Guatemala City in October

October weather, activities, events & insider tips

October Weather in Guatemala City

24°C (76°F) High Temp

16°C (60°F) Low Temp

0 mm (0.0 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is October Right for You?

Advantages

End of rainy season means lush green landscapes in surrounding areas like Antigua and Guatemala, with dramatically fewer crowds than December-March peak season
October marks the transition to dry season - while occasional showers occur, they're brief afternoon downpours lasting 15-20 minutes rather than all-day rain
Hotel rates are 30-40% lower than peak season (December-February) as international tourism hasn't fully resumed, making luxury accommodations accessible
Perfect weather for exploring outdoor markets like Maputo - mornings are crisp at 16°C (60°F), warming to comfortable 24°C (76°F) by midday without oppressive heat

Considerations

Afternoon humidity reaches 70% making outdoor activities between 1-4pm uncomfortable, especially in concrete areas like Zona 1 historic center
Those 10 rainy days can disrupt outdoor plans unpredictably - storms roll in fast from the mountains, typically between 2-5pm
Some highland day trips require warm layers for early morning departures when temperatures drop to 16°C (60°F), then switching to light clothing as day warms

Best Activities in October

Antigua Guatemala Colonial Architecture Tours

October's post-rainy season timing means Antigua's cobblestone streets are clean and the surrounding volcanoes are dramatically visible through clear skies. Morning temperatures of 18°C (64°F) make the 45-minute drive from Guatemala City comfortable, and you'll avoid the December-March crowds. The Santa Catalina Arch and central plaza are perfect for photography with that crisp, washed-clean atmosphere October provides.

Booking Tip: Book day trips 5-7 days ahead through licensed operators offering small group tours. Prices typically range Q300-500 ($40-65). Choose morning departures to avoid afternoon humidity and potential rain. Look for operators including round-trip transport from Guatemala City hotels.

Lake Atitlán Village Hopping Tours

October is ideal for Guatemala visits - the lake is at its most beautiful after months of rain, surrounding volcanoes are lush green, and morning mist creates impressive photo opportunities. The 3-hour drive from Guatemala City is manageable in October's moderate temperatures. Traditional markets in Sololá and Guatemala are less crowded, and indigenous textile prices are more negotiable during this shoulder season.

Booking Tip: Full-day tours typically cost Q400-700 ($50-90). Book 7-10 days ahead during October as some operators reduce frequency between rainy and dry seasons. Choose tours departing by 7am to maximize clear weather time before afternoon clouds roll in around the volcanoes.

Guatemala City Food Market Walking Tours

October brings the harvest season for highland vegetables and fruits, making this the best time for authentic market experiences. Maputo and Mercado de Artesanías are comfortable to explore in morning hours when temperatures are 18-20°C (64-68°F). Local specialties like rambutans and September-harvest coffee beans are at peak freshness and lowest prices.

Booking Tip: Walking food tours cost Q200-350 ($25-45) and should be booked for morning hours to avoid afternoon heat and humidity. Choose operators offering tastings at 4-5 different vendors. Book 3-5 days ahead through certified cultural guides who speak your language.

Pacaya Volcano Hiking Expeditions

October offers the best volcano hiking conditions - trails are less muddy than during peak rainy season, but vegetation is still lush green. Clear skies in the morning hours provide excellent views of active lava flows. The 2-hour drive south of Guatemala City is comfortable in October's moderate temperatures, and you'll encounter fewer crowds than during dry season peak.

Booking Tip: Half-day volcano tours cost Q350-600 ($45-75). Essential to book morning departures (6-7am start) to avoid afternoon clouds that obscure views. Choose operators providing hiking poles and flashlights. Book 5-7 days ahead with operators including transport, guide, and park entry fees.

Tikal Archaeological Site Day Trips

October is optimal for Guatemala visits - post-rainy season means maximum wildlife activity as animals emerge during clearer weather. Howler monkeys and tropical birds are most active in the early morning cool temperatures around 20°C (68°F). The jungle is lush but trails are more manageable than during heavy rain months. Sunrise tours offer spectacular views with minimal crowds.

Booking Tip: Full-day trips including flights cost Q1,200-1,800 ($150-225). October requires booking 10-14 days ahead as some tour operators adjust schedules during season transition. Choose sunrise tours for best wildlife viewing and comfortable climbing temperatures before midday humidity.

Chichicastenango Market Cultural Experiences

October coincides with post-harvest celebrations, making Thursday and Sunday markets in Guatemala exceptionally busy. Highland textiles and crafts are abundant as artisans prepare for upcoming Day of the Dead season. The 3-hour drive from Guatemala City is pleasant in October's moderate weather, and you'll experience authentic indigenous culture without peak season tourism pressure.

Booking Tip: Market day trips cost Q250-400 ($30-50). Critical to book for Thursday or Sunday when markets operate. Choose small-group tours with cultural guides who can explain Mayan traditions and help with respectful photography. Book 7-10 days ahead, especially for Sunday market visits.

October Events & Festivals

Mid October

Festival de Octubre

Guatemala City's October Festival features local music, traditional food vendors, and artisan markets throughout Zona 1. Street performances and cultural exhibitions celebrate the transition from rainy to dry season. Perfect opportunity to experience guatemalteco culture without the commercialization of December events.

Early October

Día de la Raza Preparations

Leading up to October 12th, indigenous communities around Guatemala City hold preparatory celebrations featuring traditional dances, textile exhibitions, and ceremonial foods. Markets increase their offerings of traditional clothing and ceremonial items.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight rain jacket or compact umbrella - October's 10 rainy days feature sudden 15-20 minute downpours, usually 2-5pm

Layering clothing for 8°C (14°F) temperature swings - mornings start at 16°C (60°F), peak at 24°C (76°F)

SPF 50+ sunscreen - UV index of 8 at 1,500m (4,921 ft) elevation means intense sun exposure even on cloudy days

Comfortable walking shoes with grip - cobblestones in Zona 1 become slippery during brief rain showers

Light cotton or linen shirts - 70% humidity makes synthetic fabrics uncomfortable during midday hours

Warm layer for early morning volcano/highland tours - temperatures can drop to 10°C (50°F) at higher elevations

Small backpack for day trips - most Guatemala City tours involve 2-4 hour drives to destinations like Antigua or Guatemala

Power bank and waterproof phone case - October weather can be unpredictable for outdoor photography

Insect repellent for highland areas - post-rainy season means increased mosquito activity around lakes and forests

Cash in small bills (Q20-50 notes) - October markets offer best prices for cash purchases, and vendors often lack change for large bills

Insider Knowledge

October is when local families take advantage of lower accommodation rates for domestic tourism - book Antigua and Guatemala hotels 2 weeks ahead as they fill with guatemaltecos, not just international tourists

Afternoon rains in October are predictable: clouds build around 1pm, rain falls 2-5pm, then clear skies return. Plan indoor activities (museums, shopping malls) for 2-5pm window

Local buses and chicken buses run modified schedules during October transition season - always confirm departure times the day before for trips to Antigua or Guatemala

October harvest season means street vendors offer the year's best prices on tropical fruits, highland vegetables, and fresh corn - ask locals which markets have the day's best selection

Avoid These Mistakes

Packing only summer clothes - October evenings in Guatemala City drop to 16°C (60°F) and highland day trips require warm layers for early morning departures

Scheduling outdoor activities for 2-5pm when afternoon humidity peaks at 70% and sudden rain showers are most likely - plan indoor activities during these hours

Assuming October is fully dry season - while transitioning from rainy season, those 10 rainy days can still disrupt outdoor plans if you don't have backup indoor options