Smack in the middle of Central America, Guatemala screams out to adventurous travelers with its colorful culture, breathtaking landscapes, and abounds of history. The trip through this magical country doesn’t have to dent the wallet!
Then, come with us on a virtually unforgettable journey to unravel some of the secrets that lie in the least costly accommodations in Guatemala, mouth-watering street food, and off-the-beaten-path attractions. We’ll show you how to see the country’s beauty-from majestic volcanic lakes to Antigua’s colourful markets-without breaking your wallet.
Guatemala connects the traveler to its people, culture, and nature. One can enjoy the ruins of the Mayan civilization, taste the delightfully prepared local foods, and find hidden treasures among the bustling streets of Guatemala City. The amazing shores of Lake Atitlán invite one to rest and bask in the warmness of the hospitality of this place.
Broke backpacking in Guatemala is about so much more than a budget adventure seeking an incredible country.
How to get there:
Getting to Guatemala with Public Transportation from Neighboring Countries
Guatemala’s strategic location in Central America makes it easily accessible by public transportation from neighboring countries. Whether you’re coming from Mexico, Belize, Honduras or El Salvador.
From Mexico
The most popular route from Mexico is through the southern states of Chiapas or Tabasco. Take a bus from San Cristóbal de las Casas or Tuxtla Gutiérrez to the Guatemala-Mexico border at Ciudad Hidalgo or La Mesilla. From there, catch a shuttle or bus to Quetzaltenango or Guatemala City.
From Belize
Traveling from Belize involves taking a bus from Belize City or Caye Caulker to the Guatemala-Belize border at Benque Viejo del Carmen. Cross the border and catch a shuttle or bus to Flores or Guatemala City.
From Honduras
To get to Guatemala from Honduras, take a bus from San Pedro Sula or Copán Ruinas to the Guatemala-Honduras border at Corinto or El Florido. From there, catch a shuttle or bus to Guatemala City or Antigua.
From El Salvador
From El Salvador, take a bus from San Salvador or Santa Ana to the Guatemala-El Salvador border at La Hachadura or San Cristóbal. Then, catch a shuttle or bus to Guatemala City or Lake Atitlán.
Public Transportation Options
Bus Companies
- Pullmantur: Connects Mexico, Guatemala and Honduras.
- King Quality: Links Belize to Guatemala.
- Hedman Alas: Offers services from Honduras and El Salvador.
- Litegua: Operates within Guatemala.
Border Crossings
- Ciudad Hidalgo (Mexico-Guatemala)
- Benque Viejo del Carmen (Belize-Guatemala)
- Corinto (Honduras-Guatemala)
- La Hachadura (El Salvador-Guatemala)
When to go:
Dry Season (December to April)
- Pros:
- Favorable weather for hiking and outdoor activities
- Less rain, easier travel
- Peak tourist season, lively atmosphere
- Cons:
- Higher prices for accommodations and tours
- Larger crowds
Shoulder Season (May to June or November to December)
- Pros:
- Fewer tourists, lower prices
- Pleasant weather
- Harvest season, vibrant markets
- Cons:
- Occasional rain showers
- Some attractions may be closed
Wet Season (July to October)
- Pros:
- Lush landscapes, scenic views
- Lowest prices for accommodations and tours
- Festivals and celebrations
- Cons:
- Frequent rain, potential flooding
- Difficult travel conditions
Special Events and Festivals
Semana Santa (March/April)
- Colorful processions and celebrations
Fiesta de la Virgen de la Asunción (August)
- Vibrant festivities in Antigua
Día de los Muertos (November)
- Traditional ceremonies honoring ancestors
Christmas and New Year’s (December)
- Joyful celebrations, festive markets
Regional Climate Variations
Highlands:
- Cooler temperatures, misty mornings
Coastal Regions:
- Hot and humid, occasional rain
Lake Atitlán:
- Mild climate, scenic views
Best Itineraries:
3-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Antigua
- Explore colonial streets
- Visit Iglesia de La Merced
- Wander through Parque Central
- Eat at Café Condesa
Day 2: Lake Atitlán
- Take shuttle to Lake Atitlán
- Hike San Pedro Volcano
- Visit Santiago Atitlán’s vibrant market
- Stay at Hostal del Lago
Day 3: Guatemala City
- Visit Mercado Central
- Explore Zone 1’s street art
- Visit Museo Nacional de Arqueología
- Eat at Taquería El Fogoncito
