Map of Guatemala with Cities and Regions

Guatemala is an American gem that offers a mix of dramatic landscapes and colorful culture. Despite its relatively small size, it is the most populous country in Central America.

Map of Guatemala

Key geography facts

1. Guatemala has three distinct geographical regions: the mountainous Highlands, the fertile Pacific Coast, and the low, flat Petén region covered in dense rainforest.

2. Guatemala’s highest point is Volcán Tajumulco, which reaches 13,845 feet (4,220 meters) in the Highlands.

3. Lake Izabal is the largest lake in Guatemala, while Lake Atitlán, nestled in the Highlands, is renowned for its scenic beauty and depth.

4. The Motagua River is the longest in Guatemala. It flows from the western Highlands to the Caribbean Sea and measures approximately 250 miles (400 km).

5. Guatemala is known for its volcanoes, with three of its 37 volcanoes still active, namely Pacaya, Santa María and Volcán de Fuego. The most active is Volcán de Fuego, and one of the most active in the world.

Recommended reading: Fun Facts About Guatemala

Guatemala regions (departments)

Guatemala has eight regions and 22 departments in the republic.

1. Alta Verapaz
2. Baja Verapaz
3. Chimaltenango
4. Chiquimula
5. El Progreso
6. Escuintla
7. Guatemala Department
8. Huehuetenango
9. Izabal
10. Jalapa
11. Jutiapa
12. Petén
13. Quetzaltenango
14. Quiché
15. Retalhuleu
16. Sacatepéquez
17. San Marcos
18. Santa Rosa
19. Sololá
20. Suchitepéquez
21. Totonicapán
22. Zacapa

Map of Guatemala in Central America

Guatemala is bordered by Mexico, Belize, Honduras, and El Salvador.

Guatemala major cities

Guatemala City – The capital and largest city, known for its historical sites and cultural institutions, and as the economic and political center of the country.

Villa Nueva – The second most populous city located just south of Guatemala City, known for its industrial and agricultural zones.

Mixco – A densely populated city adjacent to Guatemala City, known as part of the larger metropolitan area, with a mix of residential neighborhoods and commercial areas.

Cobán – Located in north-central Guatemala, famous for its lush landscapes, coffee plantations, and natural attractions.

Quetzaltenango – Also known as Xela, this city is a base for spectacular hikes, colonial architecture, and indigenous culture.

Jalapa – located in southeastern Guatemala, known for its agricultural production, particularly cattle, coffee, and vegetables, and its scenic mountainous surroundings.

Chiquimula – Often referred to as “La Perla de Oriente,” or Pearl of the East, this city is known for its religious and cultural significance.

Escuintla – A major city in the Pacific coastal plain, known for its industrial activities, particularly sugar and coffee production, and its role as an important commercial hub in southern Guatemala.

San Juan Sacatepéquez – Located in the Guatemalan highlands northwest of Guatemala city and known for its flower growing and wooden furniture.

Jutiapa – A city in southeastern Guatemala known for its agricultural production, including corn (maize) and bean crops, and its role as a commercial center for the surrounding rural areas.

Huehuetenango – A city in the western highlands known for its rich Mayan heritage, particularly the ancient Maya centre called Zaculeu, and proximity to the Cuchumatanes mountains.

Puerto Barrios – A key port city on the Caribbean coast, important for trade and access to the eastern part of the country.

Totonicapán – Located in the western highlands of Guatemala, is known for its rich indigenous culture, traditional textiles and flour milling, and vibrant markets.

Other cities in Guatemala: Chinautla, Coatepeque, San Miguel Petapa, Villa Canales.