One of the cheapest countries in Latin America is Guatemala and the currency has been solid for the last couple of years. If you have $1 US Dollar you can exchange it for 7.5 Quetzales (named after the National Bird). The currency is beautiful and a mixture of the National bird along with the Mayan counting system so if you get a chance as a local guide how much your bill is worth based on the Mayan marks on the bill and it will give you a quick lesson in the Mayan calendar also.
The US dollar is accepted mostly in places like Guatemala city, Antigua, and Lake Atitlan but even in certain restaurants, tours, and streetside vendors you are going to want to have some Quetzals on hand. So we like to think the Quetzal is better to have than the US Dollar. This will help with places that dont take the US dollar, or if you want to leave a tip, or if you simply want to embrace the culture as most should. Also keep in mind that having smaller bills is handy. Sometimes this is easiest in the airport although your exchange rate will be horrible but as you make your way around the country chances are you will get change in Quetzales and have a collection of small bills before you know it.
If you plan to exchange money you will need identification which will probably be your passport and they will ask you to sign some papers. Depending on how long your vacation is you might want to ask your tour provider if they can have the guide exchange some dollars for you, exchange at the airport is the quickest, or visit a local bank if you have the time.
How much Money Should You Bring to Guatemala?
Only you know this answer but the limit is $10,000’s and if you have this kind of money on your person you are probably going to have a pretty lavish vacation considering the prices of Guatemala. Depending on the length of your stay and the style of your travel we like to say on average $70’s per person per day all inclusive for a comfortable family vacation.
ATMs & Credit Cards
Like most places you will see less and less ATM’s and more places taking credit cards. Almost all major credit cards are accepted. Master Card and Visa will give you the best rates.
Taxes & Tipping
Taxes and tipping are one of those topics that when traveling its hard to get a straight answer. We are lucky to know the rules in our country of origin with laptops getting flipped around in our face for ordering a coffee, whats the deal in Guatemala with their taxes and tipping.
Because the wages are low usually any tip is a good tip but guides are expected to get a minimum of 10% and they might make $50’s per day. The food has 10% is also expected to tipping is the norm for Guatemala and if you want to tip your custom 15% – 22% then it is more than welcome.
There is also a 10% sales tax included in both food and activities during your tours and adventures in Guatemala.
