with a Water Bottle

Plastic washes up on even the most pristine beaches… so do your part and keep the Big Blue beautiful

You aren’t going to save the world overnight, but you might as well be part of the solution and not the problem. When you travel to some of the world’s most remote places, you come to realise the full extent of the plastic problem. And I hope you become more inspired to continue being a responsible traveller .

Plus, now you won’t be buying overpriced bottles of water from the supermarkets either! Travel with a filtered water bottle instead and never waste a cent nor a turtle’s life again.

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Best Time To Travel To Guatemala

Guatemala has two seasons: the dry season and wet season.

The dry season generally takes place from December to May. This is the best season to travel to Guatemala if you want to do a lot of hiking.

The wet season is from June to November and is generally the cheapest time to visit Guatemala. It only rains for a couple hours a day, so it doesn’t necessarily mean your vacation is ruined!

While most of Guatemala is temperate, January and February can get chilly at elevation, especially if you are summitting volcanoes. Sometimes it even snows up there!

Make sure to bring a couple layers for the nights in the Highlands. Bring a down jacket, beanie, and warm layers for trekking the volcanoes.

Festivals in Guatemala

• Coffee Harvest Celebration – The town of Frajianes celebrates coffee harvest with food and dancing on February 2nd and 4th.
• Semana Santa – Semana Santa  translates to “Saints Week,” and takes takes place in March or April depending on Easter Sunday. This is one of the biggest celebrations in Guatemala, especially in Guatemala City and Antigua. Many towns and cities spend days creating mile-long carpets with intricate stencils and dyed sawdust in beautiful designs. Parades and processions march on the saw dust carpets.
• Día de los Muertos – Literally translating to “Day of the Dead,” this popular holiday is celebrated in Guatemala on November 2 with the flying of massive kites in the cemeteries of Santiago Sacatepéquez and wild horse racing in Todos Santos Cuchumatán .
• Navidad – As a mostly Catholic country, Christmas is one of the most important holidays, celebrated with family and friends. Most families go to Church on Christmas Eve, and open gifts at midnight on Christmas Eve, instead of on Christmas Day.

What to Pack For Guatemala

Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

Sea To Summit Micro Towel

Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

Monopoly Deal

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

Grayl Geopress Water Bottle

Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!

Staying Safe in Guatemala

On one hand, Guatemala is totally safe for backpackers, but I have extensive family here so I hear about all of the dangers and dicey stories. Most touristic areas are safe, but you do need to be careful for both petty theft and armed robberies (mostly at night in isolated areas).

The most dangerous areas of Guatemala are generally congregated within certain zones of Guatemala City.

In my experience, most robberies or assaults happen at night – when one or both parties are intoxicated. Walk in large groups from the bars, especially if you are a girl. Generally, do not travel after dark. There are staged muggings that target rental cars and luxury vehicles.

The exception is the highway to Tikal, which is safe for overnight buses and vans. Chicken buses are also safe (and cheap) for getting around Guatemala, but there have been fatal accidents around the windy highlands. I do not recommend riding chicken buses in Guatemala City due to gang violence and extortion.

People are warm and inviting in Guatemala, and you should have no problem getting around, but I am not going to sugarcoat the economic situation in Guatemala. Half the population lives below poverty and gang violence is increasing in the city – mostly in specific zones.

Traveling Guatemala is safe , so don’t let the talks of gang violence shy you away, as this doesn’t specifically target tourists, but it is best to be aware. Always ask your hostels and hotels for up-to-date safety information.

Sex, Drugs & Rock n Roll in Guatemala

Weed is definitely common on the backpacker scene throughout Guatemala. Although it’s easily available, it’s also easy to wind up in trouble with the po po, especially in touristy areas like Lake Atitlán.

Check out Blazed Backpackers 101 for tips on how to stay safe whilst backpacking Guatemala!

Travel Insurance for Guatemala

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

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SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

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How To Get Into Guatemala

If you are flying into Guatemala, the only international airport is in the capital, and it’s a rather small airport. There is also an airport in Tikal, but flights come in and out of Guatemala City, and they’re expensive.

If you are arriving overland by bus (as many travellers do) you can arrive by the Mexico, Belize, or Honduras border. I have covered the overland border crossings in the “onward travel from Guatemala” section below.

Entry Requirements for Guatemala

You will receive a 90 day tourist visa on arrival for free. The visa includes entrance and exit to El Salvador and Honduras.

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How To Get Around Guatemala

Buses are the main way to travel in Guatemala. Most locals get around by chicken bus , which are essentially tricked-out and bedazzled old American school buses. They are quite an experience, though sometimes a bit dicey on the sharp turns in the highlands.

Traveling by Bus in Guatemala

Chicken buses are dirt cheap for Westerners, often costing less than a $1. They stop every few minutes though, so be prepared for long travel days. You can also take private deluxe buses for long journeys, like Antigua to Xela, or from Guatemala City to Tikal. Overnight buses can be dangerous in certain areas, but the route to Tikal is totally fine, and recommended to save time and accommodation costs.

Most tourist destinations are also connected by private shuttle vans that cater to tourists, often transporting backpackers from their hostel’s front doorstep. These are significantly more expensive than the chicken buses, so I rarely used them though sometimes it’s nice to treat yourself A/C and comfort.

I recommend using a private shuttle to get to your next destination in Honduras/Nicaragua for safety reasons.

The only time you would take a flight is to/from Tikal, and it’s expensive, so don’t count on flight travel in Guatemala. Río (River) Dulce’s river is the lifeline of the area, and the locals and tourists get around by boat. They even have gas stations to fill up.

Hitchhiking in Guatemala

The chicken buses are pretty cheap, but if you want to hitch a ride, check out some info on Hitchwiki . You’ll catch a ride easier if you appear clean cut. The dirty hippy look doesn’t really fly.

Onwards Travel from Guatemala

Belize: Frequent local and tourist buses and vans cross the border from Flores near Tikal to Belize. Most of these buses go to San Ignacio before reaching the coast. Lots of travellers that want to backpack Belize use this option for onwards travel from Guatemala.

You have to pay the entrance and exit visa fees for Belize, even if you are not staying there. There is one company –  Marlin Espadas – that will do this trip to Mexico in one day. If you take the local bus, you will end up spending at least one night in Belize, so you may as well make a trip out of it.

Mexico: There are buses and tourists vans that pass through La Mesilla border, mostly to San Crístobal de las Casas, Chiapas, Mexico (one of my favorite areas of Mexico). If you want to backpack the Carribbean side of Mexico, you will need to pass through Belize. Buses will go to Chetumal. From here you can get a bus to Bácalar, Mahahual, or other areas in the Costa Maya region, and then continue up to other places like Tulum.

Honduras: You can easily get a bus or van from Guatemala City or Antigua to start your backpacking adventure in Honduras . Many private buses and vans will stop at the Cópan Ruins in Honduras too. If you want to get to the Bay Islands – Utila is a backpacker and diving hot spot – you will need to take a bus or van to La Ceiba. From here you can catch a 4 pm ferry. There are some companies that drive you between Río Dulce and La Ceiba.

El Salvador:  El Salvador is easily reachable from Antigua or Guatemala City.

Nicaragua: Many travellers start backpacking Nicaragua by crossing through Honduras or El Salvador. There are tourist vans and buses that will do this in one day, but I have to warn you it is a long day. You will pass through a lot of traffic in Honduras. Talk to your hostel in Antigua or Guatemala City for more information.

Working in Guatemala

Guatemala is small, humble nation and not exactly an international power house for business. Unless you bag a political or non-governmental organisation job, your best bet to find work is teaching English – English teachers can usually find work pretty easily.

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Work Visas in Guatemala

In order to work in Guatemala, foreign nationals will need a Work Visa and a temporary residency permit. Work Visa’s will only be considered once a job offer has been secured.

