WHEN TO TRAVEL TO Guatemala

Location

Climate

Tourist seasons: low, medium and high season

In Guatemala, tourist seasons are generally divided into three categories: low, medium and high season. Each has its advantages and disadvantages, depending on your travel priorities and preferences.

Low season (May to October)

There low season is the rainy period from May to October. During this period, rainfall is more frequent and temperatures slightly lower. However, it's important to note that showers generally occur in the afternoon and evening, leaving the morning and part of the day sunny and pleasant for exploring.

• Benefits Fewer tourists, lower prices for accommodation and activities.
• Disadvantages More frequent rain, some roads may be difficult to drive on.

Mid-season (November and April)

There middle season in Guatemala is between the low and high seasons, i.e. between November and April. During these months, the climate is milder and rainfall less frequent. This period is ideal for those wishing to avoid the crowds of the high season while enjoying pleasant weather.

• Benefits Mild climate, fewer tourists than during the high season.
• Disadvantages Precipitation possible, prices slightly higher than in low season.

High season (December to March)

There high season extends from December to March, during the dry season. During this period, temperatures are generally warm and rainfall rare. It's the ideal time to enjoy beaches and outdoor activities without fear of rain.

• Benefits Dry, sunny climate, many cultural events.
• Disadvantages More tourists, higher prices for accommodation and activities.

Major cultural events and public holidays

Guatemala is rich in traditions and cultural events. Some of these are celebrated throughout the country, while others are specific to certain regions or cities. Here is a list of major cultural events and holidays in Guatemala:

• Holy Week (March or April) The week leading up to Easter Sunday is one of the highlights of the Guatemalan year. The streets are filled with colorful processions and richly decorated carpets of flowers and sawdust.
• National holiday (September 15) Guatemalan National Day celebrates the country's independence from Spain in 1821. Parades, concerts and fireworks are held throughout the country.
• Day of the Dead (November 1) Day of the Dead: Guatemalans visit cemeteries to honor their loved ones who have passed away. They decorate the graves with flowers and light candles.
• Christmas (December 24-25) Christmas festivities begin in mid-December with processions called "posadas". On December 24, families gather to share a traditional meal and attend midnight mass. December 25 is a public holiday.

When to go depending on your preferences and activities

Depending on your preferences and the activities you want to do in Guatemala, here are some tips on the best time to go:

For nature lovers and hikers

If you want to discover Guatemala's national parks and go hiking, the high season (December to March) is undoubtedly the best time for you. The dry, sunny climate makes the trails more practicable and the landscapes greener.

For lovers of culture and tradition

Lovers of culture and tradition will appreciate visiting Guatemala during the Holy Week (March or April) or on the occasion of other major cultural events. Visit middle season (November and April) also offers a good compromise between mild weather and moderate crowds, allowing you to take full advantage of the archaeological sites and colonial towns.

For budget travellers

If your priority is low-cost travel, the low season (May to October) will be the best option for you. Accommodation and activities are generally cheaper during this period, but be prepared for rain and possible travel difficulties on some roads.

Guatemala immigration statistics: figures on the rise

According to official data, the number of foreigners living in Guatemala has increased in recent years. There are a number of reasons for this, including immigrants' search for a better quality of life, and the country's economic development, which offers interesting professional opportunities.

Main countries of origin of immigrants

Among the nationalities most represented in the Guatemalan immigrant population are :

• THE UNITED STATES
• Le Salvador
• Honduras
• Nicaragua
• THE Costa Rica
• Colombia
• THE Venezuela
• Spain
• La France
• THE Canada

Immigrants by age and gender

Statistics on immigration to Guatemala show that foreigners living in the country are predominantly young, with a high proportion aged between 20 and 39. In addition, the immigrant population is largely male (around 55 %), although the female presence is also notable.

Guatemala's most popular visas: students, workers and temporary residents top the list

There are several types of visa for visiting Guatemala, each corresponding to a specific foreigner profile. The most commonly requested visas are :

• The student visa, which allows foreigners to study at a Guatemalan educational institution.
• The worker visa, intended for people wishing to carry out a paid professional activity in the country.
• Temporary resident visas, granted for a fixed period and allowing foreigners to settle in Guatemala for family, professional or personal reasons.
• The permanent resident visa, granted to foreigners who have lived in the country for at least five years and meet certain specific conditions.

Visa requirements

To obtain a visa in Guatemala, foreigners must meet certain conditions and provide various supporting documents, such as :

• Proof of financial solvency
• A medical certificate attesting to their good health
• Criminal record extract
• Documents related to the purpose of your stay (work contract, university admission letter, etc.).

Guatemala's international tourism figures: sustained growth despite caution

Guatemala is becoming increasingly popular with international tourists, who are attracted by its cultural and natural riches. Tourism figures show a steady increase in the number of foreign visitor arrivals in recent years.

The country's main tourist destinations

Among the most visited sites in Guatemala are :

• The city of Antigua, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its colonial architecture
• The archaeological site of Tikal, an ancient Mayan city with numerous temples and monuments
• Lake Atitlán, surrounded by volcanoes and an idyllic setting for nature lovers and water sports enthusiasts.
• Semuc Champey National Park, famous for its natural pools and lush landscapes

The question of safety: between caution and crime

While international tourism in Guatemala is experiencing significant growth, it is important to remember that some areas of the country suffer from high levels of crime. Tourists are therefore advised to be vigilant when traveling, and to be aware of the local authorities' safety recommendations.

Future prospects for Guatemalan tourism

In order to sustain and develop the tourism sector, the Guatemalan government has introduced a number of incentives and programs aimed at improving the welcome for foreign visitors, as well as preserving the country's cultural and environmental heritage.