Guatemala City in November
November weather, activities, events & insider tips
November Weather in Guatemala City
Is November Right for You?
Advantages
- Peak dry season with virtually zero rainfall - perfect for exploring outdoor markets and ruins without weather interruptions
- Cool morning temperatures of 14°C (58°F) make early walking tours of historic zones comfortable before afternoon heat builds
- Clear mountain views of surrounding volcanos - Volcán de Agua and Volcán de Fuego are visible most days in November
- November marks the end of rainy season so vegetation is still lush green while roads and trails are dry and accessible
Considerations
- Daily temperature swings of 10°C (18°F) between morning and afternoon require layered clothing and planning
- High UV index of 8 at 1,500m (4,921 ft) elevation means sunburn risk is severe - locals stay indoors 11am-3pm
- Air pollution peaks in November due to lack of rain to clear smog - respiratory issues common for sensitive travelers
Best Activities in November
Volcán de Pacaya Hiking Tours
November offers perfect conditions for volcano hiking with clear skies and dry trails. Morning departures at 6am avoid afternoon heat and provide best visibility. The dry season ensures safe access to active lava flows and minimal weather delays.
Antigua Day Trip Archaeological Tours
The 45-minute drive to Antigua is most comfortable in November's dry weather. Cool mornings are ideal for walking cobblestone streets, and clear skies provide perfect volcano backdrops for photography. No rain means outdoor markets and street vendors operate full schedules.
Lake Atitlán Highland Tours
November's clear weather provides unobstructed views of Lake Atitlán's three volcanoes. Cool morning temperatures make the 3-hour drive comfortable, and dry roads ensure reliable access to indigenous villages around the lake that are inaccessible during rainy months.
Historic Zone Walking Food Tours
November's dry weather allows extended outdoor exploration of Zona 1's markets and street food without rain interruptions. Lower humidity makes walking comfortable, and clear skies mean outdoor seating at local comedores (family restaurants) is pleasant throughout the day.
Tikal National Park Extended Tours
November marks peak season for Guatemala visits due to dry weather and excellent wildlife visibility. Cool mornings are perfect for climbing Temple IV at sunrise, and clear skies provide optimal conditions for spotting howler monkeys and tropical birds in the jungle canopy.
Highland Coffee Farm Tours
November is optimal for visiting coffee farms during harvest season (October-February). Cool morning temperatures at elevations of 1,200-1,800m (3,937-5,906 ft) are comfortable for walking plantation trails, and dry weather ensures access to processing facilities for fresh roasting demonstrations.
November Events & Festivals
Día de los Santos (All Saints Day)
November 1st celebration involves families visiting cemeteries with elaborate flower arrangements and traditional foods. In Guatemala City, La Verbena Cemetery becomes a colorful cultural experience with marimba music and traditional dress. Markets sell special foods like fiambre (traditional salad with 50+ ingredients).
Festival de Barriletes Gigantes
Giant kite festival in nearby Sumpango (45 minutes from Guatemala City) where communities build massive colorful kites up to 20m (65 ft) in diameter. The dry November winds provide perfect flying conditions, and clear skies offer optimal viewing and photography opportunities.