Guatemala City Guide

Why should you trust me and take my advice? 

I moved to Guatemala City to be with my husband, and I’ve been lucky to call this country my new home.  We spend all our free time exploring Guatemala City and traveling all over this incredible country.  We’ve traveled multiple times to the most popular tourist destinations in Guatemala and my advice and travel tips are based on extensive experience.

If you have a long list of questions or if you need help creating a customized Guatemala itinerary then please click here to book a travel consultation with me. For an introduction to traveling to Guatemala, click here for my Ultimate Guatemala Travel Guide.

An overview of Guatemala City

Guatemala City is the capital and the largest city in Central America.  Despite the size and the fact that there is much to see and do in the capital, most travelers arrive at the international airport and transfer directly to Antigua, Lake Atitlán, or somewhere else in the country.

Many tourists assume that it’s either too dangerous or not worth visiting Guatemala City.  However, the capital has been quietly becoming popular amongst tourists.  Guatemala City offers both a fine dining and street food scene, some of the best museums in the country, an underground Central Market, a creative district, and a historical city center which are all worth exploring.

One thing to note is that this is a city of sharp contrasts.  With a population of around 3 million in the metro area, there are many different neighborhoods and zones with some offering a luxury scene and others a more local experience.  The city is divided into zones which are numbered neighborhoods.  In this guide I’ll share information about the different zones, safety in the capital, what to see and do, where to stay, transportation, tours, and the best restaurants.

Is it Safe to Visit Guatemala City?

I live in Guatemala City and if I can feel safe here, then I believe most people who visit can feel safe as well. I think the most important thing to note is that Guatemala City is great for travelers who pay attention but not for those who wander aimlessly.  Guatemala is a city to navigate with intention.

I have (for the most part) felt safe living here but there is a lot to know about this topic.  The level of safety you’ll feel depends on where you visit and how you’ll explore the city.  For example, if you stick to visiting the safe zones, hire a tour guide to take you around, choose safe transportation, avoid walking around with your phone in your hand, and only walk around during the day, then you likely won’t have any problems in Guatemala City.

The honest truth is that Guatemala City has a high crime rate.  However, tourists are rarely the target of violent crime.  Most violence is gang-related and confined to specific zones where tourists have no reason to go.

Petty theft is the most realistic threat for tourists who visit Guatemala City, just as in practically any tourist destination around the world.  As someone who lives in the capital and has never been robbed, I recommend not walking around alone at night, keeping your phone hidden away, and avoid wearing any expensive jewelry.

I think the most important safety category in Guatemala City is transportation.  I would avoid using taxis and camionetas (chicken buses).  My recommendation is to stick to using Uber or hotel-arranged taxis.  If you want to hire a private driver during your stay in Guatemala City, then I would contact GuateDriver (info@guatedriver.com).  They offer a very safe and professional service and some of their drivers speak English.

The safe zones to visit in Guatemala City are as follows:

• Zone 4 – The 4 Grados Norte neighborhood is the safest area.
• Zone 9 – This is a business district and considered to be safe.
• Zone 10 – This is one of the safest zones in the capital.
• Zone 11 – This zone is somewhat safe to visit and if you keep reading, I will explain why.
• Zone 13 – Much of this zone is safe and feels like an extension of Zone 14. However, there are some unsafe areas in Zone 13 so it’s important to be cautious.
• Zone 14 – This is a mostly residential Zone and one of the safest to visit.
• Zone 15 – This is one of the safest Zones in the capital and the location of the American School of Guatemala.
• Zone 16 – This is one of the safest Zones and the Cayalá neighborhood is the safest place to walk around in the entire city.

These are the Zones to visit with caution.  The zones listed below are not very dangerous but can be risky:

• Zone 1
• Zone 2
• Zone 7
• Zone 8
• Zone 17
• Zone 19
• Zone 24

These are the Zones to avoid in Guatemala City.  The zones listed below are the most dangerous and some are classified as high-risk gang controlled territories.  None of these zones contain tourist attractions and I would skip them all together.

• Zone 3
• Zone 5
• Zone 6
• Zone 12
• Zone 18
• Zone 21

One thing to note is that people can get robbed in the safe zones.  It doesn’t happen as often as the risky or dangerous zones but there is a risk of walking around and a motorcylist stopping and demanding that you hand over your phone and/or wallet.  This is why I recommend walking around with a local and hiding your phone and valuables.  Do not ever walk or stand along the street with your phone in your hand.  With the exception of Cayalá (a private, pedestrian only neighborhood) you should always remain alert while exploring on the streets and do not wander around aimlessly.