Volunteering in Guatemala

Volunteering overseas is a great way to experience a culture whilst doing some good in the world. There are lots of different volunteer projects in Guatemala which you can join ranging from teaching, to animal care, to agriculture to pretty much anything!

Guatemala is still a greatly developing country and there are lots of opportunities for backpackers to volunteer. English teachers are constantly needed, and you’ll also find opportunities in hospitality, farming, and administration. A 90-day tourist visa is all you’ll need to volunteer in Guatemala, which can be easily renewed if you decide to stay longer.

Want to find some awesome volunteering opportunities in Guatemala? Then signup for Worldpackers , a platform that connects local hosts with volunteer travelers. As a Broke Backpacker reader, you’ll also get a special discount of $10. Just use the discount code BROKEBACKPACKER and your membership is discounted from $49 a year to only $39.

Programs run through reputable work exchange programs , like Worldpackers, are generally very well-managed and highly reputable. However, whenever you are volunteering do stay vigilant especially when working with animals or children.

Teaching English in Guatemala

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Demand for English teachers in Guatemala is constant. Conditions and pay vary greatly depending on whether you teach at a high end university or a barrio school.

Depending on your qualifications (or your motivation to obtain qualifications like a TEFL certificate) you can teach English remotely from your laptop, save some cash for your next adventure, and make a positive impact on the world by improving another person’s language skills! It’s a win-win! Check out this detailed article for everything you need to know to start teaching English online .

In addition to giving you the qualifications to teach English online, TEFL courses open up a huge range of opportunities and you can find teaching work all over the world. To find out more about TEFL courses and how you can teach English around the world, read my in-depth report on teaching English abroad .

What To Eat in Guatemala

Tamales – A bigger tamal made with either mashed potatoes or rice; whereas, Mexico makes them with corn and pork. They are then wrapped in banana leaves.

Chicken Pepian – A spicy stew made meat and vegetables (usually pear, squash, carrot, potato and corn) and served with rice and tortillas.

Pupusas – Though they originated in El Salvador, Pupusas  are found all over Guatemala. Thick corn tortillas are stuffed with a variety of fillings – usually refried beans, cheese and/or pork – and then fried until the surface with a still squashy inside. They are served with salsa and cabbage on top.

Guatemalan Enchiladas – They are different than Mexican enchiladas, often made in a deep fried shell filled with salsa, and meat. What makes them especially unique is shredded beets for a topping.

Flan – Caramel custard

Tres Leches – Three layer cake

Rellenitos de Plátano – Small balls of mashed plantains filled with sweetened black beans, fried and sprinkled with sugar.

Ceviche – This fresh seafood dish is made by marinating the fish or seafood in lime for 24+ hours and then adding fresh tomatoes, lime juice, cilantro, onions, and avocado.

Guatemalan Culture

It’s hard to stereotype an entire population, but generally, Guatemalans from the city are live very differently than Guatemalans in rural areas.

The majority of the Guatemalan people is considered Mestizo (a blurred mix of Spanish and Mayan descent). About 40% are Mayan. They often live completely separate from the rest of the population – physically, geographically, and economically.

One thing I love about Guatemala is the prominent and beautiful Mayan culture despite centuries of discrimination. Mayans are proud to be Mayan. I think tourists’ interest in the Mayan culture helps this in a way too.

There is a huge gap between the rich and poor in Guatemala. Through a complicated history (that I covered below) and a historically corrupt government, Guatemalans have endured their share of problems.

The Civil War ended in the 1990s, though many Guatemalans do not even view the struggle as a “war.” The government, and frankly most citizens, continue to dismiss the war’s human rights’ abuses.

To put it bluntly, the government and elitists have no interest in helping the poor or funding schools, education, healthcare, etc for Mayans. Racism is still very rampant here, as it is throughout most of Latin America. Thanks, colonialism.

Fortunately, local co-ops and grassroots organizations are making serious progress when it comes to creating economic opportunities for lower classes.

It’s a good idea to read up about Guatemalan culture in detail before you start your travels. Understanding the locals, their traditions and habits will make your visit a lot more interesting and in some cases, even easier!

Useful Travel Phrases for Guatemala

The first official language of Guatemala is Spanish, but there are also 23 Mayan languages spoken here! Many Mayans in remote places do not speak Spanish, let alone English. This is quickly changing in the touristic areas.

10 years ago most Mayans couldn’t speak Spanish in Lake Atitlán, for example. Now they speak Spanish and English.

Hola – Hello

Buenos Días – Good Day

Buenas Tardes – Good Evening

Buenas Noches – Good night

Cómo estás – How are you? (Informal)

Una cerveza, por favor – One beer, please.

Buena Onda – Basically translates to good vibes.

No entiendo. – I don’t understand.

Sin bolsa de plástico – No plastic bag

No paja por favor – No straw please

No hay cubiertos de plástico por favor – No plastic cutlery please

Perdón – Excuse me

Sorry – Disculpe (pardon) or lo siento (emotional)

¿Me puedes ayudar, por favor? – Can you help me, please?

Vos – Informal You , instead of the Spanish word Tú.

Books to Read About Guatemala

Below are my favorite books set in Guatemala. I seriously recommend reading a couple to understand the social, economic, and political atmosphere in Guatemala.

• I, Rigaberta Menchú – Winner of a Nobel Peace Prize, Rigoberta Menchú is a rural indigenous Guatemalan woman, who recounted her story of her father, mother and brother’s murder during the Guatemalan military campaign to eradicate “communism” in the countryside. It was her story that truly put the human rights abuses and question of genocide on the world’s radar in the 1990s.
• Rigoberta Menchú and All Poor Guatemalans – David Stoll’s book contested Menchús story, claiming that her recount was not entirely truthful, and fabricated. It’s worth a read if you are serious about learning about Rigoberta’s story. I think he’s kind of a shit for writing this, but some of his claims are valid. Still, Menchú’s cause is supported.
• Bitter Fruit: The Story of the America Coup in Guatemala – A powerful account on the CIA operation to overthrow the democratically elected Jacobo Arbenz, who was going to strip land from the elitist to provide peasants with the opportunity for economic growth. This coup led to the 36-year civil war.
• Homies and Hermanos – Based on Guatemala City’s street gangs, and why a number of gang members are leaving to become evangelists.

A Brief History of Guatemala

This is an important subject to me. I even wrote my undergrad thesis on a forgotten (or rather an unknown) genocide against the Mayan people in the 1980s that ultimately stems back to Spanish Invasion and systematic racism instilled in Latin America since the 1400s.

Before Spanish conquest under Cortés, Maya people lived in Guatemala for centuries building extravagant cities you can still visit today (Tikal, for example).

The Colonial Period essentially enslaved Guatemala’s indigenous people, and took away their land. Truthfully, it’s never been returned. By the time Guatemala gained independence from Spain in 1821, there was already a class system in place. After independence, there was a constant struggle for power between the elite conservatives and liberals.

In 1945, Juan José Arévalo won the election and began to turn Guatemala around by improving the public health system and labor laws. He survived 25 military attempted coups!

His successor was Colonel Jacobo Arbenz, who wanted to take Arévalo’s policies even further by implementing land reforms to break up the elitist land estates to give peasants individually owned farms. Naturally, his policies were unpopular with the extremely wealthy people of Guatemala…and the United Fruit Company.

US Insurgency and a Series of Right Winged Presidents

The United Fruit Company was owned by one of the American Dule Brothers. The other Dule Brother was none other than the head of the newly formed American CIA. Under the CIA’s first covert mission, the US orchestrated an invasion to remove Arbenz and implement a right-winged military president.

And so began the series of military presidents with counterinsurgency training and money from the US government. They may have been “anti-communist” during the Cold War, but they were no stranger to violence. Land reforms were reversed, voting rights were restricted, a secret police force was created, and the military repression was common.

In response to these dictators, a few left-wing guerrilla groups began to form, and so began the Civil War.

