By John Lindell
Guatemala is a Central American nation that is 42,042 miles in area and is bordered by
Mexico, Belize, Honduras, El Salvador, the
Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean. The capital of Guatemala is Guatemala City, which has a population of almost 5 million people, more than one-third the country's total population of 13 million. Guatemala declared its independence form Spain in 1821 and is now a democratic nation.
Tikal
The Mayan city of Tikal is deep in the Guatemalan jungle, accessible only by air from Guatemala City. The ruins of this lost civilization feature a 192-foot tall temple.
Lake Atitlán
Lake Atitlán features a beautiful body of water with spectacular scenery. Lake Atitlán is close to Panajachel and San Pedro La Laguna, a pair of tourist hot spots with plazas, shopping, cafes and hotels.
Pacaya Volcano
The Pacaya Volcano is among the most active of all the volcanoes located in Central America. Tourist groups can visit this mountain located on the country's Pacific coast and either drive up or hike up to the top.
Atitlan Nature Preserve
The Atitlan Nature Preserve in Panajachel is a 400-acre park that allows hiking on its many trails. There is also an enclosed preserve for butterflies, a bird refuge area, a collection of orchids and places to observe the many mammals native to Guatemala.
Climate and Geography
Guatemala has hot and humid weather in the lowlands and a much cooler climate in the higher elevations. Most of the country is mountainous with coastal plains on both sides of the nation.
Resources
About the Author:
John Lindell has written articles for "The Greyhound Review" and various other online publications. A Connecticut native, his work specializes in sports, fishing and nature. Lindell worked in greyhound racing for 25 years.
