Accommodation in Guatemala

Overview of the offer

The accommodation available in the country is generally sufficient to handle the flow of visitors. The only exception is the Easter period in some tourist spots, including Antigua, which can attract quite a crowd, making it wise to book ahead. Otherwise, accommodation mainly consists of hotels, with few other types or categories of places. You’ll find them almost everywhere, at all price points and comfort levels, though high-end options are somewhat limited.

Hotels

High-end

There are a few charming hotels set in beautiful colonial buildings, such as in Antigua, as well as some quality lodges tucked away in nature.

Mid-range

Mid-range hotels are fairly common, especially in the most tourist-heavy areas. You’ll easily find (small) establishments used to foreign visitors, offering "decent" comfort—such as rooms with or without a private bathroom. The $15–20 range for a double room provides plenty of good options. Dormitory-style accommodation is also often available for less.

Budget

Hospedajes are local establishments, often basic (sometimes even quite grim) and with little comfort. However, they’re plentiful and very affordable—you can find a double room for under $10. That said, for just a little more, you can usually find something better.

Other options

Camping

Apart from near the site of Tikal, there aren’t really any campgrounds in Guatemala. Wild camping is also strongly discouraged due to security risks and the low cost of the cheapest accommodations. That said, during treks organized by agencies, such as in Petén, overnight bivouacs may be part of the program.

Homestays

Which accommodation to choose?

As elsewhere in Central America, mid-range accommodation is often the best bet, with plenty of guesthouses and small hotels available across the country.