Guatemala
- Mid-range Budget: $35 a day
- Highlights: Zip line tours, Enjoying Lake Atitlan
- When to go: Peak season Nov.-May. Shoulder season Dec.-Jan.
Guatemala is the same as The more popular Costa Rica, except way BETTER and more affordable. In Guatemala, you can have an incredible time in the lush jungle, climb volcanos, and take in the stunning coastline for a fraction of the cost of Costa Rica.
This affordable international getaway has surfing, unreal wildlife, fantastic coffee, zip lining, and ancient ruins. Budget-friendly buses can get you around the country for up to 3 bucks!
They’re called “chicken buses,” and it’s hard to miss the colorful and decorated buses that crowd the streets of major highways and cities. These are the more common way for locals and tourists to travel on a budget.
But we MUST warn you that they won’t exactly pass a safety test. The safer buses are the intercity versions, which are about $10 to ride. If you’re with a group, renting a car to visit quiet, off-the-beaten-path beaches and mountains is THE way to go!
