Central America & Caribbean
Guatemala in November
All Saints' Day giant kites open the month, the rains end, and the landscape is still green. A superb month.
The straight answer
November is one of the best months of the year to visit Guatemala. All Saints' Day giant kites open the month, the rains end, and the landscape is still green. A superb month.
- Weather
- Dry season returns, highs near 73F (23C), clear skies
- Crowds
- 3 of 5
- Prices
- 3 of 5
What November is like in Guatemala
November is superb. The dry season returns, highs are near 73F (23C), and skies are clear. The All Saints' Day giant kites open the month, and the landscape is still green from the rains.
This month suits nearly everyone. It is one of the best months to visit. The rains have ended, the hills are still green, and trails are dry, which makes it great for Acatenango, Tikal, and Semuc Champey. Nights are cold in the highlands, so pack a warm layer. Families will love the kite festival, and prices are fair until the holidays.
Make the most of November
What is especially good about Guatemala this month.
Giant Kite Festival
On November 1, enormous handmade kites fly over the cemeteries of Sumpango and Santiago Sacatepequez.
Clear volcano views
Acatenango and the lake are at their best.
Green and dry
Green hills with dry trails.
What to pack for November
- A warm jacket for cold nights
- Hiking boots
- Sunscreen
- Layers
Our timing tip
Go to Sumpango early on November 1 to see the kites before the crowds build.
Book Guatemala for November.
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- Hotels for November
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in GuatemalaOpens a hotel search for Guatemala in November, dates filled in. Book early for the best months: the good rooms go first.
- Rentals on Vrbo
Vacation rentals. Vrbo
Vacation rentals in GuatemalaWhole homes, condos and villas. Usually the better deal for families and groups, with a kitchen and room to spread out.
- Tours and tickets
Tours and tickets. Expedia
Tours and tickets in GuatemalaTimed-entry tickets, day trips and guided tours in Guatemala for November. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
What's on in November
Giant Kite Festival (Barriletes Gigantes)
November 1 every year
Enormous handmade kites fly over the cemeteries of Sumpango and Santiago Sacatepequez for All Saints' Day.
Things to do in Guatemala
Antigua Guatemala
Walk the ruins of La Merced, San Francisco, and the cathedral, then climb Cerro de la Cruz for the classic view of Volcan de Agua.
Lake Atitlan
Hop between lake villages by public boat in the morning, when the water is calm; the afternoon wind, called the Xocomil, makes crossings rough.
Tikal National Park
Stay overnight nearby to enter early for sunrise and the cooler hours. Temple IV's top gives the famous view over the canopy.
Acatenango volcano overnight
A tough hike to a camp facing Fuego. Dry season from November through April gives the best odds of clear views.
Chichicastenango market
Held on Thursdays and Sundays, with textiles, masks, and a Maya-Catholic church on the steps of Santo Tomas. Go early.
Semuc Champey
Turquoise limestone pools in the Alta Verapaz jungle. The road is long and rough, and the pools can turn murky after heavy rain.
Beat the crowds
- Visit Antigua during a Lenten weekend in February or early March instead of Semana Santa itself: you see real processions with far fewer people.
- At Tikal, stay at a lodge inside or near the park so you can enter at opening and leave before the midday tour buses from Flores.
- Cross Lake Atitlan and hike in the mornings; the afternoon wind and clouds reduce visibility and comfort.
- November and early December are the best combination of dry weather, green landscapes, and moderate crowds.
Know before you go
- During Semana Santa, many businesses close for Thursday and Friday, and road closures in Antigua make getting around slow.
- Rainy season landslides, especially in September and October, can close mountain roads to Semuc Champey and the western highlands.
- Acatenango and Fuego volcano hikes can be suspended during periods of high volcanic activity; check with licensed guides.
- Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day close many shops and restaurants, while the preceding weeks are festive and busy.
Guatemala in November, quick answers
Is November a good time to visit Guatemala?
November is one of the best months of the year to visit Guatemala. All Saints' Day giant kites open the month, the rains end, and the landscape is still green. A superb month.
What is the weather like in Guatemala in November?
Dry season returns, highs near 73F (23C), clear skies.
Is Guatemala crowded in November?
Crowds in Guatemala are moderate in November; timed bookings still help at the biggest sights.
What is happening in Guatemala in November?
Giant Kite Festival (Barriletes Gigantes) (november 1 every year).
Keep planning Guatemala.
The months either side, and the best one if this is not it.
Also at their best in November
Before you book.
Sort these two things first.
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