To ensure that you have the best possible holiday experience, we ask you to read the following information carefully. If you have any questions, please discuss them with us before you depart.
Pack in two small bags (per person) – if you are taking any local flights, pack in two small bags, as large bags are not allowed on these flights.
Hand Luggage – pack essential items for a day or two in your carry on bag (which must fit on your lap if taking local flights) in case your checked bags go astray and take a few days to catch up with you, especially if you have any tight connecting flights.
Documents – take a copy of your travel insurance policy with you, and leave a copy of your passport with a reliable contact at home, in case the originals are lost or stolen.
Electronic Devices – ensure these are all fully charge before travel, as you may be required to switch them on at airport security.
Mobile Phones – make sure they are set up for international calls and if you plan to use travel apps such as Google Translate (which is invaluable when travelling in Latin America) or Google Maps, ensure you check your data package with your provider in advance. Alternatively turn off date roaming to avoid large phone bills. Be aware that some rural areas may not have mobile or WiFi coverage.
Clothing – pack lightweight clothing that will dry quickly, with long sleeved shirts and long trousers ideal to protect against mosquitos in the rainforests (safari clothing is perfect for this). Take good walking shoes, a day pack, sunglasses, sunhat and bio-degradable sunscreen. A rain jacket & umbrella are needed all year round in the rainforests, plus lightweight waterproof trousers in the wet season. Also pack a light jacket, as it can get cold at high altitude and T-shirts, shorts, swimming costume & flip flops. Eye drops can be handy, especially if you wear contact lenses, and sanitising hand cleaner. Take a generous supply of insect repellent to spray on your neck, wrists and ankles and avoid using perfume in the rainforests, as this attracts mosquitos.
Medicines - if you travel with prescription drugs, carry an adequate supply in their original bottles/packaging & keep them in your hand luggage, as if lost they may be difficult to replace.
Accessories – pack your phone (with charger and a spare battery pack), camera (with spare memory cards and batteries – a 200 mm zoom lens is good for wildlife photography) and binoculars (large 8x40 is best). We suggest one pair per person, as it can be frustrating to share.
Plugs – type A and B (2 flat blades, as used in the USA). Pack a universal adapter as well as a hand basin plug/stopper, as these are not always provided.
Books – pack a good travel guide and a Spanish phrase book. Knowing a few simple greetings will go down well. Also pack a generous supply of English reading material for quiet evenings and when waiting for flights, as these will be hard to come by.
Water – always drink bottled water.
Food – Guatemalan food is based on Spanish and Mayan cuisine and features a lot of corn, beans & chillis. Some food is commonly eaten on certain days of the week e.g. 'paches' (made from potatoes & filled with meat, cheese or vegetables) are usually eaten on a Thursday. Certain dishes are associated with special festivals, such as 'fambres' (an all-encompassing salad) served on the Day of the Dead/All Saints Day.
Taxis – use only radio or hotel taxis. These are best booked through your hotel.
Self-Drive – driving is on the right, but we do not recommend self driving in Guatemala.
Safety – take all sensible precautions. Leave valuable jewellery/watches at home, wear a money belt and be alert when outside your hotel. In particular avoid taking out large wads of cash in public view and keep your spare cash, passport and a spare credit card in your hotel safe.
Indemnities - please be aware it is likely you will be required to sign indemnities for any potentially hazardous activities.
Pack for a Purpose - if you have a little space in your suitcase, local schools & communities always appreciate gifts of pens & pencils, stationery, deflated footballs etc. Specific requests from communities can be seen on the 'Pack for a Purpose' website.
Tipping – this is not compulsory, but if you want to tip because you have received good service, we suggest the following per adult:
- guides/drivers: $7/$3 = $10 per day (can be reduced for longer stays).
- boatmen: $2 per transfer.
- waiters: 10% (if not already included in your bill).
- porters: $1 per bag.
It is not necessary to tip drivers doing short transfers (eg to the airport).
Your Safety - consult the UK Foreign Office website for the latest travel advice www.fco.gov.uk.