Guatemala

Eco-friendly travel guide to Guatemala advises how to be a responsible tourist. Learn how to travel in a sustainable way and how to respect the local people and culture. Make your trip green by supporting locally owned hotels, organic restaurants and other businesses. Read more on how to protect the environment by making conscientious choices and how to travel green in Guatemala, Central America, North America.

City view

Air quality: 2 / 5

Bus connections: 4X / 5

Train connections: 4 / 5

Hitchhiking: 3.5 / 5

National parks: 4.5 / 5

Outdoor activities: 4 / 5

Locals' English level: 2 / 5

Safety: 2.5 / 5

Accommodation: US$10 - $200

Budget per day: US$50 - $300

Responsible Travel

Guatemala is a Central American country that is famous for being the core of the Maya civilization. Guatemala has a lot of historical and economic significance as it is the most populated Central American country, with over 17 million residents. The country shares its land and water borders with Mexico, Belize, the Caribbean, Honduras, El Salvador, and the Pacific Ocean. Guatemala has a total area of about 108,889 square kilometers, and only 0.4% of the area consists of water. The official and common language in Guatemala are Spanish, as about 56% of the ethnic groups are Latinos or Mestizos. Apart from this, Maya is the second most prominent ethnic group present in the country. More than 80% of the locals follow Christianity, while Roman Catholic and Protestant are the other two principal religions followed by Guatemala's people. The country's capital is Guatemala City, which also serves as the largest city in the country. Here are some tips that you should follow during your trip to Guatemala.

Guatemala's pollution levels are very high. The main reason for such bad conditions is the excessive use of motorized vehicles. These vehicles cause not only noise pollution but also air pollution. Motorized cars use fossil fuels like diesel, natural gas, and petroleum to run. These fuels on burning emit harmful greenhouse gases, smoke, and soot, making the air not breathable. While moving around Guatemala, you should keep using such vehicles at a minimum and prefer using public transport or electronic cars.

Apart from the motorized vehicles, the waste management is also not proper, resulting in improper disposal of waste from households and businesses. You will find that no laws present restrict or prohibit the use of plastic or other non-degradable items. You must try to avoid these items at all costs. You can use reusable and recycled items such as lunch boxes, handkerchiefs, cloth bags, etc.

Another way to make your trip to Guatemala eco-friendly is by making your activities and stay eco-friendly. You can do this by opting for sustainable accommodation options and supporting local businesses. You will find that this will help you in controlling your carbon footprint and expenses as well. It will also help you get proper exposure to the local culture by interacting with the locals and meeting fellow travelers.

Air Quality and Pollution

The air pollution of this country is high, leading to a total of 65% of air which is polluted. There are several industrial reasons as this country has very lenient policies regarding pollution and cleanliness of industries. Therefore, there are a lot of sectors creating so much corruption. In the industries, the top category is the oil and gas industry, as this industry leads to the emission of methane and benzene, which can cause damage to human health. Other chemicals include nitric oxide, which can cause smog, leading to premature death if combined with sunlight. Hydrogen sulfide in the normal state can cause eye and throat irritation. Another industry is the chemical industries established to produce different chemicals for industrial and commercial use. This industry stimulates a lot of chemical emissions while its production creates some serious problems for humanity. Other reasons for air pollution are that the Guatemala government prefers to burn the garbage, causing air pollution as the smoke mixes up with air. Air pollution can cause some serious issues such as asthma, lung cancer, and other respiratory problems. Air pollution has been a significant cause of global warming, acid rain, smog, and other such environmental issues.

Other pollution such as noise pollution or light pollution is moderate, but it has increased in recent years and is still increasing. The government should take appropriate measures to stop this before it becomes another major problem. The leading cause of noise pollution in various construction sites and traffic. Noise pollution can cause serious migraine problems, headache, nausea, disturbed sleep, disturbed daily routine, and various other health problems. However, in some surveys, the locals believe that the main reason for the increase in noise pollution is increased tourism. Therefore, as a responsible tourist, it is your duty that you must not contribute to any of the corruption by any means. There are many eco-friendly ways to move around in this city and even some organic cafes to eat.