By 1979, 60,000 people had been killed in political violence. My family tells me stories of professors, students in political groups, and anti-government sentimented people disappearing overnight.

There are rumours in Guatemala that many of the missing people’s bodies were dropped into active volcanoes because many bodies were never found.

1980s – A Genocide

Four guerrilla groups united to form URNG (The Guatemalan national Revolutionary Unity). The President the time, General Efraín Ríos Montt, was an Evangelical Christian nut, who acted out on the groups by orchestrating the systematic murders of men, women, and children in more than 400 Mayan villages in the name of anticommunism.

100,000 Maya refugees fled to Mexico. Hundreds of thousands more died.

Both sides during the war committed atrocities and horrible acts of war. The left-winged guerrillas were not above these atrocities, but there’s no question that the government continued to violate human rights and lead civilian massacres.

Peace Accords and Recent History

After 36 years of Civil War, the Peace Accords finally took place in 1996 under a center-right president, but not much progress has been made on owning up to the atrocities. International organizations continue to criticize the government for dismissing the genocide.

The current Presidential Administration still refuses to admit there was a genocide in the Ixil triangle in the 1980s, even though Ríos Montt was charged with genocide. A later court ruling overturned the conviction, however, and called for a re-trail that will probably never happen.

Many Presidents since have been accused of laundering money and corruption.

Otto Pérez, a general for Ríos Montt during the genocide, took office in 2012. In 2015, the UN anti-corruption agency claimed Pérez’ administration was taking bribes from importers in exchange for reduced customs fees. Mass protests were organized and tens of thousands of Guatemalans turned to the streets. The Vice President resigned first, unable to explain how she paid for a US$13 million helicopter.

In the following months over 20 officials resigned and many were arrested. President Otto Pérez was forced to resign and arrested that year. This is the first time in Guatemala’s history that peaceful protests made some serious progress and an ex-president sits in a cell.

Jimmy Morales, whose popularity stems from the fact he is from outside the country’s political elite, hasn’t proven to be much better, thanks to his military ties. Gun violence and drug related crime is on the rise in Guatemala, and police are understaffed, underpaid, and under-resourced.

Some Unique Experiences in Guatemala

Things go wrong on the road ALL THE TIME. Be prepared for what life throws at you.

Buy an AMK Travel Medical Kit before you head out on your next adventure – don’t be daft!

Scuba Dive Guatemala on a Liveaboard Trip

Guatemala might not be super well-known for its scuba diving. That said, if you love to dive, joining a Liveaboard trip in Guatemala is a chance to explore the waters off of Guatemala’s coast.

You dive in the mornings, chill with fellow dive maniacs by evening; it’s that simple! Liveaboard trips take you to some pretty incredible remote dive locations. Who doesn’t want to wake up on a boat and dive in the sea everyday for a week?

Final Advice Before Visiting Guatemala

As someone who is half Guatemalan, this country holds a special place in my heart. I spent my childhood traveling to Guatemala to visit family. Last year I finally got a chance to truly backpack Guatemala, and go places even my family hasn’t been. This experience led me to fall in love with this country in a different way, all over again.

I highly suggest backpacking Guatemala if you are in search of an adventure. You will meet some of the kindest and warmest people in Guatemala, and experience some of the most beautiful culture and natural scenery.

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Ana Pereira

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14 Comments

Wow Ana, this is a nice article. So interested to travel in this part of the world.

Glad you enjoyed it!

Hi, i have a little supplement about getting around in Guatemala. If you are a group of 3 or 4, you should think about a rental car. For a three weeks tour it is not much more expensive than the private shuttles and you have more flexibility. Best regards Stefan

I will be traveling from belize to guatemala in a couple months. What would you suggest is the best way to get from belize to guatemala as well as the safest as I will be a solo traveling female. Is there a specific bus line or shuttle you would recommend?

Thank you! Zeina

Thanks for putting your excellent research and suggestions clearly in one place. If I only have 3 weeks, how would you modify your 4 week itinerary?

FLORES! Beware! AVOID THIS PLACE AT ALL COST! Everlasting Travel Agency selling bus tickets and tours is a LYING CHEATING FRAUD!!! If they know you are buying a ticket out of Flores and won’t come back, they will overcharge you by up to 400% while telling totally sincere sounding stories how they feel sorry for travellers getting cheated by others. Trip times are easily double of what this crook tells you. He also lied about the route, saying this bus would go directly to Chetumal and NOT stop on the road. Instead, it got off to a really late start because the driver picked up extra passengers (Guatemalans as a side business ,in all sorts of out of the way places), then went all the way into Belize City to pick up more travellers, Instead of 7 hours, we took 14,5 hours! They sold me a ticket to Chetumal/Mexico and on to Tulum at 400% the regular price. I knew it was expensive but wanted a guaranteed seat as it was the last bus of the evening to Tulum, Mexico and transfer time was short. I was given a (fake) voucher for the onward Chetumal-Tulum trip, to be changed into a bus ticket at their “partner agency” in Chetumal terminal. The partner agency did not exist. Needless to say, I had to buy a new ticket and also ended up missing the bus and getting stranded in Chetumal for the night. Fraud like this seems to be common in Flores – they prey on travellers who they know will not come back and report them to the police. Best buy at your honest hostel. I compared a lot of prices and the touts were ALWAYS a worse deal. Do not believe what they tell you about hostels taking higher prices.

Lake Atitlan is a beautiful lake in the Western Highlands of Guatemala that is ringed by several volcanoes. You can hop by shuttle boat between the villages surrounding the lake, many of which are backpacker favourites.

Great article, I’ll be checking out as many of those places as possible next month! Where is that gorgeous place in the photo you have below the title? I must know…

I’m heading to Guatemala for 3 weeks in June, and can’t wait. As a young solo female traveller, do you think it is safe and do you have any precautionary advice??

Hey Emma, Here are a few things you could keep in mind especially as newer traveller. Don’t go crazy and do a bunch of stuff you’d never even think of doing at home. Sure, try new and exciting things, but don’t go overboard with straight out risky behaviour. Be aware of your surrounding and who is around you. Don’t immediately divulge extensive information about yourself, where you’re staying, if you’re travelling alone or not. Keep it vague. Scams can happen over a number of days and involve a number of people, who, if you put too much info about yourself out there to the wrong person now know, who you are, where you’re staying and if you’re alone. Follow your gut instincts and use your street smarts! Have a great trip

Hi Emma! I am travelling to Guatemala alone this June and saw you that were there travelling alone last June. How did you find the experience and do you have any precautionary advice for a female traveller there??

I was wondering how much did you spend in Guatemala and how did the whole journey took. I live in El Salvador, it’s really close to GT and I fell in love just by reading your blog.

I spent five weeks in Guatemala, had a truly brilliant time 🙂

Thanks for this article! x

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Backpacking in Central America , Backpacking in Guatemala , Budget Travel Guides

Backpacking guatemala on a budget.

Guatemala is a special place.  Torn apart by civil war from 1960 to 1996, Guatemala is slowly recovering and is now becoming a must-visit destination in Central America.  Backpacking in Guatemala will reward you with incredible scenery and natural wonders, from volcanoes to limestone pools and huge lakes, strong indigenous cultures and colourful clothes, delicious food and a warm welcome.  I have brought together all my Guatemala travel tips for you in this epic backpacking Guatemala guide, including a handy Guatemala itinerary so you don’t miss out on any of the best places to visit in Guatemala.

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Skip ahead to read articles about  specific destinations in Guatemala

Vital Information for Guatemala

Currency: Quetzal ( check the exchange rate here )

Capital City: Guatemala City

Population: around 17 million people

Language: Spanish is the only official language, although there are also 21 different Mayan languages and two non-Mayan Amerindian languages, Xinca and Garifuna, which are spoken in Guatemala.

In an emergency call: 911 or 1500

Where is Guatemala?

