Backpacking Guatemala Travel Guide

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you. Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more.

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!

If you want to have a bit more flexibility when it comes to your schedule and freedom to get a little off the beaten path, you could consider renting a car in Guatemala. If you get a few mates on board, it actually becomes a pretty affordable way to get around. I’d recommend checking out DiscoverCars for the best deals.

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. There are also some fantastic hostels in Lake Atitlan where you can make a base for a little while.

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 a bus to Flores, the gateway to the impressive Mayan ruins of Tikal. Flores is a laid-back town and backpacker hang out in the middle of an island in a lake. You only need a couple of 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 Atitlan 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 a 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.

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 Rainbow Café.

If you’re looking to party, check out El Barrio or swing by the Snug, a popular Irish bar. 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 it 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 2021 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. Thankfully this volcano is extinct – meaning it will never erupt again.

You can also climb Volcán Agua for spectacular views of Antigua. Hiking time is about 5 hours from Santa Maria de Jesús. Be aware however that this hike can be dangerous with armed robbers lurking on the trail.

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!) as well as having the best hostels in Guatemala. 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 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. The 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 Todo 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 Doña 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.

Traveling Off the Beaten Path in Guatemala

If you like adventure, Guatemala is full of cool places that most tourists don’t see. You can swim in bright blue pools at Semuc Champey, hidden deep in the jungle. Or head to Nebaj, a quiet town in the mountains where you’ll meet friendly locals and see amazing views.

Near Xela, there are volcano hikes that are tough but worth it. And over by Rio Dulce, you’ll find rivers, jungle, and even a chill beach vibe. These spots aren’t fancy, but they feel real – and that’s what makes them special. Just pack light, stay flexible, and enjoy the ride.

One of the best ways to travel off-the-beaten-path is to hire your own wheels. If you can convince a few mates to join you, it can actually be pretty affordable… and bloody good time!

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.

Join a sunrise tour and get there while it’s still dark, just in time to climb a temple and watch the jungle come alive. As the mist lifts and the howler monkeys kick off, you’ll feel like you’ve wandered into another world – no crowds, no noise, just you, the ruins, and the raw buzz of the rainforest.

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.

Jumping on a walking tour with a local is the smartest move if you want to actually get under the skin of the place. The guides aren’t just full of fun facts – they dive into the politics, culture, and Mayan traditions that give Antigua its real edge, making the city feel a whole lot more alive than just another pretty postcard.

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.

Whilst you’re here you have to check out Pacaya Volcano: the most active volcano in Guatemala. Towering at 2,500 metres, you can hike it on a guided tour through steamy jungle trails and volcanic sand paths. From the plateau, you’ll score views of three other volcanoes – Agua, Fuego, and Acatenango – and if Pacaya’s in the mood, you’ll spot real lava flows and feel the heat rising from the earth itself. 

You can’t get to the crater (unless you fancy melting), but it’s still one of the most unforgettable, slightly mad, nature-powered experiences you’ll have in Guatemala.

5. Hang out around Lake Atitlán

Lake Atitlán is hands-down one of the best spots in Guatemala – ringed by three volcanoes and dotted with villages that each have their own personality, rhythm, and stories to tell. The strong Maya presence gives the place a real cultural weight, and you’ll find yourself doing things you didn’t even know were on your list.

Jump on a boat, soak in the views of Atitlán, Tolimán, and San Pedro volcanoes, and let the magic do its thing. It’s easy to see why this place pulled in the beatniks and bohemian wanderers—there’s something deeply grounding about life on the lake. Just don’t forget to support the locals, sip a cold cerveza, and take it all in without rushing.

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

Tucked deep in the jungle, Semuc Champey is a jaw-dropper—terraced limestone pools in unreal shades of turquoise, surrounded by thick rainforest and the roar of the Cahabón River. You’ll hike up to a killer viewpoint, swim in the crystal-clear pools, wade through candlelit caves, and get properly soaked in jungle magic.

This day tour is a long one from Guatemala City, but if you’re short on time and still want to hit one of Central America’s most iconic natural spots, it’s absolutely worth the trek.

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.

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 in the country 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

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!
• Get an eSIM so you can stay connected without the hassle of a plastic SIM.

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

Guatemala is a land of adventures with tiring journeys along jagged roads, and gritty jungle hostels full of merry backpackers who’ve had a few too many. You’re gonna need to pack smart for a country where you’ll have a blast and meet buddies along the way. Here’s some cool shit to pack for the ride.

Product

Description

Don’t Let Snorers Keep You Awake!

Don’t Let Snorers Keep You Awake!

Ear Plugs

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.

Check Best Price

Keep your laundry organized and stink free

Keep your laundry organized and stink free

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.

Check Best Price

Stay Dry With a Micro Towel

Stay Dry With a Micro Towel

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.

Check Best Price Check Best Price

Reduce Plastic – Bring a Water Bottle!

Reduce Plastic – Bring a Water Bottle!

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!

Check Best Price

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 in Guatemala is safe, so don’t let the talks of gang violence scare 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

If like me, you’re gonna be an idiot and travel through Lanquin’s winding mountain roads whilst standing on a load of junk in the back of an open truck, you’ll need some solid insurance just in case shit hits the fan.

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.

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

If you are flying into Guatemala, the only international airport is in the capital, and it’s a rather small one, mostly connected to the US, Mexico and elsewhere in Central America. There are also airports in Tikal and Puerto Barrios (near Rio Dulce), but flights only 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.

Entry Requirements for Guatemala

Visa-free entry to Guatemala is open to citizens of most countries in Europe and the Americas, plus Australia and New Zealand. The majority of African and Asian passport holders require a visa. Check on your government website, or with your local Guatemalan embassy for the latest information.

If eligible, you will receive a 90-day CA-4 tourist visa on arrival for free. The visa includes entrance to El Salvador, Honduras and Nicaragua, and the 90 days covers all of those countries combined, NOT just Guatemala, so be careful not to overstay.

Important: Brits now need a separate visa for Honduras, and can only use the CA-4 visa for Guatemala, El Salvador and Nicaragua.

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, and can be targeted by bandits.

Traveling by Bus in Guatemala

Chicken buses are dirt cheap for Westerners, often costing less than $5. 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.

They are much safer however, and I recommend using them if you’re worried about security at all.

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 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.

The main new thing is that costs have risen. Not by a ton, Guatemala is still a very cheap country to visit, even if you take the pricy tourist shuttles. But it’s gone from being very cheap just a couple of years ago, to just “cheap” now.

Beyond that, we have new entry requirements for Brits. Like everyone else, they retain visa-free entry to Guatemala for up to 90 days with the C-4 visa. Unlike other nationalities, they require a separate Honduras visa, which means Brits visiting Honduras still have 90 days to use in Guatemala, El Salvador and Nicaragua.

Otherwise, most things remain as they have done in recent years. Safety is a concern, but you should be fine with basic precautions, and being particularly wary about chicken buses (tourist shuttles are the safe bet). Tikal’s mighty ruins and Volcan de Fuego’s eruptions remain the highlights of the country.

Visit this wicked country whilst it still retains it’s authentic Latin feel.

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.

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 $59 a year to only $49.

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

Are you a native English speaker looking to earn cash whilst traveling the world? Teaching English online is a great way to earn a consistent income—from anywhere in the world.

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.

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.

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-Wing 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 people with anti-government sentiment 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-wing 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 are on the rise in Guatemala, and police are understaffed, underpaid, and under-resourced.

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.