Internet & Communication
Mobile Internet
No EU roaming in Guatemala! A local SIM card is cheap and straightforward: Tigo and Claro are the largest providers. SIM cards are available at any kiosk and in provider shops (bring your passport). Price: about 5–10€ for SIM + 3–5 GB data. The 4G network works well in cities and tourist areas, but can be patchy in rural Petén and the Verapaces.
Wi-Fi
Almost all hotels, hostels, restaurants, and cafes in tourist areas offer free Wi-Fi. The speed varies greatly — in Antigua and Flores: good. In remote areas (Lanquín, Santa Cruz at Atitlán): slow to non-existent. Enjoy the digital deceleration!
Spanish
English is basically spoken in tourist areas (Antigua, Flores, Panajachel), but off the tourist paths, you will hardly get by without Spanish. Guatemala is one of the best and cheapest places in the world to learn Spanish: Private lessons with a tutor, 20 hours per week, including host family with 3 meals, from 120€/week in Antigua or Xela (Quetzaltenango). Invest at least a week — it will enrich your entire trip.
Useful Apps
- Google Maps: Works offline (download maps beforehand!) and is the best navigator for Guatemala.
- Uber: Works in Guatemala City and sometimes in Antigua. Cheaper and safer than street taxis.
- WhatsApp: THE means of communication in Guatemala. Hotels, shuttles, tour guides — everything runs via WhatsApp.
- Maps.me: Good offline maps with hiking trails and POIs for Guatemala.