Weather in Guatemala in February

In February, Guatemala welcomes you with pleasant dry weather, perfect for immersing yourself in vibrant cultural traditions and stunning natural scenery. Conditions remain favorable this month for exploring Guatemala's diverse landscapes and ancient traditions. The weather in Guatemala in February creates the perfect conditions to explore the country's treasures, from vibrant cities to tranquil natural corners, making each exploration more interesting.

Guatemala in February at a glance

February falls right in the middle of Guatemala’s dry season, which means you can expect clear skies and warm days across most of the country.

• Temperatures vary by region. In the highlands, it’s usually around 59 to 77°F (15 to 25°C), while the lowlands and coastal areas are warmer, sitting between 73 and 90°F (23 to 32°C).
• Crowds are manageable for most of the month, though things can get a little busier around Valentine’s Day and Carnival.
• It's a good time to be out and about, especially if you’re planning to do some hiking or want views of the volcanoes without cloud cover.

What is the weather like in Guatemala in February?

February in Guatemala has a dry and mild climate, making it one of the best times to travel. This month offers mostly sunny days with clear blue skies, ideal for outdoor adventures and exploring the country's rich cultural and natural landscapes. 

This pleasant weather in Guatemala in February allows for a wide range of activities - from hiking volcanoes to visiting ancient Mayan ruins - without the hindrance of rain. Dry conditions also mean that roads and trails are usually in good condition, making transportation and access to remote areas easier.

February falls during Guatemala's high tourist season, which runs from November through March. This is due to the attractive weather and the fact that February coincides with winter in the northern hemisphere, encouraging travelers to escape the cold climate. 

While this means that some destinations may be busier, it also means a vibrant time for the country's festivities and cultural events, which are in full swing. This is a great time to plan your Guatemala itinerary. 

Average daily temperatures in February

February in Guatemala feels warm but manageable, with conditions that shift depending on where you are. In Guatemala City, daytime highs reach around 83°F (28°C) and drop to about 58°F (14°C) at night, so it’s generally mild and pleasant without getting too hot. If you head north to the lowlands like Petén, it gets a bit warmer, usually sitting between 75 and 84°F (24 to 29°C). Along the Pacific coast, daytime temperatures can climb past 86°F (30°C), especially in the afternoons.

This time of year is one of the warmer periods, but still easier to handle than the hotter months that follow. Mornings and evenings tend to be cooler, especially in higher areas, so you’ll want a light jacket or sweater for early starts. Nights in the capital usually dip to around 56°F (13°C), which makes sleeping pretty comfortable.

Sea temperatures are warm enough for swimming, and beach days are common along the coast. You’ll get close to 12 hours of daylight, with the sun rising around 6:25 AM and setting near 6:05 PM. 

Ready to see Guatemala? Have our local Guatemala travel experts create the perfect customized itinerary.

Is February a good time to visit Guatemala?

February is truly one of the best times to visit Guatemala, thanks to the dry and mild weather throughout the country. This period falls during the dry season, offering clear, sunny days that are ideal for exploring both the vibrant cities and breathtaking natural landscapes. The lack of rain during this month greatly enhances the travel experience, providing rare interruptions to activities and transportation.

The pleasant weather in Guatemala in February allows for activities ranging from hiking in the lush highlands and exploring ancient Mayan ruins in cooler temperatures to beach vacations on the warm Pacific and Caribbean coasts. February weather also allows you to explore Guatemala's diverse ecosystems, including cloud forests, volcanic landscapes, and tropical jungles, without the interference of rain.

February is also part of the high tourist season, due to the beautiful weather conditions and the desire of many travelers to escape colder climates. Although popular attractions may be busier, the vibrant atmosphere and the opportunity to take part in cultural activities make this a favorable time to visit. For more tips, see our guide to how to plan a trip to Guatemala. 

Why February is a good time to go to Costa Rica:

• Peak dry season with clear, sunny days and minimal rain interruptions
• Ideal temperatures for exploring Mayan ruins and hiking in the highlands
• Perfect conditions for both mountain adventures and beach vacations
• Part of high tourist season, meaning busier attractions but vibrant atmosphere
• Excellent weather for exploring diverse ecosystems without rain interference

What about crowds and costs?

