Central America & Caribbean
Guatemala in October
Still rainy for most of the month, easing toward the end. Late October is when the giant kites are built for November 1.
The straight answer
October is a month of real tradeoffs in Guatemala. Still rainy for most of the month, easing toward the end. Late October is when the giant kites are built for November 1.
- Weather
- Wet early, drying late, highs near 74F (23C)
- Crowds
- 2 of 5
- Prices
- 2 of 5
What October is like in Guatemala
October is still rainy for most of the month, easing toward the end. Highs are near 74F (23C). Late October is when giant kites are built for November 1. Prices are low.
This month suits flexible travelers who come late in the month. For better weather, choose November. The last week of the month is the sweet spot, when rain eases and you can stay on for the kites on November 1. Mountain roads can still see landslides, so keep long drives flexible. Antigua and the lake are quiet and cheap, and the hills are deep green.
Make the most of October
What is especially good about Guatemala this month.
Kite building
Late October is when the giant kites are built for All Saints' Day.
Green landscapes
The country is at its greenest.
Low prices
Good deals on hotels.
What to pack for October
- A rain jacket
- Waterproof shoes
- Layers
- An umbrella
Our timing tip
Plan your trip for late October so you can stay for the kite festival on November 1.
Book Guatemala for October.
Sponsored links to Expedia and Vrbo. We may earn a commission; it never changes a verdict.
- Hotels for October
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in GuatemalaOpens a hotel search for Guatemala in October, 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 October. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
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 October, quick answers
Is October a good time to visit Guatemala?
October is a month of real tradeoffs in Guatemala. Still rainy for most of the month, easing toward the end. Late October is when the giant kites are built for November 1.
What is the weather like in Guatemala in October?
Wet early, drying late, highs near 74F (23C).
Is Guatemala crowded in October?
October is one of the quieter months in Guatemala; most sights can be done without long waits.
Keep planning Guatemala.
The months either side, and the best one if this is not it.
Also at their best in October
Before you book.
Sort these two things first.
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Travel insurance.
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