A country of striking features and a strong indigenous culture, Guatemala”s natural beauty and powerful identity stand in stark contrast to its bloody past and troubled present.

Except for the south coastal area, and the vast lowlands of the Peten in the north, Guatemala is mountainous, with a hot tropical climate more temperate in the highlands, and drier in the easternmost region. All of the major cities are situated in the southern half of the country; the major cities being the capital, Guatemala City, Quetzaltenango and Escuintla. The large lake Lago de Izabal is situated close to the Caribbean coast. Influences of the Maya and the Spanish colonists are strong throughout Guatemala. In the cities, European influence (especially German) is easily seen. Much of the clothing and food is still made in the traditional Mayan way in small villages in the highlands, and many Mayan ruins can be found. Along the small Caribbean coast, there are influences of African culture in the religious ceremonial songs, dances and food.