Search flights to Guatemala City

Known as Guatemala or Guate, Guatemala City is the biggest city and capital of the Republic of Guatemala. There is said to be 1 million 200 thousand inhabitants in the city center, however with the population of those in the suburbs the total figure comes out to about 2 million 500 thousand.

The city, which is a modern version of the ancient Mayan city Kaminaljuyu, has a history that dates back to 1500 BC. There are many trade routes, religious buildings, and historic structures located where the city was founded. When the city was a Spanish colony it was a very small town. The declaration of independence of Central America from Spain took place in Guatemala City and in 1821 it became the capital of the United Provinces of Central America.

Guatemala City experiences average annual highs of 25 and lows of 6-7 degrees. The weather is springlike year-round. There isn’t much fluctuation between the high temperatures. Due to its location at sea level the city has a temperate climate.

City planner Raul Aguilar Batres divided the city into 22 different zones. It is easy to get around and the urban planning was done quite well, creating an appealing cityscape. Zone 1 features historic buildings and is located in the middle of the city. The National Palace, Metropolitan Cathedral, and National Library of Guatemala are all located in Zone 1. The Tower of the Reformer and Plaza Espana are great locations to take photos.