Travel Guides
Guatemala is one of the most biodiverse countries in the world, with over 8,600 plant species, according to One Tree Planted. Known for its stunning landscapes and rich culture, the country offers a wealth of fascinating surprises.
From ancient Mayan ruins to vibrant traditions, there's much more to this Central American gem than meets the eye. Here are 10 interesting facts about Guatemala that you might not know.
Guatemala is famous for the ancient Mayan city of Tikal, one of the most significant archaeological sites of the Mayan civilization. The city is home to impressive structures, including grand temples and pyramids, some of which rise over 200 feet high.
Tikal was an essential center for trade, politics, and religion during its time and was later abandoned. Now a UNESCO World Heritage site, it offers visitors a remarkable glimpse into the grandeur and history of the Mayan empire.
Guatemala is considered the birthplace of chocolate, as cacao beans were used by the Mayans and Aztecs for both culinary and ceremonial purposes. The ancient Maya believed that cacao had sacred properties and even used it as currency. Today, Guatemala remains one of the leading producers of cacao in the world, with many farms still cultivating the beans using traditional methods. Visitors can tour local cacao plantations and learn about the chocolate-making process firsthand.
Guatemala has three active volcanoes: Pacaya, Fuego, and Santiaguito, which frequently erupt and provide a dramatic backdrop to the country’s stunning landscapes. These volcanoes are not only beautiful but have shaped much of the region’s geography and fertility. The volcanic ash contributes to the richness of the soil, making Guatemala an ideal location for agriculture. This has allowed the country to become one of the top producers of coffee and other crops.
While Spanish is the official language, Guatemala is a multilingual country with 25 recognized indigenous languages, including K'iche', Q'eqchi', and Kaqchikel. The country’s linguistic diversity reflects its strong indigenous heritage and cultural richness. Many indigenous communities continue to speak their native languages in daily life, keeping ancient traditions alive. This variety of languages is a testament to the deep cultural roots that thrive throughout the country.
Among its many natural wonders, Guatemala is home to Lake Atitlán, which is often regarded as one of the most beautiful lakes in the world. The lake is surrounded by towering volcanoes and picturesque villages that add to its breathtaking beauty. Many visitors come to the lake to enjoy its serene atmosphere and the opportunity to connect with local indigenous cultures. Whether you enjoy hiking, kayaking, or just relaxing, Lake Atitlán offers something for everyone.
The Maya Calendar is a sophisticated system developed by the ancient Maya civilization to track time and celestial events. Guatemala is considered its birthplace, with significant evidence found within its borders. In 2001, archaeologists uncovered fragments of murals at the San Bartolo site in Guatemala's El Petén region, dating between 300 and 200 B.C.E., featuring the "7 Deer" glyph—a notation from the 260-day Tzolk'in calendar.
The Maya Calendar is considered one of the most accurate timekeeping systems in history, revered for its ability to precisely track long periods of time, and is a testament to the advanced mathematical and astronomical knowledge of the Maya civilization.
The quetzal is a brightly colored bird that serves as the national symbol of Guatemala. Revered by the ancient Mayans, the quetzal’s vibrant feathers and long tail were considered sacred, and it was associated with freedom. The bird also lent its name to the country’s currency, the quetzal, which is still in use today. Sadly, the quetzal is now an endangered species, making it even more symbolic for the country.
Guatemala is known for its vibrant, handwoven textiles that are created by indigenous Mayan women using traditional backstrap looms. The textiles often feature intricate patterns and colors that represent the cultural identity of different regions. These woven fabrics are used to create everything from clothing to household items and are sold throughout the country. Each design tells a story and preserves a piece of Guatemala's rich cultural history.
The Guatemalan flag is distinctive, with two vertical blue stripes on either side and a white stripe in the center. The blue represents the country’s proximity to both the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, while the white symbolizes peace and purity. At the center of the flag is the country’s coat of arms, which includes the Mayan quetzal bird.
The Maya Biosphere Reserve in Guatemala is the largest rainforest in Central America. Spanning over 2.1 million hectares, this biosphere is home to a variety of wildlife, including jaguars, pumas, and endangered species like the scarlet macaw. It also contains ancient Mayan ruins, making it a vital area for both ecological conservation and archaeological research.
It’s essential to stay connected while exploring the country’s diverse landscapes, from the ancient Mayan ruins to the lively streets of its cities. A simple and reliable way to ensure you're always online is by using an eSIM. An eSIM is a digital SIM that activates your mobile plan without needing a physical SIM card.
Unlike traditional SIM cards, which require you to physically swap them out in your phone, eSIMs offer more flexibility and convenience. With an eSIM, you don’t have to worry about finding a local store or dealing with the hassle of switching out physical cards during your trip.
eSIMs are becoming increasingly popular among travelers because they’re easy to set up, flexible, and don’t require swapping physical SIM cards. Most modern smartphones support eSIM technology, meaning you can set up your mobile plan ahead of time, so you’ll have service as soon as you arrive in Guatemala.
If you’re planning to visit, comparing eSIM providers can help you choose the best plan for your needs. Whether you’re hiking the volcanoes, exploring Lake Atitlán, or touring Guatemala City, an eSIM provides a cost-effective way to stay connected on your journey.
| Provider | Pros | Cons | Price | |
| Holafly |  | Unlimited data plans, 24/7 customer support | No support for traditional voice calls and SMS, higher pricing compared to some competitors | $6.38/day for unlimited data (5 days) |
| Nomad |  | Competitive pricing, multiple data packages | No unlimited data plans, might have coverage issues in rural areas | $8 for 1GB data (7 days) |
| Maya Mobile |  | Affordable plans, flexible data options | Coverage may be limited in certain areas, device compatibility issues | $4.50/day for unlimited data (choose duration) |
The Maya Calendar is one of the most accurate and sophisticated timekeeping systems ever created. Developed by the ancient Maya civilization in Guatemala, it tracked time with incredible precision, using advanced mathematical and astronomical knowledge. The calendar was not just for everyday use but also guided agricultural practices and religious ceremonies. It is still studied today for its accuracy and the insights it provides into Mayan culture and history.
The Maya Biosphere Reserve is the largest tropical rainforest in Central America and one of the most biodiverse places on Earth. It is home to rare and endangered species like the scarlet macaw and jaguar. This reserve also contains significant archaeological sites, such as the ancient Mayan city of Tikal, making it crucial for both environmental conservation and the study of Mayan history.
Guatemala celebrates a variety of colorful and traditional festivals. One of the most significant is Semana Santa (Holy Week), especially in Antigua, where elaborate processions and intricate flower carpets fill the streets. The Festival of Rabin Ajau celebrates the indigenous heritage of the Q’eqchi’ people, and Fiesta de la Virgen de la Asunción honors the country’s patron saint with fireworks, music, and dance.
Our mission is simple: to make sure you never have to ask, “What’s the WiFi password?” again. All our tips come straight from personal experience — because we’d never recommend something we haven’t put to the test ourselves.
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