Last Verified: September 25, 2024

Paragliding in Guatemala

The Flying Experience

Located immediately south of Mexico, Guatemala is a mountainous country filled with extraordinary nature and cultural herritage. Whereas they have been lacking some regulation in the sport, you are free to fly in a handful of beautiful flying sites. From paragliding in Panajachel with views over the Atitlan lake, to doing a hike-and-fly expedition up a volcano.

Know before you go

There are no regulations, no license is required to fly in Guatemala.

Weather and Climate

What is the Climate like?

In general, paragliding conditions in Guatemala are favorable throughout the year. The country enjoys a mild climate, with warm temperatures and consistent wind patterns, particularly during the dry season (November to April).

Rainy season usually starts around May, which doesnt necessarily mean that it becomes bad for flying. In Panajachel for example it might rain during the day, but in Chiquimula it usually only rains in the afternoon, and the morning thermals become a lot more beginner friendly. Plus, you get those beautiful low cloud blankets.

Paragliding in Guatemala

The Travel Experience

How do pilots get around?

Bienvenidos a Guatemala, where getting from A to B might take a lot longer than you anticipated! In the larger cities like Guatemala City you can get everywhere by bus or taxi. For inter-city travel there are cheap, colorful chicken busses (old school busses) that drive very fast. If you are not comfortable with your Spanish language skills you might be more comfortable taking mini vans between towns.

  • Check our interactive map for some useful transportation points of interest.
  • Wondering how to get to the flying bases? Click on the flying base you would like to visit and check the transportation details there.

Is it safe to travel in ?

Traveling in Guatemala requires a bit of caution and awareness of potential risks of theft and robbery in some regions. Especially surrounding the Chiquimula region it is advised only to travel during the day and preferably avoid displaying valuable belongings. Don’t be too surprised to see a shotgun here and there. Not to worry, these are mostly machos who like to show off, so this doesn’t mean that you will be shot whenever you land out. It cannot be denied that the country is marked by a bloody history, and deep-rooted inequalities towards the indigenous population. Yet, there is no direct need to worry about your safety and most Guatemalans are extremely helpful and hospitable. So, grab your paraglider and get ready for an unforgettable flying experience with breathtaking landscapes and tasty food.

Disclaimer: Travelers are solely responsible for conducting thorough research on local safety conditions before embarking on any journey.

What is the local currency?

The local currency in Guatemala is the Quetzal (GTQ), named after the national bird that is hard to find these days. US dollars are accepted in some touristy areas, but you are better off exchanging them in a larger town. Other currencies are not as common. Having quetzales on hand ensures smoother travel, especially when landing out, or when exploring local markets, and for snacking on local street-food like pepian or tamales.

What to do on your day off?

Immerse yourself in the indigenous culture of Lake Atitlán, surrounded by picturesque volcanoes and traditional Mayan villages.

Hike the lush trails of Semuc Champey, encountering turquoise pools nestled in the midst of tropical rainforests.

Engage with local artisans in Chichicastenango's bustling market, which offers a vibrant display of Guatemala's rich handicraft traditions. Or, participate in the mesmerizing rituals of indigenous ceremonies, and witness the lively festivities during Semana Santa (Holy Week).

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Prepare to be enchanted, as on non-flyable days there is plenty to discover. First stop: Antigua Guatemala, a charming colonial city nestled among majestic volcanoes. Lose yourself in its cobblestone streets lined with historical buildings, and visit the iconic Arco de Santa Catalina for that perfect Insta-worthy shot!

Next up, Tikal – the ancient Mayan city shrouded in mystery, where towering pyramids rise amidst dense jungles. Channel your inner Indiana Jones as you explore these ancient ruins and intricately carved hidden temples. Who knows what ancient secrets you might uncover?

But wait, there's more! Guatemala is a nature lover's paradise, boasting breathtaking landscapes at every turn. Hike through the otherworldly beauty of Lake Atitlán, framed by towering volcanoes and quaint indigenous villages. Or venture into the dense jungles of Semuc Champey, where dozens of natural crystal-clear pools cascade down limestone terraces, in the midst of the tropical rainforest. It is a true paradise.

Paragliding in Guatemala

Cultural Highlights

Ethnicity and religion

Whereas entire cities were abandoned in rainforests by the ancient Maya, about 22 tribes continue to thrive, expressing their identities through ancient traditions and rituals. The majority of Guatemala comprises of these indigenous Mayan communities, along with Ladinos (who have a mixed indigenous and European heritage).

Religiously, Guatemala is predominantly Christian, with Roman Catholicism being the most widely practiced faith. However, there has been a noticeable increase in Protestant denominations in recent years. Additionally, there exists a unique syncretism, where traditional Mayan beliefs often intertwine with Catholic rituals and practices.

Geographically varied, Guatemala features tropical rainforests, mountainous highlands, and ancient Mayan archaeological sites. The country's economy is closely tied to agriculture, with the cultivation of crops such as coffee and bananas playing a pivotal role. Traditional dwellings range from rural adobe structures to urban buildings reflecting a blend of indigenous and colonial architectural influences.

Local language

With Spanish as the official language, Guatemala is linguistically diverse. Additionally to Spanish, over 20 Mayan languages are spoken, such as K'iche', Q'eqchi', and Kaqchikel. You will likely hear them when visiting Mayan ruins or a vibrant local markets.

What to eat when you are hungry?

In Guatemala, where Maya culture intertwines with Spanish influence and a hint of other European finesse, the local cuisine is renowned for its vibrant flavors, setting it apart from its neighbors. Each mouthful is a fiesta for your taste buds.

Let's kick things off with a Guatemalan classic: tamales. These little pockets of goodness are filled with a savory mix of meats, veggies, and spices, wrapped in corn husks and steamed to perfection. Next up, we've got ‘kak’ik’, a traditional Mayan turkey soup that is guaranteed to warm you up from the inside out.

For something heartier, dive into a bowl of pepian, a savory stew bursting with the flavors of tomatoes, peppers, and spices, and simmered to perfection with chicken or beef. It's comfort food at its finest.

The street food scene is no different, from crispy tostadas piled high with toppings, to sweet platanos fritos (fried plantains) drizzled with caramel sauce.

No culinary tour of Guatemala would be complete without sipping on a freshly brewed a cup of world-renowned coffee, usually hand-picked in the highlands. Their most popular varieties include Bourbon, Caturra, and Typica, which are characterized by a balance of acidity, sweetness, and body. So grab a mug, sit back, and savor the rich, aromatic flavors of this Central American gem, the perfect fuel for your flying adventures!

  • Check our interactive map to find out where hungry pilots get the best food near the flying sites.

What to read while you are on the road?

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Pilots in Guatemala

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