When to Visit Guatemala
Climate guide & best times to travel
Best Time to Visit
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Year-Round Essentials
Dry Season (Nov-Apr)
Wet Season (May-Oct)
Shoulder Season (Nov & Apr)
Highland Excursions (Year-round)
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Month-by-Month Guide
January
January sits right in the heart of the dry season with clear, sunny days and cool nights. It's peak tourist season for good reason—the weather is about as reliable as it gets in Guatemala. You might encounter some lingering holiday crowds, but they typically thin out after the first week or so.
February
February continues the dry season trend with warm days and pleasantly cool evenings. The dust starts to pick up a bit as the dry spell continues, and you'll notice the landscape looking a touch more parched. It's still prime time for visiting, though things feel slightly less crowded than January.
March
March marks the tail end of the driest period, with temperatures starting to climb a bit. The landscape is looking pretty brown by now, and you'll definitely notice the dust in the city. That said, it's still a solid time to visit, particularly if you don't mind things being a bit warmer and drier than earlier in the season.
April
April is the warmest month before the rains arrive, and you can feel the anticipation building. You might catch the occasional pre-season shower, which actually comes as a relief. The heat peaks during midday, though mornings and evenings remain comfortable enough for exploring.
May
The rainy season kicks off in May, typically with afternoon thunderstorms that bring dramatic lightning shows and much-needed relief from the heat. Mornings are usually clear, so you can plan outdoor activities early in the day. The landscape starts greening up quickly, which is honestly refreshing after months of brown.
June
June settles into the wet season rhythm with predictable afternoon rains. The city feels fresher, though that consistent humidity means clothes take forever to dry. Tourist numbers drop noticeably, which means better deals and fewer crowds at popular sites if you don't mind working around the rain.
July
Interestingly, July often brings what's called the "little summer" or canícula—a brief dry spell mid-rainy season. You'll still get some rain, but it's typically less intense than June. This makes it a surprisingly decent time to visit if you can snag the good weather window, though it's not guaranteed.
August
August continues the canícula pattern with slightly reduced rainfall compared to peak wet season months. That said, when it does rain, it can really pour. The lush greenery is at its peak, making for beautiful scenery if you're into photography—just protect your gear from the moisture.
September
September is typically the wettest month, with heavy afternoon and evening storms becoming the norm. The rain can be relentless, and you'll want to plan indoor activities or be very flexible with your schedule. On the plus side, hotels are eager for business and prices reflect that.
October
October remains quite wet, though the intensity starts to ease up slightly toward the end of the month. Everything is incredibly green and waterfalls are at their most impressive. You'll need good rain gear and patience, but there's something special about Guatemala when it's this lush.
November
The transition month—November sees the rains tapering off, particularly in the latter half. You might still catch some wet days, but clear skies become more common. It's actually a smart time to visit if you want decent weather without the peak season crowds and prices.
December
December brings dry season weather back in full force, with clear days and cool nights. The holiday season means an uptick in both local and international visitors, particularly around Christmas and New Year's. The weather is genuinely lovely though, which explains why everyone shows up.