ABOUT GUATEMALA CITY
Guatemala City (Spanish: Ciudad de Guatemala), formally New Guatemala of Assumption and the Ancient (Spanish: Nueva Guatemala de la Asunción y la Antigua), known locally as Guate, is the capital and largest city of Guatemala,[5] and the most populous urban area in Central America. The city is located in the south-central part of the country, nestled in a mountain valley called Valle de la Ermita (English: Hermitage Valley). The city is also the capital of the Guatemala Department.
Guatemala City is the site of the Mayan city of Kaminaljuyu, founded around 1500 BC. Following an earthquake in La Antigua in 1776 it was made capital of the Captaincy General of Guatemala. In 1821, Guatemala City was the scene of the declaration of independence of Central America from Spain, after which it became the capital of the newly established United Provinces of Central America (later the Federal Republic of Central America).
In 1847, Guatemala declared itself an independent republic, with Guatemala City as its capital. The capital was originally located in what is now Antigua Guatemala, and was moved to its current location in 1777.
Guatemala City and the original location in Antigua Guatemala were almost completely destroyed by the 1917–18 earthquakes. Reconstructions following the earthquakes have resulted in a more modern architectural landscape. Today, Guatemala City is the political, cultural, and economic center of Guatemala.
Climate
Despite its location in the tropics, Guatemala City has a tropical savanna climate bordering humid subtropical climate, due to its relatively high altitude which moderate the average temperatures. Guatemala City is generally very warm, almost springlike, throughout the course of the year.
It occasionally gets hot during the dry season, but not as hot and humid as in Central American cities at sea level. The hottest month is April. The rainy season extends from May to October, coinciding with the tropical storm and hurricane season in the western Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea, while the dry season extends from November to April. The city can at times be windy, which also leads to lower ambient temperatures.
The city’s average annual temperature ranges are 22–28 °C (71.6–82.4 °F) during the day and 12–17 °C (53.6–62.6 °F) at night; its average relative humidity is 82% in the morning and 58% in the evening; and its average dew point is 16 °C (60.8 °F).
Tourist attractions
National Museum of Modern Art – Round up the whole family and go on an interesting adventure through history together.
Guatemala City Hall – Be inspired by the originality and design of this fantastic example of modern architecture.
Centro Cívico – Educate yourself about some of the historical background of the area through this attraction.
Justo Rufino Barrios – Amble down the sidewalks and lose yourself in the atmosphere of this popular location.
Embassy of Canada – Pull out your guidebook and discover why this place is worth a spot on your to-do list.
Aldawa Mosque – Spend a bit of time in prayer or meditation at this religious site.
Botanical Garden – If you take pleasure in pottering about the garden, this attraction will appeal to your green thumb.
More information: https://www.enjoyguatemala.com/destination/guatemala-city/
HOW TO ARRIVE?
When arriving in Guatemala City
When arrive at La Aurora International Airport you must pass the corresponding procedures to enter the country, with some requirements described below:
Required documents:
- Valid Passport.
- Plane ticket in which you arrived in Guatemala.
- Tax return (this document is provided by the airline before landing in Guatemala).
- Corresponding visa, except for countries that correspond to category (A).
AIRPORT TRANSPORTATION
There are several options for airport transportation in Guatemala. Here are some of the most popular options:
Taxi: Taxis are widely available at all major airports in Guatemala. You can hail a taxi from the airport or book one in advance through a taxi service. It’s a good idea to agree on the price before starting the journey, as taxi fares are not regulated.
Bus: Public buses are available at Guatemala City’s La Aurora International Airport and offer a cheap option for getting to the city center. Just be aware that the buses can get crowded and may not have air conditioning.
Shuttle service: Several shuttle services operate from the airport and offer door-to-door service to your destination. These services can be more expensive than taxis but offer a more convenient and comfortable option.
Rental car: If you prefer to have your own transportation, you can rent a car at the airport. Keep in mind that driving in Guatemala can be challenging due to poor road conditions.