*Guatemala Consular Travel Visa - The following countries are exempt from needing visas to enter the country. Do check with your consulate since visa situations can change. South Africa, Germany, Andorra, Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Australia, Austria, The Bahamas, Bahrein, Barbados, Belgium, Belize, Brazil, Brunei-Darussalam?, Bulgaria, Canada, Chile, China, Cyprus, Korea, South Korea, Costa Rica, Croatia, Denmark, El Salvador, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, The United States, Estonia, Finland, France, (those from French territories, are granted "Extension of Visa" status), Greece, Guam, Guatemala, Honduras, Hungary, Ireland, Iceland, Marshall Islands, Solomon Islands, Israel, Italy, Japan, Kuwait, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macedonia, Madagascar, Malaysia, Malta, Mexico, Monaco, Nicaragua, Norway, New Zealand, Panama, Paraguay, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Holland (those originating from Dutch Aruba and the Antilles will receive the same status), Great Britain and Northern Ireland, Special Administrative Regions of the People¹s Republic of China, Hong Kong, Czech Republic, Rumania, San Kitts and Nevis, San Marino, San Vincent and Granadines, Saint Lucia, Vatican City, Saint Thomas and Principe, Singapore, Sweden, Switzerland, Trinidad and Tobago, Turkey, Tuvalu, Uruguay, Vanuatu, Venezuela.
*The official currency of Guatemala is the Quetzal (named after the bird -symbol of the country). The exchange is approximately US$ 1 to 6,40 - 6,60 quetzales. Check exchange rates before traveling. American dollars are accepted everywhere in the country. Most credit cards are accepted in the larger cities.
*Water: In general, the water is safe, however it would be wise to drink only bottled mineral water. When you leave the large cities and go to smaller towns, be careful; for your own safety, we recommend that you only drink bottled
water. As in all countries, the hygiene and cleaning of food depends on the establishment you are in. In general, serious problems do not exist.
*It is not necessary to take any vaccines to visit this country.
*In Guatemalan restaurants, the tip varies from 10% to 15% of the total bill. In some restaurants and bars, the tip is included on the bill
*On international flights, there is an exit tax upon departure of U.S. $30, and for domestic flights a tax of Q 5.00.
*There is a 12 % tax on all purchases and a 10 % hotel tax.
*The official language is Spanish. Guatemala also has other dialects such as Quiché, Cakchiquel, Kekchí, Mam, Garífuna and Xinca.
*Be sure to arrive early for trail hikes in Tikal Park.
*Catholicism is the official religion.
*The electrical current is 110/220 volts.
*Regulations and requirements are subject to change without prior notice. It is wise to have a check-up with your doctor before you leave on your trip.
*It is recommended that you take light clothing, comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
*Be alert for thieves watching for unsuspecting tourists. Do not take unnecessary risks.
*Some taxis are more reasonably priced than others. Ask for information at your hotel.
*Copa Airlines offer weekly flights; United also flies into Guatemala
*The best time to visit Guatemala is from September to April when the rains diminish.
For Vacation Packages and Tours to Guatemala click here.
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