Arriving in Guatemala City

Most tourists will arrive at the Guatemala City international airport.  I usually recommend using www.skyscanner.com to book flights because it’s the best website for international routes and budget carriers.

Some travelers might arrive in Guatemala City by bus from Copan, Honduras, San Salvador, San Cristóbal, Mexico, or other locations in Guatemala such as Puerto Barrios, Río Dulce, or Xela.  You can book a private bus from any of these locations by searching on the GuateGo website.

It is also possible to arrive with a private driver from different locations within Guatemala.  The company I recommend is GuateDriver and they can pick tourists up in neighboring countries such as Mexico, Honduras, and El Salvador.  They have very professional drivers and some speak English. You can contact them in English or Spanish on WhatsApp at +502-3775-7831 or at info@guatedriver.com.

Another option is to book a tourist shuttle from one of the other major tourist locations in Guatemala. I recommend using the GuateGo platform to search for a specific route.  For example, you can book a shuttle from the Guatemala City airport to Panajachel, or from Antigua to San Pedro la Laguna.  There are many other routes such as from El Paredón to Antigua or from Quetzaltenango (Xela) to Panajachel and vice versa.  The shuttles are available multiple times a day leaving and arriving at Lake Atitlán.  You can view all the times on the GuateGo platform.

Just note that sometimes they will drive a bit fast on winding roads. If you struggle with car sickness, then bring non-drosy dramamine pills.

Click here to book a shuttle on the GuateGo platform.

Transportation Options in Guatemala City

One thing to note about Guatemala City is that the traffic is terrible.   If you’re trying to move around the city from 7 am – 9 am or from 4 pm – 7 pm then you should expect to move slowly within the city. Also, if you’re trying to leave the central zones in the capital and move to the suburbs or to Antigua (or somewhere else) then it can take a lot of extra time during rush hour.

I recommend using the Uber app to get around Guatemala City.  I’ve used Uber often and the drivers are 95% of the time very reliable and professional.   The price for Uber is great as I usually pay 20-80 Quetzales per ride which is approximately $2.60 – $10.50.  I have been able to request drivers 24/7 and it’s been very inexpensive and reliable during the last few years while living in Guatemala City.

Something to note it that Uber doesn’t work everywhere in Guatemala.  As of May 2026, you can only use Uber in Guatemala City, Antigua, Xela, and Escuintla.

You can rent a car in Guatemala but I do not recommend driving in Guatemala.  This is why. 

Most people in Guatemala don’t have driver’s insurance and many don’t follow local driving laws.  I’ve seen many careless motorcycle drivers in Guatemala.  Unfortunately, if a driver in a car injures or even worse kills a motorcyclist, then they are automatically at fault and will need to hire a lawyer.  It can become a complicated situation.

If you want to rent a car then I suggest comparing prices on getrentacar.com.  Some companies in Guatemala are better than others.  I recommend Alamo, Guatemala Rent a Car, Avis, Budget, or Europcar.  I would avoid Thrifty and Fox Rent a Car.  Some companies have scams and will charge hidden fees.  I also recommend purchasing full insurance if you plan to drive in Guatemala (for the reasons I listed above with my explanation about why I don’t recommend driving).  Lastly, rent a 4X4 vehicle if you’re planning to go to places such as Semuc Champey, Huehuetenango, or other remote roads.

I don’t recommend taking the camionetas also known as chicken buses.  Some tourists take these buses and they are fine.  However, it is a risk because there can be robberies on these buses (especially in Guatemala City and the surrounding areas). Moreover sometimes they drive these buses recklessly. I’ve often seen reports in the news about accidents.

Where to visit + Explore in Guatemala City

Guatemala City is split up into Zones. Each zone has a different vibe and in this section of the travel guide, I’ll explain the characteristics of each zone and what to do there.  Moreover, I’ll share information about safety in the zones in Guatemala City.

Zone 1

This is the historic district constructed in 1773 when the colonialists established Guatemala City as the new capital and after an earthquake destroyed Antigua. Most day tours begin in this part of Guatemala since it is the historical and cultural heart of the city.  Some of the best architecture is located in this zone and with many major attractions.