Respect the Culture

Culture is an identification of different groups, and those groups can be of similar ideologies, views, beliefs, religion, or other such similarities. Different cultures can have different histories, food, traditions, practices. Two main religions are belonging to Christianity, which is followed mostly. 45% of the population are Catholics, 42 % of the total population is Protestants, and the rest claims that they do not have any religion. Therefore the main festivals of this country are celebrated with great enthusiasm are most Christian festivals, including Good Friday, Easter, Christmas, and many more. There are a lot of cultural festivals which are also celebrated in this country. Many states have many cultural festivals. Semana Santa (Holy Week) is a beautiful festival marked by the locals of this country. This festival is celebrated to remember the passion of Christ towards the people. The churches are well decorated along with several traditional dishes. Other such festivals are Fest of St. Thomas. We must respect every place we are visiting as this will help us connect with the locals more efficiently. Other such benefits are that we can even learn the richness of different cultures and their beliefs, faith, views, and perspective. Also, the culture and traditions are connected with the locals' sentiments; therefore, disrespecting them will cause damage to their opinions. There are some laws related to defaming any religion or its belief, which can cause you some severe trouble like a fine of a certain amount or imprisonment.

Top 10 Places to Visit

Flores, Northern Petén Region: Flores is a colonial town. This town is situated on an island named Lake Peten Itza. Most of the travelers bring themselves here because it is got proximity to Tikal. It also has many other tourist attractions in the neighboring area. However, many tourists find themself staying longer than they expected. It happens so because Flores' tranquil vibe and this town have a beautiful colonial charm that casts magical spells. So you can take it easy here and lose yourself in the streets of Flores. You can also buy rent a kayak, which will pick you up from your hotel. Later you can also explore Lake Peten Itza's shoreline.

Tikal, Northern Guatemala: Tikal is to date the fascinating Mayan ruin site in the region of Latin America. The area experiences thousands of visitors every year. Moreover, this place will not give you a feel of a tourist. It will surely make you feel at home. Tikal's significant characteristic features are situated in the middle of the dense jungle, spread over 575 square kilometers, and house many fauna species. Some of them are even endangered. Some of the species found here are parrots, toucans, monkeys, howlers, and many other exotic animals. Tikal's most crucial characteristic feature is that it dominates over the skyline as Tikal has the tallest pyramid, which is over 200 feet. When you visit Tikal, it will evoke a sense of joy and amazement, filling you with that amazement—discovering the mystically ancient ruins which are in the middle of the jungle. What else does a traveler want?

Antigua Guatemala, Southern Guatemala: Antigua Guatemala is often referred to as Antigua. It is one of the country's main highlights of Guatemala and undoubtedly one of the beautiful cities in the whole of Central America. Three volcanoes surround the town. The town also served as the former capital of Guatemala. It offers a glimpse of a city which are unblemished by modern concrete buildings and high-rises. Streets of cobblestone are lined with colonial buildings. Some of the buildings also show traces of the earthquakes that contributed to the history of the city. In the old center of the town, there are stunning churches and convents. Many buildings are entirely restored, while some reveal cracks caused by the past earthquakes, some have turned to ruins. In most cases, the ruins have been creatively incorporated into recently constructed buildings; some are now built into hotels. The city also has fascinating museums to visit along with old convents with stunning architecture open to visitors.

Lake Atitlán, Southern Guatemala: It is also called Lago de Atitlán. Lake Atitlán is situated in the high lands of the country. It takes less than two hours to drive from the city of Guatemala. It takes less than one hour and a half from the town of Antigua. It is located in a volcanic crater that is 1,538 meters above the level of the sea. Volcanoes and hills surround it, and the villages situated on the shores can be accessed only by boat. The main entry point of the lake is the city called Panajachel. After exploring the main street lined with various vendors, sell their blankets and goods inside stalls. You can also go to the waterfront so you can catch a water taxi. Boats lined up here take passengers to some of the villages named Santiago Atitlán, San Andrés Semetabaj, San Pedro, San Lucas Toliman, Santa Catarina Palopó, and also to some smaller secondary towns or even private hotels. Every village is known for something unique, but most of the villages have local crafts and markets. Over many years, Atitlán attracted many tourists who are interested in an alternative lifestyle. There are also spiritual or new age centers that offer almost everything from yoga to paranormal activities. If you are interested in learning Spanish, many schools are available and at a very reasonably priced.

