Central America is drawing attention as a vacation hot spot. It’s got a great location and plenty of opportunity for growth, especially in the tourism industry. Many investors and entrepreneurs are also eyeing Central America for similar reasons. So savvy travelers would be wise to check it out while the going’s good.
The Guatemalan climate is generally quite favorable in most of the country, though travel can be prohibited in certain areas during the rainy season, which lasts from mid-May to mid-October, so this is something to keep in mind when planning your trip.
Guatemala holds some true gems for those who visit this lush country. The natural landscapes are truly wondrous, and include sparkling lakes, volcanoes and beaches defined by their volcanic sand. History and archaeology buffs will be particularly interested in the numerous Mayan ruins that dot the landscape. You can walk through extensive, sprawling communities and see hundreds of structures at one site. This has the potential to be a profound experience, walking in the footsteps of some of the earliest civilizations and attempting to grasp what their lives might have been like. To put it in perspective, the first people in Guatemala are believed to have been there before 1200 B.C.
The ruins you will see here are among the most beautiful in the world, and are a testament to the human ingenuity, creativity and work ethic that made this early civilization so unique.
If you’re hankering to observe volcanoes, head to the popular town of Antigua Guatemala. The entire city is surrounded by volcanoes and you can hike a volcano if you are so inclined. Antigua Guatemala was founded in the 16th century, and bears the hallmarks not only of lovely architecture, but the scars of having been built in a region that is particularly susceptible to earthquakes. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Centre, and that organization has referred to it as a “colonial gem” in the Americas.
There are numerous options for getting around the country. These include public buses, which vary in quality and spaciousness – as is the case anywhere, you get what you pay for and your choice is between a more expensive but comfortable ride and a closely packed, up close and personal journey.
One nice thing about Guatemala is that you can easily access it from any of its neighboring countries, by plane or by bus. Travelers are required to have a valid passport at the time of entry into the country, and may be required to pay an exit fee of $30 USD.
Guatemala can easily be incorporated into a larger trip through Central America, especially if you want to see beautiful Belize, Honduras or El Salvador. You can cross the borders with relative ease, allowing you to see each distinct country by simply doing an overland route. Guatemala is an excellent country to visit because although there is much to see, especially in terms of its natural beauty, it is not so touristy as other countries, meaning you will have a personal, unique experience of the place.