Facts About Antigua

Antigua, Guatemala is a beautiful and vibrant colonial city that was founded in the early 1500s by the Spanish Empire. The city served as the political, economic, and religious center of all of Central America before the city was destroyed in 1773 following a series of earthquakes. Following the earthquakes, the capital was moved to a less earthquake-prone location which is known as present-day Guatemala City. However, not all was lost during the earthquakes that rocked the city in the 1700s. Many people remained in the city and much of the old colonial architecture remains. The city itself is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

On this page, you will find general information about Antigua, the weather, currency, connectivity, and more.

Drinking Water

Many travelers in Antigua have the same question- is it safe to drink the tap water? It is generally considered not safe to drink the tap water in Antigua. Locals and tourists alike should refrain from drinking the tap water. The water is fine to shower and brush your teeth (although some prefer bottled or filtered water). Many hotels and restaurants will provide you with filtered water. In Antigua it is common for every house, restaurant, hostel/ hotel and Airbnb to have a large clay container in the kitchen called an Ecofiltro. The filters are filled up with tap water and the clay purifies the water. These filters are fine to drink from for travelers and tourists and provide an eco-friendly alternative to plastic bottles.

Wifi & Connectivity

Antigua has modern telecommunications making it fast and easy to connect with individuals in the rest of Guatemala and beyond. Most cafes and accommodations include wifi and it is simple and inexpensive to buy a SIM card from a local service provider so you can always stay connected. Guatemala is also in the process of being connected via Starlink. The international dialing code for Guatemala is +502. Read more about communication in Antigua here.

Time Zone

Antigua is located in the Central Standard Time Zone (UTC/ GMT -06:00) Guatemala does not utilize Day Lights Savings Time. 

Weather & Climate

Antigua enjoys a warm temperate climate all year round. There are two main seasons in Antigua, summer, and winter. The summer starts in November/ December and lasts until April. The summer in Antigua is warm and dry with very little rainfall. The winter in Antigua lasts from May through November and is characterized by heavier rainfall in the afternoons and evenings, with the day remaining relatively dry (but potentially cloudy). Read more about Antigua’s climate here

Cell Phones

If your cell phone is unlocked you can buy a Tigo or Claro SIM card when you arrive in Guatemala. This will give you phone service and data throughout Antigua. Otherwise, many travelers switch their phone to airplane mode and utilize the free wifi in hotels and cafes in order to stay connected while on the road. Read more about cell phones and connectivity here

Money & Currency

The local currency in Guatemala (and Antigua) is the quetzal. Guatemala’s currency the quetzal is denoted by the letter “Q.” Most places in Antigua will not accept dollars, although some places might depend on how often they deal with tourists. Please keep in mind that dollars must be in perfect condition in order for them to be accepted in Antigua. Read more about currency and paying for items here

Language

The official language is Spanish, however, you will find that many people, especially in the tourism industry also speak English. In addition, locals may speak one of the 20+ Mayan languages found in Guatemala. Antigua itself is a very international city, therefore do not be surprised if you hear various other languages while walking down the street.

Culture

Antigua, Guatemala contains a fascinating mixture of Spanish and Mayan culture. This is evident from the architecture, cuisine and locals you’ll see on the streets. There are many churches and museums to explore for the history and culture buffs out there. You can learn more about the history and culture of Antigua here.  

Seasons: High & Low

High season is the dry season/ summer time. This is from December until March/ April. The low season takes place during the rainy season/ winter time which is from May until October.

Volcanoes

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