Antigua Guatemala Guatemala Travel Tips

Travel and Cultural Etiquette Tips for Tourists in Antigua Guatemala, Guatemala

Respect Local Customs

  • Dress modestly: Avoid revealing clothing, especially when visiting churches or rural areas.
  • Remove your hat: When entering a church or someone’s home, remove your hat as a sign of respect.

Interact with Locals

  • Learn some Spanish: Show an effort to communicate in Spanish, even if it’s just basic phrases like “gracias” (thank you) and “¿cómo estás?” (how are you?).
  • Be respectful of personal space: Guatemalans stand closer together than people from other cultures. Be mindful of your distance and avoid touching or standing too close to locals.

Explore Antigua Responsibly

  • Stay on designated paths: When hiking or exploring ruins, stay on marked trails to avoid damaging the environment and respecting protected areas.
  • Respect historic sites: Refrain from touching or climbing on historic structures, and avoid littering or damaging them in any way.

Enjoy Local Cuisine

  • Try traditional dishes: Be adventurous and try local specialties like pepián (a thick, rich stew), kak’ik (turkey soup), and rellenitos (stuffed peppers).
  • Eat at local eateries: Support small businesses and experience authentic Guatemalan cuisine at comedores or street food stalls.

Handle Money and Tipping

  • Use local currency: While some businesses accept US dollars, it’s best to use the Guatemalan quetzal (GTQ) to avoid confusion and get a better exchange rate.
  • Tip appropriately: Tip 10-15% at restaurants and bars. For tour guides, consider tipping Q20-Q50 per person for a half-day tour.

Be Mindful of Your Surroundings

  • Be aware of your belongings: Antigua is generally safe, but petty theft can occur. Keep an eye on your bags and valuables, especially in crowded areas.
  • Respect the local environment: Don’t litter, and avoid single-use plastics. Help preserve Antigua’s beauty by taking your trash with you.

Learn About Guatemalan Culture

  • Research local traditions: Understand the significance of events like Semana Santa (Holy Week) and Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead).
  • Visit local markets: Explore markets like Mercado Central or Nim Po’t to experience the sights, sounds, and aromas of Guatemalan culture.

By following these travel and cultural etiquette tips, you’ll be able to respectfully navigate Antigua Guatemala and have a more authentic, enriching experience. ¡Disfruta tu viaje! (Enjoy your trip!)