Weather in Guatemala in April

In April, Guatemala welcomes you with the perfect combination of sunny days and crisp evenings, setting the stage for an exciting travel experience. The country's climate is in perfect balance this month, offering warmth under the sun and a refreshing coolness once the sun goes down. At this time, lively markets buzz with activity and stunning colonial architecture shines under clear skies. The weather in Guatemala in April will ensure you have a comfortable and memorable adventure, encouraging exploration from dawn to dusk.

Guatemala in April at a glance

April is one of the best times to visit Guatemala, with sunny days, clear skies, and great conditions for hiking, lakes, and volcano views.

• The weather is dry and warm across most of the country, with low humidity and very little rain.
• Average temperatures sit around 77 to 90°F (25 to 32°C) in lower elevations, and 60 to 75°F (16 to 24°C) in the highlands like Antigua.
• April is a very good time to visit because it is ideal for outdoor activities before the rainy season begins in May.
• Crowds can be high, especially around Semana Santa and Easter, particularly in Antigua and Lake Atitlán.

What is the weather like in Guatemala in April?

April in Guatemala means the dry season is wrapping up. Most days are still sunny and warm, but by the second half of the month you’ll start to feel the shift. Afternoon thunderstorms can roll in, especially in the highlands, but they’re usually short-lived and easy to plan around. It’s still a good time for volcano hikes, market visits, and exploring the ruins at Tikal, with trails dry enough and crowds starting to thin. In the lowlands, it can get pretty hot, so early starts are your best friend. 

April is also when Semana Santa (Holy Week) hits, and cities like Antigua come alive with processions, flowers, and festival energy. It’s one of the biggest events of the year, so book ahead if you're visiting during that week. Outside of that, it’s a great balance: manageable weather, fewer tourists, and landscapes just beginning to turn lush again. This can be a great time to plan your Guatemala itinerary.

Average daily temperatures in April

April brings warm temperatures to Guatemala, offering a delightful range of climates across its diverse regions. This time of the year marks the tail end of the dry season, making it ideal for travel and exploration throughout the country. Whether you're seeking adventure or simply eager to discover new places, the weather in Guatemala in April promises perfect conditions for your journey.

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Northern Guatemala

In the north, especially in the Petén region, home to the famous Tikal National Park, temperatures are notably warmer, often reaching up to 95°F (35°C) during the day. 

The nighttime temperatures might slightly drop, making early morning or late afternoon visits to the ruins more comfortable. Additionally, this warmth enhances wildlife spotting opportunities in the jungles.

Central Guatemala

In the central mountainous areas of the country, including cities such as Antigua and Guatemala City, temperatures in April are more moderate, ranging from 68°F (20°C) to 77°F (25°C). Thanks to the altitude, the climate remains pleasant and cooler evenings may call for light outerwear.

Southern Guatemala

The Pacific Coast and southern lowlands have the highest temperatures and humidity in April compared to the rest of the country. Daytime temperatures here often rise above 86°F (30°C) and can sometimes reach as high as 100°F (38°C). Nights are also warm and balmy evenings are ideal for indulging in the coastal atmosphere.

Is April a good time to visit Guatemala?

Without a doubt, April is a great time to visit Guatemala. This month falls during the dry season, offering sunny days and clear skies that are perfect for exploring the country's stunning scenery and rich cultural heritage without the rain.

The weather in Guatemala in April is beneficial for a wide range of activities, from hiking in the lush highlands and exploring ancient Mayan ruins under the warm sun to enjoying vibrant street life and colorful festivals such as Antigua's famous Semana Santa celebration.

April's climatic conditions also make it easy to get around the country, with well-maintained roads free from the problems associated with downpours during the rainy season. Whether you want to climb active volcanoes, wander through colonial towns, or relax on the Pacific coast, April's weather conditions provide the perfect backdrop.

In addition, warm temperatures in different regions—from the cool and pleasant highlands to the warmer lowlands—ensure that every traveler will find something to suit them. For more tips, see our guide to how to plan a trip to Guatemala. 

• Dry season with sunny days and clear skies
• Perfect for hiking highlands and exploring Mayan ruins
• Antigua's famous Semana Santa celebration
• Well-maintained roads make travel easy
• Ideal for volcano climbing and coastal relaxation

What about crowds and costs

April's inviting weather and cultural festivals are attracting more people to Guatemala, especially during Semana Santa. This surge in tourism can lead to an increase in accommodation and tour prices as demand is high. 

Despite this, the unique opportunity to experience Guatemala's colorful traditions and the benefits of the dry season may justify the extra expense. If you want to avoid peak tourist traffic and find the best deals, consider traveling in March or May. These months still have a pleasant dry season climate, but fewer tourists and often better prices. 

The compromise of going in April - the festive atmosphere and enjoying the country's natural beauty with ideal weather conditions - can make the crowds and higher prices well worth it for many travelers.  If you're still deciding, see our guide to the best time to visit Guatemala. 

Where to go in Guatemala in April

April is dry season’s final stretch, with long sunny days, full Semana Santa celebrations, and rising temperatures.

Antigua

In April, Antigua becomes the most important place in the country. Holy Week (Semana Santa) is a huge event here, with processions, music, and elaborate alfombras — colorful sawdust carpets created by hand in the streets. Even outside the celebrations, the city buzzes with activity. Volcano views are sharp in the dry air, and day trips to nearby coffee farms or trailheads are easy to plan. Stay somewhere central so you can duck into a cool courtyard when the sun peaks.

Lake Atitlán

April’s dry skies make this one of the best months for exploring Lake Atitlán. Each lakeside town has its own character — from relaxed San Marcos to artistic San Juan or busier Panajachel — and April gives you time to visit a few. Mornings are perfect for kayaking or catching boat rides between villages before the wind picks up in the afternoon. On foot, you’ll see blooming jacaranda trees, hillside cornfields, and sweeping views from the Indian Nose trail.

Western Highlands

The western highlands are cooler than the lowlands, and April is the perfect time to visit before rains begin. Markets are in full swing, especially in Chichicastenango and Quetzaltenango, and the roads are mostly dry and easy to navigate. You’ll pass through pine forests, terraced fields, and towns where traditional dress is still part of everyday life. This region gets fewer tourists than Antigua or the lake, so you’ll have more time and space to connect with local rhythms.

What to do in Guatemala in April

April is a great time to experience Guatemala’s cultural life, spring blooms, and highland hikes before the wet season kicks in.

Experience Semana Santa

Holy Week in Antigua is unlike anywhere else. Families and communities spend hours creating intricate street carpets made of dyed sawdust, flowers, and pine needles, only to have them walked over by somber religious processions. Brass bands play mournful music and incense fills the streets. It’s moving, crowded, and unforgettable. Other towns also observe the vacation, but Antigua’s scale is unmatched. Book accommodations early and expect traffic delays—this is the biggest national vacation.

Hike in the highlands

Before the rains return, April is a good window for hiking. Trails near Lake Atitlán or around Quetzaltenango offer views of volcanoes, villages, and cloud forest. Indian Nose is a popular sunrise hike near San Juan, while longer treks like the route from Nebaj to Todos Santos lead you deep into Ixil Maya territory. You’ll want sturdy shoes and a local guide, as trails aren’t always marked. Pack light layers — mornings can be cool even in the dry season.

Visit a coffee farm

Coffee harvest season wraps up around April in most regions, so it’s a good time to tour a working finca. Many farms near Antigua or Atitlán offer hands-on experiences where you can pick beans, see the processing stages, and taste a cup roasted on site. It’s not just about the drink — it’s a window into rural life and the economics of one of Guatemala’s biggest exports. Some farms