| Local name: Repùblica de Guatemala |
| Surface : 108.889 Kmq. (42,042 square
miles) |
| Population : 10.900.000 inhabitants |
| Electricity: The visitor will generally find standard American
outlets. The current used throughout the country is 110 volts, 60 Hz. European travellers
might be advised to bring a voltage converter with them if their appliances do not have
one built-in |
| Climate: It is located in the tropical zone, and has a range
of climates that vary according to the altitude. There are two seasons: the rainy months
run from May to October, and the dry ones from November to April. The coastal plain in hot
and humid with temperatures rising to 38°C (100°F) in the summer months. January
temperature in Guatemala are approximately 30°C (86°F), and as low as 7°C (45°F)
during the evening. The warmest months are March, April and May with temperature in the
capital reaching 34°C (93°F), and turning quite chilly at night. In Quezaltenango, the
cold months have temporaries of around 24°C (75°F) during the day, but will fall to
below zero at night; during the summer months the temperature rises to 33°C (92°F),
again with cooler nights. The Caribbean coast is wet all year around. |
| Visas: Visa regulations changed in 1996 and citizens of most countries
no longer need either a visa or a tourist card. Depending on the country you come from,
stays are limited to 30 or 90 days. Citizens of some countries still need either a visa or
a tourist card, so check with the closest Guatemalan embassy for up-to-date
information. |
| Capital : Guatemala City (pop 2
million) |
| System : Presidential Republic ....Under
the 1986 constitution, legislative power is vested in a single-chamber elected assembly
with 100 members elected every five years. The President, also elected every five years,
holds executive power |
| Languages : Spanish, Amerindian languages (23 languages
including Quiche, Cakchiquel, Kekchi). |
| Religions : catholic (72%), protestant (24%) |
| Money : quetzal (Q) it is divided into
quarters, dimes, nickels and pennies. |
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