Weather in Guatemala in December

December marks the start of the dry season in Guatemala, with cooler temperatures and clear skies, ideal for exploring. This is a great time to experience the country’s vibrant culture and striking natural beauty, from colonial towns and mountain trails to jungle-covered ruins. 

The weather in Guatemala in December makes it easy to get out and explore, with comfortable days and minimal rain across most regions.

Guatemala in December at a glance

• Average temperatures range from 60-75°F (16-24°C), cooler in the highlands and warmer in lowland and coastal areas.
• Dry season begins, bringing clear skies and lower humidity, ideal for trekking, sightseeing, and festivals.
• Crowds start to build, especially around Christmas and New Year, so book ahead if you’re planning to visit popular spots.
• Great month for festivals, with traditional celebrations, fireworks, and parades happening across the country.

What is the weather like in Guatemala in December?

December marks the beginning of the dry season in Guatemala, bringing clear skies, low humidity, and warm, comfortable temperatures. In the highlands, expect cooler days around 60°F (16°C), while lower elevations and coastal areas reach up to 82°F (28°C).

It’s one of the best times to visit Guatemala, especially if you're interested in outdoor activities. The dry, sunny conditions are perfect for hiking volcanoes, exploring ancient Maya ruins, or walking the cobbled streets of colonial cities like Antigua.

Travel is generally smooth this time of year. Roads are in good shape, and transportation runs more reliably than during the rainy months. This makes it easier to reach remote areas, national parks, and off-the-grid destinations.

With festive celebrations leading up to Christmas and New Year’s, Guatemala in December feels energetic and welcoming. If you're planning a trip to Guatemala during this peak season, book ahead; accommodations and tours tend to fill up fast.

Average daily temperatures in December

The weather in Guatemala in December is warm, especially compared to cooler climates in other countries.

Northern Guatemala (Petén region)

In the northern lowlands, including Tikal and the Petén region, December is warm and mostly dry. Daytime temperatures hover between 80-86°F (27-30°C), with cooler mornings and evenings. 

It’s a great time to explore Maya ruins, as the heat is milder than in the peak of the dry season. Trails are dry, and the jungle is still lush from recent rains.

Central highlands (Antigua, Guatemala City)

The central highlands enjoy mild, spring-like weather in December. Expect daytime highs of 70-77°F (21-25°C), with cooler nights dropping to around 50-58°F (10-14°C). 

It’s ideal for wandering through Antigua’s colonial streets, visiting markets, or heading into the hills to tour coffee farms. Pack layers; the temperature can shift quickly between sun and shade.

Southern Guatemala

Along the Pacific coast, December is hot and dry. Daytime temperatures range from 86-90°F (30-32°C), with warm evenings around 70-75°F (21-24°C). The beaches around Monterrico are in full swing, perfect for surfing, swimming, and seafood by the sea. 

It’s also nesting season for sea turtles, and some conservation projects offer ethical, hands-off observation.

Is December a good time to visit Guatemala?

December is one of the best times for Guatemala trips, with dry, sunny days and cooler temperatures that make travel easier and more enjoyable. Roads are in good condition after the rainy season, opening up access to highland villages, jungle ruins, and national parks.

You can hike through the highlands, explore ancient Maya cities like Tikal, or take in the colonial charm of Antigua, all under clear skies. The lead-up to Christmas and New Year fills towns with fireworks, parades, and street food, offering a deeper look into Guatemala’s culture.

Traveling in Guatemala with kids is especially rewarding this time of year. The stable weather in Guatemala in December makes it easier to plan outdoor activities like lake tours, wildlife spotting, or short hikes, and many towns host family-friendly events during the vacation season.

Just be aware that December is high season, so reservation ahead is key to getting the best spots.

Why December is a good time to visit:

• Dry season begins: Clear skies and cooler temperatures make it ideal for hiking, sightseeing, and long travel days.
• Festive atmosphere: December is full of cultural celebrations, from Christmas parades to firework-filled New Year’s events.
• Perfect for exploring ruins: Sites like Tikal and Yaxhá are easier to reach, with dry trails and fewer insects.
• Great mix of destinations: You can combine volcano treks in the highlands with warm beach days on the Pacific coast.

