AT A GLANCE:
Guatemala, a Central American country south of Mexico, is home to rainforests, volcanoes, and ancient Mayan sites. Despite its beautiful, ancient heritage–a traveler’s paradise–the country is known for having the highest homicide rate in the world outside of war zones. Additionally, more than half of the population lives below the poverty line, and half of its children are malnourished. Many children are orphaned or abandoned and in need of help.
Capital: Guatemala City
Religion: Roman Catholic, Protestant, indigenous Mayan beliefs
Language: Spanish (68.9%), Maya languages (30.9%)