Guatemala

At a Glance

Guatemala is a Central American country of volcanic landscapes, highland Maya culture, colonial cities, and misty lake scenery centred on the magnificent Lake Atitlán. The indigenous Mayan presence is not a relic here but a living culture, visible in the markets, textiles, ceremonies, and languages still spoken across the highlands. It is one of the most culturally rich destinations in the Americas, though urban areas require the same safety awareness as anywhere in the region.

• Heart of the Maya civilisation — more major Maya sites than Mexico.
• World's largest exporter of cardamom — the spice most associated with India.
• Most active volcanos in Central America, with three that have erupted in the past decade.