Central America & Caribbean
Guatemala in September
The rainiest month and the peak landslide risk on mountain roads. Volcano views are rare, and Acatenango is often clouded in.
The straight answer
September is a month to think twice about visiting Guatemala. The rainiest month and the peak landslide risk on mountain roads. Volcano views are rare, and Acatenango is often clouded in.
- Weather
- Wettest month, highs near 74F (23C), heavy storms
- Crowds
- 1 of 5
- Prices
- 1 of 5
What September is like in Guatemala
September is the wettest month, with highs near 74F (23C) and heavy storms. Landslide risk is at its peak on mountain roads. Volcano views are rare, and Acatenango is often clouded in. Independence Day on September 15 brings torch relays and parades.
We suggest avoiding September. For good weather, come in November. If you must travel now, stay in Antigua, where the ruins, museums, and cafes work well in the rain. Skip Semuc Champey and long mountain drives, since landslides can close roads. The Independence Day torch relays on the night of September 14 are a lively local sight.
Make the most of September
What is especially good about Guatemala this month.
Independence Day
Torch relays run the night before September 15, followed by parades and school marching bands.
Lowest prices
Hotels offer deep discounts.
Quiet towns
Few other travelers.
What to pack for September
- A good rain jacket
- Waterproof shoes
- Warm layers
- A dry bag
Our timing tip
Skip long drives to Semuc Champey and the western highlands, since landslides can close roads.
Book Guatemala for September.
Sponsored links to Expedia and Vrbo. We may earn a commission; it never changes a verdict.
- Hotels for September
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in GuatemalaOpens a hotel search for Guatemala in September, 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 September. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
What's on in September
Independence Day
September 15 every year
Torch relays run through the country the night before, followed by parades and school marching bands.
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 September, quick answers
Is September a good time to visit Guatemala?
September is a month to think twice about visiting Guatemala. The rainiest month and the peak landslide risk on mountain roads. Volcano views are rare, and Acatenango is often clouded in.
What is the weather like in Guatemala in September?
Wettest month, highs near 74F (23C), heavy storms.
Is Guatemala crowded in September?
September is one of the quieter months in Guatemala; most sights can be done without long waits.
What is happening in Guatemala in September?
Independence Day (september 15 every year).
Keep planning Guatemala.
The months either side, and the best one if this is not it.
Also at their best in September
Before you book.
Sort these two things first.
Sponsored links. We may earn a commission; it never changes a verdict.
- Visit Faye
Travel insurance.
FayeA missed connection, a bag that never turns up, a hospital abroad: far cheaper to cover before departure than to argue about after.
- Visit Saily
eSIM data.
SailySet up an eSIM before you fly so your phone has data the moment you land, without roaming charges.
Our top-rated travel gear
Whatever you decide, this is the gear we actually travel with: verified, priced, and ranked. Live price check on each.
As an Amazon Associate we may earn from qualifying purchases, at no cost to you.