Guatemala is the largest country in Central America , and although Nicaragua is larger in size, Guatemala has the highest population of any country in Central America.  Guatemala is south of Mexico and borders Belize to the east, and El Salvador and Honduras to the south.

Guatemala has a fairly long Pacific Coastline (with some great spots for surfing), but the eastern coastline is much shorter.  From here you can travel by boat to Belize or Honduras.

Entry Requirements

Americans, Australians, Canadians, and British nationals don’t need a visa to enter Guatemala as a tourist.  Be sure to check with the Guatemalan consulate in your area for the exact requirements and processes to apply for a visa if your country requires one.  See also the vaccination section below.

The length of stay permitted on entering Guatemala is up to 90 days, and you may be asked for proof of onward travel, which is more likely if you fly in, although is becoming more common at land border crossings too.  If you arrive in Guatemala by bus or shuttle from Mexico, Belize, El Salvador or Honduras, make sure you ask the driver to stop while you get an entry stamp, as sometimes buses don’t stop at immigration which causes problems for travellers later on.

Your passport also needs to be valid for a minimum of 6 months from the date of entry into Guatemala.

If you want to spend longer backpacking Guatemala, you must submit an application to extend your visa at the Migration Directorate in Guatemala City.  For more information, contact the General Directorate of Migration in Guatemala City – this page has the form needed to complete , with what you need to bring.  Most of the page is in Spanish, but scroll down for the English version form “application of extension of tourist or traveller visa”.

If you overstay your visa then you should expect to pay a fine before leaving the country. This fine can only be paid at the Migration Directorate in Guatemala City. Fines can’t be paid at the airport or land borders, so plan ahead and don’t get caught out – you might not be able to leave!

READ MORE: Your Guide to Crossing Borders in South America

Departure tax

There is a US$30 (or Quetzal equivalent) airport departure tax, which is normally included in the price of your plane ticket.

According to the UK government website, when crossing into Guatemala by a land border, there have been numerous reports of customs/immigration officials charging an illegal “entry fee”. By asking for an official receipt for your money you may find that the “fee” is dropped.

Central America Border Control Agreement

Guatemala is part of the Central America Border Control Agreement (CA-4), which means that British tourists can travel within any of the CA-4 countries (Honduras, Nicaragua, El Salvador and Guatemala) for a period of up to 90 days without completing entry and exit formalities at border checkpoints. This period begins at the first point of entry of any of the CA-4 countries. 

If you go over this 90-day limit you will be fined, and if you are close to the limit you may be denied entry to the next CA-4 country if they don’t think you will leave before the 90 days is up.  It is possible to request for an extension (with a fee) before the 90 days expires. Bear in mind that if you are expelled from any of the four countries you will also be banned from the entire CA-4 region.

If you plan to travel onwards to Nicaragua, check their entry requirements as they may not be the same as Guatemala.

British travellers should use  this website  for up to date travel advice and entry restrictions when planning to go backpacking in Ecuador.

Americans can use the  Department of State website , Canadians click  here , and Australians can use has  Smart Traveller  to help.

Apologies if your country isn’t listed here – a quick google search for “(country name) gov travel advice” should bring up the relevant information for your country.

If you need to arrange any visas,  Embassy Pages has a list of all the embassies and consulates for countries around the world.  Alternatively, you can use an agency like iVisa , which can arrange everything for you for an extra fee.

Vaccinations for Guatemala

Although there is no risk of Yellow Fever in Guatemala, if you are arriving from a country with Yellow Fever risk, or have spent more than 12 hours in an airport in a country with Yellow Fever risk on your way to Guatemala, you will need to present a Yellow Fever vaccination certificate. 

All travellers should ensure their routine vaccinations and boosters are up to date, including measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine and the diphtheria-tetanus-polio vaccine.  Hepatitis A and tetanus are also recommended for most travellers, and other vaccinations such as rabies, TB, and typhoid are also recommended in some cases.  There is also a risk of Zika in some parts of Guatemala, so speak to your doctor before travelling if you are pregnant or trying for a baby.  Check this website for more information .

Malaria in Guatemala

There is no risk from Malaria in Guatemala City, Antigua, Lake Atitlan.  There is a low risk of Malaria areas below 1500m above sea level.  Consult your doctor before travelling to Guatemala to discuss malaria prevention in risk areas.

Is Guatemala Safe to Travel?

Guatemala City has a reputation for being dangerous, and apparently has one of the highest violent crime rates in Latin America.  However, most of those figures are due to gang-related crime in Guatemala City.  Personally, I found Antigua to be one of the safest places I visited during my two years backpacking in Latin America and had no problems in Guatemala at all.

Although they are colourful and look great fun, it is not recommended to take the chicken buses due to gang-related attacks on the buses and bus drivers.  This applies all over the country, not just around Guatemala City.  There are several companies operating tourist shuttle buses between key towns and destinations in Guatemala, although these are more expensive, they are convenient, quick and still pretty cheap.

As with most places in South and Central America, don’t walk around by yourself at night, and keep expensive items locked away, not on display.  Scam artists are operating in tourist areas, and a common one around Flores is to sell fake tickets for an onward shuttle to Lanquín or Antigua – only buy your shuttle tickets from your hostel or a travel agent they recommend.

Why go Backpacking in Guatemala?

Guatemala was one of my favourite countries in Central America.  It is a beautiful country, and the scenery is quite spectacular.  For me though, it was the culture here which really stands out, and I was fascinated to learn more about the Mayan and other indigenous cultures here.

Typical Food in Guatemala

Guatemalan food is incredibly cheap, but it is a little basic.  Breakfast is usually refried black beans with scrambled eggs and tortillas, and dinner is essentially the same, perhaps with some white cheese, half an avocado and some fried plantains on the side.  Lunch is usually the main meal of the day with chicken or meat served with rice and tortillas.  My favourite Guatemalan dish is pepían, a rich chicken stew flavoured with pumpkin seeds.  While I was in Antigua I took a Guatemalan cooking class to learn to cook my favourite Guatemalan dishes.

Transport in Guatemala

Flights in guatemala.

There are two international airports in Guatemala, the largest is La Aurora International Airport (GUA) in Guatemala City which is the main airport for arriving in Guatemala.  The other international airport is Mundo Maya International Airport (FRS), just outside the towns of Santa Elena and Flores, and is usually used if you are flying to Tikal.  There are national flights between these two airports as well for around $200 USD return.  There is also a national airport at Puerto Barrios.  >>>Find a great flight deal with Skyscanner .

Buses in Guatemala

The colourful chicken buses look like they are great fun to ride, and each bus is painted with its own design.  However, travelling on local buses can be dangerous as gang attacks on the bus drivers and passengers are unfortunately very common.  Tourists are not recommended to take the chicken buses, instead, there are regular shuttle buses for tourists which run between key destinations in the country. 

WARNING : there is a common scam on shuttles to and from Lanquín (for Semuc Champey) where drivers or assistants will try to sell you an onward ticket.  DON’T DO IT!  These are fake tickets, and the bus you are waiting for in Lanquín will not show up or have no record of you travelling.  So wait until you are in Lanquín to buy your onward shuttle ticket, or ask your hostel to arrange it for you.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Everything you need to know about Buses in South America

Taxis & Tuk-tuks in Guatemala

I only used one taxi in the whole of my three months in Guatemala, and that was to get from the main square in Antigua to my hostel, and it was a rip-off, but if you have no other choice, then try to use official taxi ranks.  Tuk-tuks are also common in Antigua and around Lake Atitlan, just make sure you hold on as rattling over the cobblestones is quite an experience!

Where to Stay in Guatemala

If you are backpacking in Guatemala on budget, you could try Couchsurfing , although hostels are plentiful and generally of good quality, especially in the more popular destinations.  Check reviews for recommendations from other travellers and choose your host or hostel carefully as you would in any destination. Hostelworld is a good choice to book hostels and to see what options are available.