Quetzaltenango, Western Highlands: Quetzaltenango is Guatemala's second-largest city and also the commercial center of southwestern Guatemala. It is also commonly called Xela. The town's major sights include the Parque Centro America and the buildings from the Neo-classical era surrounding it. The main reasons to visit Quetzaltenango are hiking in the nearby mountains and studying Spanish, and walking up Central America's highest peak VolcanTajumulco. It is one of the most adventurous options which is available only in this city. This city is relatively safe and clean. Quetzaltenango is at an altitude of 2,333 meters, which ensures fewer mosquitoes, cool nights, and warm days. The city serves as the leading center for excursions to nearby villages famous for their hot springs and handicrafts.

Monterrico and the Biotopo Monterrico-Hawaii, Southern Guatemala: It is a small coastal village situated in Monterrico. It gives a feeling of laid back. It also has a stretch of lovely oceanfront. These characteristics make it a perfect destination for people who want some peaceful time on the beach and even nature. The high regions inland are different from the area around Monterrico, which is tropical and hot. The beach situated here is often dominated by big surf, which is not ideal for swimming, but beautiful. There is also a reserve known as The Biotopo Monterrico-Hawaii. The budget covers an area of both land and water. It is a habitat that includes many aquatic life and birds, including Kemp's ridley turtles and leatherback. Available boat tours offer trips through the swamps providing an excellent opportunity for wildlife and bird. It is mainly seen in the morning hours.

Livingston, Izabal Department: This small town consists of brightly painted wooden houses found in the jungles amongst coconut groves. This town lies along the Caribbean Coast of Guatemala. Livingston gives a feel which is more like the Caribbean, unlike the rest of Guatemala. It happens because of its population. There is a widespread belief that is the Descendants of escaped would become the slaves of the indigenous Maya. They have created their own different culture and language. Caribbean rhythms are sung, and they increase during May because a Garífuna pilgrimage arrives in the town. The feast day of the Virgin of Guadalupe is celebrated during the easter weeks or during 12th December. They also ate some colorful events. Livingston is also the departure point of boat rides on the Río Cocolí and Río Quehueche and the Cayos Sapodillas for fishing and snorkeling. Some of the best beaches are outside of town, which can easily be reached by taxi.

Grutas de Lanquín, San Agustín Lanquín: The Lanquín Caves are located on the northeast side of Coban. They are deep limestone caverns containing an underground river and have various lagoons and unique rock formations. A portion of the cave is available for tourists to visit. The percentage of the cave has low lighting and rugged walkways. One more fascinating site to watch here is that thousands of bats live here, and they create a fantastic view to see when they leave together to eat in the nearby firest to feed during the night time. Suppose you want to see or have any interest in seeing this unique as well as a fantastic view. It would be best if you planned to visit the cave during the late evening. Altogether it is a religious shrine in the caves that are considered sacred by the local native people.

Chichicastenango Market, Chichicastenango: This town is isolated and is locally known as Chichi. It is a large town which is surrounded by mountains and valleys. The streets of cobblestone seem alive on Sundays and Thursday, as the city hosts one of the most hectic and largest markets in the whole of the country of Guatemala. The rest of the days, the streets seem to come alive. It is a local market which sells common goods of daily use, vegetables, and the different textiles because of which it is so famous. Vendors come here from far away lands to this market, making it a good opportunity for people to photograph and watch. Chichicastenango is just 1.5 hours bus ride from Panajachel, making it an easy day trip from Atitlán Lake. It also takes around 2.5 hours from the city of Guatemala and 3.5 hours from Antigua's town.

Museo Ixchel del Traje Indigena, Guatemala City: It is also known as the museum of Mayan Costumes. It is situated in the city of Guatemala. It would be best to visit the Ixchel Museum of Mayan Costumes because it will give you an overview of traditional Guatemalan costumes ranging from regular garments to ceremonial pieces. The museum is on the campus of Universidad Francisco Marroquin. There is a vast collection of textiles that dates back to the end of the 19th century. Their fabrics were originated from 120 Guatemalan communities. There is also a massive collection of paintings which illustrated the regional costumes complemented by the exhibits. The museum is named after the Mayan goddess of weaving and fertility. The museum is located at 6A Calle 6, Guatemala City.

