Is airfare included?

For our group experiences - no, it is not included. We have guests arriving from all around the world, making it difficult to include airfare in our total trip cost so you will need to book your own flight. Our team is happy to help you coordinate flight details if needed. Once you send us your flight itinerary, we handle everything else from there!

*Please make sure you fly into Guatemala City Airport - La Aurora [GUA]. GUA is the closest airport to Antigua. Please do NOT book flights to Antigua & Barbuda Airport [ANU] as this is an island in the Caribbean.*

Is Guatemala safe?

We stay in well-known areas where you will see many friendly locals and other travelers! Once you arrive you will quickly notice that Guatemala is home to some of the kindest and warmest people on the planet. It’s one of our favorite parts about the country! Born To Be Local prioritizes traveler safety with private transportation, trusted accommodations, and booking activities and reservations with friends that have become business partners. With that said, like anywhere you go, it is always good to be aware of your surroundings.

Do I need a visa?

Citizens of The United States, Canada, Mexico, the European Union, and many other countries do not require a visa for entry into Guatemala. Though it is always best to check the most current visa requirements with the Guatemalan embassy or consulate in your country before traveling, as visa policies can change.

What kind of travel documents do i need?

A passport with at least six months of validity, a return or onward flight, and booked accommodation (we will send this info to you). Please check our Visa FAQ for visa requirements.

Can i come solo?

YES! While we welcome groups of friends, couples, and others, we highly encourage solo travelers! By keeping our group trips to a maximum of 10 people, we create the feeling of a small group of friends traveling together, rather than a large tourist group. This also allows for stronger connections to transpire with like-minded individuals. Come solo and create memories and experiences of a lifetime with your new friends!

Will I have free time?

Yes! We make sure to incorporate free time into our group trips, giving you the freedom to explore as you please or simply take some time to rest and rejuvenate. Of course, we will provide recommendations on what to check out during your free time if you're a go-go-go type of traveler!

What is the average age of your group trips?

Our average age ranges from mid 20’s to mid 30’s.

Deposit and payment plan?

A $500 non-refundable deposit at the time of booking will secure your spot on the trip!

cancellation policy?

Refund Policy for Group Experiences:

More than 60 Days Prior to start date of group experience:

• Full Refund: If you cancel your booking more than 60 days before the scheduled start date of the group experience, you will receive a full refund, minus the non-refundable deposit.

30 to 59 Days Prior to Departure:

• Partial Refund: If you cancel between 30 and 59 days before departure, you will receive a 50% refund of the total booking cost, minus the non-refundable deposit.

Less than 30 Days Prior to Departure:

• No Refund: Cancellations made less than 30 days before departure are non-refundable.

For the cancellation policy for all other services, terms & conditions will be sent directly to the traveler depending on the service being provided.

Do you offer travel insurance?

We do not offer travel insurance, but we can definitely give you recommendations for this! Also be sure to check if your credit card company offers any travel insurance.

Is the water safe to drink in Guatemala?

Unfortunately, the tap water contains bacteria making it unsafe to consume. But don’t worry, every accommodation will have EcoFiltro’s and clean water! And there will be plenty of tienda’s (corner stores) where you can buy purified agua. Don’t forget to bring your favorite reusable water bottle :)

What should I pack for the group trip?

For convenience in transporting your luggage, we suggest traveling light. A duffel bag will make your trip much easier, especially when navigating cobblestone streets, sand, and stairs, but a suitcase is okay. Packing cubes will be your best friend! A few weeks before your trip you will receive an email with your Trip Information which will include a packing list and detailed itinerary so you will know exactly what to pack for! For now, check out our Weather FAQ below for an idea of the climate you’ll be in.

What’s the weather like?

Guatemala is known as “el país de la eterna primavera”, or “the country of eternal spring”. This is because it is temperate weather year round. Rainy season is from May-October, making the dry season a desirable time to visit Guatemala. Our group trips operate during the dry season! Generally expect daytime temperatures around 70-85 degrees fahrenheit, cooling off in the night to around 50-65 degrees.

Should I bring cash?

Yes! There are two ways to get Quetzales (Guatemalan currency) for your trip. You can bring cash in your currency and exchange it for Quetzales at the bank. The easiest way is to stop at one of the ATM’s in Antigua. We recommend Banco Industrial. There is a $4 transaction fee and you will receive cash in Quetzales. We will also include a recommended amount of cash to bring (specific to your trip) in the Trip Information Guide that is emailed to you prior to the trip.

I am a solo traveler, do I have to book a private room?

Our accommodations change for each trip, so room arrangements can differ from one trip to the next. However, we do provide the option of either a private or shared room. Please note that rooms are limited and will be reserved on a first-come, first-served basis.

I am traveling with my friend, can we share a room?

Of course! Just let us know in the experience form when you sign up that you would like to room together.

Can I join a trip late or leave early?

We strongly advise against joining late as it will result in additional transportation costs. If arriving late or leaving early is necessary, you are still responsible for the full cost of the trip and you will have to cover the cost of your transportation to or from the airport and any other travel arrangements that are not included in our group trip.