Guatemala is a country bursting with beautifully striking features, biodiversity and an indigenous culture with a powerful and vibrant identity. It boasts of volcanoes, thick tropical forests, outstanding Mayan ruins that stretch out and above the surrounding forest canopy, beautiful lakes, and is bursting with exotic fauna, flora and wildlife.

One of the most beautiful and culturally rich countries in Central America it is also one of the largest, covering an area of over 108,000 sq Km (slightly smaller than England). Guatemala shares its main borders with Mexico to the north, the Caribbean Sea and Belize to the east, the Pacific Ocean to the west, and by both Honduras and El Salvador to the south.

Guatemala also has a fascinating environment, with over 8000 species of plants in 19 different ecosystems. It overflows with an abundance of animals; 250 species of mammals, 600 species of bird and 200 species of reptiles and amphibians. Guatemala is also home to the resplendent quetzal, the national bird, which is often used to symbolize Central America.

The landscape is awe inspiring, from mountainous forest highlands, to jungle plains, and volcanic beaches. There are 30 volcanoes spread throughout the highlands. The Cuchumatanes range includes the volcano Tajumulco, the tallest peak in Mesoamerica, standing at 12,660 ft. Guatemala City and many other parts of the country have a stable and pleasant climate. Rainfall here is moderate with a distinct dry season from November to April. The Pacific slope is rich in coffee, cacao, fruit, and sugar plantations.

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