Guatemala, the “Land of Eternal Spring,” enjoys pleasant weather year-round, but the best time to visit depends on what we want to do. From exploring Mayan ruins and hiking volcanoes to birdwatching and attending cultural festivals, timing our trip can make all the difference.
Dry Season (Verano): November–April – Ideal for sightseeing, hiking, and Mayan ruins. Clear skies, warm days, cooler nights in the highlands.
Rainy Season (Invierno): May–October – Afternoon showers, lush landscapes, great for rivers, wildlife, and fewer tourists.
Shoulder months (October–November & April–May) offer moderate crowds and excellent opportunities for photography and cultural exploration. Campsite at Guatemala\'s Uaxactun Maya Ruins
Regional Climate Differences
Region
Weather
Best Activities
Notes
Highlands & Mountains (Antigua, Guatemala City, Atitlán)
64–82°F (18–28°C), low humidity, cooler nights
Hiking, volcano treks, cultural sightseeing
Bring layers for evenings
Northern Lowlands & Petén (Tikal, El Mirador)
75–90°F (24–32°C), hot & humid
Mayan ruins exploration, birdwatching
Best in dry season; rainy season can make jungle trails challenging
Pacific Coast
Hot year-round, occasional breezes
Beaches, water sports
Dry season best for sun; rainy season still possible with fewer crowds
Caribbean & Izabal
Warm, humid, year-round rain showers
Jungle tours, fishing
Tropical storms possible; monitor weather in wet season
Explore Guatemala
Best Time to Visit by Interest
Interest
Best Time
Highlights
Mayan Ruins & Archaeology
Nov–Apr
Tikal, El Mirador, other ancient sites
Hiking & Volcanoes
Nov–Apr
Clear trails, sunrise treks
Wildlife & Birdwatching
Mar–Jun
Quetzal nesting, lush landscapes
Cultural Festivals
Nov (All Saints’ Day & Kite Festival), Mar/Apr (Semana Santa), Sep (Independence Day)
Local traditions, parades, ceremonies
Beach & Coastal Travel
Nov–Apr (Pacific), year-round (Caribbean)
Swimming, water sports
Budget Travel
May–Jun, Sep–Oct
Lower prices, fewer tourists
Monthly Weather Snapshot
Month
Climate
Notes
Jan–Mar
Peak dry season
Cool nights in highlands, sunny days
Apr
Hot & dry
Semana Santa celebrations, beach trips
May
Rain begins
Lush landscapes, fewer tourists
Jun–Aug
Afternoon showers
River activities, wildlife watching
Sep
Wettest month
Budget travel, fewer crowds
Oct
Rain tapers off
Good for photography & festivals
Nov–Dec
Dry returns
Ideal for sightseeing, cooler nights in highlands
Travel Tips
Booking: Reserve hotels and tours early for peak months (Dec–Feb, Semana Santa)
Packing:
Dry season: light clothes, hiking shoes, sun protection
Transportation: Rural roads can be muddy in the rainy season
Altitude: Highlands can be chilly at night; lowlands are hot and humid
By planning around the weather and our interests, we can enjoy Guatemala’s diverse landscapes, rich culture, and historic treasures at their best. Whether trekking volcanoes, exploring Tikal’s Mayan ruins, or experiencing vibrant festivals, the right timing ensures an unforgettable adventure.
