Welcome to a thrilling ride through the bustling streets of Guatemala City! Taking a motorized tour is one of the best ways to explore the vibrant culture, scenic attractions, and hidden gems in this bustling metropolis. From colorful street markets and historic landmarks to stunning architecture and lush green parks, there is much to discover in Guatemala City. In this post, we will take a closer look at the 2 best motorized city tours that offer a unique and exciting way to explore the city’s many treasures. So fasten your seatbelt and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!
The 2 Best Motorized City Tours in Guatemala City
The 2 Best Motorized City Tours in Guatemala City
1. Semuc Champey Park & Kanba cave Tour from Lanquin
Explore the stunning natural wonders of Semuc Champey Park and Kanba cave on this full-day adventure tour from Lanquin village. With a local bilingual guide and a safety truck as your transportation, you’ll embark on a thrilling journey through 1000 meters of underground river caves, scrambling over rocks, wading through pools, climbing up waterfalls, and swimming through narrow channels.
You’ll then enjoy a half-hour tubing experience on the Kahabon River before taking a leisurely walk in Semuc Champey National Park to admire the natural stone bridge and relax in the turquoise pools of different sizes. The tour includes lunch, entrance fee, and souvenirs, so all you need to bring is your sunglasses, a sun hat, and a camera to capture the stunning natural scenery.
2. Guatemala: City Layover Tour
Experience the best of Guatemala City on the City Layover Tour. Explore the largest city in Central America and witness the charm of modern Guatemala with its rich history and colonial architecture. Begin your journey with a pick-up from La Aurora Guatemala Airport and head towards the Las Americas Avenue, followed by a visit to Berlin Plaza where you can enjoy a spectacular view of the city and the volcanoes. Pass by the La Reforma avenues and visit the unique Yurrita Church before heading towards the Civic Center of the city. Here, you will witness the Supreme Court of Justice, Ministry of Public Finance, City Hall, Social Security, Bank of Guatemala, National Mortgage Bank, and the Guatemalan Tourism Commission, with a chance to admire the murals of Dagoberto Vasquez and mosaic of Carlos Mérida at the Bank of Guatemala. The Major Plaza of the Constitution awaits, with its surrounding monuments such as the National Palace- now the Cultural National Palace and Museum, the Metropolitan Cathedral, the Portal of Commerce and Centenarian Park. This tour also includes a visit to the Central Market where visitors can buy art and handicrafts. The tour ends with a drop-off back at La Aurora Guatemala Airport. Bring comfortable shoes and a camera to capture these beautiful sights. A bilingual guide will be available throughout the tour. Please note, a minimum of 2 adults is required for the tour to run, and pets are not allowed on this tour. Book now and experience Guatemala City like never before!
Frequently Asked Questions about Guatemala City
If you are planning to visit Guatemala City, it’s natural to have a lot of questions about it. Here are some frequently asked questions with detailed answers that will help you plan your trip accordingly.
Is Guatemala City safe for tourists?
Globally speaking, Guatemala City is not the safest city, but it doesn’t mean that it is not safe for tourists. The city has gone through drastic transformations concerning security in recent years, with the establishment of the police tourism unit dedicated solely to the safety of tourists. However, it is always wise to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. It is advisable to avoid visiting certain areas of the city which are notorious for their high crime rates.
What is the best time to visit Guatemala City?
The best time to visit Guatemala City is between November and April when the temperature is pleasant, and relatively dry weather prevails. These months are also the peak tourist season, so the prices of hotels and airfares are more expensive during this period. Avoid visiting the city from May to October as it is the rainy season and can cause disruptions in sightseeing activities.
What are the must-visit tourist destinations in Guatemala City?
Guatemala City has a lot of beautiful and tourist-friendly destinations. Some of the most famous tourist destinations are:
- The Metropolitan Cathedral
- The National Palace
- The National Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology
- The Relief Map
- The Kaminaljuyu Archaeological Site
- The Popol Vuh Museum
What is the mode of transportation in Guatemala City?
The most common mode of transportation in Guatemala City is the bus. The city has an extensive network of buses that connect every corner of the city to each other. Most of the buses are old American school buses that have been modified to accommodate more passengers. Taxis are also available, but it is important to make sure that they are licensed and the meter is working. It is always better to use reputable taxi companies.
What is the currency used in Guatemala City, and can I exchange money there?
The currency of Guatemala City is Quetzal (GTQ). You can exchange money at banks, exchange houses or ATMs located throughout the city. The US dollar is also widely accepted in most establishments, but it is always better to carry Quetzals.
What is the local cuisine of Guatemala City, and where can I find the best food?
The local cuisine of Guatemala City is a blend of Spanish and Mayan cuisines. Some of the most popular dishes that you should try are:
- Pepian – a thick stew made from meat, vegetables, and spices
- Tamales – steamed corn dough stuffed with meat or vegetables
- Chiles Rellenos – peppers stuffed with meat or cheese
- Platanos Fritos – fried plantains
- Arroz con Leche – rice pudding
You can find the best food in Guatemala City at:
- Pollo Campero
- Los Cebollines
- La Fonda de la Calle Real
- Rincon Tipico
- Sabores de mi Tierra
What should I wear while visiting Guatemala City?
Guatemala City experiences a temperate climate throughout the year. It is always wise to wear comfortable and light clothes that you can layer as it can get cold at night. Sunscreen and a hat are essential to protect from the sun. It is also important to wear comfortable walking shoes as you might have to walk a lot while exploring the city.
What are the customs and etiquette I should follow while visiting Guatemala City?
While visiting Guatemala City, it is important to respect their customs and etiquette. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- Learn some basic Spanish sentences to interact with the locals.
- Always greet people with a smile and a handshake.
- Dress conservatively and avoid flashy clothes and jewelry.
- Do not take pictures without permission as it can be considered rude.
- Always ask before touching someone or something that is part of their cultural heritage.
By keeping these things in mind, you can ensure that your trip is pleasant and respectful.
Conclusion
Guatemala City is a beautiful city with a rich cultural heritage that is worth exploring. With proper planning and research, you can make the most of your trip without any hassles. We hope that this blog post has answered most of the frequently asked questions about the city and has helped you in planning a memorable trip.
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