Guatemala Weather & Climate Guide 2025
Plan your trip with detailed weather information and seasonal tips for Guatemala.
Guatemala offers an incredible blend of ancient Mayan ruins, colonial architecture, and stunning natural beauty. From the towering temples of Tikal to the cobblestone streets of Antigua and the serene waters of Lake Atitlán, this Central American gem captivates travelers with its rich culture, colorful markets, and warm hospitality.
Best Time to Visit
Best Months
December to February
Months to Avoid
May to October
Climate Overview
Guatemala's climate varies dramatically by altitude rather than latitude. The highlands (Antigua at 1,500m, Quetzaltenango at 2,335m) enjoy spring-like temperatures year-round with a pronounced wet season from May to October. The Pacific lowlands are hot and humid (30-35°C) year-round, while the Caribbean coast (Livingston) receives heavy rainfall almost year-round. Petén jungle is hot and humid with a distinct dry season November to April. The dry season (noviembre a abril) coincides with peak tourist season, offering clear skies and firm hiking trails.
Month-by-Month Guide
What to expect each month of the year.
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Seasonal Planning Guide
Complete weather data, packing lists by season, and event calendars.
Seasonal Breakdown
Detailed information for each season.
🌸 Spring
Mar-May
Transition from dry to wet season. March-April have Guatemala's most spectacular weather with clear mornings and the famous Semana Santa celebrations. May marks the beginning of rains, with afternoons becoming wetter.
☀️ Summer
Jun-Aug
Peak rainy season in highlands and Pacific lowlands. Morning clear, afternoon rains daily. Petén remains accessible with shorter rain periods. Lush green landscapes and fewer tourists. Lake Atitlán beautiful.
🍂 Fall
Sep-Nov
Rainiest months September-October with heaviest precipitation. November marks the beginning of the dry season with improving weather. November 1 features spectacular Day of the Dead Giant Kite Festival.
❄️ Winter
Dec-Feb
Guatemala's peak tourist season with dry, sunny weather and comfortable highland temperatures 15-22°C by day. Nights at altitude can drop to 5-10°C especially in January-February. Christmas markets in Antigua are magical.
What to Pack
Seasonal packing recommendations.
Year-Round Essentials
- Modest clothing (cover shoulders and knees)
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
- Light scarf or shawl (for religious sites)
- Reusable water bottle
- Power adapter
- Basic first aid kit
Hot Weather Additions
- Lightweight, breathable fabrics
- Extra sun protection
- Cooling towel
- Light colors to reflect heat
- Sandals with back straps
Cool Weather Additions
- Warm layers (fleece, sweater)
- Light jacket or coat
- Rain gear (umbrella, waterproof jacket)
- Closed-toe shoes
- Warm accessories (if winter)
Events & Crowd Levels
Plan around busy periods and special events.
🔴 High Season
December to April, especially Christmas, New Year, and Semana Santa (Holy Week); Tikal and Antigua extremely busy
Higher prices, advance booking essential, crowded attractions.
🟡 Shoulder Season
May and November — pleasant weather with fewer tourists and better hotel rates
Good balance of weather and crowds. Reasonable prices.
🟢 Low Season
June to October (rainy season) — significantly fewer tourists, 20-30% lower accommodation prices, lush green landscapes
Best deals, fewer tourists. Some services may be limited.
Major Events & Holidays
Guatemala's most spectacular celebration. Antigua hosts elaborate processions with massive floats carried through streets covered in colorful alfombras (sawdust carpets). Book accommodation months in advance. Entire country pauses for religious observances.
Families visit cemeteries to decorate graves with flowers and share food with the departed. Santiago Sacatepéquez and Sumpango host the world-famous Giant Kite Festival, where enormous hand-crafted kites up to 20 m across are flown to communicate with ancestors. Traditional fiambre salad is prepared across the country. Highland Cuchumatanes villages hold famous horse races on this date -- a unique celebration blending Mayan and Catholic traditions.
Families burn rubbish and effigies of devil at 6 PM to cleanse homes before Christmas. Loud explosions of firecrackers throughout Guatemala. Unique tradition marking start of Christmas season. Best experienced in Antigua or Guatemala City neighborhoods.
Week-long celebration honoring patron saint with traditional dances, processions, markets, and Mayan ceremonies. Palo Volador (flying pole dance) and deer dance performances. Combines Catholic and Mayan traditions.
Celebrates independence from Spain. School parades with marching bands throughout country. Torch relay from Guatemala to El Salvador. Traditional food including chiles rellenos. National pride on display.
Beauty pageant celebrating indigenous Maya culture with contestants from different indigenous groups wearing traditional dress. Folk dancing, music, and cultural exhibitions. Major event in Alta Verapaz.
Showcases Latin American and international films in Guatemala City and other cities. Screenings, workshops, and Q&As with filmmakers.
Scenic marathon and half-marathon around Lake Atitlán. Challenging course with altitude and hills but stunning views. Growing international participation.
Plan Your Perfect Guatemala Trip
Get our complete seasonal guide with detailed packing lists, event calendars, and month-by-month planning tips.
Download Weather Guide