A Country in Need

Guatemala suffers from extreme income inequality — 56 percent of the population lives in poverty, one in five in extreme poverty. Infant mortality is among the worst in the region (39 per 1,000 live births), maternal mortality is extremely high (153 per 100,000 births) and chronic malnutrition remains a serious problem (49 percent).

Though primary school enrollment has risen sharply from 72 to 85 percent between 1991 and 2001, more than two million children do not attend school, most of them indigenous girls in rural areas. Only three of ten children graduate from sixth grade and only one of 20 enter high school. The country’s complex topography, 23 languages, and disenfranchised indigenous population further complicate efforts to expand health and education services and improve an extremely low rate of labor productivity.

Weather

Altitude is the biggest climatic consideration in Guatemala. In the highlands including Antigua, Guatemala City, Lago de Atitlan and Chichicastenango, the altitude is between 4,260-6,890' (1,300-2,100 m) and the daytime climate is usually pleasant between 64-82°F (18-28°C). Humidity is rarely a problem. Be prepared for temperatures to cool off at night - make sure you pack some layers!!

In the coastal areas and the Peten jungle lowlands the heat and humidity can be draining. Be prepared at any time of the year to find temperatures above 85°F (30°C). Tikal owes the lushness of its jungle environment to the climate. Marvel at the ruins but be ready for steamy and humid conditions - as you wander among these towering pyramids, imagine building them under these temperatures!

There are two seasons in Guatemala. Winter, or the rainy season, is from May to October. The skies are normally a mix of sunshine and clouds and you can expect periodic short tropical downpours in the late afternoons, clearing for the evening.

Summer, or the dry season, is between November and April and paradoxically is the time of coolest temperatures. Due to the clear skies the coolest nighttime temperatures occur in December and January, with occasional snowfall and frosts at high altitudes. For most of the country, this is the best time of year to visit Guatemala. April and May are the hottest months; relief from the heat comes with the start of the rains.