Weather in Guatemala in May

In May, Guatemala welcomes you with the perfect weather, combining warm days and cool nights for an unforgettable trip. The country's climate is in perfect harmony this month, making for a great time to explore lively markets and magnificent colonial architecture under mostly clear skies. Despite rain, the weather in Guatemala in May promises a comfortable holiday, perfect for exploring from morning to night.

What is the weather like in Guatemala in May?

Guatemala enters its rainy season in May, offering a combination of sunny mornings and rainy afternoons. Early in the day there are often clear skies, ideal for outdoor activities and exploration. 

However, by midday, showers are expected, which can bring a refreshing coolness after the heat of the day. Temperatures range comfortably from 20°C (68°F) to 30°C (86°F), although humidity levels increase as the rain begins to fall.

The weather in Guatemala in May can affect travel plans, especially for outdoor activities. Mornings are the best time to explore ancient ruins, hike or visit coffee plantations. Rains in the afternoon, while predictable, can affect transportation and outdoor activity plans, so it's best to schedule trips or excursions earlier in the day.

May falls during what is considered the "shoulder" season in Guatemala. The crowds of tourists in the peak season (December through April) begin to thin out. During this time, prices are slightly lower, there are fewer tourists, and the beauty of Guatemala remains unchanged, although there is a little more rain.

Ready to explore Guatemala? Embark on your dream trip hassle-free with the help of our Guatemala travel experts.

Temperatures in Guatemala in May

Guatemala is warm in May and this is when the transition from the dry season to the beginning of the rainy season occurs. This month brings warm temperatures throughout the country, varying a bit by location. Let's take a closer look at what you can expect in different regions of Guatemala during this month.

Northern Guatemala

In the northern lowlands, especially around Petén, temperatures often reach up to 32°C (90°F). The warm weather is perfect for morning explorations of the ancient Mayan ruins of Tikal, where the early hours offer cooler, more comfortable conditions for sightseeing.

Central Guatemala

The central region, home to Guatemala City and Antigua, experiences milder weather, with temperatures ranging from 18°C (64°F) to 27°C (81°F). This climate is ideal for engaging in city tours, exploring historical sites, and immersing in the local culture under pleasant conditions.

Southern Guatemala

The south coast and Pacific lowlands offer the warmest temperatures, which often rise above 30°C (86°F). Here you'll find ideal options for beach vacations, exploring the coast and enjoying the bountiful harvest of tropical fruits available during this season.

Set on taking a trip this spring? Read up on the best places to visit in May.

Is May a good time to visit Guatemala?

May is a really good time to visit Guatemala for those who enjoy warm weather and don't mind the occasional rainfall. Since this month marks the beginning of the rainy season, you can expect sunny mornings followed by short, refreshing showers in the afternoon. 

This weather allows for exploration and activities during the cooler parts of the day, while late afternoons and evenings are ideal for relaxing during the rain.

Guatemala weather in May can have a positive impact on travel, reducing the number of tourists and potentially lowering prices as it is the start of shoulder season. This means you can enjoy the beauty of Guatemalan landscapes with fewer tourists and at a slower pace. 

The rains also bring vibrant greenery to the countryside, highlighting the natural beauty of places like Lake Atitlan, the Verapaz region, and Tikal National Park.

In addition, the combination of warm days and rainy afternoons promotes a variety of travel experiences, from morning hikes and cultural excursions to afternoon trips to cafes or museums.

Start planning your trip to Guatemala by first finding out how many days are the best to spend in Guatemala and checking out our Guatemala travel tips.

What about crowds and costs

By visiting Guatemala in May, you benefit greatly from lower tourist traffic and potentially lower costs, as this time falls during the shoulder season. This period falls between the peak tourist season, which runs from December through April, and the rainy season from June through September. With fewer tourists, you'll find more tranquility in these popular destinations, allowing you to experience the wonders of Guatemala in a more intimate setting.

