Overview of Guatemala

Quick Overview

Bordering Mexico, Guatemala is quite representative of Central American countries with its highlands where the summits exceed 4,000 m, its still-active volcanoes, its jungle in Petén, its Mayan cities, and its Caribbean and Pacific coasts. It is also a deeply indigenous land, as over 40% of the population is directly descended from the region's first inhabitants. In short, Guatemala is a varied and contrasting country—all packed into just 100,000 km².

Most of the population lives in the southern, mountainous part of the country. The people primarily depend on agriculture, which consists of small traditional subsistence farms in the highlands and large plantations in the coastal plains or valleys, producing export crops like bananas, sugar, and coffee. This agricultural sector is Guatemala’s main source of wealth, though it is not enough to ensure a decent standard of living for the population, over half of whom live below the poverty line or have emigrated, particularly to the United States. While the country has experienced a turbulent and often violent history for decades, the situation has improved in recent years, though insecurity remains a major issue for Guatemalan society.

Key Facts

• Location: just below Mexico, with access to the Pacific and the Caribbean Sea.

• Latitude/longitude: 15.30' N, 90.15' W.

• Local time: Heure : 3095

• Capital: Guatemala City.

• Nature of the state: presidential republic.

• Official language: Spanish. Around twenty local languages are also spoken.

• Currency: Quetzal.

• Population: 16,581,273 inhabitants (2018).

• Area: 108,889 km².

• Density: 152 inhabitants/km².

• Highest point: Tajumulco Volcano (4,211 m).

• Lowest point: sea level.

• Coastline: 400 km.

• Driving side: right

• Flag: [drapeau: Guatemala]

Tourism

Although Guatemala has long been known as a tourist destination rich in landscapes, pre-Columbian sites, colorful markets, and local traditions, it does not attract as many visitors as its neighbors or its potential might suggest. Countries with less tourism recognition, like Panama or even El Salvador, actually match Guatemala in terms of visitor numbers. Perhaps this is due to its somewhat poor reputation for safety, limited air connections—especially from Europe—or a lack of beach resorts or all-inclusive facilities.

In short, Guatemala receives just over 1.5 million visitors per year (1,781,000 in 2018), including a few thousand French travelers. This means you can still explore the country in relative peace, without too many crowds, though cities like Antigua do draw visitors for their stunning heritage and language schools.

Travel Essentials

• Destination: for beginner or slightly experienced travelers.

• By air: France-Guatemala City round trip for 580/850 €.

• Entry requirements: passport.

• Currency to bring: US dollars (and some euros).

• Exchange rate:

• Backpacker daily budget: 22 to 35 € per person.

• Best for accommodation: mid-range hotels.

• Best way to get around: buses (of all kinds).

• Risks: low health risks and moderate (or locally higher) security risks.

• Best time for climate/crowds/prices: November to April, avoiding Christmas and Easter.

• Interests (out of ★★★★): Nature ★★★★; Adventure ★★★; Culture ★★★★; Relaxation/Holidays ⊘.

Addresses in France

• Tourist Office: Guatemala’s tourist office services in France are hosted by its embassy at 2 rue Villebois-Mareuil, 75017 Paris. Tel.: 01 42 27 78 63.

• Maison de l'Amérique Latine: 217 Bd Saint-Germain, 75007 Paris. Tel.: 01 49 54 75 00.

Addresses in Belgium, Switzerland, and Quebec

Socio-Economic Statistics

• Quality of life: 127/188 (2018 ranking)

• GDP per capita: $8,200 (2017)

• Average monthly income: $270 (2012)

• Inflation: +4.4% (2017)

• Official unemployment:

• Population below poverty line: 59.3% (2014)

• Life expectancy: 71.8 years (2018)

• Migration rate per 1,000 inhabitants: -1.9 (2017)

• Population growth: +1.72% (2018)

• Literacy rate: 81.5% (2015)

• Urban population: 51.1% (2018)

• Press freedom: 116/180 (2018 ranking)

• Political regime: hybrid regime (87/167 in 2018)

Sources: World Bank, Human Development Indicators, RSF, The Economist, The World Factbook