Things to Do in Guatemala in May
May weather, activities, events & insider tips
May Weather in Guatemala
Is May Right for You?
Advantages
- Perfect highland weather - mornings are crisp 16-18°C (61-64°F) with brilliant sunshine, ideal for volcano hikes and archaeological sites before afternoon clouds roll in
- Peak wildflower season in cloud forests - May brings spectacular blooms to Monteverde and volcanic slopes, with orchids and bromeliads at their most vibrant
- Shoulder season pricing - accommodation costs drop 20-30% compared to dry season peaks, while flight prices remain stable before summer vacation rush
- Optimal lake conditions at Atitlán - morning glass-calm waters perfect for kayaking and volcano photography, with afternoon thermal winds ideal for sailing
Considerations
- Afternoon thunderstorms intensify - expect daily 1-2 hour downpours between 2-4pm that can strand you on volcano trails or delay transportation
- Humidity climbs to 75-85% by month's end - makes coastal regions like Monterrico feel oppressive, and increases insect activity in jungle areas
- Road conditions deteriorate rapidly - many rural roads to remote sites become impassable by late May, limiting access to places like El Mirador
Best Activities in May
Pre-dawn Volcano Ascents
May offers the perfect window for volcano climbing with cool morning temperatures 16-18°C (61-64°F) and clear skies before 11am. Start Acatenango or Pacaya hikes at 3-4am to summit by sunrise, avoiding afternoon storms that make descent treacherous. Trail conditions are still firm from dry season but vegetation is lush from early rains.
Archaeological Site Exploration
May's morning clarity provides exceptional visibility for photographing temples at Tikal and El Mirador before daily cloud buildup. Cooler dawn temperatures make the jungle heat bearable, while afternoon rains create dramatic lighting for ruins photography. Wildlife activity peaks during morning hours.
Highland Market and Village Tours
May brings harvest celebrations to indigenous communities around Chichicastenango and Sololá. Morning markets showcase seasonal produce like white corn and early coffee cherries. Cultural ceremonies are more frequent, and traditional textiles display fresh dyes made from seasonal plants.
Lake Atitlán Water Activities
May offers ideal lake conditions with morning calm perfect for kayaking between villages and afternoon thermal winds great for sailing. Water temperature is comfortable 22°C (72°F). Visibility is excellent for photography with volcanos reflected in still morning waters.
Cloud Forest Wildlife Watching
May is peak season for quetzal viewing as birds are most active during nesting period. Morning mist in cloud forests creates magical conditions for photography, while afternoon rains bring out endemic amphibians and insects. Orchids and bromeliads reach peak bloom.
Coffee Plantation Experiences
May marks the pre-harvest preparation season when coffee plants flower with fragrant white blossoms. Tours showcase the full cultivation process while plants are at their most photogenic. Higher elevation fincas offer cooler temperatures and stunning valley views.
May Events & Festivals
Corpus Christi Celebrations
Elaborate processions with flower carpets and traditional dancing throughout highland communities. Patzún creates the most spectacular alfombras (carpet designs) made from flowers, colored sawdust, and pine needles stretching several blocks.
Rabin Ahau Indigenous Festival
National folklore festival in Cobán celebrating Maya culture with traditional music, dance competitions, and crowning of the indigenous queen. Features authentic performances from all 22 Maya linguistic groups.