Lake Atitlán

Explore

There are a lot of places to explore in this city. Analyzing something new can help you with various methods. The worst thing about traveling to a new home is that if we start feeling bored in the mid of the tour, exploring new things will help us get bored. Many things can be visited by foot or bicycle, and these two are the best exercises to remain fit. Other than this, these are eco-friendly ways to explore and help you reduce your contribution to the increasing pollution. Analyzing something will help you learn various things, especially the street and roads so that you won't get lost anytime as many of the streets of this country are usually titled in Spanish, which will be difficult to understand. There are historical places as this country has many ancient Mayan artifacts and remaining which can be explored. Other than this, there are waterfalls in some states that will help you relax your mind and body. There are city parks available for exploring various trees, plants, flowers, and fountains in brief. If you want some detailed knowledge about flora and fauna, you can visit national parks in many states. If you're going to learn about this country's various dynasties or history, many museums can help you.

City Parks

There are many city parks which are available in each state of this country. However, the best-known parks are in Guatemala City. Parks are best serves as a picnic spot where you can spend some good time with your family, friends, and partner. You can even play various sports like badminton, football, and cricket. There are some amusement rides which are available in these parks. Their parks can be visited for morning or evening walks as it will help you remain fit and provide your body activeness. Walking also tends to get a night of better sleep. These parks do not require any entry fees, and one can easily observe nature here.

Las Araucarias Park, Guatemala City

Central Park, Antigua

Isabel La Católica Park, Guatemala City

Miraflores Park, Guatemala City

Los Arcos Sports, Guatemala

Las Araucarias Park

National Parks

National parks are the parks that are created to preserve endangered species and to conserve nature. You can visit these national parks, which charge some entry fees required to maintain these parks. There are a lot of species of plants and animals, including species and types of marine creatures. Some of the parks in some states also allow visitors to stay in one of their guesthouses. Sleeping in national parks surrounded by nature helps you get better sleep and observe various animals and plants at night. Also, there are safaris or camping tours organized regularly either by their management or by hiring some private agency. These involve the locals very well support trekking, hiking, walking in the jungle, camping, food, enjoyment, guide, these types of tours, therefore, a lot of locals visit these parks annually through these tours. Consequently, you can easily make some friends here.

Cerro El Baul, Quatzaltenangi

Cerro Miramundo, Zacapa

Cerro El Reformador, El Progreso

Cuevas Del Silvino, Izabal

El Rosario, El Peten

Grutas de Lanquin, Alta Verapaz

Laguna del Tigre, El Peten

Laguna del Tigre

Beaches

Beaches are a place where anyone can relax. Most of this country's shores are made up of sand, which allows many people to relax. The fresh breeze coming from the sea or the ocean helps in getting better sleep. You can even enjoy the sunset on these beaches because they give a fantastic and fantastic view of it. Beaches are places where anyone can visit without any cost, but the facilities they provide are required to be paid for, including various water sports, play area for beach volleyball and other such sports. You can try windsurfing as many trainers can teach you how to do it while charging some fees; the surfboards here are available for rent or purchase. These beaches have some food stalls selling fast food, snacks, and local beverages.

Monterrico Beach, Monterrico

Livingston Beach, Livingston

Playa Tilapa, Tilapa

Champerico Beach, Champarico

Iztapa Beach, Iztapa

Playa Amatique Bay, Puerto Barrios

Puerta Del Mar, Puerto San Jose

Monterrico Beach

Landmarks

Landmarks are the places that can be used as a substitute to locate a specific area. These landmarks are very famous and enjoy a lot of tourists throughout the year. Some landmarks include historical monuments built by ancient dynasties or civilization, including the Tikal pyramid, present in the ancient Mayan city of the 15th century. Many monuments like these show the excellence of the architecture of those times when there were not many technologies. There is an active volcano included in landmarks as many tourists visit this inactive volcano. You can learn about history and culture through various monuments.

Tikal Pyramid, Tikal

Natural Monument Semuc Champey, Lanquín

Pacaya, Guatemala City

Santa Catalina Arch, Antigua

Yaxha, Petén Basin

Volcán San Pedro, San Pedro

Tikal Pyramid

Museums

Museums are the best place to learn about various categories, including science, history, art, and literature. There are many museums to display multiple artifacts from which you can learn various things, including those in the past. You can even take some inspiration from multiple museums about different art, literature, paintings. These help us learn better, and learning here involves great joy as visuals help us know better than text, so even children don't find it boring. Some of the museums have various amusement parks which have multiple rides and play area for kids. As this country is rich in historical dynasties, ancient civilizations, and its inventions and artifacts, you will see many historical museums than any other type.

