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Guatemala country guide

4 questions, each answered from published authorities with the sources listed.

Lake Atitlán under dry-season skies, looking from Panajachel across the water to Volcán San Pedro — "Lake Atitlan, Volcan San Pedro" by Arian Zwegers, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons Author Arian Zwegers · CC BY 2.0 File source

When to visit 1

When is the best time to visit Guatemala for Antigua?February is Guatemala's best all-round month, and it suits Antigua perfectly — the whole country is in its dry season, the highlands are clear and mild, and Antigua's…

Food and drink 1

What local dishes should I try in Guatemala, and where should I look for them?Try fiambre in November, the heritage stews — pepián, kak'ik, jocón and plátanos en mole — in highland comedores and markets, tapado on the Caribbean coast, and hot…

Places and experiences 1

What should a first-time traveler see in Guatemala beyond the obvious highlights?Quiriguá's giant carved stelae, the turquoise pools of Semuc Champey, the Garifuna town of Livingston, and the jungle metropolis of El Mirador — four places that show…

Trip planning 1

How can I plan a memorable first trip to Guatemala without rushing?Give Guatemala at least ten days, base yourself in just three places — Antigua, Lake Atitlán and Flores for Tikal — and fly the one long leg north instead of busing it.

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