What Languages Do They Speak In Guatemala?

Explore the languages spoken in Guatemala on an interactive map.

Guatemala Languages: Quick FactsGuatemala flag

Languages

1

Spanish

Population

17,110,000

Cost of living

~ $1335

Index: 26.7

Safety / crime index

Low

Crime Index: 60.1

Language Spoken in Guatemala Percentage

LanguagePercentagePopulation
SpanishOfficial
69.9%11,959,890

Do They Speak English in Guatemala?

English proficiency

Moderate

Ranked #58 on the EF English Proficiency Index.

In short

In major cities and tourist-facing businesses across Guatemala, English is common enough to help you get by. In smaller towns and more local situations, knowing some Spanish is recommended.

FAQ

Guatemala Language FAQ

Short answers to common questions about the main languages, English usage, and communication in Guatemala.

  • Spanish is the main language spoken in Guatemala.

  • Spanish is spoken by about 69.9% of the population in Guatemala.

    That corresponds to roughly 11,959,890 people.

  • Often yes in major cities and common travel situations, but not everywhere. If you plan to spend time outside the main urban areas, some Spanish is helpful.

What languages do they speak in Guatemala?

Spanish is the main language spoken in Guatemala.

How widely spoken is Spanish in Guatemala?

Spanish is spoken by about 69.9% of the population in Guatemala.

That corresponds to roughly 11,959,890 people.

Can you get by with English in Guatemala?

Often yes in major cities and common travel situations, but not everywhere. If you plan to spend time outside the main urban areas, some Spanish is helpful.

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