Things to Do in Guatemala in November
November weather, activities, events & insider tips
November Weather in Guatemala
Is November Right for You?
Advantages
- Perfect highland weather with 26°C (79°F) days and 15°C (59°F) nights - ideal for hiking Volcán de Agua or exploring Antigua's cobblestone streets without the oppressive heat
- Transition to dry season means only 8 rainy days with brief afternoon showers lasting 15-20 minutes, leaving mornings and evenings crystal clear for photography
- Post-rainy season landscapes are lush green with waterfalls at full flow - Semuc Champey's turquoise pools are at their most spectacular after months of replenishment
- Tourist crowds haven't returned yet from October's wet season - major sites like Tikal have 40% fewer visitors than December-February peak season
Considerations
- Altitude sickness can hit hard in Quetzaltenango (2,330m/7,644ft) and Lake Atitlán (1,562m/5,125ft) - first-timers often underestimate the thin air effects
- Road conditions in remote areas like Semuc Champey can be muddy and treacherous from recent rains, adding 1-2 hours to journey times
- Some river activities and cave tubing may be cancelled due to higher water levels from the wet season runoff
Best Activities in November
Tikal Archaeological Complex Tours
November offers the perfect storm for Tikal visits: comfortable 24°C (75°F) jungle temperatures, minimal rain, and dramatically fewer crowds than peak season. Wildlife is active in the post-wet season abundance - howler monkeys and toucans are easily spotted at dawn. The jungle canopy is lush green but not dripping wet, making the 6km (3.7 mile) walking circuit manageable even for casual hikers.
Lake Atitlán Village Hopping
The lake's crystal-clear post-rainy season waters reflect the surrounding volcanoes perfectly in November's stable weather. Morning boat rides across the 18km (11 mile) long lake are smooth and comfortable at 22°C (72°F). San Pedro, Santiago Atitlán, and Chichicastenango markets are bustling with post-harvest activity, and the famous Thursday market coincides with fewer tourist buses.
Antigua Colonial Architecture Walking Tours
November's 26°C (79°F) daytime temperatures and low humidity make exploring Antigua's 1.5km (0.9 mile) historic center comfortable for hours. The post-rainy season air is crystal clear, offering stunning views of Volcán de Agua (3,760m/12,336ft) framing the baroque facades. Cobblestone streets are clean from recent rains but not slippery, perfect for photography of the UNESCO sites.
Semuc Champey Natural Pools
Post-wet season water levels create the perfect balance - pools are full and turquoise but not dangerous for swimming. November's comfortable 28°C (82°F) jungle temperature makes the steep 45-minute hike to the viewpoint manageable. The 300m (984ft) limestone bridge pools are at their most photogenic after months of mineral deposits settling.
Volcán Pacaya Active Volcano Hikes
Cool November temperatures make the 2.5 hour round-trip hike to 2,552m (8,373ft) much more comfortable than hot season attempts. Clear post-rainy season air offers spectacular views across the Guatemala Valley. Recent volcanic activity creates excellent lava viewing opportunities, and the stable weather means fewer tour cancellations.
Rio Dulce Jungle Boat Expeditions
November's reduced rainfall means Rio Dulce water levels are perfect for navigation to Livingston and the Caribbean coast. The 43km (27 mile) river journey through jungle canyons showcases post-wet season wildlife abundance. Manatees and tropical birds are most active, and the Castillo de San Felipe fortress offers clear views without rain obstruction.
November Events & Festivals
All Saints' Day and Day of the Dead Celebrations
November 1st-2nd features spectacular cemetery visits in Santiago Sacatepéquez where families fly giant kites up to 4m (13ft) in diameter to communicate with deceased relatives. Local markets sell special foods like fiambre - a traditional salad with up to 50 ingredients served only during this time.
Sumpango Giant Kite Festival
The most spectacular Day of the Dead celebration where massive kites measuring up to 6m (20ft) across are flown in the cemetery. These artistic creations take months to prepare and feature Maya designs and social messages. The event combines ancient tradition with contemporary artistry.
Livingston Garifuna Cultural Week
Caribbean coast celebration of Garifuna heritage featuring traditional drumming, punta dancing, and seafood festivals. This Afro-Caribbean culture creates a completely different Guatemala experience with reggae influences and coconut-based cuisine.