Guatemala City in August

August weather, activities, events & insider tips

August Weather in Guatemala City

25°C (77°F) High Temp

16°C (61°F) Low Temp

0.0 mm (0.0 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is August Right for You?

Advantages

Perfect dry season weather with minimal rainfall - only 10 light drizzle days all month, making it ideal for exploring the city's outdoor markets and colonial architecture
Comfortable temperatures ranging 16-25°C (61-77°F) - warm enough for sightseeing during the day, cool enough for pleasant evening walks through Zona Viva
Peak cultural season with locals celebrating August festivals and school holidays bringing busy street life to neighborhoods like Zona 1 and 4
Clear mountain views of surrounding volcanoes on most days due to reduced cloud cover, perfect for photography from Torre Del Reformador and Cerro del Carmen

Considerations

High UV index of 8 requires constant sun protection - the 1,500m (4,921 ft) altitude intensifies sun exposure even on cloudy days
Occasional afternoon dust storms from dry conditions can reduce air quality and visibility, particularly affecting those with respiratory sensitivities
Popular tourist season means higher accommodation prices and crowded attractions during weekends - book lodging 3-4 weeks ahead

Best Activities in August

Colonial Architecture Walking Tours in Historic Center

August's dry weather makes it perfect for exploring Zona 1's UNESCO-listed colonial buildings. The comfortable morning temperatures of 18-22°C (64-72°F) are ideal for walking the cobblestone streets, while afternoon temperatures stay pleasant for visiting Palacio Nacional and Cathedral Metropolitana. Clear skies provide excellent lighting for photography of baroque facades.

Booking Tip: Join morning guided walks starting at 9am to avoid midday heat. Tours typically cost Q150-250 ($19-32) and last 3-4 hours. Book through certified guides at tourist information centers or see current options in booking section below.

Volcano Viewpoint Day Trips

August offers the clearest volcano views of the year from popular viewpoints like Cerro de la Cruz and Hobbitenango. The dry season ensures unobstructed panoramas of Volcán de Agua, Fuego, and Acatenango. Cool morning temperatures make the 1-2 hour hikes comfortable, while afternoon visibility extends up to 50km (31 miles).

Booking Tip: Half-day trips typically cost Q200-350 ($26-45) including transportation. Depart by 7am for best visibility and cooler temperatures. Book with operators offering 4WD vehicles for mountain access - see current tour options in booking section below.

Local Market Food Tours

August brings seasonal fruits like rambutans and dragon fruit to markets like Maputo and Terminal. The dry weather makes indoor market exploration more comfortable, while vendors are more active during school holiday season. Cool morning temperatures of 16-18°C (61-64°F) make early market visits pleasant before crowds arrive.

Booking Tip: Food tours run Q180-300 ($23-38) for 3-4 hours including tastings. Book morning tours starting 8-9am when produce is freshest and temperatures coolest. Look for guides fluent in your language - see current food tour options in booking section below.

Jade and Textile Museum Visits

August's variable weather makes indoor cultural activities perfect for afternoon schedules. The Museo Ixchel and Museo del Jade offer air-conditioned comfort during warmer midday hours 25°C (77°F), while showcasing Guatemala's rich Maya heritage. School holiday season brings special family exhibitions.

Booking Tip: Museum entry costs Q35-65 ($4.50-8.50) per venue. Purchase combined tickets for savings. Plan indoor activities for 12pm-4pm when outdoor temperatures peak. Private museum tours available through cultural guide associations - see booking options below.

Zona Viva Evening Entertainment

August evenings with temperatures dropping to comfortable 18-20°C (64-68°F) are perfect for exploring Guatemala City's modern entertainment district. The dry season means reliable outdoor terrace dining and rooftop bar experiences. Local university students and professionals create busy nightlife during August social season.

Booking Tip: No advance booking needed for most venues, but upscale restaurants recommend reservations. Budget Q300-500 ($38-64) for dinner and drinks. Evening activities start after 7pm when temperatures become most comfortable - see current nightlife options in booking section below.

Coffee Plantation Day Tours

August falls during coffee cherry harvesting season in nearby Antigua and San Marcos regions. The dry weather provides perfect conditions for plantation visits and processing demonstrations. Clear mountain air and comfortable temperatures 20-24°C (68-75°F) make farm walks enjoyable throughout the day.

Booking Tip: Full-day coffee tours cost Q400-600 ($51-77) including transportation, tastings, and lunch. Book tours that include multiple farms for variety. Depart early (6:30-7am) to maximize farm experience time - see current coffee tour options in booking section below.

August Events & Festivals

Mid August

Festival de Agosto

Guatemala City's annual August festival featuring street food vendors, live marimba music, and traditional dance performances in Parque Central. Local families celebrate with evening concerts and artisan markets selling jade jewelry and textiles.

Late August

Feria de Jocotenango

Traditional fair in nearby Jocotenango (30 minutes from city center) celebrating patron saint with food stalls, carnival rides, and regional music performances. Excellent opportunity to experience authentic Guatemalan culture away from tourist areas.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight long-sleeve shirts for 70% humidity - cotton or linen breathe better than synthetic fabrics in Guatemala City's variable temperatures

SPF 50+ broad-spectrum sunscreen - UV index of 8 intensified by 1,500m (4,921 ft) altitude requires reapplication every 2 hours

Light rain jacket or poncho - those 10 rainy days bring sudden 20-30 minute downpours, usually in late afternoon

Comfortable walking shoes with good grip - colonial cobblestones in Zona 1 can be slippery when wet from brief showers

Layers for temperature swings - mornings start at 16°C (61°F) then climb to 25°C (77°F) by afternoon

Dust mask or bandana - occasional afternoon dust storms during dry season can irritate sensitive airways

Small daypack with water bottle - dehydration happens quickly at altitude even in comfortable temperatures

Dressy casual outfit for Zona Viva evenings - restaurants and bars expect neat appearance, avoid shorts and sandals

Cash in small denominations - many markets and local vendors don't accept cards, budget Q20-50 bills work best

Portable phone charger - August's clear weather perfect for photography drains batteries faster than expected

Insider Knowledge

Local buses (chicken buses) run most frequently during August school holidays - catch colorful rides to Antigua for Q8 ($1) instead of tourist shuttles costing Q80 ($10)

August mornings 7-9am offer the clearest volcano views before afternoon haze - locals know Cerro del Carmen provides better perspectives than crowded Torre Del Reformador

Many restaurants offer 'menu del día' lunch specials Q25-45 ($3-6) during August to attract local workers on vacation - ask servers about daily specials not printed on tourist menus

Guatemalan families traditionally visit Guatemala City's museums during August school holidays - arrive right at opening (9am) or after 4pm to avoid local family crowds

Avoid These Mistakes

Underestimating altitude effects - visitors often skip water breaks and get dehydrated quickly at 1,500m (4,921 ft) elevation even in comfortable August weather

Assuming August means hot weather everywhere - mornings can feel cool at 16°C (61°F), so many tourists pack only summer clothes then feel cold

Planning only outdoor activities - those 10 rainy days can disrupt sightseeing, so book indoor alternatives like museums and markets for flexibility