Weather in Guatemala in July

In July, Guatemala offers a lush rainy season to enjoy. Expect warm days with showers in the afternoons, perfect for exploring rainforests and ancient ruins in the cool mornings and late evenings. This month combines adventure with the unique beauty of the wet weather in Guatemala in July, perfect for exploring its vibrant culture and natural landscapes.

What is the weather like in Guatemala in July?

July in Guatemala is the rainy season, which is all about a combination of warm sunny mornings and rainy afternoons. Temperatures during this period range from 22°C (72°F) to 25°C (77°F), with cooler temperatures in the highlands. 

Despite frequent downpours, the weather doesn't interfere much with most travel plans. Mornings offer clear skies, ideal for exploring the lush landscapes, ancient ruins, and bustling markets.

Rain, usually of short duration, can cause mud on the trails and require careful planning of outdoor activities. However, it also means less crowding and potentially lower costs for lodging and excursions. The weather in Guatemala in July favors lush natural scenery, making it a fantastic time for photography and nature walks.

Tourism in July is low due to the rainy weather. Nevertheless, this period has a unique charm as there are fewer tourists at this time, allowing you to get to know the culture and beauty of Guatemala better.

All in all, July in Guatemala offers a serene, verdant getaway for you if you are willing to endure the rain. It's the right time for adventurers looking to immerse themselves in the country's natural wonders and cultural richness, with the added benefit of being relatively alone.

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

Temperatures in Guatemala in July

Guatemala is warm in July, but regional differences affect both climate and suitable activities.

Northern Guatemala

In the northern lowlands, in areas such as the Petén region, temperatures in July can be quite high, often exceeding 25°C (77°F). Temperatures can feel even hotter due to the effects of the rainy season humidity, so early morning is the best time to explore famous Mayan ruins such as Tikal to avoid the peak heat.

Central highlands

The central highlands, home to Antigua and Guatemala City, enjoy milder temperatures, typically between 22°C (72°F) and 25°C (77°F). The climate is ideal for city walks, visiting coffee plantations, and exploring local markets under pleasant conditions.

Southern Guatemala

The Pacific coast and southern Guatemala enjoy warmer weather suitable for beach vacations and exploring coastal ecosystems. As in the rest of the country, showers are expected in the afternoon, so mornings are the optimal time for outdoor activities.

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

Is July a good time to visit Guatemala?

July offers some special opportunities to visit Guatemala: it coincides with the rainy season. During this period, warm mornings and afternoon showers create a pattern that can enhance the travel experience. 

Mornings are ideal for activities such as exploring Mayan ruins or enjoying the vibrant street life. Afternoon rains, while frequent, are usually brief and accentuate the lushness of Guatemalan landscapes, offering travelers a refreshing and scenic environment.

The rainy season also means fewer tourists and potentially lower prices, providing a more authentic and less crowded vacation. However, you should be prepared that rain may affect some travel plans, especially in rural areas where roads can be challenging.

Overall, July is a good time for you if you are able to be flexible and adventurous and are willing to accept rain for the sake of benefits such as cooler days, greener scenery, and a more relaxed travel experience. With thoughtful planning, visiting Guatemala in July can be a rewarding experience that offers a unique perspective on the country's natural beauty and cultural richness.

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

Guatemala sees fewer tourists in July due to the rainy season, which also results in potentially lower accommodation and tour prices compared to the peak season. The reduced tourist traffic allows for a more relaxed and authentic experience of Guatemala's rich culture and stunning natural landscapes. 

With fewer tourists, you can likely enjoy a more personal experience of places like the ancient ruins of Tikal or the cobblestone streets of Antigua without the hustle and bustle. In addition, lower demand can lead to better prices on hotels and services, allowing you to save even more. 

Although the weather in Guatemala in July can be rainy, benefits such as few crowds and lower prices make this an attractive time for those looking for a more intimate and economical Guatemala trip.

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

Festivals and events in Guatemala in July

In July, Guatemala comes alive with colorful festivals and events showcasing the country's rich cultural tapestry.

Rabin Ajau

Taking place in July, the Rabin Ajau Festival is a prominent event in Guatemala that showcases the rich Mayan culture. Held in Cobán, this traditional beauty and cultural pageant draws participants from different Mayan communities across the country. 

More than just a beauty pageant, it is a profound celebration of Mayan heritage, showcasing elaborate traditional costumes, indigenous music and dance. Rabin Ajau is an unprecedented introduction to the living traditions of Guatemala's indigenous peoples, making it a must-see for those interested in cultural immersion.

National Folklore Festival

Also in Cobán, the National Folklore Festival takes place in July, bringing a week full of parades, music, and dance that highlight Guatemala's folklore. This festival is a vibrant display of the country's cultural diversity, showcasing traditional dances and music from different regions. 

It's an excellent opportunity to experience the breadth of Guatemala's cultural expressions in one place. The festival's popularity means it's wise to book accommodations early, ensuring you don't miss out on this captivating celebration of Guatemalan traditions.

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

Ready for your dream trip to Guatemala in July?

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.

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

Still looking for options for your summer trip? Explore our list of the best holiday destinations in July.

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.
• 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.