February is a popular time to visit Guatemala, especially in well-known places like Antigua, Lake Atitlán, and Tikal. With the dry season in full swing, more travelers are out and about, which means prices for hotels, tours, and sometimes even domestic flights can be a bit higher than other times of year.

That said, the stable weather and access to outdoor activities make it a practical time to go, even if things are a little more expensive. Roads to more remote areas are easier to manage when it’s dry, and most attractions are running at full capacity.

If you’re trying to avoid crowds or stick to a tighter budget, you could consider shoulder season months like May or October. They tend to be quieter and more affordable, but you’ll be dealing with more rain and less predictable conditions. If you're still deciding, see our guide to the best time to visit Guatemala. 

Where to go to Guatemala in February

February lines up with some of Guatemala’s most reliable weather. Here are some of the best places to visit in Guatemala. 

Antigua

Antigua is a solid base in February. The colonial buildings, cobbled streets, and surrounding volcanoes all stand out under bright blue skies, and the cooler highland air makes walking around comfortable. This is a good month to hike Pacaya volcano or visit nearby coffee farms without worrying about muddy trails. 

Lake Atitlán

The lake is at its clearest in February. Skies tend to be bright and cloud-free, which means the volcano reflections on the water are sharp and impressive. Boats run regularly between villages, and trails linking them are dry and easy to walk. This is a great time for getting out early for a kayak or paddleboard session or just catching the sunrise from a lakeside bench. The weather also makes it easier to visit different towns around the lake. If you love the water, see what made the list of the best beaches in Guatemala.

Tikal

Tikal is more manageable in February, and the more relaxed pace of 11-day Guatemala trips suits it well. The jungle heat isn’t too intense yet, and the paths through the ruins stay dry and easy to navigate. You’ll be able to climb the temple stairs without it feeling like too much, and the lower humidity helps a lot. Clear skies mean better views from the top of the pyramids, where you can look out over the forest and sometimes see other ruins in the distance. Wildlife is more visible this time of year too, since animals tend to gather around water.

What to do in Guatemala in February

February’s steady weather makes it easier to plan full days outdoors, whether you're hiking, exploring ruins, or visiting markets. Here are some of the best things to do in Guatemala. 

Climb Acatenango

If you’re up for a physical challenge, Acatenango is one of the more memorable hikes in the region. February is one of the better months to do it, since the path stays dry and the views tend to be clear. It’s an overnight trek, with most people camping just below the summit. From base camp, you’ll be able to watch the nearby Fuego volcano erupt through the night, which is wild to see. You’ll want warm layers because temperatures near the top can drop below freezing, especially before sunrise.

Chichicastenango Market

Chichicastenango is busiest on Thursdays and Sundays, when the market takes over the town. February’s dry weather makes it a lot easier to move through the stalls and take your time without dealing with puddles or heavy rain. It’s a great place to see the region’s traditional textiles and crafts up close. Many of the vendors come from surrounding villages.

Take a coffee farm tour

February lines up with the middle of coffee harvest season in Guatemala, especially in regions like Antigua and Huehuetenango. Many farms open to visitors around this time and walk you through the whole process. You’ll see how workers pick ripe cherries by hand and sort them for quality. Since it’s dry, beans are often laid out on patios to dry in the sun, and you can watch or even help with parts of the process. Tours usually end with a cupping session. For more advice, see our Guatemala travel tips. 
 

Planning your itinerary

These Guatemala itineraries are here to help you make the most of your trip without overloading your schedule. Use them as a base and shape them to fit your travel style. 

• Guatemala itinerary 5 days: With five days, it’s best to stick to one region—like Antigua and Lake Atitlán, or Tikal and the jungle north. You’ll get a feel for the country’s natural beauty and rich culture without spreading yourself too thin.
• Guatemala itinerary 7 days: A week lets you connect a few key destinations. Combine Antigua, Lake Atitlán, and the highlands, or head north to explore Tikal and nearby nature reserves. It’s enough time to see more of what makes Guatemala special, even if you’re traveling at a slower pace.