I think that every tourist who wants to explore Guatemala City needs to visit this zone.  However, safety is a concern.  My recommendation is to only walk around with a tour guide or a local in this Zone.  There are safe areas and very dangerous areas.  It’s best to avoid walking down the wrong street and using your phone or camera in a place where you should not.

These are the places to visit in Zone 1:

• Constitution Plaza (Parque Central)
• The National Palace of Culture
• The Central (underground) Market
• 6th Avenue (The Pedestrian Promenade)
• The National Theatre
• The City Hall and Civic Center
• The National History Museum
• El Portalito (historic bar and restaurant)
• The Central Post Office Building
• The National Theatre Miguel Ángel Asturias
• National History Museum
• National Library

One thing to note is that you should hire a guide to explore in this zone and avoid roaming around at night.  I’ve visited Zone 1 many times, however, I’ve felt safe because I’ve always had a local with me or a guide.  This zone can be risky if you walk down the wrong street and there’s so much history and culture here, that you’ll want to hire a guide anyway to learn everything!  The guide I recommend is Guillermo and his email is viejourneys@gmail.com.  You can also contact him on WhatsApp at +502-5504-5932 and his website is .https://www.viejourneys.com/

Zone 2

Zone 2 is not one of the main tourist areas but there are some interesting cultural and historical sites in this part of the capital.  Something to note is that it can be risky to walk around much of this zone.  Therefore, I recommend hiring a guide to take you around (Guillermo has a car and he can drive you around the city) instead of walking from place to place.

These are the places to visit in Zone 2:

• Relief Map of Guatemala
• Children’s Museum area
• Cerrito del Carmen

Zone 4

This is the creative, artsy, and modern urban culture district of the capital.  The 4 Grados Norte neighborhood is one of the trendiest in the capital as it has transformed from an older commercial area into a walkable neighborhood filled with cafes, street art, co-working spaces, bars, galleries, and modern apartment towers.  The streets are laid out diagonally because the neighborhood was inspired by Parisian urban design during the late 1800s.

The 4 Grados Norte neighborhood is pedestrian-friendly and it’s one of the places where tourists like to stay. There is a modern plaza called Quo with offices, restaurants, rooftop city views, etc.  Many tourists book an Airbnb in this plaza which is typically a 1 or 2 bedroom modern apartment.  I enjoy walking around this neighborhood and seeing all the murals and street art.

These are the places to visit in Zone 4:

• 4 Grados neighborhood
• Plaza España
• Torre del Reformador
• Musac museum
• Botanical gardens
• Shucos del Liceo
• The Sports Museum

Zone 9

Zone 9 is one of the central, business-heavy districts, but it also has a surprising number of parks, monuments, cafes, and walkable boulevards.  It sits right in between Zones 1, 4, and 10 which are popular tourist zones.  Zone 9 feels like a classic urban avenue district with wide streets, old monuments, office buildings, hotels, and a few green spaces.

These are the places to visit in zone 9:

• Avenida La Reforma
• Torre La Reformador
• Plaza España

Zone 10

Zone 10 is commonly known as Zona Viva and this is the most popular area for tourists and business travelers.  This zone has numerous hotels, international restaurants, and embassies.  The zone is modern, walkable and has many shopping centers, bars, cafes, and museums.  This zone feels very polished and cosmopolitan compared to zones 1 and 4 which are also popular areas for tourists to visit.

Zone 10 is one of the safest zones in the capital with a lot of security presence.  Many of the hotels and restaurants have English-speaking staff which is quite different compared to much of the city.

These are the best things to do and see in Zone 10:

• Avenida La Reforma
• Museo Ixcel del Traje Indígena
• Museo Popul Vuh
• Botanical Garden
• Oakland Place
• Plaza Fontabella

Zone 11

Zone 11 is one of the largest and most residential-commercial districts.  Compared to some of the touristy Zones like 4 and 10, Zone 11 feels more like every day life.  However, there are still many attractions in this part of the city such as museums, an archaeological site, and commercial centers.  Zone 11 isn’t necessarily a dangerous place but it’s also not the safest.  I wouldn’t recommend walking around too much and I advise hiring an Uber or private driver to get around.

These are the best things to do and see in Zone 11:

• Museo Miraflores
• Kaminaljuyú archaeological area
• Miraflores shopping mall
• Roosevelt corridor + local food

Zone 13

Zone 13 is one of the most important tourist areas in Guatemala City because of the international airport, major museums, green spaces, the city zoo, and wide boulevards.  This zone is located on the southern side of the capital near the airport and most tourists stay here for convenience before heading to other places in Guatemala such as Antigua and Lake Atitlán.

