Guatemala is known as the land of eternal spring. The year is divided into two seasons:

The dry season, from November to April:

This is when most travelers choose to visit Guatemala, particularly hikers who want to maximize their chances of clear views from the volcanic peaks.

Temperatures vary by region.

• The Highlands; Escuintla (Antigua), Sololá (Atitlán), Quetzaltenango, Huehuetenango:

Little to no rain during the dry season. Average daytime temperatures hover around 25°C (77°F). At night, temperature swings become more pronounced with altitude. At 1,500m, in Antigua it reaches around 25°C during the day and 15°C at night. At 2,330m, Quetzaltenango averages 22°C during the day and 5°C at night. The coolest nights are in January-February. April is the warmest month.

• The Lowlands: Petén (Tikal), Verapaces (Semuc Champey), Caribbean (Rio Dulce), Pacific (Monterrico):

These regions are tropical, and occasional rainfall during the dry season is not uncommon. Temperature variations are less extreme, and it's warmer than the highlands: approximately 30°C during the day and 25°C at night.

The rainy season, from May to November:

Few travelers choose this period to visit the country. However, traveling during the rainy season has certain advantages: fewer tourists at popular sites and favorable hotel rates.

That said, this season is not recommended if your goal is hiking and volcanic climbing, as your chances of clear views are significantly reduced.

• The Highlands; Escuintla (Antigua), Sololá (Atitlán), Quetzaltenango, Huehuetenango:

Rain typically falls in the morning and late afternoon. Temperatures are quite pleasant once the sun breaks through the clouds (20-23°C). Temperature fluctuations are less pronounced than in the dry season (no more than 10°C difference).

• The Lowlands: Petén (Tikal), Verapaces (Semuc Champey), Caribbean (Rio Dulce), Pacific (Monterrico):

Precipitation is frequent, almost daily, though it doesn't rain continuously. It's entirely possible to visit during this period. Temperatures are slightly higher than in the dry season, around 35°C during the day.