Quetzaltenango Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit

Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Quetzaltenango.

Climate overview of Quetzaltenango

Quetzaltenango, in Guatemala's Quetzaltenango Department, maintains fairly consistent temperatures throughout the year. The area experiences heavy rainfall spread across the seasons, with the wettest months bringing particularly intense downpours.

This highland city serves as Guatemala's cultural and educational center outside the capital, where Spanish language schools and indigenous markets create a lively atmosphere. The frequent rains keep the surrounding volcanic landscape green and support the coffee plantations that thrive here. Let’s explore the climate details to provide you with a complete overview on when to visit.

Quetzaltenango Weather by Month

Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Quetzaltenango - and find the best time to visit.

Monthly Temperature in Quetzaltenango

With minimal seasonal shifts, Quetzaltenango experiences a constant climate year-round. Average daytime temperatures reach a comfortable 23°C (73°F) in April. In December, the coolest month of the year, temperatures drop to a pleasant 22°C (72°F).

At night, temperatures range from around 15°C (59°F) in April to 12°C (54°F) in December.

Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.

Temperature ranges by month

Rainfall in Quetzaltenango

Quetzaltenango has a notably wet climate with abundant precipitation, recording 2856 mm (112 in) of rainfall per year. Quetzaltenango can be quite wet during May, receiving approximately 461 mm (18 in) of precipitation over 16 rainy days.

In contrast, during the driest month (January), you will experience much drier conditions, with 34 mm (1.3 in) of precipitation spread across 5 rainy days. For more details, please visit our Quetzaltenango Precipitation page.

The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow

Sunshine Hours in Quetzaltenango

Quetzaltenango experiences moderate variation in sunshine hours across the seasons. With 8.3 hours daily sunshine in March, it dips to 5.1 hours in June, offering a balanced mix of sunny and overcast days.

Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.

Monthly hours of sunshine

Data from: Panajachel, Guatemala (40 KM, 25 Miles).

Daily hours of sunshine

Data from: Panajachel, Guatemala (40 KM, 25 Miles).

Humidity in Quetzaltenango by Month

Best Time to Visit Quetzaltenango

The most comfortable overall weather for exploring Quetzaltenango is usually found in January, February, March and December. Conditions are generally least comfortable in May, June, July, August, September and October.

Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.

  • Best overall: January, February, March and December
  • Warmest weather: all year round
  • Most sunshine: January, February, March and April
  • Fewest rainy days: January, February, March and December
  • Wettest months: May, June, July, August, September and October, when rainfall is highest.
  • Seasonal pattern: A distinct rainy season from April to October

Frequently asked questions about the climate in Quetzaltenango

What is the best time to visit Quetzaltenango?

January, February, March and December typically offer the most optimal weather in Quetzaltenango. In contrast, May, June, July, August, September and October tend to have less optimal conditions. Quetzaltenango has a distinct rainy season from April to October.

What temperatures can I expect in Quetzaltenango?

Daytime highs range from 22°C (72°F) in December to 23°C (73°F) in April. Nighttime lows range from 12°C (54°F) to 15°C (59°F). Temperatures stay relatively stable year-round.

How much rain does Quetzaltenango get?

Annual rainfall is around 2856 mm (112 in). May is the wettest month with 461 mm (18 in), while January is the driest with 34 mm (1.3 in).

How sunny is Quetzaltenango?

Quetzaltenango receives around 2,445 hours of sunshine per year. March is the sunniest month with 249 hours, while June is the cloudiest with just 152 hours. Overall, Quetzaltenango enjoys abundant sunshine.

Quetzaltenango 3-Day Forecast

Quetzaltenango on the map

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