Guatemala, important visitor's information

Climate

The highlands of Guatemala are freezing at night, damp and chilly during the rainy season and warm during dry season. On the other hand, the Pacific Coast 's temperature is about 38 ° C but during the dry season humidity drops.

During the day, lightweight clothes are recommended but visitors should also bring a jacket or light woollens as it gets cold in the evening.

Time
GMT/UTC -6

Money
Quetzal is the currency used in Guatemala which is divided into 100 centavos. Since Quetzal is difficult to get outside the country or to exchange to local foreign currency, it is advisable that visitors with leftover Quetzals should exchange the money before departing Guatemala . Quetzals not used may be exchanged at the airport banks. US Dollars may also be used as it became an official note in 2001.

Should visitors want to use credit cards, it is recommended that they bring American Express and VISA cards as these are more acceptable in the country. Only a few establishments accept Diners Club and MasterCard.

Most banks and hotels accept Travellers Cheques although difficulties may occur so it is advisable to use Travellers Cheques in US Dollars as a precaution.

ATM machines are common throughout the country.

Electricity
115-125 volts AC, 60Hz. Regional variations may occur.

Language
Guatemala 's official language is Spanish although 23 official Amerindian languages are also spoken in some parts of the country. English is spoken in tourist areas, major hotels and restaurants.

Entry Requirements
Deportees of other countries that are not citizens of Guatemala are not allowed to enter the country. Citizens of other countries may be requested to acquire a special authorization, which can be obtained from the Department of Immigration in Guatemala , before they are granted a VISA. A special authorization should be applied through a person, company or institution that will take responsibility or that person's stay in the country.

Passport / VISA Note
All visitors entering Guatemala must have a passport valid at least six months upon arrival.

A VISA is required by all except citizens from specific countries or passengers passing over Guatemala .

Health
Cholera, dengue fever, malaria, hepatitis and typhoid are present. Private and public medical facilities can be found in Guatemala City although it is advisable to have a medical insurance.

Tipping
A 10% to 15% of the bill is the normal tip given to restaurants where service has not been included. Taxi drivers are not tipped but hotel staff and tour guides are.

Safety
Foreign visitors should be extra careful when visiting Guatemala as a high level of crimes is committed against foreigners. Inter-city travel after sunset is not recommended. If travelling by car, be very careful as vehicle-jacking are common, particularly in Guatemala City .

Customs
Visitors over 18 years old may bring 80 cigarettes or 100g tobacco, 1.5 litres o alcoholic beverages and two bottles of perfume.

Communication
International Direct Dialling is available. Guatemala 's country code is 502. Mobile phones are also used with coverage increasing yearly.

In main tourist areas and in Guatemala City , there are several internet cafes.