What about crowds and costs?

December in Guatemala attracts a significant flow of tourists due to the good weather and festive atmosphere. This peak season effect naturally leads to higher accommodation and tour prices, reflecting the increased demand. 

Despite these factors, the month offers unique benefits, such as participating in colorful Christmas and New Year's celebrations that allow for a deep dive into Guatemala's rich cultural world. 

If you're looking for a more laid-back experience or lower prices, it may be helpful to consider the months immediately before or after December, such as November or January. These neighboring months still offer favorable weather conditions, fewer tourists, and more competitive prices, while maintaining the charm and accessibility to explore Guatemala's diverse attractions.

Where to go in Guatemala in December

December is dry season in most regions, making it one of the best times to explore the best places to visit in Guatemala. Skies are clear, roads are open, and vacation celebrations add a festive layer to already unforgettable destinations.

Antigua

Antigua is at its best in December. The mornings are crisp, the skies are blue, and the city is buzzing with energy in the lead-up to Christmas. You’ll find posadas (vacation processions), nativity displays, and street vendors selling seasonal treats like buñuelos and ponche.

The cooler weather in Guatemala in December makes it ideal for walking the cobbled streets, climbing nearby volcanoes like Pacaya, or visiting coffee farms in the surrounding hills.

Lake Atitlán

Lake Atitlán shines in December. The water is calm, the air is cool, and the views of the surrounding volcanoes are especially clear. Towns like San Juan and Santa Cruz are quieter than during peak vacation weeks, giving you a peaceful base for kayaking, hiking, or visiting local artisans. Around Christmas, you’ll see small-town celebrations that feel personal and welcoming.

Tikal and the Petén lowlands

Tikal is a December classic. It’s warm but not too humid, and the jungle trails are dry enough for easy exploring. You can climb ancient temples in the early morning mist and hear howler monkeys in the canopy above.

Nearby sites like Yaxhá are even quieter, offering a more off-the-grid ruin experience. If you’re into nature and history, this is a must-do.

What to do in Guatemala in December

With the dry season underway, things to do in Guatemala in December are all about getting outside: clear skies, cooler temperatures, and festive energy make it one of the most active times of the year.

It’s perfect for combining outdoor adventure with cultural immersion, especially as towns gear up for Christmas and New Year celebrations.

La Quema del Diablo (The Burning of the Devil)

Held every year on December 7, this fiery tradition takes place in cities and towns across Guatemala. Locals burn old trash, broken furniture, and paper devil effigies in the streets to symbolically cleanse their homes ahead of the vacations.

It’s loud, smoky, and completely unforgettable. Antigua and Guatemala City put on some of the biggest displays.

Sunrise at Tikal

Dry trails and cooler jungle mornings make December perfect for visiting Tikal. A sunrise tour gets you to the top of Temple IV as the mist clears and the jungle wakes up below.

You'll likely hear howler monkeys before you see them, and the crowds are still lighter than in late December or January.

Coffee harvest tours in the highlands

December is the peak coffee harvest in the western highlands, and many local farms around Antigua and Huehuetenango open their doors for tours.

You can pick beans, see the roasting process, and taste fresh brews while surrounded by volcano views. It’s hands-on, low-key, and a great way to support local producers.

Plan your trip with our Guatemala itineraries

Our custom travel planning service allows you to enjoy the trip of your dreams without the hassle of planning.

All our Guatemala itineraries are created by local travel experts, and can be tailored to your specific needs.

• Guatemala itinerary for 5 days: Start in Antigua to explore colonial streets, local markets, and nearby volcanoes like Pacaya. Then head to Lake Atitlán for two nights, choose a lakeside village like San Juan or Santa Cruz, and enjoy boat rides, hikes, and artisan visits. End with a stop in Guatemala City for museums and a taste of the capital’s food scene before flying out.
• A week in Guatemala itinerary: Begin in Antigua, then travel to Lake Atitlán for kayaking, market visits, and village hopping. From there, fly or take an overnight bus to Flores to explore Tikal’s jungle ruins. Spend your last day relaxing in Flores or visiting the lesser-known site of Yaxhá, which offers sunset views with far fewer crowds.