1-Week Itinerary
Day 1-2: Antigua
- Explore ruins and museums
- Take cooking class
- Visit nearby Pacaya Volcano
Day 3-4: Lake Atitlán
- Hike, kayak or relax
- Visit San Antonio Palopó’s weaving cooperative
Day 5: Chichicastenango Market
- Visit colorful market
- Explore nearby caves
Day 6-7: Guatemala City
- Explore museums and parks
- Visit La Aurora Zoo
2-Week Itinerary
Day 1-3: Antigua
- Explore and take Spanish classes
- Visit nearby Ciudad Vieja
Day 4-6: Lake Atitlán
- Hike, kayak or relax
- Visit Santiago Atitlán’s church
Day 7-8: Chichicastenango Market
- Visit market and explore nearby villages
Day 9-10: Quetzaltenango
- Explore city and hot springs
- Visit nearby Fuentes del Valle
Day 11-14: Guatemala City
- Explore museums, parks and street art
- Visit Kaminaljuyu Archaeological Park
1-Month Itinerary
Week 1: Antigua and Lake Atitlán
- Explore and relax
- Take boat tour
Week 2: Chichicastenango and Quetzaltenango
- Markets, hot springs and city exploration
- Visit nearby Salcajá
Week 3: Guatemala City and Copán Ruinas (Honduras)
- City life and ancient ruins
- Explore nearby Tikal National Park
Week 4: Tikal National Park and Flores
- Jungle trekking and ancient ruins
- Visit nearby Uaxactún
Transportation:
Bus Transportation
Urban Buses
- Local buses (camionetas) connect cities ($1-$3)
- Routes cover most urban areas
Inter-City Buses
- Long-distance buses (pullmantur) connect major cities ($5-$20)
- Companies: Pullmantur, King Quality, Hedman Alas
Other Transportation Options
Taxi Services
- Affordable, widespread ($5-$10)
Colectivos
- Shared vans or buses ($2-$5)
Chicken Buses
- Colorful, lively camionetas ($1-$3)
Boat Transportation
- Lake Atitlán and Rio Dulce ferry services ($1-$10)
Hitchhiking
Hitchhiking in Guatemala is relatively safe and common, especially for short distances. Use caution and follow local advice. Some tips:
- Stand in visible areas
- Use clear hand signals
- Be prepared for crowded vehicles
- Offer gas money or snacks
Top things to do:
Antigua
- Explore colonial streets
- Visit Iglesia de La Merced
- Wander through Parque Central
- Hike Pacaya Volcano
- Take a cooking class
- Visit nearby Ciudad Vieja
- Explore ruins of Iglesia de Santo Domingo
- Visit Museo de Arte Colonial
Lake Atitlán
- Hike San Pedro Volcano
- Kayak or paddleboard
- Visit Santiago Atitlán’s market
- Relax in San Antonio Palopó
- Take a boat tour
- Explore nearby villages
- Visit Tzununá’s hot springs
- Hike to Cerro Tzankujil
Guatemala City
- Visit Mercado Central
- Explore Zone 1’s street art
- Visit Museo Nacional de Arqueología
- Wander through Parque Minerva
- Visit La Aurora Zoo
- Explore nearby Kaminaljuyu Archaeological Park
- Visit Museo de Arte Moderno
- Walk through Plaza de la Constitución
Chichicastenango
- Visit colorful market
- Explore nearby caves
- Visit nearby villages
- Hike to nearby waterfalls
- Take a shuttle to Lake Atitlán
- Visit nearby Atitlán Lake
- Explore Candelaria Church
- Shop at artisan market
Quetzaltenango
- Explore city streets
- Visit nearby hot springs
- Hike to nearby Fuentes del Valle
- Visit nearby villages
- Take a shuttle to Guatemala City
- Visit Museo de Quetzaltenango
- Explore Parque Centro América
- Hike to Cerro El Baul
Tikal and Flores
- Explore Tikal National Park
- Visit nearby Uaxactún
- Wander through Flores’ streets
- Take a boat tour of Lake Petén Itzá
- Visit nearby Yaxhá National Park
- Explore Tikal’s Temple IV
- Visit Museo de Tikal
- Relax in Flores’ central park
Other Destinations
- Semuc Champey’s natural pools
- Rio Dulce’s scenic river
- Huehuetenango’s vibrant market
- Cobán’s stunning waterfalls
- Visit Totonicapán’s thermal springs
- Explore Zacapa’s colonial town
- Hike to Sierra de los Cuchumatanes
- Visit Livingston’s Caribbean coast
Natural Wonders
- Pacaya Volcano
- San Pedro Volcano
- Lake Atitlán
- Rio Dulce
- Semuc Champey
- Huehuetenango’s waterfalls
- Cobán’s waterfalls
- Sierra de los Cuchumatanes
Food:
Guatemalan food is a lively expression of the rich cultural heritage found at the juncture of Maya, Spanish, and African influences. Traditional dishes are made with much love, taking care and only with fresh ingredients from the local market. Sizzling meats, spices, and freshly baked bread give off odors that tease people who happen to pass by.