FIND A HOSTEL

You can also find plenty of hotels in Guatemala , too, including luxury ones around Lake Atitlan. A unique hotel in Guatemala is Hobbitenango close to Antigua, where you can stay in a hobbit hole, and wake up to incredible views of volcanoes, just like Middle Earth.  

Homestays are a great way to meet local people and to learn more about the culture in Guatemala, this is more popular around Lake Atitlan and Antigua.  In busy times and public holidays, it is advisable to book ahead, especially in popular destinations. Or check the options on Airbnb .  

READ MORE: The Best Hostels in Semuc Champey

What to do in Guatemala

Guatemala is a beautiful and varied country, and some of the best things to do in Guatemala range from hiking volcanoes to diving in a high altitude lake, surfing waves in the Pacific Ocean, and learning about the local culture.  There are strong indigenous cultures in Guatemala, especially in rural areas.  The tiny villages around Lake Atitlan each have their own traditional clothes and beautiful weaved blouses and skirts, where you can find some wonderful souvenirs. 

There are several cooperatives in Guatemala where women who lost their husbands during the civil war have come together to make and sell their handmade crafts, so make sure you save some cash to buy something.  Coffee is also big in Guatemala, there are coffee fincas around Lake Atitlan to visit, and buy some beans to take home.

READ MORE: The Best Things to do in Guatemala

Guatemala has at least 37 volcanoes, and Fuego , Pacaya , and Santiaguito are active ones.  It is possible to hike many of them, but following the recent eruption of Fuego Volcano which devastated villages in its path, take local advice before hiking up Acatenango.  Tours to hike Acatenango are running again, but please do this responsibly, and consider volunteering to help the local communities affected by the eruption.

The Mayans also colonised northern Guatemala, as well as parts of Mexico, Honduras and Belize. The Mayan ruins at Tikal are magnificent, and there are several more in the region to explore too.

If you are into surfing, the Pacific Coast of Guatemala has some cool surf spots for all levels from beginners to advanced surfers, or for calmer waters, a boat ride down the river from Rio Dulce in the Manantiales Cerro San Gil reserve is wonderfully relaxing.

Spanish Schools in Guatemala

Guatemala is a great place to learn Spanish, it is quite cheap to live and study here, and there are plenty of Spanish language schools in Antigua and around Lake Atitlan.  Many of the schools will arrange accommodation for you with a local family, which is a good way to practise and to learn more about the local people.  Check this post for more information on Spanish schools in Antigua .

Volunteering in Guatemala

If you are backpacking Guatemala slowly, you might want to take advantage of the volunteering opportunities available to allow you to work and travel in Guatemala without spending much money.  You can find volunteering placements in Guatemala on work exchange sites like Workaway , HelpX and WorldPackers , where you pay a small fee to register on the site which then allows you to browse available opportunities and contact the hosts. 

READ MORE ABOUT WORK EXCHANGE PROGRAMS

Volunteering work varies from working on reception at a hostel to teaching in schools, helping to build eco-projects or helping a family to care for their kids.  Volunteering in Guatemala like this is a great way to meet local people and become part of the community, and to save money.  In exchange for part-time work, volunteers usually get lodging and some food included.  Spanish is useful but not always essential to for volunteering in Guatemala so check each opportunity before you apply.

Get a $10 Discount on Your Worldpackers Membership

I’ve teamed up with  Worldpackers  to offer all Tales of a Backpacker readers a  $10 Worldpackers discount on membership fees which means you only need to pay $39 USD for a full year’s verified membership.  Once you are a verified member you can apply to and message all the hosts on Worldpackers  and volunteer all over the world.  What are you waiting for?!

ACTIVATE YOUR DISCOUNT

Other volunteering companies offer ‘Voluntourism’ placements, usually based in or around Antigua where you pay a fee to join an organised volunteer program, usually costing anywhere from $300 to $600 and above per month.

Where to go in Guatemala

Guatemala is a beautiful country, with a variety of landscapes and nature to enjoy.  Huge Mayan ruins, beautiful lakes and waterfalls, live volcanoes and a strong indigenous culture makes Guatemala a fascinating country to spend time in.  These are some of the best places to visit in Guatemala:

This pretty town is on a little island next to Santa Elena.  The buildings here are well kept, and beautifully painted, and many have views of the lake surrounding the island.  Flores is an excellent base for visiting Tikal, and although many people just spend a night or two here, you could easily spend more and explore the area.

A highlight of any Guatemala itinerary, Tikal is not to be missed.  It is close to the border with Belize, so could easily be combined with a visit to Belize.  I highly recommend spending the night in a hammock at Tikal if you have the time, or arrange a day tour from Flores.  Wander through the jungle like Indiana Jones and climb up the pyramids to watch the sunrise or sunset for an extra special experience.

Semuc Champey

For some, Semuc Champey is unmissable, but if you are short on time, the 12-hour journey to Semuc from Flores or Antigua is a long detour.  Shuttles leave from Antigua or Flores first thing in the morning to reach Lanquín in the evening, and you can then take an onward shuttle to Antigua or Flores which leave at 6am in the morning.  You will need to spend at least two nights in Lanquín in order to visit Semuc Champey, check out this post with details of the best hostels in Semuc Champey .  The limestone lakes at Semuc are stunning, and a hike up to the viewpoint is worth the effort!

Guatemala City

Most tourists tend to avoid spending any time in Guatemala City, simply passing through on the way to prettier, safe destinations.  However, if you do have a couple of days to spare then Guatemala City has some wonderful museums and great restaurants to try.  A free hop-on, hop-off bus will take you around the main sights.

I fell in love with Antigua .  It is touristy, and plenty of gringos hang out here to study Spanish, do volunteer work, or just to live for a while.  Explore the cobbled streets, pretty painted houses and ruined churches, felled by a huge earthquake. 

While you are in town you should try to hike at least one of the volcanoes which surround the town; Acatenango is a two-day hike, with a night spent camping at the top of the volcano, and Pacaya is an easier hike that can be done in half a day.  Check local recommendations before climbing any volcanoes.  Be sure to head up into the hills for a unique stay in Hobbitenango , an eco-hotel based on The Hobbit and Lord of the Rings!

Lake Atitlan

Lake Atitlan is truly stunning, and if you don’t include it in your Guatemala itinerary you will seriously miss out!  Tiny indigenous villages surround the lake, and you should spend at least a couple of days here to explore several of the villages which all have their own personality. 

If you have more time, you could take a PADI diving course on the lake, a unique experience to dive at high altitude, and among volcanic rock formations.  There is plenty of culture to soak up here too, from a traditional back-strap weaving class to visiting the coffee fincas on the side of the volcanoes.

Suggested Guatemala Backpacking Route

This Guatemala backpacking itinerary gives a good idea which backpacking route to take so you can go to all of the best places to visit in Guatemala.  Of course, this will change depending on your onward travel plans, how much time you have, what kind of things you like to do, and how much money you have to spend. 

I spent nearly three months in Guatemala, and travelled by bus from Belize to Guatemala, then continued south to Honduras , so I will start the itinerary like this, although it can be easily adjusted to suit your plans.

Backpacking Guatemala Itinerary

From Belize, cross the border close to San Ignacio , and head to Flores.  You can spend a couple of nights in Flores, or go straight to Tikal if you prefer.  Spending the night in a hammock at Tikal was a highlight of my time in Guatemala, so if you’re feeling adventurous then give it a try!  After a day at Tikal, return to Flores. 

From Flores, you could get a shuttle to Lanquín to spend at least two nights here and visit Semuc Champey , or if you are tight on time then take a shuttle to Antigua or Guatemala City.

Antigua is a beautiful colonial town, and is popular with travellers and expats so has quite an international feel.  Spend as much time here as you like, before taking another shuttle to Lake Atitlan.  Spend at least a couple of nights in different villages around Lake Atitlan – there is plenty to do here including hiking, diving, yoga and taking Spanish classes, or a traditional back-strap weaving class. 

