Guatemala

Guatemala is a country in Central America. It is just south of Mexico. Guatemala has thick rainforests, tall volcanoes, and ancient Mayan ruins. Many people there still speak Mayan languages today.

Land and People

About 18 million people live in Guatemala. The capital is Guatemala City. The country has over 30 volcanoes and beautiful Lake Atitlan. Many people are descendants of the ancient Maya.

Map showing the shape and regions of Guatemala.
Map showing the shape and regions of Guatemala. (United Nations Department of Peacekeeping Operations Cartographic Section / Wikimedia Commons)

Culture and Fun Facts

Guatemalan markets are full of bright, handwoven cloth. People eat tortillas, beans, and tamales. The quetzal bird is the national bird and is on the country's money. Music and dance are a big part of celebrations.

Fun Facts

  • The ancient Mayan city of Tikal has pyramids taller than most buildings.
  • Guatemala's national bird, the quetzal, was sacred to the ancient Maya.
  • Chocolate was first made as a drink by the Maya in what is now Guatemala.

Did You Know?

Guatemala has more than 20 Mayan languages still spoken today. Many children learn a Mayan language at home before they learn Spanish at school. This makes Guatemala one of the most multilingual countries in the Americas.