Weather in Guatemala in October

Guatemala experiences dynamic weather in October - as this month falls within the rainy season. It offers an atmosphere of adventure, encouraging you to explore Guatemala's deep cultural heritage and spectacular natural landscapes. The weather in Guatemala in October sets the stage for unique travel experiences, inviting you to immerse yourself in its diverse landscapes and traditions.

What is the weather like in Guatemala in October?

October in Guatemala is characterized by a late rainy season, with a combination of warm mornings and frequent rain in the afternoons. This weather is crucial for planning your itinerary.

Mornings tend to be sunny and warm, perfect for outdoor adventures such as hiking in the cloud forests, visiting coffee plantations, or exploring ancient Mayan ruins.

However, it often rains in the afternoon, so indoor activities such as visiting museums or enjoying local cuisine in cozy restaurants may be more appropriate later in the day.

Rain can affect transportation, which can cause travel delays, especially in rural or mountainous areas. Despite this, the country's beauty is on full display, with rainforests thriving and lush landscapes offering vibrant scenery.

October is considered part of the shoulder season in Guatemala. The peak tourist season is usually during the dry season from November through April, so October has fewer crowds and often lower prices. This period is perfect for you if you are looking for a more authentic experience, a chance to enjoy Guatemala's natural beauty and cultural richness without the hustle and bustle of peak season.

The weather in Guatemala in October, with its combination of sunshine and showers, provides a unique backdrop for exploration. It's a time that rewards adventurers with its quieter, but no less captivating charm.

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

Temperatures in Guatemala in October

Guatemala continues to have a warm climate in October despite the rainy season. There are regional variations in temperature in the country, influenced by altitude and geographical location.

Northern Guatemala

Temperatures are generally higher in the northern lowlands, including Petén, averaging 25-30°C (77-86°F). This warmth, combined with lush landscapes, makes visiting ancient Mayan ruins such as Tikal an exciting experience amid misty mornings and lush greenery.

Central highlands

In the central mountainous regions, where you'll find tourist hotspots like Guatemala City and the stunning colonial gem Antigua, temperatures are a touch cooler, usually between 16 and 26°C (60 to 78°F). 

This pleasant weather is perfect for sightseeing around the cities, checking out coffee farms, and browsing through bustling local markets, all without feeling overwhelmed by scorching temperatures.

Southern Guatemala

The southern coastal regions and the Pacific Coast bask in warmer weather, often hitting highs of around 31°C (88°F). This sunny climate makes these areas ideal for beach outings and immersing yourself in the lively local scene, though you might encounter some afternoon showers.

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

Is October a good time to visit Guatemala?

October can be an attractive time to visit Guatemala if you are looking for fewer people and a more authentic experience. The weather in Guatemala in October, characterized by warm days and afternoon rains, brings a unique dynamic to travel.

Mornings are usually clear and sunny, creating favorable conditions for outdoor activities such as exploring ancient Mayan ruins, hiking through lush landscapes, or visiting coffee plantations.

Rains in the afternoon are beneficial for exploring indoor cultural attractions such as museums, and art galleries. This weather also means that the natural scenery is particularly vibrant, with lush vegetation and full-flowing rivers.

Traveling in October falls during the shoulder season, resulting in fewer tourists and potentially lower prices for accommodations and excursions. This allows for a more leisurely exploration of Guatemala's beauty without the crowds of tourists during peak season.

However, you should also be prepared for the fact that rain can affect transportation and outing plans. By bringing waterproof gear and thinking about a flexible itinerary you can mitigate these problems.

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?

Visiting Guatemala in October has distinct advantages in terms of crowds and cost. Since this month falls during shoulder season, you'll encounter fewer tourists. 

This reduced number of visitors not only makes for a more relaxed trip, allowing you to leisurely explore such popular destinations, but it often results in lower prices for accommodations and tours. 

The contrast is noticeable when compared to the dry season, especially December through April, when both crowds and prices peak due to optimal weather conditions. 

October's unique position is ideal for seasoned travelers looking to capitalize on Guatemala's wealth of culture and nature with the added benefit of more affordable travel and lodging options, without the hustle and bustle of the high season.

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

Festivals and events in Guatemala in October

October in Guatemala is not only a month marked by distinctive weather conditions but also by vibrant festivals and events that offer travelers a deep dive into the country's rich cultural tapestry.

Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos)

Although the holiday technically falls in November, preparations and celebrations begin in late October throughout the country. This period is marked by colorful kite festivals in cities such as Santiago Sacatepéquez and Sumpango, where locals create and fly giant kites in cemeteries to contact the spirits of the deceased. 

These events are a visual spectacle, displaying intricate patterns and bright colors, accompanied by traditional food and music. This is a unique opportunity for you to see the blending of Mayan and Christian traditions. 

It is recommended to book accommodation in advance near the towns where the celebrations take place, as they attract visitors from all over Guatemala and the world.

Jornadas de Octubre

Taking place in Guatemala City, the capital, this month-long cultural festival is a vibrant mix of art exhibitions, concerts, dance shows, and literary happenings. It's a lively celebration of Guatemalan art and culture, giving you a glimpse into both the modern and traditional artistic expressions of the country.

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

Ready for your dream trip to Guatemala in October?

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.

• 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.
• 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.
• A true Mayan expedition (11 days): This journey will take you all over Guatemala, from Antigua through Chichicastenango to Lake Atitlan. Take a day trip across the border with Honduras to visit the Mayan ruins at Copan before continuing on to Guatemala's Caribbean coast: The Rio Dulce awaits you before heading to the ruins of Tikal.

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

Looking for more options for an autumn holiday? Check out our list of the best destinations for an unforgettable holiday in October.

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.
• May: start of the rainy season, enjoy outdoor activities in the sunny mornings, and cultural trips in the rain-prone afternoons.
• 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.
• 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.