Best Time to Visit Guatemala: Month-by-Month Weather & Travel Guide

When Should You Visit Guatemala?

Guatemala rewards travelers year-round, but choosing the right month can make the difference between perfect volcano views and days lost to heavy downpours. The country sits between 13 and 18 degrees north of the equator, giving it a tropical climate that is shaped more by altitude and geography than by traditional four-season cycles. Two broad periods define the year: the dry season from November through April and the rainy season from May through October. Within those windows, temperatures, crowds, and prices shift enough that each traveler can find an ideal window depending on their priorities.

The highlands around Antigua and Lake Atitlan enjoy spring-like temperatures throughout the year, while the lowland jungles of Peten can be stifling in April and the Pacific coast stays warm and humid no matter when you arrive. Understanding these regional differences is the key to planning a trip that matches your interests, whether those involve climbing volcanoes, exploring Mayan ruins, or soaking in the country's vibrant festival calendar.

Dry Season (November to April)

The dry season is the most popular period for tourism in Guatemala, and with good reason. Skies are reliably clear, roads are in better condition, and outdoor activities from volcano hikes to lake kayaking can be enjoyed without the interruption of afternoon storms. November and December mark the transition out of the rains, and by January the countryside has turned lush green from the preceding wet months while the skies stay blue day after day.

November and December are excellent months for travelers who want pleasant weather without peak-season crowds. Temperatures in Antigua hover around 22 to 25 degrees Celsius during the day and dip to 12 to 15 degrees at night. Hotel prices have not yet reached their holiday peaks, although Christmas and New Year weeks bring a noticeable surge in both domestic and international visitors.

January and February are considered the sweet spot by many experienced travelers. Rain is extremely rare across the highlands and Peten, visibility at Lake Atitlan is at its best, and the dry conditions make the hike up Acatenango Volcano far more manageable. These months also bring the lowest humidity levels in the lowland jungles, making a visit to Tikal more comfortable than at almost any other time of year.

March and April are the driest and warmest months. While this guarantees sunshine, it also means the landscape begins to look dusty and brown in some areas, particularly along the Pacific slope. Semana Santa (Holy Week) typically falls in late March or April and is the single busiest tourism period in the country, especially in Antigua, where elaborate carpet and procession traditions draw visitors from around the world. Booking accommodation three to six months ahead is strongly recommended if you plan to visit during Semana Santa.

Rainy Season (May to October)

Locals call it invierno (winter), though temperatures barely change. What does change is the daily pattern: mornings are usually clear and sunny, with clouds building through the early afternoon and rain arriving in heavy but short-lived bursts between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. This pattern is consistent enough that most travelers can plan their sightseeing for the morning hours and use the rainy afternoons for museum visits, market shopping, or relaxing at their hotel.

May and June bring the first rains, which are usually moderate and refresh the landscape after the dry months. This is an excellent period for budget travelers because hotel rates drop significantly and popular sites like Tikal and Antigua are far less crowded. The countryside turns intensely green, creating stunning photo opportunities against the volcanic backdrop.

July and August see a brief dry spell known as the canicula, or "little summer," which typically lasts two to three weeks in late July or early August. This mini dry season within the rainy season can be an ideal time to visit if you want lower prices combined with a stretch of good weather. North American and European school holidays bring some additional visitors, but nothing close to the crowds of Semana Santa.

September and October are the wettest months and the quietest for tourism. Heavy rains can occasionally cause landslides on mountain roads, and some remote routes in Peten may become difficult to navigate. However, these months offer the lowest prices of the year and an authentic, unhurried experience of Guatemalan daily life. The rains begin to taper in late October, setting the stage for the return of the dry season.

Region-by-Region Breakdown

The Highlands (Antigua, Lake Atitlan, Chichicastenango)

The highlands enjoy the most temperate climate in Guatemala, with daytime temperatures between 20 and 28 degrees Celsius year-round. Nights can be surprisingly cool, especially in December and January, when temperatures around Lake Atitlan can drop to 8 or 10 degrees Celsius. The dry season is ideal for hiking, market visits, and volcano treks. During the rainy season, mornings are typically clear, so early starts will serve you well.

Lake Atitlan is particularly beautiful from November through February when the water is calmest and the surrounding volcanoes are visible from dawn to dusk. The afternoon wind known as the Xocomil picks up during the dry season, making boat travel across the lake choppy in the late afternoon regardless of the time of year.

Peten and Tikal

The lowland jungle region of Peten is hot and humid year-round, with temperatures often exceeding 35 degrees Celsius from March to May. The dry season from November to April is the best time to visit Tikal, as trails are less muddy and wildlife is easier to spot when animals congregate around remaining water sources. The rainy season transforms the jungle into a lush, steamy world with fewer tourists but more challenging conditions for exploring the ruins.

The Pacific Coast

Guatemala's Pacific coast is consistently hot and humid, with temperatures rarely dropping below 30 degrees Celsius. The surf is best from March to October, with the biggest swells arriving between May and September. The beach towns of Monterrico and El Paredon are busiest during Semana Santa and the December holidays. Outside those periods, you can often have long stretches of black volcanic sand beach nearly to yourself.

The Caribbean (Rio Dulce, Livingston)

The small Caribbean lowland region follows a slightly different weather pattern. Rain can fall at any time of year here, but the driest months are generally February through April. Livingston and Rio Dulce are at their best from January to April, when humidity is lower and boat trips along the Rio Dulce canyon are most enjoyable.

Major Festivals and Events

Guatemala's cultural calendar is packed with celebrations that can be a highlight of any trip or a reason to plan around specific dates.

