Trying to figure out the best time to travel to Guatemala? Not sure when to visit based on the
activities you plan to do?
Don’t worry, we’ll explain everything you need to know in the guide below.
Guatemala is an exciting country to visit with loads on offer. But, as any Guatemala travel
guide will tell you, you need to pick the right season to visit in order to make the most of your
trip.
Understanding Guatemala’s Climate
If you’re trying to figure out when to travel to Guatemala, then you need to understand how the
country’s unique climate works.
Guatemala's climate varies depending on the region, but generally, it's divided into two main
seasons: dry and rainy.
The dry season typically spans from November to April. As the name suggests, this is when
you’ll experience sunny days with minimal rainfall - perfect for outdoor activities like
hiking in
Guatemala.
On the other hand, the rainy season lasts from May to October. As you’d expect, this period is
characterised by frequent showers and occasional thunderstorms.
While the landscapes become lush and green during the rainy season, outdoor activities might
be limited due to the weather. And if you try to trek through the jungle during this time, you’ll
experience some serious mud.
However, visiting during the rainy season does mean fewer crowds and lower prices on
accommodations and tours.
Overall, Guatemala has a tropical climate with diverse microclimates throughout the country.
These range from hot and humid lowlands to cooler mountainous regions.
It's important to consider these factors when planning your trip and pack accordingly for the
climate of the specific regions you'll be visiting. Even travelling a short distance in Guatemala
can lead you to a totally different climate, so being prepared for anything is important when
visiting this country.
When is the Best Time to Travel to Guatemala?
The best time to travel to Guatemala has got to be during the dry season, which typically runs
from November to April.
During these months, you'll experience sunny days and minimal rainfall, making it ideal for
exploring Guatemala's stunning landscapes and cultural attractions.
The temperatures are also more comfortable, ranging from warm to mild, depending on the
region you're visiting. Whether you plan to chill on the beaches or hike up volcanoes, this
period offers the best weather.
If you're interested in witnessing Guatemala's vibrant cultural festivals, such as Semana Santa
(Holy Week) or Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), plan your trip between March and April.
Experiencing these celebrations gives you a great look into the country's rich traditions and
colourful heritage.
However, keep in mind that popular tourist destinations will be more crowded during these peak
months. If this is when you travel, try to book accommodation and tours in advance.
You can still visit Guatemala during the wet season and have a great time. But, as we’ve already
mentioned, you’ll need to be prepared for plenty of rain.
Best Time to Travel to Guatemala: Monthly Breakdown
To help you understand the best time of year to travel to Guatemala, let’s break down the typical
weather conditions in more detail.
These months mark the dry season in Guatemala, with sunny days and minimal rainfall.
It's the perfect time for outdoor activities like hiking, exploring ancient ruins, and enjoying
Guatemala's natural beauty.
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This period is Guatemala's rainy season, with frequent showers and occasional thunderstorms.
While the landscapes are lush and green, outdoor activities may be limited due to the weather.
However, this is still a great time to experience fewer crowds and lower prices on
accommodation and tours
Towards the end of the rainy season, the weather starts to transition back to dry conditions.
November and December offer pleasant temperatures and clearer skies, making it an ideal time
to visit before the peak tourist season begins. Plus, you can catch some of Guatemala's
traditional holiday celebrations during this time.
Now that you know the best month to travel to Guatemala, let’s explore some of the best
activities you can do while visiting this country.
Bear in mind that the best time to travel to Guatemala also depends on what kind of activities
you want to experience.
Go Hiking Through Amazing Landscapes
Guatemala is a paradise for hikers - with a wide range of hiking trails available.
This includes multi-day treks through the jungle, steep ascents to the tops of volcanoes, and
unforgettable walks through the mountainous coffee plantations and cloud forests.
If you enjoy being outdoors and want to experience the true natural beauty of Guatemala, then
you definitely want to hiking on your itinerary.
Guatemala is home to some of the most impressive Mayan archaeological sites in Central
America. This includes places like Tikal, El Mirador, and Yaxhá.
When visiting Guatemala, be sure to explore the ancient temples, pyramids, and ceremonial
centres. You’ll learn all about Mayan history and culture. Seeing how old these bruins are is
really fascinating for any visitor.
Explore the charming colonial cities of Antigua Guatemala and Guatemala City.
Admire the well-preserved architecture, visit historical landmarks, and immerse yourself in the
vibrant local culture. These places have some great nightlife, amazing food, and an all-around
fun atmosphere. Make sure to soak it up during your Guatemalan travels.
Be sure to spend time at Lake Atitlán, surrounded by pretty villages and stunning volcanic
scenery.
You can go kayaking on the lake, hiking around the landscape, or simply relax and enjoy the
breathtaking views. This is a must-visit place in Guatemala for any traveller - which is why we
include it in our
eight-day Guatemala adventure.
Discover the Country’s Natural Wonders
We’ve mentioned the amazing hikes you can do in Guatemala, but there are so many different
landscapes to experience in every corner of this country.
Guatemala’s natural landscapes include lush rainforests, volcanic peaks, and pristine beaches.
When you visit Central America, you have to make eating the local food a priority. There are
some amazing flavours to explore in Guatemala.
Guatemala's local cuisine features a mix of Mayan, Spanish, and Caribbean influences. Don't
miss trying traditional dishes like pepián (meat stew), tamales, and platanos (fried plantains).
So, the best time of year to travel to Guatemala is undoubtedly during the dry season - no
matter what kind of activities you plan to do. While you can visit the country any time of year,
and have a great time, the dry season is when most activities are available. You’ll also be able
to enjoy that clear sunshine that Guatemala is so well-loved for.
If you want to experience the best of Guatemala, consider joining our eight-day guided tour.
This trip, led by expert local guides, showcases a range of the best attractions this beautiful
country has to offer.