Chichicastenango is a market town and worth exploring if you have a couple of days or can be done in a day trip from Lake Atitlan with an early start.

Quetzaltenango (also known as Xela for short) is a great base for hiking in the surrounding area and is a less touristy town where you can study Spanish if Antigua is a bit too much for you. 

If you are continuing your journey in Mexico you can continue from here, most people cross at La Mesilla.  If you continue your journey south to Honduras or El Salvador, then return to Antigua for the onward shuttles.

Once back in Antigua, consider visiting Rio Dulce and Lago de Izabal, where a trip along the river is worth the detour.  I took a shuttle from Antigua to Copan Ruinas in Honduras and continued my journey there.

Backpacking Guatemala is an adventure you won’t forget in a hurry.  The combination of epic natural wonders, fascinating indigenous culture and colourful architecture will have you wanting more.  Have you been backpacking in Guatemala?  I’d love to hear what you think about Guatemala, please leave your comments below.

You may also like these Guatemala posts:

Or click here to read the ultimate guide to backpacking in guatemala ..

The Best Things to do in Guatemala

Lake Atitlán Guatemala – Your Ultimate Guide!

What to do in Antigua Guatemala – The Ultimate Antigua City Guide

Semuc Champey Tour in Guatemala

The Best Hostels in Semuc Champey Guatemala

The Acatenango Volcano Hike to see Fuego in Guatemala

Hiking A Live Volcano in Antigua Guatemala

Hobbitenango – Hobbits in Guatemala’s Middle Earth

Cooking Guatemalan Food with La Tortilla Cooking School Antigua

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Hi! I'm Claire Sturzaker, a 30-something foodie traveller who loves to enjoy the best of a destination without breaking the bank. I'm here to help you and all women backpackers to plan their best budget travel adventure. I am an avid supporter of female solo travel, and took my first solo trip 20 years ago! I love to write about travel, hostels, backpacking and van life.

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Bucket list travel on a budget: Expert tips for airfare, loyalty programs, credit card perks and more

Nicky Kelvin from The Points Guy dives into ways to save this summer.

Many travelers have their sights set on summer getaways , but with everything from baggage fees to fuel costs impacting the price of a ticket, "Good Morning America" is asking travel experts to share tips for booking bucket list destinations on a budget and finding savings along the way.

Travel expert Nicky Kelvin, senior director of content for The Points Guy, offered his tips for affordable travel techniques.

Where to find the best flight deals

Kelvin encourages travelers to utilize Google Flights and other free price-tracking tools to compare fare prices and snag the best deal.

He also suggests using both the calendar and map features within Google Flights to see which airports, dates and destinations how the lowest fare.

From the Google Flights homepage on a computer, click "explore destinations" and select a departure city without adding a destination. Then zoom out on the map to see the best prices for destinations all over the world.

Get the most out of free travel loyalty programs

Travelers should be earning points for anything and everything that they are buying or booking from airline and hotels to car rentals, Kelvin said.

In addition to the points that can can help travelers earn free flights and hotel stays, Kelvin said to look for extra perks just for joining.

Hyatt rewards, for example, offers all guests free breakfast.

For Thrifty Car Rental and Dollar Car Rental, he said you can add your spouse or domestic partner as an additional driver for free.

Loyalty programs are great for airlines too. JetBlue, for example, allows enrolled customers -- even if they don't have enough points for a flight -- to use points for discounts. Plus, with any airline, as you accumulate points to earn status, you can get free seating upgrades.

Travel credit cards with cash back perks

Along with earning points, travel credit cards give you protection for your trip like insurance to help with lost or damaged baggage and trip cancellation protection

Chase debuts new airport lounge: Gourmet menus, sleek interiors, free facials redefine hospitality for airport travel

As for credit cards, The Points Guy team suggests the Capital One Venture Rewards credit card as an all-around pick -- you get 75,000 miles after meeting your minimum spend in the first three months. Which Kelvin said is a value of over $1,300.

If you're looking to earn the most miles, he said look to the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card.

"You'll earn the most points on all your purchases with this one," he said.

Finally, if you want a credit card with no fee, Kelvin suggested the Bilt Mastercard, which he said is particularly great for renters because you can earn points on what's likely someone's biggest expense.

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Save money on international phone plans for summer trips.

If someone's trip is taking them out of the country, using a cell phone internationally can cost $10 to 15 per day. For a family of four, that's more than $400 for a week.

If your phones support eSIM, Kelvin suggested purchasing a data plan for your destination through an app such as Airalo, Truphone or GigSky.

For example, one of Airalo's global SIM plans costs $9 for one week, which could save a family close to $350 dollars, depending on their existing international coverage.

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ABC News Live

24/7 coverage of breaking news and live events

Where to fly on a budget this summer

Airfare experts share their forecasts for summer vacation destinations that won’t break your budget.

This summer is shaping up to be another scorcher , and the demand for summer travel is piping hot, too. If early 2024 trends are any indication of what’s to come, “it’s looking to be busier than 2023,” said Katy Nastro, spokesperson for the flight booking site Going . Recent airport passenger volume numbers have regularly exceeded last year and pre-pandemic levels.

Jeff Klee, CEO of CheapAir.com , says airline capacity has rebounded from pandemic complications, but strong travel demand means summer flight prices can be high, depending on when you’re hoping to go. Flying in June, July or early August will be more expensive than later in the season, according to the company’s summer forecast .

“And it’s not just the airfare,” Klee said in an email. “Expensive hotel rates and crowds everywhere make Western Europe tricky for the summer.”

Despite the price tag, “people are going to go,” said Melanie Fish, the head of global public relations for all Expedia Brands, including Vrbo, Expedia and Hotels.com . “When we look at searches for destinations, they are definitely up year over year.”

For popular destinations like Europe , Klee and Fish say to push trips later into August, September or even October. Not only will prices soften, but you’ll alleviate some of the strain of overtourism .

“My number one tip is go ahead and take that summer vacation, but maybe hold on to take that big, big trip in September,” Fish said.

According to Expedia’s summer 2024 travel outlook , we’re currently in the sweet spot for shopping for early summer flights at the best rates, as Fish says lower fares tend to pop up 21 to 60 days out. It doesn’t hurt to start your search even earlier, setting up price alerts to flag when airfare drops. If you can swing it, look to fly on a Monday for international trips or a Tuesday for domestic trips to save up to 15 percent on fares, Fish added.

It’s not impossible to find good deals on airfare, whether you’re looking for a tropical beach trip , a mountain adventure or a vibrant city. Here are places that are trending cheaper — and the destinations you’ll want to avoid.

Go to Mexico

Sun, surf, culture, chilaquiles — Mexico is always a good idea , but particularly so this summer. With the opening of the new airport in Tulum , U.S. airlines have been adding gobs of new flights to Mexico, particularly to beach regions. “We’ve seen a healthy amount of deals down to Mexico resort areas like Cancún,” Nastro said.

Laura Lindsay, global travel trends expert at Skyscanner , says three Mexican cities — Cancún, San José del Cabo and Puerto Vallarta — are among the top 10 destinations offering travelers the best bang for their buck in 2024.

To escape the summer heat, Phyllis Stoller, president of the Women’s Travel Group , recommends high-altitude destinations like Mexico City or Ixtapan de la Sal, a town near Mexico City with thermal springs.

Avoid European port cities

If you’re considering a visit to a popular European city that’s also a cruise hub, beware. Not only will you be battling the usual summer crowds, you’ll be joined by thousands of day-trippers flooding into the ports — meaning Barcelona, Venice , Athens and Santorini.

Sandra Weinacht, who co-owns the tour company Inside Europe Travel Experiences , says you can avoid some of the madness in these hot spots by staying in neighborhoods away from the typical tourist zones. You can also visit top sites in the late afternoon or evening, after cruise travelers have returned to their ships.

