GUATEMALA FAQ

Your questions answered for our Guatemala trip!

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highlights

Experience Guatemala

-Volcano Hiking
-Colonial Antigua
-Coffee Plantation Tour
-Visit Lake Atitlan
-Boat tour in the Lake Atitlan

Guatemala is seen as an off-the-beaten-path destination in Central America. It’s a country that seamlessly blends Guatemalan culture, archaeology, Spanish Colonial heritage, and lush jungles. The Guatemalan people also add a friendly and hospitable touch to their country.

Have a question about the Under30Experiences Guatemala trip?
What are the accommodations like?

You will stay in boutique hotel rooms for the duration of your trip. Solo travelers are paired with someone of the same gender.  You can request a friend to be your roommate upon checkout. If you'd prefer not to have a roommate, private room options are available upon request, subject to hotel availability for an extra charge. 

Please contact [email protected] for more details.

Is laundry available?

Laundry is available at the hotel for an additional fee. Ask your Trip Leader for details.

What type of luggage is best?

We recommend using a backpack or a medium-sized suitcase for your convenience.

A daypack is also essential for carrying everyday items. Space is limited on our transportation, so one main piece of luggage per person is limited. You will be responsible for carrying your luggage.

Are the outlets compatible with American plugs, or should we bring adaptors?

Guatemala uses 110-volt, 60-cycle electricity, just like in the US. Plugs are typically the 2 pronged flat types so US travelers will not typically need a converter or adapter.

Can I drink the water?

The tap water in Guatemala is not safe to drink, bottled water is recommended.
We encourage our travelers to travel sustainably. Please bring a reusable water bottle.

What kind of food can I expect in Guatemala?

If you want to experience the local cuisine in Guatemala, you should try some traditional dishes like pepián. This spicy stew is usually made with chicken, beef, or pork and is known for its rich and meaty flavor. Another popular dish is jocón, a chicken dish cooked in a delicious green sauce made from tomatillos and cilantro thickened with ground sesame and pumpkin seeds. It's usually served on corn tortillas.

For breakfast, you can try black beans, fried plantain, eggs, tortillas or bread, and coffee.

For dinner, you can sample Pepián, Jocón, rice, beans, and corn tortillas.

What type of transportation will we be taking?

You will be traveling by private ground transportation.

Private ground transportation to and from the airport (Included)

Some optional activities do not include transportation.

What is the physical activity level of this trip?

This trip is listed as Moderate activity level for included activities. Participating in certain optional activities may make it more strenuous.

Some travelers will find the hikes challenging, while more athletic people will not find them particularly difficult.

Weather conditions like heat, humidity, and rain can change trail conditions and the intensity of the activity. If you work at a desk all day, expect to do a lot more physical activity than normal.
Our Trip Leaders are great at challenging you while keeping you safe and waiting for hikers who like to take their time.

Do I need to prepare for the volcano hike?

Volcano hiking is a huge part of the appeal of visiting Guatemala. There are over 37 volcanoes in the country and Pacaya is one of three active volcanoes. The hike is moderately difficult and will take a couple of hours to complete. You do not need to train for the hike beforehand, and your Trip Leader will be with you every step of the way.

What activities are optional?

We’ve included many activities in the price of the trip, giving you plenty to do. However, we pride ourselves on helping you make the trip perfect. Therefore, we’ve sought out the best activities and vendors to help you have the experience you want.

-Antigua Guatemala Cooking Class
-Salsa Lessons
-School Volunteer
-Visit to Chocolate Museum

While your Trip Leader will assist you with optional activities available, please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of the Under30Experiences itinerary. We offer no guarantees on the safety or standard of the activity.

Can I opt out of an included activity?

Of course! This trip is your trip, and you don’t have to participate in anything you don’t want to. Just be aware that opting out of included activities will not change the price of your trip.

What languages are spoken in Guatemala?

Spanish is the country's official language and is spoken by 93% of the population. The rest of the population speaks one of 21 recognized Mayan languages.

Is tipping customary in Guatemala?

Tipping is not expected though it is greatly appreciated, especially since tourism and hospitality are one of the leading industries in Guatemala. Adding 10% gratuity at restaurants is a suitable tip.

How much should I budget for food and activities?

Bring cash with you! We recommend you have at least $300 USD cash on you during the trip for lunches, snacks, optional activities, souvenirs, etc.

All places accept USD so you do not need to convert to the local currency.

Do I need to worry about a visa?

When traveling with a passport, citizens of the United States, Canada, and most Latin American and European countries are entitled to stay in Guatemala for 90 days. They must enter the country with a departure ticket and a valid passport that does not expire within 30 days of their arrival in Guatemala.

To find specific visa requirements or restrictions for your home country, visit the Guatemala embassy page.

Do you have last-minute deals?

Yes! When travelers take advantage of our “Switch Your Trip” program last-minute slots open up on sold-out trips. Visit our Trips On Sale page for the latest last-minute deals. Sign up to the list to be notified.

Have a question that's not on this list?

Feel free to reach out to our all-star customer service team at [email protected] or by calling 1 (888) 839-2086.

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