things I wish I knew before traveling Guatemala 🇬🇹
1. Cash is king here. most of my other travels I've been able to get by with about $200 cash. the money exchange places here are extremely picky. the slightest Mark or tear that I couldn't see while at home. they for sure saw there.
I can go on about money exchange places but this comment section will be a mile long.
2. shuttles here can be cheap but I would say to make sure to book ahead! the sooner the better! including GuateGo
3. Even though I was visiting during the warmer time of year. there is a dry season in a rainy season in Guatemala. the early mornings and nights get cold in the afternoons can be 70 to 80°. I ended up having to buy a jacket.
3. I would have brought better looking/ functional tennis shoes. especially traveling through Antigua. cobblestones are very uneven and wearing supportive sandals was a help but I did have some foot pain due to the uneven cobblestones.
4. The water is not safe to drink here. Make sure you always use filtered water, even if you're brushing your teeth. I saw a girl get very sick with parasites by just brushing her teeth with the tap water. yes, I know it's obvious, but I traveled through Albania and I was fine.
5. unless you are hiking in a heavily forested area, you don't really need to bring bug spray.
6. most of the country you shouldn't throw away your toilet paper into the toilet. they have trash cans to throw your waste products into. it's very delicate plumbing.
7. there are a whole bunch of other female Solo travelers who are doing the same routes or going potentially to allow the same places so you're never alone. and I always felt safe. #solo female traveler #solotraveltips #solotravelgirlies #travelguatemala
Traveling solo through Guatemala, especially as a female traveler, presents a unique blend of adventure and cultural discovery. One of the most important lessons I learned is how vital it is to have flexible cash management strategies. Many locals and small businesses prefer cash over cards, and currency exchanges can be very particular about the condition of your bills — even minor tears or marks can lead to rejection. To avoid hassles, carry well-preserved bills and consider withdrawing smaller amounts frequently to reduce risk. Booking transport like shuttles ahead of time is another key tip. Guatemala has many options, but popular routes—such as those offered by GuateGo—fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist seasons. Reserving early guarantees peace of mind and smoother logistics. Weather-wise, Guatemala’s climate varies with a clear dry and rainy season. Early mornings and evenings can be surprisingly chilly, even if daytime temperatures reach the mid-70s or 80s Fahrenheit. I found that packing a lightweight jacket was essential for comfort during these cooler periods. Footwear can make or break your trip, particularly in towns like Antigua, where cobblestone streets are common. Supportive tennis shoes that combine comfort and style helped me tackle uneven surfaces without excessive foot pain. Avoid sandals without arch support, as those rough stones can quickly become tiring. Regarding health and hygiene, drinking and even brushing your teeth with tap water poses risks due to parasites and contaminants. Always use filtered or bottled water to stay safe. It’s a common trap for travelers who underestimate local water quality. On a lighter note, bug spray is generally unnecessary outside dense forested areas, which was a pleasant surprise. This allowed me to pack lighter and enjoy outdoor activities without the constant worry of insect bites. Lastly, understanding local plumbing customs is crucial—disposing of toilet paper in provided trash bins rather than flushing protects plumbing infrastructure and local sanitation processes. What made this trip particularly reassuring was the presence of many other solo female travelers on similar routes. This created a supportive atmosphere that helped me feel safe and connected while exploring the rich culture and landscapes of Guatemala.
