The “land of trees”
Covering about 108,890 km², Guatemala takes its name from the indigenous *Quauhtlemallan*, meaning “land of many trees.” Its capital, Guatemala City, is the largest city in Central America, and the country was once the heart of the Maya civilisation.
A land of volcanoes
For its size, Guatemala is astonishingly volcanic, with more than 30 volcanoes — three of them active. Climbing one, such as Acatenango for its view of the erupting Volcán de Fuego, is one of the country’s most unforgettable experiences.
Earthquake country
Sitting on active fault lines, Guatemala is prone to earthquakes: a magnitude-7.4 quake in November 2012 killed dozens and injured many more. It was the same seismic power that destroyed the old capital and led to the founding of today’s Guatemala City.
The most populous country in Central America
Home to around 18 million people, Guatemala is the most populous nation in Central America. Roughly half are Indigenous — the largest Maya population of any country — giving Guatemala an exceptionally rich living culture.
A long and painful civil war
From 1960 to 1996, Guatemala endured a 36-year civil war between the state and leftist guerrillas — the longest in Latin American history — which claimed more than 200,000 lives before peace accords were signed.
A young, growing nation
Guatemala remains one of the poorer countries in the Americas, with a literacy rate now around 83% and life expectancy in the low 70s — figures that have steadily improved, though rural and Indigenous communities still face real hardship.
Spanish and 20-plus Mayan languages
Spanish is the official language, spoken by most of the population, but Guatemala is also home to more than 20 distinct Mayan languages — such as K’iche’, Kaqchikel and Q’eqchi’ — alongside Xinca and Garífuna.
Independence Day: 15 September
Guatemala celebrates its independence from Spain, won in 1821, every 15 September, with parades, marching bands and torch relays across the country.
A star of Central American tourism
Guatemala is one of Central America’s most rewarding destinations, drawing travellers to the towering Maya temples of Tikal, the colonial beauty of Antigua, and the volcano-ringed Lake Atitlán — three of the region’s greatest sights.
Where to go
Beyond Tikal, Antigua and Atitlán, don’t miss the turquoise pools of Semuc Champey, the market town of Chichicastenango, and the Caribbean-flavoured town of Lívingston — each showing a different side of this remarkably varied country.
FAQ
Is Guatemala worth visiting?
Very much — for Maya ruins, active volcanoes, beautiful colonial Antigua, Lake Atitlán and a vibrant Indigenous culture, it is one of Central America’s highlights.
When is the best time to visit?
The dry season, November to April, is best for volcano climbs and travel; the “green season” from May to October is lush but wetter.
What is the nearest airport?
La Aurora International (GUA) in Guatemala City is the main gateway; many visitors head straight to nearby Antigua.