The tourist areas of Zone 13 are safe.  However, there are a few dangerous places in this zone but those areas are not where tourists usually visit.

These are the best things to do and see in Zone 13:

• Zoológico La Aurora
• National Museum of Mayan Art:  Archaeology and Ethnology
• Museo de Historia Natural “Jorge Ibarra”
• Museo Nacional de Arte Moderno “Carlos Mérida”
• The Children’s Museum of Guatemala
• Lomas de Pamplona Ecological Park
• Avenida Las Américas
• Plaza Colombia
• IRTRA Mundo Petapa
• Jungla Urbana Ecologica Park
• Plaza Berlin

Zone 14

Zone 14 is one of the most upscale, residential, and green parts of Guatemala City.  It’s modern like Zone 10 but much more quiet.  This zone is ideal for tourists who want to visit coffee shops, go on slow walks, and to step away from the hustle and bustle of the other zones to visit in the capital.

Zone 14 is one of the safest places in Guatemala City.  However, it’s still important to be careful here.  I’ve walked around Zone 14 without a problem but never with my phone in my hand and I always remain alert.

These are the best places to visit in Zone 14:

• Avenida Las Américas
• Plaza Obelisco
• Plaza Colombia
• Fundación Rozas Botrán
• Museo La Ruta Maya
• Parque Las Americas

Zone 15

Zone 15 is one of the greenest, wealthiest, and most residential zones in the capital.  It is centered around Boulevard Vista Hermosa and although it is a modern and urban zone, it has a more relaxed atmosphere compared to zone 10.  Zone 15 is one of the safer zones but as always, I recommend to walk around with caution.

These are the best places to visit in Zone 15:

• Plaza Confucio
• Reserva Ecológica La Ardilla
• Boulevard Vista Hermosa
• Fotográfico Park

Zone 16

Zone 16 is one of the most modern, upscale, and rapidly developing parts of Guatemala City.  It’s best known for the Cayalá neighborhood which is the safest place to walk around in the city.   Compared to the more traditional parts of Guatemala City, Zone 15 feels newer, greener, and more suburban.

Many tourists like to visit this part of. Guatemala City because it is very clean, safe, and luxurious.  However, it is also one of the most controversial places in Guatemala City.  Some locals criticize this neighborhood because they believe it only caters to the wealthy people in Guatemala and it’s disconnected from the rest of the city.  Although, I partly agree with this argument, I can also confirm that I see all kinds of people visiting Cayalá and walking around.  I notice a lot of Guatemalans from all over the city and country spending time in Cayalá on the weekends.

These are the best places to visit in Zone 16:

• Paseo Cayalá
• Parque Ecológico y Deportivo Cayalá
• Jacarandas de Cayalá Ecological Park
• Parque Ecológico Kanajuyú
• El Mirador Zona 16
• Plaza de la Bendera
• Skyzone Cardalas de Cayalá

Where To Stay in Guatemala City

There are numerous hotel options in Guatemala, from inexpensive hotels and hostels to mid-range and luxury hotels.  Most tourists stay in a few select zones in Guatemala City and I have the best options listed below.

Zone 1

This is the historic heart of the capital.  It’s the oldest, most traditional, and chaotic part of Guatemala City.  It feels very different from the more modern areas of Zones 10, 14, and 16.  I recommend visiting Zone 1 if you want to learn about the history of Guatemala City and plan to stay for more than one night in the capital.

Posada Belen Museo Inn:  This is a historical boutique hotel located in Zone 1. The owner is a lovely Guatemalan woman named Francesca who speaks English and Spanish and she’s a great cook!  Breakfast is usually included with a reservation but she can also cook a homemade meal for dinner.

This is a budget-friendly hotel and instead of booking online, best way to reserve a room is by contacting Francesca on WhatsApp at +502-5702-6737 or by email at posadabelen@gmail.com.

Zone 4

Many tourists enjoy staying in the trendy and creative 4 Grados Norte neighborhood in Zone 4.  Last year, we had problems with the water at our house (it was temporarily shut off for one week), and we stayed in a 1 bedroom apartment in this neighborhood.  We booked the apartment on Airbnb and it was located in the Quo plaza.  It was very convenient to stay here since the plaza has a pharmacy, grocery store, and several restaurants.