You walk through bustling markets and find rows of brightly colored fruits and vegetables, from succulent mangos down to fresh cilantro. Street vendors tempt you with the smells of roasted corn, grilled plantains, and sweet fried dough. Every region has its specialties, and you find out how varied Guatemalan cuisine can be.
In Antigua, try the city’s most famous dish: jocón, a thick chicken stew cooked in rich tomatillo sauce, served with steaming hot tortillas. Along the shores of Lake Atitlán, one will find fresh fish and seafood, often perfectly grilled with vegetables and herbs. Traditional sweets can be found at the markets of Guatemala City.
Mealtimes revolve around corn, beans, and rice-the staples. Most meals are accompanied by tortillas, which are served with creamy beans, spicy salsa, and a variety of meats, including slow-cooked stews and grilled meats. Tamales are comfort food-corn dough steamed in a leaf wrapper, filled with meat or vegetables.
There are regional specialties, which reflect the diversity of the national cuisine: the k’ol of Quetzaltenago with its meat and vegetable stew, boxboles from Huehuetenango-fried plantains with beans and cheese. Exotic spices and herbs are available in the market of Chichicastenango.
Guatemalan cuisine, for its part, uses bold flavors and spices. The use of chili peppers gives most of the dishes depth, while the more earthly spices are cumin and oregano. Bright freshness comes from fresh cilantro and lime juice that balances out richness. Tres leches cake, flan, and arroz con leche will balance these flavors with the temptation to satisfy a sweet tooth.
Traditional Guatemalan cooking reflects the resourcefulness and heritage of the people. Meals are prepared over open fires and in wood-fired ovens, adding smoky flavors to the dishes. Tortillas are perfectly cooked on comals.
The local markets are given to fresh produce both of tropical fruits and of highland vegetables. Mangoes, papayas, and pineapples grow in tropical regions, while potatoes, carrots, and beans go well in the highlands. Spices of all kinds add warmth: cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
Visiting the markets really puts you in the midst of Guatemalan food culture. In flashes of bright colors, tempting aromas, and cacophony combined, there is electricity in the air. You can taste street foods, purchase fresh vegetables and fruits, and speak with vendors.
Meals bring together the members of a Guatemalan family and their traditions in the form of recipes passed down from their ancestors. Sunday lunches are especially a time of great feasts.
Guatemala’s festivals reflect their love of food, music, and dance. Traditional foods are center stage, each region having its own special delicacies.
Traditional flavors balanced with international influences are the hallmarks of contemporary Guatemalan cuisine. The modern chefs have been experimenting with fusion dishes, really pushing the culinary envelope.
Food in Guatemala beckons exploration and discovery. The time spent savoring local flavors and traditions increases depth in the understanding of the vibrant culture.
Culture:
The culture of Guatemala is a bright tapestry interwoven in the lifestyle of the times, influenced by the Maya, Spanish, and African. It is a very interesting country where a combination of traditions, customs, and beliefs shapes the profile of its people’s way of life. From ancient civilizations to colonial rule, this melting pot has evolved to the present day.