Semana Santa (March or April) in Antigua is the most famous festival in Central America. For an entire week, elaborate processions wind through cobblestone streets over intricate carpets made from dyed sawdust, flowers, and pine needles. The spectacle reaches its peak on Good Friday, when thousands participate in and observe the largest processions. Hotels in Antigua sell out months in advance and prices can be three to four times the normal rate.

Independence Day (September 15) is celebrated nationwide with parades, marching bands, and fireworks. The festivities begin the night before with a torch-carrying relay that traces the route of the original independence declaration from Mexico to Guatemala.

Dia de Todos los Santos (November 1) brings the famous giant kite festival in the highland towns of Sumpango and Santiago Sacatepequez. Enormous, colorful kites measuring up to 15 meters across are flown in cemeteries as a way of communicating with the dead. The festival combines pre-Columbian tradition with Catholic observance and is a unique and moving experience.

Burning of the Devil (December 7) marks the start of the Christmas season. Guatemalans build bonfires in front of their homes, burning old belongings and effigies of the devil to cleanse their homes before Christmas. The tradition is especially lively in Guatemala City and Antigua.

Rabin Ajau (late July) in Coban is a celebration of Maya Q'eqchi' culture featuring traditional dances, music, and the selection of a Maya queen. The festival offers an intimate look at indigenous culture in the highland department of Alta Verapaz.

Budget Tips by Season

Understanding how prices fluctuate throughout the year can help you stretch your travel budget significantly.

Cheapest months (May, June, September, October): Hotel rates drop 30 to 50 percent compared to peak season. Shuttle services run less frequently but are still available on major routes. Domestic flights may have fewer options but lower fares. This is the time to negotiate room rates directly with smaller hotels and guesthouses.

Mid-range months (July, August, November, December): Prices sit between the extremes. The canicula in July and August and the start of the dry season in November offer good value with decent weather. December pricing spikes during the Christmas and New Year period but can be reasonable in the first two weeks of the month.

Most expensive months (January to April): Peak season pricing is in full effect, especially in Antigua, Lake Atitlan, and Flores (for Tikal). Semana Santa is by far the most expensive single week of the year. Booking well in advance is essential during this period, and flexibility with dates can save you significantly.

General savings tips:

• Eat at comedores (local eateries) for meals under $3 to $5 USD
• Use shared shuttle services instead of private transfers
• Book accommodation with kitchen facilities to prepare some of your own meals
• Visit popular sites early in the morning to avoid crowds and heat
• Consider staying in towns near major attractions rather than right at them

Month-by-Month Quick Reference

• January: Dry, cool nights in highlands, ideal for Tikal. Moderate crowds.
• February: Driest month, excellent for volcano hikes. Prices moderate.
• March: Warming up, Semana Santa may fall here. Book early.
• April: Hot and dry, Semana Santa crowds. Highest prices.
• May: Rains begin, prices drop. Lush green landscapes.
• June: Steady rain pattern, good budget travel. Fewer crowds.
• July: Canicula dry spell possible. Some North American visitors.
• August: End of canicula, rains resume. Good value.
• September: Wettest month, lowest prices. Authentic local experience.
• October: Rains tapering, still quiet. Good for independent travelers.
• November: Dry season begins, Kite Festival. Great overall month.
• December: Holiday buzz, cool highlands. Book Christmas week early.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Guatemala safe to visit during the rainy season?

Yes, Guatemala is perfectly safe to visit during the rainy season from a weather perspective. Rains typically fall in the afternoon and last one to three hours, leaving mornings free for activities. The main concern is road conditions in remote areas, as heavy rains can cause landslides on mountain roads. Stick to major routes, check local conditions before heading to remote sites, and you will have a rewarding trip with far fewer crowds and lower prices.

What should I pack for Guatemala?

Pack layers regardless of when you visit. The highlands can be cool, especially at night, so bring a light jacket or fleece. During the rainy season, a packable rain jacket and waterproof bag for electronics are essential. Comfortable walking shoes with good traction are important for cobblestone streets and volcano hikes. Sunscreen and a hat are necessary year-round due to the strong tropical sun, even on cloudy days. For Tikal and the lowlands, bring insect repellent and lightweight, breathable clothing.

How far in advance should I book for Semana Santa?

For Semana Santa in Antigua, book accommodation at least three to six months in advance, especially if you want a hotel on or near the main procession routes. Some of the most popular boutique hotels begin accepting reservations for Semana Santa up to a year ahead. If you are flexible with your exact location and willing to stay in nearby towns like Ciudad Vieja or Jocotenango, you can sometimes find availability with less lead time, though shuttle or taxi access to Antigua's center should be arranged in advance.

Can I visit Tikal during the rainy season?

Tikal is open year-round and can absolutely be visited during the rainy season. The jungle is at its most lush and vibrant from June to October, and the reduced visitor numbers mean you may have some temples nearly to yourself. The main trails are well-maintained, but bring waterproof footwear and expect mud on secondary paths. Morning visits are your best bet for dry weather and active wildlife. Some travelers consider the rainy season the best time for Tikal because the jungle feels most alive and atmospheric.

Final Thoughts

There is no wrong time to visit Guatemala. The dry season from November to April delivers the most reliable weather and is the safest bet for first-time visitors who want to pack in highlights like Tikal, Antigua, and Lake Atitlan. The rainy season from May to October rewards flexible travelers with lower prices, greener landscapes, and a more intimate connection with the country's culture and daily rhythms. Whatever month you choose, Guatemala's warmth -- both in temperature and in the hospitality of its people -- will make your trip memorable.