in Guatemala: when to go?
tropical humide climate
Guatemala enjoys a particularly pleasant tropical climate thanks to its mountainous terrain that moderates temperatures. Two distinct seasons shape the year: the dry season from November to April, the ideal period to discover Mayan treasures and active volcanoes, and the rainy season from May to October, more humid but lush. The Highlands, home to Antigua and Lake Atitlán, enjoy mild temperatures year-round (20-25°C), while the Pacific and Atlantic coasts are warmer and more humid. Our advice: choose December to March for your volcano hikes and archaeological visits, when mornings are cool and afternoons are sunny. Even during the rainy season, showers are often brief and refreshing, typically occurring in the late afternoon.
- Best period
- November to March
- Good alternatives
- April to May, October
- Rainy season
- June to September
Year-round overview
Select a month to plan your trip
Climate in numbers
Monthly temperatures and precipitation
Temperature (°C)
Precipitation (mm)
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Climate zones
Climate varies by region. Discover the unique characteristics of each zone.
Central Highlands
Not recommendedGuatemala's climate varies according to altitude. The Central Highlands, the country's tourism heart with Antigua, Guate...
Western Highlands
UnfavorablePetén Region
Not recommendedAntigua and Central Region
UnfavorableCaribbean Coast
Not recommendedMonth by month
Find detailed climate information for each month of the year.
Temperature
6° — 28°C
Precipitation
52 mm
Average temperature
3.7°C
Rating
Ideal
By climate zone
Perfect conditions for volcano climbing. Cool mornings, sunny afternoons.
Temperature
7° — 30°C
Precipitation
32 mm
Average temperature
3.9°C
Rating
Ideal
By climate zone
The driest and sunniest month. Ideal for all archaeological sites.
Temperature
9° — 33°C
Precipitation
28 mm
Average temperature
4.3°C
Rating
Ideal
By climate zone
Pleasant temperatures, very little rainfall. Excellent visibility of the volcanoes.
Temperature
10° — 35°C
Precipitation
51 mm
Average temperature
4.6°C
Rating
Good
By climate zone
A few showers towards the end of the day. Lush landscapes, mild temperatures.
Temperature
11° — 34°C
Precipitation
140 mm
Average temperature
4.6°C
Rating
Fair
By climate zone
Beginning of the rainy season. Afternoon showers, mornings often clear.
Temperature
11° — 32°C
Precipitation
248 mm
Average temperature
4.6°C
Rating
Average
By climate zone
Frequent and heavy rainfall. Difficult roads, reduced visibility on the volcanoes.
Temperature
11° — 32°C
Precipitation
200 mm
Average temperature
4.5°C
Rating
Fair
By climate zone
Heavy rainfall, high humidity. Avoid mountain hiking.
Temperature
11° — 32°C
Precipitation
216 mm
Average temperature
4.5°C
Rating
Fair
By climate zone
Wettest month. Risk of flooding, difficult access to remote sites.
Temperature
11° — 31°C
Precipitation
282 mm
Average temperature
4.5°C
Rating
Not recommended
By climate zone
Maximum rainfall, roads often impassable. Least suitable month for tourism.
Temperature
10° — 30°C
Precipitation
220 mm
Average temperature
4.4°C
Rating
Average
By climate zone
Progressive decrease in rainfall. Lush nature, but still humid.
Temperature
8° — 29°C
Precipitation
103 mm
Average temperature
4.1°C
Rating
Good
By climate zone
Return of fair weather, landscapes still green. Excellent transition period.
Temperature
6° — 28°C
Precipitation
66 mm
Average temperature
3.8°C
Rating
Ideal
By climate zone
Excellent conditions are returning. Cool mornings, perfect sunny days.
Frequently asked questions
Everything about the climate and the best time to visit in Guatemala
The best months to visit in Guatemala are November, December, January, February, March. This period offers favourable weather and ideal conditions for exploring the country at its best.
Yes, the tropical climate of Guatemala remains warm and humid year-round (average temperature 25.5°C). Seasonal variations mainly concern rainfall rather than temperatures.
The rainy season in Guatemala mainly affects June, July, August, September. Showers are generally short and intense, often occurring late in the day, followed by beautiful sunny spells.
Absolutely. Traveling in Guatemala during the rainy season even has its advantages: lush landscapes, fewer tourists, more favorable rates. Our local agency adapts itineraries based on actual weather conditions.
Underwater visibility in Guatemala is optimal during the dry season, between November, December, January, February, March. Water temperature remains pleasant year-round (around 28-30°C). Our agency guides you to the best spots according to the season.
If your travel dates don't match the ideal season in in Guatemala, the Nomadays network brings together more than 100 local agencies worldwide. Get in touch to find out which destination would be ideal for your dates.
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