The Guatemalan culture traditionally is family-centered, with an emphasis on community and spirituality, wherein great respect for elders and ancestors abounds, many families still identifying strongly with their indigenous heritage. Festivals and community celebrations provide this occasion to connect with others through colorfully woven textiles, music, and dance, while indigenous communities maintain their languages, customs, and traditions amidst centuries of external influence.
There are twenty-two Mayan languages spoken, and many communities have their dialects, traditional clothes, intricate textiles, and vibrant colors; this is just a few representatives of the rich cultural diversity. Spirituality plays an important role in mixing Catholicism with Mayan and indigenous beliefs into sacred sites, ceremonies, and rituals to honor the ancestors and nature.
Tres mundos” or the concept of the existence of heaven, earth, and underworld is the guiding principle of many Guatemalans in life and in every ritual and ceremony that they perform. One of the strong points of Guatemala in the whole world is the artistic expression, which includes colorful textiles, wood carvings, and pottery, among others. Handicrafts are passed on to every generation so that techniques and stories can be preserved.
The cultural life of Guatemalan people features music and dancing. One of the traditional styles is marimba, which includes son guatemalteco. Correspondingly, dance is performed during the festivals, and there is also a region-specific style of dance, such as baile folklórico. As for food, it is representative of Guatemalan cultural diversity. The local dishes are represented by jocón, k’ol, and boxboles.
Food very often revolves around corn, beans, and rice, staples in Guatemalan food, and respect for nature and the environment runs deep. Most indigenous communities make a living through subsistence farming-that is, living off the land. The traditional medicine and spiritual practices tend to emphasize balance with nature. This allows education to be valued and attempts a preservation of indigenous languages and cultural heritage.
Community-based initiatives further cultural exchange and understanding, while the resilience of Guatemalan cultural identity, shaped by its complex history and diverse influences, comes forth in a sparkling vitality. The more there is an immersion into this rich tapestry, the more meaningful a lifestyle appears the people of Guatemala have.
The family is close-knit, and the passing of traditional roles and responsibilities has been a long-standing practice. Community support systems provide both emotional and economic stability. Social etiquette employs respect, politeness, and hospitality, where visitors would be welcomed with open arms, comforted with traditional food and drink, and engaged in lively conversations.
Guatemalan history chronicles trials-from colonialism to civil war-but the nation’s response has been one of resilience, flexing in tides of adversity. Today, Guatemala continues to change, balancing tradition and modernity as urbanization, globalization, and technological changes continue to reconfigure the country’s cultural landscape.
Despite difficulties, Guatemalan culture is alive and vibrant, varied, yet genuine at the same time. It inspires pride among the people for their creativity and connectedness. Dipping into the depths of Guatemala’s culture shows one an exquisitely complex tapestry; engaging in such a rich cultural background encourages deeper understanding, appreciation, and connection.
Guatemala is teeming with festivals and celebrations, including the Fiesta Folklórica, a celebration of traditional music and dance. Many tourists come from different parts of the world to get a closer look at this dynamic culture. The artisans of Guatemala have been able to do much in respect to preserving the traditional crafts of their country by passing the specific skills on to the next generations.
Community involvement and social interaction are relatively high in Guatemalan culture. Collective labor and collective responsibilities make up part of life in the communities. Social etiquette and behavioral guidance are deeply rooted in respect to one’s elders and tradition.
Cultural resilience, both at the individual and collective levels, is said to emanate from the supportive social relationships in this community that is afflicted with a shared collective heritage and ecological adaptability. The somewhat intricate history of Guatemala has created an incredibly rich and varied culture-one that is at least worth exploring and discovering.
The people of Guatemala proudly maintain the cultural heritage; stories, music, and art are continued onto successive generations. Community festivals, traditional crafts, and colorful markets form aspects of the rich cultural fabric one can experience firsthand. Guatemala’s cultural landscape has kept right on going into today, representing a blend of tradition and modernity in that the country moves forward but keeps its rich heritage in mind.
Accommodations:
The scene of hostels in Guatemala offers the broke backpacker unique crazy and amazing experiences, dirt cheap. Forget amenities of luxury and opt for budget-friendly alternatives that promise to be unforgettable. These are the hidden tips that take you to the center of Guatemalan culture.