If you want to book an Airbnb in this neighborhood you can search by typing in “4 Grados Norte – Guatemala City” and your dates.

There is also a mid-range priced Hotel I recommend called Good Hotel Guatemala City.  This is a 4-star hotel with air conditioned rooms and great city views!  What I love the most about this hotel is that it is managed by as a social business.  They use some of their profits to support local children and increase their access to education.

If you’re a backpacker on a budget then Tequila Sunrise Hostel is a great option.  They have great reviews and the prices are very budget-friendly for a dorm or private room.

Zone 10

Zone 10 is where most tourists stay in Guatemala City, and especially in the area called Zona Viva.  Tourists love this zone because it is close-proximity to the airport.  Also, this zone has great access to museums, restaurants, and shopping centers.  As a tourist, you’ll find the widest hotel selection here and most are within walking distance to restaurants.

Most of the hotels in Zone 10 are located approximately 10-20 minutes from the airport.  If you’re only staying in Guatemala City for one night before or after your flight then Zone 10 is a great choice.

Below are the best hotel options for Zone 10:

Budget-friendly:

• Central Hostel Dolce Vita
• Comfort Hostel
• Central Hostel

Midrange: 

• Holiday Inn Guatemala
• Courtyard by Marriott
• Hotel San Carlos
• Wyndham Garden
• Clarion Suites
• Hilton Garden Inn
• Meraki Boutique Hotel

Luxury: 

• The Westin Camino Real
• Hyatt Centric Guatemala City
• InterContinental Real Guatemala

Zone 11

Zone 11 only has one hotel I would recommend but it is a very good choice.  It’s called Tikal Futural Hotel and it’s close to the Miraflores Commercial Center, one of the best shopping malls in Guatemala.  The hotel is also not far from the ancient Maya site called Kaminaljuyu.  Moreover, it’s a good location if you want to be closer to Antigua or Lake Atitlán as this is one of the main routes leaving the city toward the tourist areas in the Western highlands.

Zone 13

Most people stay in Zone 13 because of the close proximity to the airport.  If you only want to stay in Guatemala City for one night before or after your flight then the hotels listed below will be a great choice.  These hotels are all basic and budget-friendly. However, if you want more luxury options then I suggest booking a hotel in Zone 10 which is approximately 10-20 minutes from the airport.

These hotels all have great reviews and are within a 5-10 minute drive from the airport:

• Hostal Villa Toscana
• L’Aurora Inn
• Ayari Bed & Breakfast
• In & Out Hotel
• Hostal Donde Regina
• Casa Aurora
• Novohostal B&B
• Mariana’s Petit Hotel
• Be Happy Hotel
• Hotel Don Felipe Aeropuerto

Zone 14

I think Zone 14 is a great choice for travelers because it’s quiet, safe, modern, and not far from the airport. However, there are only a few hotel options here.

Adriatika Hotel is one of my favorite accommodation options in all of Guatemala City.  I love the pool and sun terrace and especially for the price.

Another option is Hotel Las Americas which is a 5 star hotel for a much better price compared to the 5 star hotels in Zone 10.  It’s not as fancy as the most luxury hotels in Zone 10 but still a nice option.

Zone 16

The only hotel in Zone 16 is located in the Cayalá neighborhood and it’s a great choice.  It’s the AC Hotel by Marriott and it is within walking distance to many shops and restaurants.  This is a 4-star luxury style hotel with a nice view from the restaurant.

 

The Best Tours in Guatemala City

Guatemala City is the largest city in Central America.  There is a lot to do and it’s overwhelming to try to see everything.  My recommendation is to book a private tour with a guide who can take you from place to place as This is the safest and most secure way to explore the city.  Moreover, a guide can provide you with all the context, history, and cultural information so that you can truly learn about the capital.

My favorite Guatemala City tour guide is Guillermo.  He is Guatemalan, has spent time living in the capital, and knows it well.  He’s also a INGUAT (Guatemalan Tourism Institute) certified and academic style guide.  He’s practically a walking Encyclopedia for Guatemala!

Guillermo has a SUV style vehicle and therefore, he can take a group around Guatemala City.  If you’re a larger group you can inquire with him since he can hire a driver and a larger vehicle.  Guillermo offers fair rates and you can check out his tours on his website here. His email address is viejourneys@gmail.com and his WhatsApp number is +502-5504-5932.

