Guatemala Visa Requirements
For 🇪🇸 Spain passport holders
Great news! Spain passport holders can enter Guatemala without a visa for tourism or business purposes. You can stay up to 90 days within any 180-day period.
Spanish citizens can enter Guatemala visa-free for up to 90 days. Guatemala is part of the CA-4 agreement with Honduras, El Salvador, and Nicaragua, allowing combined travel of 90 days across these countries.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond stay
Blank Pages
1 page(s) required
Multiple Entry
Allowed
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Entry Conditions
Valid passport with at least 6 months validity. Return or onward ticket and proof of sufficient funds may be requested.
Overstaying results in fines and potential detention. You must pay the fine before leaving the country.
Travel Essentials
Health & Safety
Safety Rating
Vaccinations
Hepatitis A and B, typhoid, rabies, and malaria prophylaxis for rural areas recommended.
Tap Water
Bottled water recommended
Safety Tips
Exercise increased caution in Guatemala. Avoid displaying valuables, use authorized taxis or Uber, and don't walk alone at night in cities. Tourist areas like Antigua and Atitlán are generally safer. Avoid travel to certain border areas.
Money & Costs
Currency
Q Guatemalan Quetzal (GTQ)
Daily Budget (USD)
Budget: $35 · Mid: $80 · Luxury: $200+
Tipping
Tipping 10% is customary in restaurants. Round up for taxis. Tip tour guides $5-10 per person per day.
Practical Info
Power
Type A, B, 120V
Driving
Right side
Emergency
110 (police), 122/123 (fire), 125 (Red Cross ambulance)
Getting There
Main Airports
Guatemala City (GUA) · Flores (FRS)
Culture & Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit
November to April is the dry season with pleasant temperatures and clear skies ideal for exploring Mayan ruins and hiking volcanoes. May to October is rainy but brings lush landscapes and fewer tourists. The highlands stay cooler year-round.
Cultural Notes
Guatemala has the largest Maya population in Central America, with over 20 distinct Maya groups. Traditional dress is still worn daily in many communities. Ask permission before photographing people in traditional clothing. Respect sacred sites.
Insider Tips
Negotiate shuttle prices in advance - tourist shuttles are the safest transport option. Learn basic Spanish as English is limited. ATMs dispense both Quetzales and US dollars. Don't photograph people without permission, especially indigenous communities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Spanish citizens need a visa for Guatemala?
No, Spanish citizens can enter Guatemala visa-free for up to 90 days. Guatemala is part of the CA-4 agreement, so the 90 days includes time spent in Honduras, El Salvador, and Nicaragua combined.
Is Guatemala safe for tourists?
Tourist areas like Antigua, Lake Atitlán, and Flores (Tikal) are generally safe with normal precautions. Avoid Guatemala City's Zone 1 at night, don't display valuables, and use official tourist shuttles between destinations.
What are the must-see places in Guatemala?
Don't miss: Tikal ruins (ancient Maya city), Antigua Guatemala (colonial gem), Lake Atitlán (stunning volcanic lake), Semuc Champey (turquoise pools), Chichicastenango market (largest in Central America), and climbing active Volcano Pacaya.
What is the best way to get around Guatemala?
Tourist shuttles are the safest and most convenient option, connecting major destinations. Chicken buses are cheap but can be uncomfortable and less safe. Domestic flights serve Tikal/Flores from Guatemala City. Uber works in Guatemala City.
Is Guatemala expensive?
Guatemala is very affordable. Meals cost $3-8, hostels $8-15, and private rooms $20-50. Antigua is pricier. Budget travelers can manage on $30-40/day, mid-range on $50-80/day including tours.