Better yet, wait to visit until the shoulder season

Go to Colorado

Epic hiking, breathtaking nature and more craft beer than you could ever try in a lifetime: The Centennial State is a domestic gem. Ashlee Collins of Inspirato , a luxury travel and lifestyle subscription service, says Vail is popular among members this summer. Not only is the ski resort beautiful sans snow, it’s drivable for many, cutting a significant cost for travelers.

Airfare to Colorado is looking more reasonable than other domestic vacation hubs. Nastro recently spotted a Miami-to-Denver, round-trip fare over the July Fourth holiday for just $199. She says an average round trip from major U.S. cities is running between $173 and $250, but those prices are expected to climb upward of $350 the closer we get to summer.

Avoid places at risk for wildfires

Wildfires have become an unfortunate fixture of summers in the Northern Hemisphere. Last year’s fires in Europe — including those in Cyprus and Greece — were among the worst so far this century, the European Commission reported .

Stoller says fire risk has been a factor in her summer travel planning; she nixed a New England cruise after remembering how bad smoke was last year because of the fires in Canada . “None of us can predict everything, but that would be something I would be aware of,” she said.

Extreme heat is also an issue. Last July, Southern Europe experienced excessively high temperatures from a “heat dome.”

“There’s a concern about heat,” Stoller said. “Last summer was really painful.”

Go to the Caribbean

The Caribbean has its peak tourist season during the winter, when Americans flock to warmer waters. That means summer trips to the region tend to be quieter and cheaper.

“You can go under $300 to pretty much all of the islands: Puerto Rico, Jamaica, Aruba, Dominican Republic,” said Lindsay Schwimer, a consumer travel expert at Hopper . She’s seen similar price point flights to Colombia.

Lindsay of Skyscanner also said Puerto Rico and the Bahamas offer some of the most affordable flights from the United States this summer.

Avoid Paris

Unless you’re going for the Olympics , skip the French capital this summer.

“Paris is always a top destination in the summer, but this summer … it’s going to be on another level,” said Madison Pietrowski, head of U.S. brand at GetYourGuide .

Not only are hotel prices high, “we’re seeing that some of the top attractions like the Louvre have raised their ticket prices,” Pietrowski said.

Nastro says the crowds are going to be “bananas” during the Games, and not just in Paris. Olympic travelers are likely to add on other French destinations to their trip, like Nice — which will host soccer games — or the Côte d’Azur, which already gets popular in the summertime.

Even if you try to get ahead of the rush by visiting before the July 26 start date, you may still have some Olympics-related headaches in the French capital. As the city races to finish prep, “you might find that there’s going to be eyesores and scaffolding and loud noises early in the morning,” Nastro said.

Go to rural Europe

Interest in Western Europe has not slowed down, and Americans are expected to surge back en masse this summer. If you’d like to avoid them, put rural European destinations on your radar.

Weinacht is bullish on Spain’s Rioja region , the Basque countryside and the central Italian region of Umbria, which borders Tuscany but does not see the same levels of tourism. She’s also a fan of Carinthia, the least-populated state of Austria. “It is castle- and lake-dotted, doesn’t get too hot, and oh, the food and stories the cities and villages can tell,” Weinacht said in an email.

Weinacht says she’s been getting more requests from Americans for trips to her homeland, Germany. The country is easy to navigate with its high-speed trains, and offers a mix of small and big cities spread across powerhouse wine regions, UNESCO World Heritage sites and many food festivals . According to Skyscanner, airlines in the United States have been increasing their flights to Germany — namely, Frankfurt, an international business hub — meaning you may be able to find more deals.

Avoid Sicily and Amalfi

If your dream Italian destination has been featured on TV lately, that’s a red flag. The last season of “The White Lotus” spurred an interest in already popular Sicily ; the same is happening to the Amalfi Coast thanks to the new Netflix miniseries “Ripley.”

“They’re really going to be the most expensive and they’re going to be pretty crowded for the summer,” Schwimer said.

Where to go

Our favorite destinations: These 12 destinations are at the top of our wish list for where to go this year, without crowds. In 2023, we explored an Alaskan bear paradise, Brooklyn’s famous pizzerias and a hidden gem in Italy, among other highlights .

Travel like a local: Residents share their favorite places in our top city guides: New Orleans , Rome , Tokyo and Mexico City .

National parks: This comprehensive guide has details on all 63 U.S. national parks. For a deep dive into five of the most well-known, you can listen to the Field Trip podcast . Then explore tips from locals for visiting Yosemite , Glacier and Everglades .

Tales from the road: Dolly Parton has opened a new resort at her theme park complex in Tennessee, while “Fixer Upper” stars Chip and Joanna Gaines have a new hotel in Waco . Road-trippers may be just as excited to see the cartoon beaver at Buc-ee’s , and bargain-hunters should consider a stop at the Unclaimed Baggage store in Scottsboro, Ala.

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I used this travel pack as my carry-on for an eight-day trip — it’s officially the best bag I’ve ever traveled with

At this point in my life, I pride myself on being somewhat of an experienced traveler. In the last six months alone, I’ve been to five different countries, so it’s safe to say I do it often enough to know a thing or two about flight prep. 

With airlines cracking down on personal items and prices soaring for checked bags, a solid carry-on travel pack that meets flight criteria is more important than ever before — and as a result, I’ve become extremely picky with my bag choices.

After plenty of baggage failures, I finally found a great one: The Cotopaxi 35L Travel Pack. I chose this pick as my carry-on for an eight-day trip to Guatemala after seeing it all over JFK Airport in New York City recently. I just had to give it a try.

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack

Allpa 35L Travel Pack

What is the cotopaxi allpa 35l travel pack.

When I first received this travel pack, my first thought was that it was the perfect hybrid between a suitcase and a backpack. The Allpa 35 opens up in a clamshell-style, like your typical suitcase, and has three total internal mesh compartments: one large compartment on the right side and one subdivided compartment (with three sections) on the left. It also has a padded laptop and tablet sleeve , with shortcut zippers to the main compartment for easy access while on the go.

As the name suggests, this travel pack has a 35L capacity, so it’s compatible with most carry-on airline standards . I flew on a budget airline for my trip to Guatemala, and I was worried I wouldn’t get to use the bag as a carry-on since it appeared rather large (I really packed this thing to the brim!), but I had no issues at all.

What I like about the product

It packs way more than you’d think.

According to the brand, this is “the ultimate adventure travel pack, ideal for three to five days away.” This is a claim I can confirm was slightly on the conservative side, considering I packed for a full eight days in this bag. While Guatemala has a warmer climate — hence why the clothing I packed really only consisted of smaller items like shorts and T-shirts — I did go on a major hike that required more gear, and I was able to still fit all my essentials in this bag.

That said, I think if I had traveled to a colder climate that necessitated larger, thicker clothing, I might not have been able to fit eight days worth of apparel — so keep that in mind while packing!

The minor details have a major impact

When it comes to this bag, trust me when I say it’s  all  in the details. It has anti-theft zippers, which gives me peace of mind while walking through crowded airports or train stations. It also has a top zippered pocket so you can easily access  essentials  like your wallet or passport while on the go.

For the adventurer, there are also carabiner loops for clipping on any extra gear you may need on your trip (i.e. hiking shoes, additional bags, etc.). But my favorite detail? The padded straps. I overpacked this bag when I traveled to Central America, and it was  heavy . The straps were thick and comfortable, and they didn’t dig into my shoulders no matter how much weight was in the bag. The removable hip straps also helped with support while carrying a heavier pack. 

What to consider

While I find it hard to come up with any downsides to this travel pack , some might find that its lack of external pockets is a bit inconvenient for those who like to keep most things super accessible. This bag also doesn’t have a designated water bottle sleeve, but I guess you could hook a water bottle to the carabiner loops if you really wanted to.

