Climate
The climate in Guatemala varies greatly according to the altitude. In the highlands (900-2500m) the days are mild and sunny and the nights cool, with most rain falling between May and October. On the coast high temperatures, humidity and all-year round rainfall can be expected alongside a powerful sun. The lowland jungle area of the Peten has a dry season from November to May; March and April are hot and dry.
Below are two graphs showing the average 24-hour temperature and rainfall for for Guatemala City, Huehuetenango (in the highlands), Flores (near Tikal in the north) and London for comparison. No rainfall data was available to Flores.
Average 24-hour Temperature (in oC)
Average Rainfall (in mm)
Festivals and Holidays
Traditional fiestas with processions, music and dancing are very much a part of the culture in Guatemala. Most towns and villages have at least one fiesta a year, usually based around the local saint’s day. For visitors, the highlights must be Easter week (Semana Santa) in Antigua or Santiago Atitlan, the manic horse-race in Todos Santos Cuchumatan (November 1), and the pilgrimage to the black Christ of Esquipulas (January 15).
Currency
The local currency is the Quetzal. Current exchange rates are available via the OANDA currency converter. It’s not advisable to try to acquire Latin American currency before travelling, if a currency is available in high street banks or exchange outlets the exchange rate is usually very poor. You can change US dollar cash or travellers checks locally and obtain cash advances via ATMs in most towns and cities. We’d advise that you tell your bank you intend to use your card abroad before you set off.
Visas
British citizens can find up-to-date information on the Foreign & Commonwealth Office website. Citizens of other countries should consult their embassy before travel.
Vaccinations
We recommend that you always check with your own travel clinic or health professional before you travel, for advice specific to your requirements. The NHS Fit For Travel website contains for up-to-date health advice and lists the common vaccinations for travellers to Guatemala.