Climate
The climate in Guatemala varies greatly according to the 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.

Festivals and holidays
Traditional fiestas with processions, music and dancing are very much a part of the culture in Guatemala. Most towns and villages have at least one fiesta a year, usually based around the local saint’s day. For visitors, the highlights must be Easter week (Semana Santa) in Antigua or Santiago Atitlan, the manic horse-race in Todos Santos Cuchumatan (November 1), and the pilgrimage to the black Christ of Esquipulas (January 15).

Currency
The Quetzal. See www.oanda.com for exchange rates.

Visas
British citizens can find up-to-date travel advice on the Foreign & Commonwealth Office website. Citizens of other countries can find visa information here.

Vaccinations
See www.MASTA.org for up-to-date health advice for travellers.