Guatemala FAQ’s
Do I need a visa?
A tourist visa is NOT required for US or Canadian citizens up to a maximum period of 90 days. To enter the country you need a valid passport and a valid airline ticket for onward travel. For those traveling with a passport from a country other than the US or Canada; visit
projectvisa.com for more information.
Is my passport valid?
US and Canadian passports must be valid at least 6 months following the end of your trip for entry into Guatemala. If it expires earlier, be sure to get a renewal.
Do I need any shots?
No vaccinations are required for travel from the USA or Canada to Guatemala. Hepatitis A, Measles, Tetanus and Typhoid vaccines are recommended but not required. Yellow fever vaccinations are required if arriving from some countries in South America or Sub-Saharan Africa. See the CDC website for details.
When can I expect more details on my trip?
You will receive two sets of information by email: 1. Pre-departure materials once your trip is guaranteed, typically 2-4 months prior to your departure; and 2. Final Documents sent 8-14 days before you leave
When is my balance due?
Your land balance is due 90 days prior to departure for Signature Trips and generally due at 120 days for Custom Trips. An invoice indicating your balance due will be sent with your pre-departure information..
Will I be met at the airport?
Yes, if you arrive according to schedule or have arranged extra transfers through our office. Meeting instructions and local contact information will be given with your Final Documents.
Are there local flights within Guatemala? Who books them?
Southwind itineraries in Guatemala do require local flights that are not included on the land cost of the trip. Travelers will generally arrive and depart from La Aurora International Airport (GUA) in Guatemala City. For domestic flights to Flores (Petén region), Southwind will provide you with an air schedule to best match your itinerary, all in coordination with our local office. We also use overland private transportation between most destinations in the highlands.
How much money should I bring?
Depending on the length of your trip, plan to bring $300-600 per person for spending money, tips, shopping, taxi rides and those meals not included in the itinerary. Note: Visitors must pay a departure tax of $30 USD when leaving Guatemala; although this tax could be included in the international airfare.
Should I bring cash or bank cards?
Cash is the easiest to exchange and many tourist places accept US dollars in addition to the Guatemalan Quetzal. Credit or debit cards are also easy to use at most establishments for larger amounts (Visa, MasterCard and American Express). Be sure to check with your bank prior to your departure to inform them that you will be using your card in a foreign country. Traveler’s checks are less efficient and may take extra time and documentation to use. Find
current exchange rates.
Are ATM machines available?
Yes. There are ATM machines in the main cities such as Guatemala city, Villa Nueva and Antigua. We recommend using the ones located inside some hotels, stores, restaurants or banks. Be cautious as some thieves may watch these machines and target tourists and others who take out large amounts of cash. Consult with your guide for safety recommendations on ATM’s or exchanging money.
What will the weather be like?
Being a tropical country, Guatemala has both wet and dry seasons. Some regions get year-round rain, while others are dry and sunny for most of the year. Generally speaking, rainy season is May through October and dry season is November to April, although the Atlantic coast is less predictable with possible rain year-round. The rainforest of the Petén area gets the most rainfall, with rainy days well into November. Depending on elevation, rather than seasons, temperatures will vary: the coastal areas are hot all year (can reach 100°F during the day), whereas the highlands will present cool temperatures at night and in overcast days any time of the year. Expect frost at higher elevations (above 11,500ft), but nice 70°F during the day if it’s sunny. The best time to visit Guatemala weather-wise is December and January, with clear skies and lush vegetation, although travelling either near the end or the beginning of rainy season will help avoid large crowds of visitors.
How do I train for my trip?
If you lead an active lifestyle (walking, cycling, swimming, tennis, etc. on a regular basis) you will do fine on a Grade I or II trip. For Grade III trips you should plan to jog or stair climb for at least 45 minutes 4-5 times per week. View more details on Trip Ratings.
Who will be my guide?
We work with the most respected and experienced native guides, many of whom have advanced degrees in tourism, biology, history, culture or other specialties. All speak fluent English and are knowledgeable, patient and fun to be around. Your Final Documents will provide guide details.
