Just above the "A" and to the right in the name Guatemala you will see Lake Izabal (Lago Izabal). This is the largest lake in Guatemala
and home to the town of Rio Dulce (Meaning "sweet river"). Rio Dulce is centralized among the heart of the Mayan civilization.
Tikal, Copan, Quirigua and many other famous and popular Mayan ruins are within hours of this location and we have tours avalaible.
In any case, this is where your amazing adventure will begin and a place I am proud to consider home.
Full
country name:
Republic of Guatemala
Area:
109,000 sq. km ]
(42,500 square Miles)
Population:
11 million (growth rate 2.5%)
Capital City:
Guatemala City (pop 2 million)
People:
56% Spanish descent,
44% Mayan descent
Language:
Spanish, Garífuna and
21 Maya languages
Religion:
Roman Catholic, Mayan-Catholic
Fusion Government:
Democratic
Visas:
Depending on the country you come from, stays are limited to
30 or 90 days. Check with the closest Guatemalan embassy for
up-to-date information.
Minor Health risks:
Cholera, dengue fever, malaria
Time:
GMT/UTC minus 6 hours
Electricity: 110V, 60Hz
Weights / Measures:
Metric
Climate:
The climate here is relatively consistent, between 70 - 90 degrees and humid with an average rainfall of 80 inches per year since it
IS a rainforest. The entire reigon around the water here in Rio Dulce was declared a National Park in the 1980's and all the proper laws are in
place to preserve this area. The unfortunate part is that there is little if any money to allocate enforcement of those laws.
Therefore it has become the responsibility of the few of us who realize the danger and rapid loss of rainforest areas to responsibly
provide examples to alternate uses of this beautiful land as an example to the indigenous people here. Although still primitive
in many ways, this area is expanding at an expotential rate which will effect the preservation of the park unless action is placed. Help us keep it natural!
Skin protection Information:
There are some, but surprisingly few mosquitos here although a good repelent is always good
to have at hand in case. If flying into Guatemala, many flights do not allow aerosol type cans onboard so keep that in mind if
bringing repellent with you. In the years I have been here, I have yet to hear of any active cases of malaria in the area but I have heard of
three incidents of dengay fever. When purchasing sun screen keep in mind that this is a tropical climate and the sun is
intense so a powerful sunscreen is good to have on hand as well for any long trips in the sun.
Water:
As a rule water is safe in your larger citys and you do not need to worry. When traveling it is always easy to find bottled water but please realize that there is no recycling for plastic here so try to refill your bottle when you can.
Just for your ease of mind, potable water is provided for all of our services.
Medical services:
We have a local paramedic here by the name of Brian Buchannan who is a missionary with an operation called "Jungle Medic"
who is within radio shot of us at most times. Within minutes of Rio Dulce is a local hospital with all the modern technology
and services comprable to any I ever received in the United States. Many of the doctors here were trained for their profession
in United States universities. The rates are remarkably cheap by anything we are accustomed to.
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