The Republic of Guatemala is a country in Central America, in the south of the continent of North America, situated between the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. It is bordered by Mexico to the north, Belize to the northeast, and Honduras and El Salvador to the southeast.
Except for the south coastal area, and the vast lowlands of the Peten in the north, Guatemala is mountainous, with a hot tropical climate – more temperate in the highlands, and drier in the easternmost departments. All of the major cities are situated in the southern half of the country; the major cities are the capital Guatemala City, Quetzaltenango and Escuintla. The large lake Lago de Izabal is situated close to the Caribbean coast. Its situation on the Atlantic Ocean has left it a target for hurricanes, including Hurricane Mitch in 1998 and Hurricane Stan in 2005, in which upwards of 1,500 died.
Influences of the Maya and the Spanish colonists are strong throughout Guatemala. In the cities, European influence (especially German) is well evidenced. Much of the clothing and food is still made in the traditional Mayan way in small villages in the highlands, and many Mayan ruins can be found. Along the small Caribbean coast, there are influences of African culture in the religious ceremonial songs, dances and food.
Things you should know when travelling to Guatemala
Guatemala is slowly recovering from the damage sustained from Tropical Storm Stan, which struck the region in early October 2005. The entire south coast and all of the western highlands, from Guatemala City to Mexico, were most affected. Travellers in these areas should expect delays. Reconstruction projects are under way in several locations to rebuild bridges and repair roads that were washed out by the storm. Load restrictions are in effect for all temporary bridges. La Mesilla is the only border crossing with Mexico that is fully operational. Travel within Guatemala City and to Antigua is normal, and no problems have been reported in Tikal. Travel is typically dangerous because of road conditions and robberies. Travellers in Guatemala are reminded to be vigilant.
Rising crime rates in Guatemala continue to pose a threat to travellers. Higher rates of poverty in the regions affected by Stan have created the possibility of an increased incidence of crime. There is usually increased crime activity during the high season (mid-November to January). Although Canadians are not specifically targeted, they should exercise caution at all times because of an increase in assaults and thefts committed against tourists. Recently, a group of 19 of the most dangerous criminals in the country escaped from a prison in Escuintla, and 16 are still at large. An increase in gang warfare has also been noted in recent months.Travellers report a number of incidents of robbers attacking tourist buses and shuttles, especially some luxury lines. Such crimes are particularly common in, but not restricted to, the Petén region of northern Guatemala and areas bordering El Salvador and Honduras. Buses are stopped and boarded by heavily armed robbers, who seize victims' cash and valuables and may assault passengers.
Political demonstrations frequently occur in Guatemala City and in rural areas. Demonstrations, usually held at the Plaza Mayor and in Zones 1 and 4, can cause serious traffic disruptions. Demonstrators have resorted to blockading the major highways. Demonstrations are usually announced in advance. While most demonstrations are peaceful, some have turned violent. Avoid areas where demonstrations are taking place. There is a continuing possibility of civil disturbances and blockades, as peasants and former civil defence patrol members protest against government responses to their claims.
Canadians travelling to Guatemala should monitor media reports and confirm travel arrangements with their travel agent or tour operator.