Ultimately, this bag seems to combine the comfort, accessibility and flexibility of a backpack with the spacious aspects of a suitcase. Whether you’re on a lengthy trip in Central America or a weekend getaway in Boston, this bag will have you covered — and I’ll be using it on every trip I have planned from here on out. In fact, I’m going to Iceland soon, and you can rest assured this bag will be coming with me. 

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Julie Ricevuto currently works as the Commerce Editor & Producer for Shop TODAY. When she’s not working, you can find her training for her next marathon or restaurant hopping in search of the best pasta dish in New York City.

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Game and Fish budget tightens

• Mark Davis Powell Tribune Via Wyoming News Exchange
• Apr 26, 2024
• 29 mins ago

For the years since being cut off from the Legislature’s general fund, the Wyoming Game and Fish Department has been running relatively flat budgets, growing only slightly since 2017 at a time that has seen additional expenses and rising costs for labor, equipment, fuel, housing and wildlife damage claims.

The Legislature basically asked the department to run as a business. But they weren’t given all the tools in the toolbox they would need to do so, according to Game and Fish Deputy Director of Internal Operations Eric Wiltanger.

“At that time, (the Legislature) gave us the approval to run like a business. But they didn’t give us the ability to set fee increases or the ability to adjust for inflation,” he said in an interview with the Powell Tribune.

The fiscal year 2025 preliminary budget shows attempts to pinch every penny, but those pennies have a limit on how thin they can get, he said.

“We definitely need more revenue, and new revenue. We’ve tightened the belt as much as we can,” he said, adding that deferring equipment purchases and maintenance can only go so far without putting the department at a disadvantage. “It’s critical for our field folks.”

Without assistance from the General Fund, the department relies on licenses, tags and fees for about 85% of its budget. The other 15% comes through federal taxes on fishing and hunting equipment and grants. The proposed standard budget for 2025 is just over $102 million, up about 3% per year (22% total) since the department stopped receiving funding through the state’s General Fund, and well behind the rate of inflation — especially in labor costs, housing and vehicles.

Nobody can argue the past seven years haven’t been tough on budgets. Families, businesses and governmental agencies have all needed to learn to juggle post-COVID. Yet recent attempts to increase Game and Fish revenue streams have been denied by the state Legislature.

This past session, a bill was proposed for an increase of about 10% for nonresident fishing licenses. The bill would have increased the nonresident daily, five-day, and annual fishing license fees from $12 to $14, $54 to $60, and $100 to $110, respectively and would have brought in a projected $673,000. However, the bill failed a vote for introduction by two votes, including a nay from Rachel Rodriguez-Williams, R-Cody, the only representative in the Powell area to vote against it.

During the previous session a bill was proposed to request an increase in nonresident fees for large game licenses, which would have brought Wyoming in line with other Western states. That too failed to pass, with both area senators Dan Laursen, R-Powell, and Tim French, R-Powell, voting no in the failed committee of the whole vote.

“In response to inflation; increased costs continue to limit the commission’s ability to put dollars on the ground for wildlife and wildlife habitat. With these constraints, we continue to take a deeper dive into our budget and evaluate where our resources are applied,” said commission President Richard Ladwig. “Sportsperson user fees are the primary funding source for the department. The majority of these fees are set in Wyoming state statute, which the commission has no authority to modify.”

During the 2024 legislative interim session, the department’s financial picture will be assessed to determine where there may be opportunities to generate additional revenue. Programs, infrastructure and current license fee structure are some of the intended areas to be assessed. In May, the department plans to talk financial planning to “hopefully educate everybody on kind of where things are at,” Wiltanger said.

Yet, recent responses by the Legislature to past bills suggest the prospects of additional revenue are slim.

“I wouldn’t say we’re at an impasse, but we are tight on our budget. So if (prices) continue to rise, just like everybody else we’re going to take a hit. We’re going to have to probably do less on the ground at some point, just to keep (the budget) flat,” he said.

The commissioners might now find themselves unable to respond to emergencies and special issues as they have in the past due to a shrinking discretionary fund, which is down about 65% from previous years. Some of those recent issues receiving emergency funding for the commission’s discretionary fund include migration corridors and predator control.

Discretionary funds are often allocated by the commission for two primary reasons. One is to address unanticipated expenditures, such as the increased costs it took to address the unprecedented winter experienced in 2023 in parts of the state and legislative increases to fund employee pay adjustments over the past two years. The other is to invest in high-priority projects. For example, extensive research specifically for mule deer over the past 10 years, new regional offices in Laramie and Cody, construction of employee housing in Teton County to ensure Game and Fish can maintain a presence there, and the construction of a warm and cool water hatchery at the Speas facility in Casper to mitigate the risk of invasive species introduction and disease.

The preliminary budget for next year shows large cost saving attempts by department actuaries, but seemingly temporary bandages. For example, the department intends to take a year off from its typical maintenance and replacement plan for employee housing (other than the Jackson housing project, which received full appropriation in the FY24 budget).

The department has more than 100 houses for employees, such as game warden housing, the two bird farms, 10 hatcheries and Sybille Wildlife Research Center. Game and Fish plans to do a study this coming year to better schedule for future needs, Wiltanger said. But taking the year off will also save nearly $1 million in fiscal year 2025.

“With the price of everything, and especially the price of housing, to go in and buy a $200,000 house is unheard of anymore. And it doesn’t matter what community in Wyoming you’re looking at,” he said.

The department will also save nearly $400,000 from purchasing fewer vehicles and by assessing the actual need for employees who aren’t always in need of the mighty, green, three-quarter and one-half ton trucks common to those who travel off-road. They also plan to defer some maintenance.

“It’s the operating and maintenance cost on vehicles that has gone up more substantially,” said department Chief Financial Officer Meredith Wood.

Despite the savings, it’s somewhat risky to prolong vehicle purchases due to that financial sweet zone between trade-in value and increased maintenance costs, Wood said.

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This Is the Most Affordable Beach Destination in the U.S.

Have fun in the sun for less at Twelvemile Beach in Michigan.

Samantha Bohon, @sbohon1/Courtesy of Travel Michigan

Summer is just around the bend, which may have you dreaming about a beachside vacation. Here's the good news: the vacation can become a reality for much less than you think. 

DIVEIN Travel released its latest study showcasing the top beach destinations for budget-conscious travelers. To create its rankings the team calculated based on factors like dining and beverage prices and the median cost for a six-night stay for two to find the best beaches for the best price for spring and summer travel. 

After looking at all the data, the team named Twelvemile Beach in Michigan the top choice for a budget beach trip. 

"Twelvemile Beach emerges as the most budget-friendly option, offering unparalleled value with the lowest average hotel cost of just $464.31 for a six-night stay," the team stated in its findings, which it shared with Travel + Leisure . Here, the team added, travelers can "enjoy meals for around $20 and beers for $7.50 while basking in the tranquil ambiance of Michigan’s shores." 

According to the National Parks Service , the beach is, you guessed it, 12 miles long and a prime spot for day-use and picnicking in the sun. However, it also noted that visitors need to be "prepared for a long flight of stairs leading from the bluff down to the beach." Pups are also allowed, so long as they are on a leash. 

Following Twelvemile Beach is Mustang Island State Park in Texas, which came in second thanks to its affordable hotel prices, which average $476.94 for a six-night stay. And in third place is Wrightsville Beach in North Carolina, where travelers can expect hotel stays priced at $636.70.  

Coast Guard Beach in Cape Cod, Massachusetts, came in fourth, with a six-night stay running at $651.70, while Sand Beach in Acadia National Park, Maine, rounded out the top with hotel prices averaging $796.67.  

On the other end of the spectrum, Honokalani Beach on the island of Maui in Hawaii ranked as the most expensive, but honestly, it's worth saving up to see this gorgeous place in person one day.

Need more beach inspiration? Check out the 26 most beautiful beaches on earth, then start plotting your getaway.

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