Prices for accommodations, tours, and possibly flights in May can be more favorable compared to the high season, allowing you to save on your budget. Also, the off-peak period allows you to enjoy the warmth and colorful scenery that the early rains bring, without the crowds of tourists in the high season. 

This makes May a great choice if you are looking for a balance between experiencing Guatemala's rich culture and natural beauty and a more relaxed and economical travel option.

Can't decide on the season to travel? Explore our Guatemala year-round weather guide.

Festivals and events in Guatemala in May

May in Guatemala, while quieter in terms of large-scale festivals compared to other months, still offers unique cultural experiences that can enrich your visit. While major festivals may not be as prevalent, there are ongoing cultural events, local celebrations, and natural phenomena that are worth experiencing.

Coffee harvest season

In some regions of Guatemala, May coincides with the end of the coffee harvest season. Coffee tours are especially interesting during this time, offering an insight into the coffee process, from picking the beans to brewing the perfect cup of coffee. 

Community fiestas

In May, different communities in Guatemala celebrate their local patron saints with small festivals. They may not be as widely known or as large as those held in other months, but they provide a real insight into the local culture, with traditional music, dancing and food. Each town's festivities are unique and reflect local traditions and community spirit.

Want to ensure a carefree vacation? Also, check out our important safety tips for Guatemala.

Ready for your dream trip to Guatemala in May?

Our tailor-made trip service allows you to enjoy the trip of your dreams without the hassle of planning. All our itineraries are created by local travel experts, and can be tailored to your specific needs.

• The Best Of Guatemala (8 days): You will visit the most popular destinations including the Western Highlands, Tikal and Antigua Guatemala. Enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, such as exploring Mayan pyramids in the middle of pristine jungle or drinking one of the best cups of coffee surrounded by unique scenery.
• Off the tourist trail and highlights of Guatemala and Belize (12 days): Meet school children in Antigua and traders in Chichicastenango, then learn ancient cooking and weaving skills and watch a Mayan ceremony. This fascinating tour visits archaeological sites such as majestic Tikal, and concludes with a stay on an idyllic private island off the Caribbean coast of Belize.
• Guatemala Family Adventure Tour (8 days): This is the perfect family vacation in Guatemala. Visit the active Pacaya Volcano on an easy hike and watch the lava; take a canopy ride in the middle of the rainforest and observe nature as birds see it, and enjoy Lake Atitlan by kayak.

Going to Guatemala? Start preparing by familiarising yourself with things to know before you go.

Find even more options for your trip in our list of the best holiday destinations in May.

Visit Guatemala in other months

To be better informed before booking your trip, find out what to expect of the weather in Guatemala around the year.

• January: cool, dry and still part of the high season, January is a great time to take to the great outdoors.
• February: expect dry, sunny days and clear blue skies, with temperatures exceeding 30°C in southern coastal areas and on the Pacific Coast.
• March: comfortably warm during the day, mild at night, cool in the highlands, with fewer crowds than the preceding few months.
• April: sitting at the end of the dry season, April invites outdoor adventures, and attracts big crowds to its Semana Santa festivities.
• June: similar to May, shoulder-season June means sunny mornings and afternoon showers, with smaller crowds.
• July: lush and green thanks to the rain, July’s low-season status means you might bag a bargain on fights and accommodation.
• August: similar to July in terms of high rainfall and low visitor numbers, come prepared to be flexible with your plans, and to soak up lush scenery.
• September: hot, humid and rainy in the afternoon, September sees Guatemala loaded with events and festivals.
• October: this shoulder-season month remains affordable, with warm days and refreshing afternoon rain inviting outdoor adventures and cultural pursuits. 
• November: marking end of the rainy season and start of cooler, drier days, November sees visitor numbers start to increase.
• December: dry, and warm, this busy  peak season month invites everything from blissing out on beaches, to hiking and uncovering ancient culture.