I recommend booking a Guatemala City customized tour by selecting from the activities and points of interest I’ve shared in this guide.  You can send a list of your interests to Guillermo and he can tell if the day tour is realistic or not within the timeframe.  For example, I would suggest starting in Zone 1 and spending most of the day there.  You can end the day in Zone 13 and 14 by visiting a museum or a few of the plazas along Avenida Las Americas.

Restaurant Recommendations in Guatemala City

I think Guatemala City has one of the most underrated food scenes in Latin America.  There are many great restaurants throughout several zones in the capital.

I’m continuously trying new restaurants and cuisine in Guatemala City but I have below a list of my favorites so far:

Zone 1

• Guisuna Garífuna
• Rosita’s (Mercado Central)
• Los Tres Tiempos
• El Adobe

Zone 2

• Reyes Del Asado

Zone 4

• Res & Pez
• L’Aperó
• UMAI Social Club
• Comida Moonrise
• Flor de Lis

Zone 10

• Gracia Cocina de Autor
• Cadejo Brewing Company
• Curry Kebab Restaurante
• Del Griego Fontabella
• Aniki Japanese BBQ
• Fridas Restaurant

Zone 11

• Cevichela La Kombi
• Buta Ramen House

Zone 14

• Bonito Ramen
• Terraza Catorce
• Naru Japanese Cuisine

Zone 15

• Restaurante Giratoro Vista Quince
• Los Delfines
• Kaffa Restaurante

Zone 16

• Casa Escobar
• Hacienda Real
• Wild
• Portal del Ángel
• Arena Cocina Griega

Weather in Guatemala City

Guatemala City is located in the highlands of Guatemala and the weather is usually pleasant year around.  The weather is typically in the high 70s to the low 80s Farenheit during the day and in the high 50s and 60s at night.  I think it’s key to bring layers for your trip and to pack a lightweight jacket or sweater.

The dry season is from November – April and the coolest months are December, January, and February.  The warmest months are March, April, and May when the temperatures can get up to the low or mid 80s.   During the rainy season, it’s usually dry and clear in the morning but it will often rain in the afternoon.  Although there is usually a short dry spell in July and August when the skies can be very clear and sunny.  Also, during the rainy season, it normally only rains for a few hours in the afternoon (but this can vary).

 

Medical and Beauty Tourism in Guatemala City 

Can you save money on medical services in Guatemala?

Yes! Especially if you’re traveling from the United States.  There are high-quality dentists, plastic surgeons, dermatologists, etc. and especially in Guatemala City.

Dentist Recommendation

If you come to Guatemala for dental work, you can pay one third to one half the price compared to the United States.

My trusted dentist in Guatemala City is called Guatemala Dental, and they have all the modern equipment you would find at any of the best dental offices in the United States.  I’ve received cleanings, whitening treatments, and I’ve had three teeth pulled with anesthesia.

You can find a list of their prices at www.guatemaladental.com.   The dentist and some of the staff speak English and their email is info@guatemaladental.com and WhatsApp is +502-5691-7429. You can send a message to ask questions or receive a quote for any services.

Right now, Guatemala Dental has a special promotion that can save patients thousands of dollars on full restoration services.  You can click here to read about their permanent full mouth restoration services for an $18,000 flat fee!  What an amazing deal considering this costs $50,000 – $80,000 in the United States.

Dermatologist Recommendation

You also can save money on dermatology services such as botox, fillers, micro needling, wart removal, skin cancer surgery, and more!  In Guatemala you will pay approximately 50% less for all services!  

 

 

The dermatologist I recommend has an office in Guatemala City and Antigua.  His name is Dr. Mena Wer and I have seen him regularly for two years.  He speaks english and Spanish and does a great job injecting botox!  He’s also frozen off moles on my body and has given me filler.

You can contact his staff on WhatsApp to make an appointment in Spanish (I suggest using Google translator but you can speak English with the doctor).  Their number is +502-5930-9399.

Salon Recommendation

I also need to mention that Guatemala City has the first ever Japanese Head Spa in Central America!  This is called Bashí, House of Glam and it’s located in Zone 15.  A Japanese Head Spa is a specialized scalp and hair treatment that originated in Japan and focuses on deep cleansing, scalp health, relaxation, and hair wellness.

At Bashía they will provide a scalp analysis and check for dandruff, irritation, dryness, product buildup, etc.  Then they will provide a cleanse, a massage, a treatment, and a rinse and blowout.  After I went to the salon, I learned that my hair is thinning out so they treated me for this and it was such a great experience!  My hair and face felt amazing after my appointment.