Budget hostels in Guatemala are way more than the lowliest of affordable accommodations; they are dynamic hotspots, connecting travelers of very different backgrounds through varying means. You book the most inexpensive ones, and you discover authentic local life, everyday life, and lifelong friendships.
More often than not, these low-budget hostels share walls with the neighbors and invite you into real-life participation in daily Guatemalan life. You’re invited for home-cooked meals or impromptu celebration parties. You will surely have memories since the line of guest and family is blurred.
The ones that are family-run or a little bit quirky are those where the warmth and hospitality are felt instantly, embracing the guest into the fold. Spanish lessons over meals might be shared impromptu, insider knowledge with respect to a number of Guatemala’s secrets, or local legends and hidden treasures.
Dorm rooms are most often impromptu communities, striking up conversations and starting adventures with fellow travelers. Share tales, give some laughs, and make up schemes for spontaneous escapades with new friends. Strangers turn into instant compañeros in an instant.
With budget hostels in Guatemala, one can also find cultural events, live music, and workshops to get them soaked in it. From traditional cooking classes to Mayan craft sessions, immerse yourself among local artisans and experts. Learn about the rich heritage of Guatemala.
Venturing off the beaten path, these hostels take you through undiscovered neighborhoods, hidden markets, and secluded natural wonders. Make your way with fellow travelers and hostel staff into the uncharted territories of Guatemala. Dig out secrets known only to locals.
Be prepared for the unexpected and unplanned happenings. Go with a flexible mind and open your self to life-changing experiences, hidden treasures, and unreal friendships. Forget about the urge to have things your own planned way.
Guatemalan hostels reward Bohemian travelers, those on a tight budget, with unjudged deep immersion, contact, and adventure. Dismiss all the pretentiousness of luxury as you adopt cheaper options. Discover the true nature of Guatemalan culture. Enjoy raw, unadulterated culture.
It is in the hostels of Guatemala, humble and full of life, that you will find the true magic by surrendering to the unknown. Scrap the fancy amenities for genuine human interaction. Your heart will be won over by budget hostels in Guatemala.
In these hostels, language barriers dissolve as you connect with fellow travelers and your hosts. Share laughter, stories, and dreams. The warm hospitality of Guatemala will make you feel at home.
Guatemalan budget hostels are life-changing to the broke backpacker. Obstacles become opportunities, and strangers become family. You will leave with memories that will last a lifetime.
Guatemala is that adventurous soul of budget hostels. Well, comfort zones are meant to be broken, spontaneity embraced, and wonders hidden. Your journey shall be legendary.
Guatemala waits for you, dropping your sojourner self into waiting, open arms for unforgettable hostel experiences as a broke backpacker-seize the adventure, dive in, and let vibrant Guatemala change you forever.
Nightlife:
Nightlife in Guatemala is energetic, buzzing with vivid culture, energetic music, and warm hospitality. As the sun starts setting, the streets change into busy centers, luring travelers to nights that will always be remembered. Anticipation hums in the air, promising experiences that shall etch lasting impressions.
Nightlife in Guatemala City is made up of hip zones: Zone 1 and Zone 10, with fashionable bars and clubs that rule the night, whereas in-bohemian haunts such as Parque Central in Antigua and San Pedro la Laguna on Lake Atitlán, things are much more low-key.
Locals and travelers mix and mingle over cold beers or signature cocktails, swapping tales and laughs in the process. The live music can range from salsa to merengue, to rock to reggae, and of course, the dance floors tend to fire up. Rich in cultural heritage, Guatemalan nightlife is influenced by traditional folk dances and musical performances.
Hear the characteristic marimba sounds that delineate this republic or watch in trance, traditional Mayan dance rituals. As night slowly begins to set in, markets start to appear, and food stalls selling delectable street foods along with local delicacies spring up. Have a taste of traditional foods that include jocón, k’ol, boxboles, among others.
Nightlife varies from region to region and carries its own peculiar personality. Coastal towns like Puerto Quetzal and Livingston have that hint of Caribbean rhythm, while highland towns like Quetzaltenango and Huehuetenango reverberate to indigenous beats. From languid hangouts to raucous parties, Guatemala’s nightlife can offer something to suit every taste.
