El Asintal to Guatemala City

Essential Travel Guide to Guatemala City

Guatemala City is the capital and largest city of Guatemala. It is located in the central highlands of the country, at an elevation of 1,524 meters (5,000 feet). The city has a population of over 2 million people and is a major economic and cultural center for the country.

Language

The official language of Guatemala is Spanish. However, many other indigenous languages are also spoken in the country, including K'iche', Kaqchikel, and Mam.

Currency

The currency of Guatemala is the Guatemalan quetzal (GTQ). It is pegged to the US dollar at a rate of 1 GTQ = 0.125 USD.

Distance

Guatemala City is located approximately 120 kilometers (75 miles) from the Caribbean Sea and 200 kilometers (125 miles) from the Pacific Ocean. The city is also located approximately 1,500 kilometers (900 miles) from Mexico City and 2,000 kilometers (1,250 miles) from Los Angeles.

How to Reach

The best way to reach Guatemala City is by air. The city is served by La Aurora International Airport (GUA), which is located approximately 7 kilometers (4 miles) from the city center. There are direct flights to Guatemala City from many major cities in the United States, Europe, and Latin America.

Expenses

Guatemala City is a relatively inexpensive city to visit. The average cost of a hotel room is around $30 per night, and the average cost of a meal is around $5. However, the cost of transportation can be relatively high, especially if you are using taxis or Uber.

Best time to go

The best time to visit Guatemala City is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny, with little rain. However, the city can be crowded during this time, so it is important to book your accommodations in advance.

What to Eat

Guatemala City is a great place to try traditional Guatemalan cuisine. Some of the most popular dishes include:

• Pepián: A hearty stew made with meat, vegetables, and spices
• Kaq'ik: A traditional Mayan dish made with turkey, tomatoes, and chiles
• Chuchitos: A type of tamale made with corn dough and meat
• Dobladas: A type of tortilla filled with meat, cheese, and vegetables
• Rellenitos de plátano: A type of fried plantain filled with meat or cheese

Where to Go

There are many things to see and do in Guatemala City. Some of the most popular attractions include:

• The National Palace: The official residence of the President of Guatemala
• The Metropolitan Cathedral: A beautiful colonial cathedral
• The National Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology: A museum dedicated to the history and culture of Guatemala
• The Popol Vuh Museum: A museum dedicated to the Mayan civilization
• The Kaminaljuyu Archaeological Park: An archaeological site with ruins of a Mayan city

FAQ

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about Guatemala City:

• Is Guatemala City safe?

Guatemala City is generally safe for tourists, but it is important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against crime.

• What is the best way to get around Guatemala City?

The best way to get around Guatemala City is by using public transportation. The city has a good bus system, and there are also several taxi companies that operate in the city.

• What is the cost of living in Guatemala City?

The cost of living in Guatemala City is relatively low. The average cost of a one-bedroom apartment is around $300 per month, and the average cost of groceries is around $100 per week.