Casa del Jade, Antigua

Museo Ixchel del Traje Indigena, Guatemala City

Museo Popol Vuh, Guatemala City

ChocoMuseo, Antigua

La Azotea, Jocotenango

Museo Casa del Tejido Antiguo, Antigua

Galeria Imox, San Juan La Laguna

Eat

Fiambre: Fiambre is one of the most famous dishes that originated in Guatemala. It is a large salad that is traditionally prepared for a particular day. The salad can have 50 ingredients. Some of them are vegetables, cheese, sliced meat, hard-boiled eggs, and pickles. Sometimes personal choices to customers are also given about the components to be used in their salad.

Pollo en Crema: Pollo en crema is a popular dish from Guatemalan. This dish also popular in Mexico and El Salvador as well. Traditionally, chicken breasts are soaked in a rich, creamy sauce made with Loroco, Zucchini or Chayote, onions, cream, yellow potatoes, and green chile peppers. If we see the taste, this dish is a comforting, lightly spiced dish. Corn tortillas and rice often accompany it.

Mixtas: Mixtas are nothing but the Guatemalan version of hot dogs sold on various food carts throughout the country. Mixtas are unique is because the sausages are not kept in buns, but they are kept in tortillas. The dish is made with inexpensive and fresh ingredients; therefore, mixes are often filled with coleslaw with lime dressing, diced tomatoes, onions, green chiles, and guacamole. Other famous dishes are shucks, Hilachas, Jocon, and many more.

Drink

Quetzalteca Rosa de Jamaica: Like its name, this is a pink-colored drink somewhat like a moonshine style drink. It cost about $1 for one small container. If we look at the taste, it is sweet, healthy, and intense all at the same time. It makes this drink unique—the fusion of three different flavors in one glass.

Cusha in a bag: This drink can make you breathe fire. It is available in almost all the shops in the country, from small to big. It is the drink that the Mayan people drink during festival season. It is a trendy drink which is consumed all over the country. The alcohol content in this drink is high.

Ponche de Leche: It is a hot milk drink popularly available in the street markets of Xela or Quetzaltenango. Vendors ask for their customer's choices of liquor to be added or mixed in the glass. There are many options of alcohol like Bacardi rum, Piquete, or many others. It is considered a great after-dinner drink to warm your body in chilly Quetzaltenango. Other popular beverages are Galo beer, Moza beer, Capro beer, Quetzalteca Especial, Zacapa Centenario Rum, and many more.

Tap-water

The tap water of this country is not safe to drink. Therefore it is advised that you must purchase bottled water and the leading bottled water company is Aqua Pura, a very reputed company all over the country. Bottled water is readily available everywhere in the country. Consuming a plastic water bottle can increase the consumption of plastic, which pollutes the land so much. If you plan to stay in an apartment, you must contact the local dealer for a drinking water supply or use a water purifier or water filter to clean the tap water. Water purifiers can even cost you much; therefore, it is advised that you must use a reverse osmosis faucet and attach it with your tap. You can use the tap water for other purposes such as brushing, washing dishes, or other such daily chores. The water is fit for bathing and will not cause any damage to the skin. You must purchase a metal bottle and refill it from your apartment or room and use it throughout the day. The leading causes of water pollution are industrial water discharge, which is kept untreated and is discharged into the water body, creating pollution. Many locals dump their garbage in the water; therefore, it sometimes chokes the water supply pipes. The primary sources of water include rainwater, surface water, and groundwater. The total surface water has 102.8 km3, Groundwater covers around 33.7 km3, and the complete renewable water resources cover up to 111 km3. Many basins are built to store rainwater.

Activities

There are a lot of activities which can be performed in this country. Exercises help us to learn various new things which involve knowledge along with fun. You can easily create a lot of memories through activities. There are activities of several types, including water, adventure, and air. You can trek to the mountains, which involves walking between nature and enjoying its calm and relaxed winds. For water sports, the primary water sport is the snorkeling which consists in observing various marine creatures, other famous water sport is water surfing, and most of the beach allows that. Those who are from Asian countries can try baseball, which is less popular.