Whether cozy parties full of intimacy or loud clubs, each taste can be satisfied. The warmer the night gets, the brighter the warm hospitality of Guatemala. Shared experiences and laughter make strangers friends.
Nightlife in Guatemala is an immersive adventure; it’s a beautiful swirl of culture, music, and connection. Let go of expectations and let the rhythm move you through this enchanting country. Nights are for discovery and have their own secrets and surprises.
Stumble upon underground bars, hidden concert venues, or impromptu street performances. Guatemala’s vibrant nightlife is the full expression of the resistant spirit of the nation and contagious enthusiasm. Participate and join the celebration in abandon, feeling the incomparable magic of Guatemalan nights.
When morning light creeps over the horizon, nightlife gives way to new beginnings, leaving travelers with unforgettable memories and anticipation for the next night’s adventures. The nightlife in Guatemala weaves a spell that beckons return visits.
Sudden dance parties or impromptu jam sessions-an international unity through the bonds of music-whirl tourists into their midst. In Guatemalan nightlife, strangers become lifelong friends, forging bonds thicker than borders.
Fashionably glowing nightspots in Guatemala City, smaller towns serenely quaint. Each night is different, full of surprises that will make unforgettable moments.
From bars with energy to your laid-back lounge, each nightlife situation in Guatemala is diverse to fit all tastes. Feel the true spirit of Guatemalan nightlife with warmth, music, and laughter all combined.
In Guatemala, the nightlife is not merely a pleasure but a deep immersion into culture, connection, and self-discovery. Take a deep plunge into its rhythm, shed off inhibitions, and let the magic take over.
With every passing moment of the night, Guatemala gleams more radiant. Landscapes bathed by the moon, star-filled skies, and twinkling lights create breathtaking scenery for nights that are simply unforgettable.
Nightlife in Guatemala is an odyssey of discovery, a combination of music, culture, and adventure. Let its magic take hold of you and allow Guatemalan nights to change you forever.
Backpacking Guatemala costs:
Daily Budget
- Accommodation
- $3-5 (hostel dorms)
- Food
- $3-5 (street food, markets)
- Transportation
- $1-3 (local buses, shuttles)
- Attractions
- $1-5 (temples, museums)
- Miscellaneous
- $2-5 (souvenirs, snacks)
- Total Daily Budget: $10-23
Weekly Budget
- Accommodation
- $21-35 (hostel dorms)
- Food
- $21-35 (street food, markets)
- Transportation
- $7-21 (local buses, shuttles)
- Attractions
- $7-35 (temples, museums)
- Miscellaneous
- $14-35 (souvenirs, snacks)
- Total Weekly Budget: $70-161
Average Costs
- Meal: $2-5
- Local Bus Ride: $1-3
- Hostel Dorm: $3-5
- Attraction: $1-5
- Beer: $1-4
Conclusion:
This Guatemalan adventure would have come to an end, but the vibrancy of the markets, the majesty of the volcanoes, and the warm hospitality continue fresh in the mind. Broke traveling in Guatemala requires flexibility, resilience, and openness but offers an unparalleled immersion.
This journey weaves a tapestry of unforgettable encounters, culinary delights, and spontaneous exploration. In Guatemala, the beauty is raw-not sandblasted by luxury-it comes alive in every bustling market, tranquil lake, and rugged trail.
Conquered challenge by conquered challenge, every stretched quetzal, and each new friend found, your attachment to Guatemala will grow. The soul of the country sifts into yours: vibrant color, contagious happy laughter, resilience that doesn’t break.
As you leave, the teachings of Guatemala remain: Embrace uncertainty, learn to appreciate simplicity, and let beauty surprise you. Your poor-backpacking adventure becomes a testimony to the power of immersive travel.
It is a Guatemala of untamed spirit and generous heart that forever changes you. The journey may be over, but it lingers on to inspire further voyages and the lifelong sense of belonging to this enchanting land.
Take with you the warmth, color, and most importantly, life lessons that Guatemala has given you and go refreshed into the next chapter of wonder and curiosity.
