Complete Guide to Guatemala: Visa, Travel, Investment & Important Facts
The definitive Complete Guide to Guatemala: Visa, Travel, Investment & Important Facts – home to the majestic Maya city of Tikal, the perfectly preserved colonial jewel of Antigua, and the breathtaking Lake Atitlán surrounded by volcanoes. With 90-day visa-free entry, affordable living, world-class coffee fincas for investment, and a rich indigenous culture, Guatemala remains one of Central America’s most rewarding destinations in 2025.
Introduction to Guatemala – Heart of the Maya World
Guatemala (108,889 km², 18+ million people) is the most populous country in Central America and the cultural soul of the Maya civilization. 23 indigenous languages are official alongside Spanish, 37 volcanoes (3 active), and over 40% of the population is indigenous Maya. This Complete Guide to Guatemala: Visa, Travel, Investment & Important Facts covers everything from ancient temples to modern residency pathways.
Guatemala Independence Date: September 15, 1821
Celebrated with marimba music, torch runs, and massive fireworks across the country.
Visa Policy & CA-4 Agreement
90 days visa-free for citizens of USA, EU, Canada, UK, Australia, Japan, and 80+ countries. CA-4 allows free movement between Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, and Nicaragua with a single entry stamp.
Residency Options
- Rentista – USD 1,250/month proven income
- Pensionado – USD 1,000/month pension
- Investor route – Q1 million (≈ USD 130K) in business or real estate
Top Places to Visit in Guatemala
- Tikal National Park – UNESCO Maya city in the jungle
- Antigua Guatemala – perfectly preserved Spanish colonial city
- Lake Atitlán & surrounding Maya villages (Panajachel, San Pedro, Santa Catarina)
- Semuc Champey – turquoise limestone pools
- Pacaya, Fuego & Acatenango volcanoes (overnight hikes)
- Chichicastenango Thursday/Sunday market
- Flores & Petén – gateway to Maya sites
- Livingston – unique Garifuna culture on the Caribbean
How to Invest in Guatemala
Coffee fincas (USD 150K–500K), tourism projects in Antigua/Atitlán, and textile/export businesses. Foreigners can own property 100%.
Economy Overview
GDP ≈ USD 110 billion, growth 4.1% projected 2025. Key sectors: coffee, cardamom, sugar, tourism, apparel, remittances.
How to Buy SIM Card in Guatemala
Tigo (best coverage) or Claro – Q25–50 starter at airport or any corner store. Strong 4G/5G on highways and tourist areas.
Current President of Guatemala
Bernardo Arévalo de León (Movimiento Semilla) – took office January 2024 after historic anti-corruption campaign.
Political Status & Safety
Presidential republic. Tourist areas heavily protected. Violent crime down significantly in popular zones.
Aviation Services in Guatemala
- Tag Airlines & Avianca – domestic flights to Flores (Tikal), Quetzaltenango, Huehuetenango
- Helicopter tours over Antigua volcanoes and Lake Atitlán
- Medevac services available in Guatemala City
Climate & Practical Tips
Highlands 15–25°C year-round (Antigua, Atitlán). Hot in Petén. Currency: Quetzal (GTQ). Spanish + 23 Maya languages.