In this page we have tried to answer the most common and popular travel related Guatemala FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions). If any of our answers to these questions aren’t entirely clear to you, or you have any other queries, please don’t hesitate to drop us an email or give us a call.
Is Guatemala safe?
The vast majority of visitors enjoy safe, trouble-free holidays and any concerns or preconceptions you may have had about safety should in no way put you off travelling to Guatemala.
All the holidays we are arrange are private, tailor made tours with expert guides who know exactly where to visit where to avoid. The likes of Antigua, Chichicastenango, Panajachel (Lake Atitlan), Quetzaltenango and Flores are absolutely fine for visitors to explore on their own.
The only destination in Guatemala where one needs to exercise caution, or simply avoid altogether (and you won’t be missing much), is the nation’s capital, Guatemala City.
What time zone is Guatemala in? 
Guatemala is 6 hours behind GMT and does not change its clocks during the year. So, during the winter Guatemala is 6 hours behind the UK while, in the summer, it is 7 hours behind.
For our North American friends, Guatemala is on Central Standard Time all year round.
What is the currency of Guatemala? 
The Guatemala unit of currency is known as the Quetzal (named after the national bird) which is further divided into 100 centavos.
It is now possible to buy Quetzales before travelling to Guatemala. Once in-country, there are ATMs in all the major tourist destinations as well as within convenience stores.
What language do they speak in Guatemala? 
Spanish is the official language of Guatemala although many tourist hotels will have some English-speaking employees. As with most countries, the further you venture from the major tourist centres, the less likely you are to find English speakers. Please note however that all our Driver / Guides speak fluent English.
In addition to Spanish, Guatemala is home to over 20 Mayan languages as well as Garifuna (in Livingston) and Xinca.
Which airlines fly to Guatemala? 
We have a whole page dedicated regarding flights to Guatemala. For our clients in the UK, travelling to Guatemala will mean indirect flights, generally via the US.
Do I need travel insurance? 
There is no law requiring visitors to Guatemala to have travel insurance. However, for clients in the UK booking a holiday package through us, it is a condition of booking that clients have travel insurance. Beyond The Ordinary do not arrange travel insurance, nor are we able to offer advice.
British FCO advice for Guatemala 
Up to date guidance on travel to Guatemala from the UK is provided by the British Foreign & Commonwealth Office.
Travel Aware 
The British government website aimed at preparing travellers for safe and healthy travel abroad.
Guatemala Embassy in the UK 
105A Westbourne Grove, London / Tel: 020 7221 1525
Do I need vaccinations for Guatemala? 
There are no compulsory vaccinations for travel to Guatemala. Clients should consult their surgery or Travel Health Pro for up to date information and recommendations.
Further FAQs and Travel Information 
Clients who book with Beyond The Ordinary will receive further, more detailed information before they travel.
Do I need a visa to visit Guatemala? 
UK passport holders do not require a visa to enter Guatemala for stays of up to 90 days. However, your passport must be valid for at least 6 months after your planned date of return to the UK.
All travellers entering or exiting Guatemala must also complete the immigration pre-clearance form from 2 weeks prior to departure. You will receive a confirmation email, which you should print and carry with you and / or have a screen shot of the QR code.
Non-UK citizens should check entry requirements with their nearest Guatemalan consulate.
If flying via the United States, UK and most other nationalities will require at least an ESTA, perhaps even a full US Visa. Please be sure to double check before committing to any booking.
What is the voltage in Guatemala?
What is the voltage in Guatemala?
The standard voltage in Guatemala is 120v with a frequency of 60Hz. Depending on your device, you may therefore need a voltage converter.
What sort of plugs do they use in Guatemala and will I need an adaptor?
In Guatemala, they use Type A and Type B plugs. The more common type A has two flat parallel pins, while the Type B has two flat parallel pins and a grounding pin.