Weather in Guatemala

Guatemala's dry season runs from November through April, making these months the most popular and comfortable for travel. During this window, highland temperatures stay pleasantly mild — typically between 18°C and 24°C in Antigua and Atitlán — while roads remain clear and outdoor activities like volcano hiking and jungle trekking are far more accessible. March and April bring the spectacular Semana Santa celebrations in Antigua, widely considered the best time to experience Guatemalan culture at its most intense and visually stunning.

The wet season, from May through October, sees daily afternoon rains that keep landscapes brilliantly green and waterfalls at full flow. Tikal in the northern Petén jungle is particularly atmospheric during these months, with morning mist swirling around temple tops and fewer tourists on the paths. The rains typically arrive in short, intense bursts rather than all-day drizzles, so mornings are usually clear. Budget travelers appreciate that the rainy season brings lower accommodation prices and a more local atmosphere at most sites.