Guatemala

Guatemala is located in to the north of the Central American and is bordered by Mexico to the north, Belize to the west and El Salvador and Honduras to the south.

Guatemala is a diverse country with beautiful landscapes and vibrant indigenous traditions. The country is dotted throughout with Mayan ruins, the most excavated is Tikal and is one of the largest in the world, but also lies deep in the protected Maya Biosphere Reserve and temples are nestled within the jungle which is home to howler and spider monkeys, coatimundis and even jaguars. In the south of the country are numerous volcanoes, some which can be climbed, offering stunning landscapes for visitors to enjoy.

Guatemala is renowned for its vibrant indigenous culture. The traditional markets, such as Chichicastenango, are vibrant and colorful, showcasing intricate textiles, handicrafts, and local produce. Lake Atitlan is surrounded by towering volcanoes and traditional Mayan villages where visitors can kayak on the lake or hike surrounding trails. Visits to the lakeside villages are an opportunity to learn about modern mayan traditions.

Guatemalan cuisine offers a mix of flavors influenced by Mayan, Spanish, and Caribbean traditions. Traditional dishes include tamales, pepian (a hearty meat stew), and chiles rellenos. Coffee lovers will appreciate the country's renowned coffee plantations, where they can learn about the production process and sample some of the world's finest coffee.

Guatemala's climate varies depending on the region, with a generally tropical climate in the lowlands and a cooler climate in the highlands. The dry season is from November to April and a good time to visit, however, the country can be visited all year.