Visit Historical Monuments

Visit Ancient Cities

Learn the culture

Visit Beaches

Play Baseball

Visit Museums

Try Surfing

Try out traditional and local food

Trekking

Accommodation

Due to increased tourism in the past year, there are a lot of accommodation options available. Those who want to enjoy luxuries can accommodate in luxurious hotels and resorts. Those who wish to budget-friendly option to stay with necessary facilities can adjust in various other options. There are hotels with good staff and facilities, including a help desk, breakfast, meal, dinner, a beautiful garden, or lawn. There are green hotels available but in very few numbers, establishing a green hotel's costs is higher than setting a regular hotel. There are other accommodations such as hostel rooms, which are best for solo travelers, apartments, camping grounds.

Green Hotels

These are different from ordinary hotels as they are certified by the government. These hotels enjoy several benefits, including some concession in several taxes. These hotels are called Green Hotels because they protect and conserve the environment and uses eco-friendly measures. The electricity which runs in the entire premises is generated by their solar panel using renewable solar energy. It also offers high security as there are many security guards available in the whole area. Even the dishes they offer are made up of organic ingredients untouched by pesticides and other harmful chemicals. These dishes are very healthy to the body as they do not damage the health and digestive system.

Hostels and Guest Houses

A hostel room is the best accommodation option for solo travelers. Generally, the spaces which they offer is shared by two or more people. You can be friends with your roommate from a different city, country, or continent. You can learn various languages, beliefs, and cultures by meeting new people in hostels. Generally, the hostels set some rules and regulations, including those of time duration; therefore, it is advised that you must know about the rules and regulations of the hostels and guesthouses. Generally, there is one complimentary meal which is offered by various hostels.

Apartments

Apartments are best for those people who want to visit this city for a longer time. There are different types of apartments available in this country. These apartments offer you complete privacy; therefore, you must travel here with your friends or family. The security which many apartments offer includes cameras that cover the entire apartment and the security guards. Many of the flats are present near the beaches or sea, giving the best morning and sunset view along with the cool and fresh winds. There are various other features which an apartment provides, such as a gym, play area, tennis, or badminton court.

Couchsurfing

Apartments are best for those people who want to visit this city for a longer time. There are different types of apartments available in this country. These apartments offer you complete privacy; therefore, you must travel here with your friends or family. The security which many apartments offer includes cameras that cover the entire apartment and the security guards. Many of the flats are present near the beaches or sea, giving the best morning and sunset view along with the cool and fresh winds. There are various other features which an apartment provides, such as a gym, play area, tennis, or badminton court.

Camping

Camping can be very adventurous and even profitable if you want to see the beautiful night sky. There are many campgrounds, and even some of the beaches allow to camp. However, camping can serve as a temporary accommodation option for a maximum of a week, but you will start feeling bored of camping later than it. You can even camp on some beaches as it is allowed. The sea breeze and the night sky will provide you relaxation and a night of better sleep.

Regions

Map of Guatemala

Central Highlands
around Guatemala City, stretching north to the border with Petén region.

Western Highlands
Lake Atitlan and many modern Maya villages

Caribbean Coast
hot and steamy, beaches, and boat access to and from Belize

Petén
hot, jungled region in the north with the most impressive ancient Maya ruins

Pacific Highlands
steamy highlands going down to the Pacific beaches

Cities

Guatemala City — Capital and largest city with many amenities
Antigua Guatemala — Colonial Spanish capital of Central America, a World Heritage site, and the most popular among tourists
Flores — Island capital of Petén, good starting point to access Mayan ruins of Tikal.
Livingston — a very small town and it does not take long to become familiar with the place.
Melchor de Mencos — Border town which is the main crossing point to Belize
Panajachel — Gateway to Lake Atitlán, a beautiful and busy tourist area
Puerto Barrios — Caribbean seaport with speedboats to and from Belize
Puerto San José — Pacific seaport
Quetzaltenango — Second largest city, in the western highlands. Commonly called "Xela".
Sayaxché — River gateway in Petén
Coban — Town with a rich culture and a great launching point to travel to Semuc Champay

Getting There and Moving Around

The only way to get to this country is its airways. However, if you are staying near to this country, you can visit here by ferry ride. There are many options to move around in this country, including taxis, buses, bicycles, walking, and cruise ride. You can even travel from city to city through intercity buses, hiring a cab, and intercity trains. However, using a taxi can create a lot of pollution through its smoke, which consists of carbon and methane, which is harmful to the environment.

