IziVisas
🇬🇹Guatemala
America· Updated 06/03/2026
Information
Capital
Guatemala City
Population
18,800,000
Currency
Guatemalan Quetzal (GTQ Q)
Languages
Espagnol, Langues mayas
Continent
America
Calling code
+502
Timezone
America/Guatemala
Area
108,889 km²
Government
Presidential republic
National day
September 15 - Independence Day
Internet domain
.gt
About
Guatemala is a Central American country renowned for its rich Mayan history and diverse landscapes including volcanoes, lakes, and jungles. With a largely indigenous population, it faces challenges such as poverty and insecurity. The economy relies on agriculture, exports, and tourism.
Safety
Risk level :High risk level due to violent crime, extortion, and political instability.
Risk areas
Guatemala City - Homicides and extortionMexican border - Drug traffickingAlta Verapaz and Izabal - Criminal gangs
Crime(high)
- Avoid walking alone at night
- Do not wear visible valuables
- Use official taxis
Terrorism(low)
- Low risk, stay vigilant in public places
Transport
- Prefer recognized bus companies
- Avoid night travel
Natural risks(Active volcanoes, earthquakes, seasonal floods, and hurricanes)
- Follow official alerts
- Prepare an emergency kit
Health(Limited healthcare system, especially in rural areas)
- Vaccines against hepatitis A/B, typhoid, rabies
- Bottled water only
- Comprehensive health insurance
Practical tips
- Register with the travel registry
- Copy important documents
- Learn basic Spanish phrases
Cost of living
Accommodation
Studio city center350
1-bedroom apartment in city center450
1-bedroom apartment in suburb300
3-bedroom apartment in city center900
3-bedroom apartment in suburb650
Food
Inexpensive restaurant meal5
Meal for 2 at mid-range restaurant25
McDonald's menu6
Local beer (0.5L)2
Cappuccino2.5
Water (1.5L)1
Bread (500g)1.5
Milk (1L)1.5
Eggs (12)2
Chicken (1kg)4
Apples (1kg)2
Bananas (1kg)1
Transport
Public transport ticket0.5
Monthly transport subscription25
Taxi ride (start)2
Taxi (1km)1
Gasoline (1L)1.2
Leisure
Fitness membership (monthly)35
Tennis court (1h weekend)15
Cinema5
Theater20
Health
General practitioner consultation30
Dentist consultation40
Antibiotic medications15
Cold medications (6 days)10
Others
High-speed internet (60 Mbps+)40
Mobile plan (calls + 10GB)15
Public services for 85m² apartment60
Jeans (Levis 501 or similar)50
Nike sports shoes80
International primary school (monthly)600
Practical information
Electricity
Voltage120V
Frequency60Hz
Plug typesType A, Type B
Emergency numbers
Police110
Ambulance125
Fire department122
Practical information
Driving side
Right
Tap water
unsafe
Tipping
10-15% in restaurants