Best time to go to Guatemala

The rainy season typically lasts from May to October, but in some regions it can continue until November or even as late as December – particularly around Petén, which is hot and stuffy all year round.

December, January and February are damp and cool in the highlands – with cold nights in the highest regions. Bring very warm layers if travelling here – at any time of year.

The mid-elevation regions, such as Antigua and Lake Atitlán, live up to Guatemala’s reputation as the “Land of the Eternal Spring” , with warm, sunny days, refreshing nights and low humidity.

If you are tied to travelling in the holiday season, then the March or April Easter break is one of the best times to go to Guatemala as temperatures begin to warm up and the rains are still a way off.

School summer holidays in July and August are possible too, depending on your itinerary – the heaviest rainfall occurs in September and October. Often during the rainy season, the rain will fall during a couple of hours. Your holiday company and tour leader will be aware of this and will plan itineraries accordingly.

If travelling during the peak seasons of December and January, the Easter “spring break”, or July and August, be sure to book well in advance as it can get busy. Expect to pay higher prices at these times, too.

If travelling on a tighter budget, May and June can be a good time to explore Guatemala – without the crowds and high prices of Easter and midsummer, or the heavier downpours in autumn.

El Día de Todos los Santos – All Saints Day – takes place on 1st November. While not quite as huge a celebration as in neighbouring Mexico (the Day of the Dead falls the following day), there are plenty of smaller events taking place around the country, as families spend time in cemeteries remembering loved ones, prepare a special dish called fiambre, and fly extraordinary, huge kites. This is a busy time, and some places may shut down.