The salon also offers:

• Manicures
• Pedicures
• Hair cut and style
• Hair straightening treatments
• Facials
• Microneedling
• Anti-aging therapies
• Hair removal
• … And more!

Bashía only uses vegan, non-toxic products and I find the prices in the salons in Guatemala to be much lower than the United States and with the same quality or more!  If you want to get a manicure and pedicure plus a hair straightening treatment you could save hundreds of dollars just by visiting the salon!

Some of the staff speaks English and you can request this when you make an appointment.  You can contact the salon on WhatsApp at +502-3766-3354.

 

Guatemala City Travel Tips 

• Medical emergencies and travel insurance:  Guatemala’s public healthcare system is not very good but you can find high-quality private healthcare available in the country.   You’ll need to pay upfront for any private hospital or doctor’s visits and sometimes it can be thousands of dollars.  The private hospitals will turn you away if you don’t have the money which is why I recommend having a travel insurance policy in place.  The insurance plan I have used in Guatemala is Safety Wing.  Their plans cover hospital stays, medications, surgery, travel delays, lost luggage, and more.   You can click here to sign up for a plan.
• Language:  Most people in Guatemala speak Spanish and not English. Therefore, it’s important to at least learn the basics to be able to communicate with people. If you want to learn Spanish with self-paced lessons then I recommend.  Rocket Languages.  This is my favorite program because they combine listening, speaking, reading, and writing drills.  What I struggle with the most is pronunciation and Rocket Language has been helping me a lot because they have interactive audio lessons that simulate real conversations.  Click here to learn more about their cost and programs.
• Cash, credit cards, and ATMs:  You can use your credit cards in many restaurants and hotels in the main tourist areas in Guatemala. However, there are also cash only places such as small local restaurants, markets, tuk-tuk drivers,, lancha (boat) transportation, tips, and more.  You will absolutely need cash and I recommend using the local ATMs to cash out for a small fee (do not use the money exchange at the airport as they have a very bad rate).
• Internet & data:  Most hotels, hostels, Airbnbs, and restaurants will have free wi-fi. Although, at times it works well but sometimes it doesn’t!  If you need consistent data and wi-fi access then I suggest downloading an app with an eSim. Now that I live in Guatemala I use a local sim but when I was initially traveling here, I used Saily eSim.  This was easy to set up and I avoided going into the store in Guatemala to get a physical sim.  You can click here to download the app and set up service.
• Noise cancellation:  I recommend traveling to Guatemala with ear plugs because this country can be LOUD. I am not exaggerating as there are often weddings or just a celebration in Antigua in general with fireworks. If you bring ear plugs with you then you can thank me later. Click here for my favorite ear plugs.
• Food & Water in Guatemala:  In Guatemala, the water from the faucet is not safe to drink, however, most restaurants will serve a glass of filtered water or bottled water.  I also recommend traveling to Guatemala with a water bottle with a built-in filter.  I use the Life Straw bottle in Guatemala and it completely filters out any of the bad stuff and works well!  You can buy this online by clicking here.   Also, if you’re the type of person who has a sensitive stomach then I recommend avoiding street food or eating anything raw.  Usually the raw vegetables are fine but as an extra precaution, I would skip those.
• Portable safe:  In my experience, many hotels in Guatemala do not have a safe.  Therefore, I recommend buying a portable safe that can be locked to many different fixtures in a hotel room.  You can put your laptop, passport, extra cash, etc. inside this safe and hide your valuables.  Click here to buy the portable safe I’ve always used in Guatemala.
• Sun protection: It can get very sunny in Guatemala and sunblock can be expensive here.  Oftentimes it’s double the price so whenever I’m in the U.S. I’ll stock up and bring it back with me.  I usually buy this sunscreen for my face and this for the rest of my body.

 

Do You Need More Travel Tips For Guatemala? 

Check out my Ultimate Guide for Guatemala!  This blog post provides an introduction to traveling to Guatemala, a high level overview of how to plan a trip, what to expect, and my best travel tips for the country.  Click here to review this guide.

You can also read my guides for other destinations in Guatemala:

 

• Antigua
• Lake Atitlan
• El Paredón

 

Or, if you need help with a customized itinerary then you can book a travel consultation with me!   Click here to review my calendar with availability and the cost for this service.

 

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