Air

There is a total of 20 airports in this country built in most of the cities. These airports are connected to Europe and Asia, covering its significant towns; therefore, getting to this country is challenging. Other than this, you can travel intercity by airways, but that might cost you higher, and you must use other options. An aircraft produces severe pollution in just one trip, and using domestic flights will only make the country's conditions more severe.

La Aurora International Airport

Bus

There are several buses and minibusses which run in this country. You can even travel to different cities by different inter-city buses. The buses are air-conditioned and blue colored. Most of the towns have luxurious buses which allow you to sleep and have an electric socket to charge you electronic devices such as laptops or mobile phones. Other than this, there is a small canteen from which you can purchase various snacks and beverages. If you want to pay in cash, you must have appropriate change.

Train

There are a lot of trains available in this country in each state. There are many tracks which are available in this country. You can use a train to travel intercity. Other than this, the trains are well maintained and cleaned. Both locals and tourists use trains regularly, and you will be able to interact and befriend different people by traveling via a train.

Hitchhiking

Hitchhiking is possible in this country, and for a successful hitchhiking, you must be present on a road that offers a lot of traffic so that you can attract a vehicle for your help. Even the crime rate allows anyone to couchsurf. The locals here are amicable and helpful towards the travelers, and there is a possibility that every time you will get a person to give you a free lift. The crime rates are low, but still, you must be alerted with whom you are traveling as robbers are traveling in small groups.

Others

There are some other ways to travel around the city, including a taxi or a cycle using a cycle to move around can be very beneficial for health and the environment. However, the opposite of a bicycle is using a taxi as many scams often happen with travelers. It is not an eco-friendly way to travel around the city. Other such options are an electric taxi, which is very rare in this country.

Sustainable Shopping

Sustainable shopping means shopping for those products which have a positive impact on the environment. Those products produced by hands and involved less use of machines or save the non-renewable resources and raw materials are known as sustainable products such as handicraft products, recycled products, second-hand products, and eco-fashion products.

Recycling

Earth's resources are depleting day by day; therefore, there is a need to reuse as it will save a lot of energy and raw materials which will be used in making a new one. Garbage, if not taken care of, will require a landfill to dump all the trash collectively. That can be very dangerous for the locals living nearby as it will stink, causing air pollution and soil pollution. Sometimes the waste can be so toxic that it could cause catastrophic damage marine life and aquatic plants if it reached the water. On another side, the landfill is a vast land used for other works instead of dumping waste. The statistics show that recycling is not done in many cities of this country, increasing its daily garbage.

Waste

This country's waste management policies are inefficient because the service shows that 69.05 percent of people are not satisfied with the garbage disposal, which is more than the majority. The government should develop strict policies regarding waste management because it is crucial in reducing this city's pollution rates. Also, many landfills are created without having a permanent solution. The government burns all the garbage, which later makes so much pollution in this country.

Work and Study Abroad

Education in most of the cities is comparatively good. The schools are divided into public schools and private schools. Public schools cost lesser than private schools. If anyone wants to teach their child English, then various International schools and private schools can be a good option. At International schools, children are accepted from the age of 3 to 12. There are many job options available in this city, including English-speaking teachers and managerial levels and companies. English-speaking guides are required in enormous numbers because English is the universally accepted language, and most of the locals speak Spanish.

Exchange Student

The exchange student is a program that runs in the entire world connecting many universities of different countries. Many excellent students are sent to foreign to its partnership country to complete their degree in this program. It makes a student independent and helps in learning various cultures of various countries. You can directly apply to this program, but you have to meet the requirements to become a part.

Universidad Da Vinci de Guatemala

Universidad de San Carlos de Guatemala

Universidad Francisco Marroquín

Universidad Galileo

Universidad Panamericana

Universidad Rafael Landívar

Au Pair

An au pair is a person who lives with the locals for free, and in exchange, he helps them by taking care of their child. Some of the locals offer food and private room to the Au pair. This type of job is available in many cities, as many of the family have working parents; therefore, they are often worried about their small children. While looking for au pairing jobs, you must present yourself as friendly and kind so that the family feels comfortable in hiring you.

Volunteering

Volunteering is an activity that involves participating in activities that indulge in making the local environment a better place to live. You will find that volunteering is a great way to show your gratitude as a tourist to the local communities. You must participate in such activities to improve people's living standards and play your responsible tourist role. Many organizations and agencies are either run by public or private ownership that regularly enhances life quality. You can either become a member of these organizations or volunteer all by yourself in helping any local individual or entity.