Guatemala's relatively small size allows you to comfortably visit its iconic volcanoes, colonial cities, and Maya ruins in around seven days. But even in as few as five days, you can still see its most famous sights. Clear two weeks on your calendar, however, and you'll have a wide array of cultural excursions and active adventures from which to choose.
June in Guatemala is a relatively quiet month, but one where nature reigns supreme. From the sea turtles nesting on the Pacific Coast to the rains bringing the waterfalls to majestic levels, it's the perfect time to explore the country's natural beauty. Our favorite spots include Semuc Champey and Alta Verapaz, where you can go tubing along rivers through caves lit by candlelight and swim in secluded lagoons. Keep reading to find out more about what to do and where to go.
July is one of the busiest months in Guatemala, with tourists from North America and Europe making the most of their summer breaks. The weather also brightens up a bit in the highlands after a rainy June, with hot sunny days and the odd stormy afternoon, making it the perfect time to explore Antigua and relax on Lake Atitlán. To soak up some culture, head to Cobán for the Fiesta Nacional Indígena, with street fairs, parades, and parties—not to mention a myriad of waterfalls, caves, and lagoons to explore.
October may be one of the wettest months of the year in Guatemala, but, with plenty to see and do, and the rains (mostly) limited to the odd afternoon downpour, it's still a great time to visit. The beginning of the month is quite quiet, with fewer visitors and cheaper prices, although it can get quite busy toward the end. Still, October is a month for taking it slow, enjoying delicious Guatemalan coffee, lazing around on Lake Atitlán, and wandering the markets and towns of the Highlands.
May is the beginning of the rainy season in Guatemala, with hot humid mornings and downpours in the afternoon, interspersed with occasional tropical storms where lightning illuminates the entire sky, especially over the volcanoes. Although it's the quiet season, it still has plenty of charm and is a great time to get to experience a more authentic side of Guatemala, especially in places like Antigua and Lake Atitlán, which can get quite busy in the high season. Read on to find out more about why May is a great month to visit Guatemala.