Geography

The northernmost of the Central American nations, Guatemala is the size of Tennessee. Its neighbors are Mexico on the north and west, and Belize, Honduras, and El Salvador on the east. The country consists of three main regions—the cool highlands with the heaviest population, the tropical area along the Pacific and Caribbean coasts, and the tropical jungle in the northern lowlands.

Climate
The climate in Guatemala varies greatly with altitude. In the highlands (900-2500m) the days are mild and sunny and the nights cool, with most rain falling between May and October. On the coast high temperatures, humidity and all-year round rainfall can be expected alongside a powerful sun. The lowland jungle area of the Peten has a dry season from November to May; March and April are hot and dry.

Population

Guatemala has a population of 10.7 million people, with an annual growth rate of 2.6 percent. Unlike Honduras, Guatemala's population is split fairly evenly between Ladino (56 percent) and indigenous groups descended from the Maya (44 percent). There are some 28 different indigenous groups descended from the Maya, the largest of which include the Quiche, Cakchiquel, Kekchi, Ixil, and Mam. Collectively, they refer to themselves as Maya or indigenos (the indigenous). They live throughout the country, but large numbers live in the western highlands.

Language

Spanish is the official language of Guatemala, but each indigenous group speaks its own language. Male indigenous Guatemalans are generally bilingual, however the women have fewer opportunities to attend school or interact with the Spanish-speaking Ladinos. Accordingly, they often do not learn to speak Spanish. English is understood in tourist centers.

Highlights

Highland Market Towns
There is a mysterious and mystical feel to the traditional little town of Chichicastenango in the misty western highlands, with its mix of indigenous and catholic religious rituals. There is also a huge market where traditionally dressed vendors peddle fruit, vegetables, vivid textiles and wood-carved painted masks. Other colourful highland markets include Todos Santos, Zunil and Sololá.

Tikal 
The ruined Mayan city of Tikal is arguably one of the most impressive sites in Latin America. Its towering pyramid temples lie half-buried in lush tropical jungle. The spellbinding atmosphere is enhanced by the cries of a multitude of birds and monkeys that inhabit the surrounding Maya Biosphere Reserve.

DMC Companies

• ViaVenture

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• Altiplano tours DMC

Summary|History|Culture
Climate&Population