Lago de Atitlán Guatemala vista desde terraza de hotel

Lake Atitlán Climate: Temperatures & Seasons

Hotel boutique Lago de Atitlán Guatemala con piscina

Lake Atitlán Climate: Temperatures & Seasons

Lake Atitlán's climate is subtropical highland — cool, mild and pleasant year-round. Its altitude of 1,562 meters moderates temperatures, avoiding extreme heat or cold. Here's everything you need to know before you visit.

Lake Atitlán volcanoes clear sky dry season Guatemala
Clear skies in dry season (Nov–Apr) — best weather to visit

Average Temperatures

SeasonMinMaxFeel
Dry (Nov–Apr)10°C–13°C (50–55°F)22°C–26°C (72–79°F)Fresh to warm
Rainy (May–Oct)14°C–16°C (57–61°F)20°C–23°C (68–73°F)Cloudy, humid
Nights (year-round)8°C–14°C (46–57°F)Cold — bring a jacket

Dry Season (November – April)

Clear skies dominate. Daytime temperatures are comfortable (18–25°C / 64–77°F) while nights turn cool — especially December and January when they can drop to 8°C (46°F). Best views of the three volcanoes.

Rainy Season (May – October)

Rain typically arrives between 2pm and 6pm, with mornings remaining sunny. September and October are the wettest months. July brings the canícula — a 2–3 week dry spell with intense sunshine.

The Xocomil Wind

The Xocomil is Lake Atitlán's most distinctive weather feature — a powerful north-to-south wind that picks up between noon and 4pm, strong enough to raise 1–2 meter waves. Always take boats before noon.

What to Pack

  • Light fleece or jacket for evenings (year-round)
  • Lightweight short-sleeve clothing for daytime
  • Packable rain jacket during the rainy season
  • Sunscreen — altitude intensifies UV radiation
  • Comfortable walking shoes for village paths
Sunrise at Lake Atitlán with volcano reflection in the water
Serene sunrise — mornings are usually clear year-round
Lake Atitlán Guatemala blue sky volcanic landscape
Blue sky over the lake — typical from November to April
Lancha en el Lago de Atitlán Guatemala rumbo a Panajachel
Lago de Atitlán Guatemala vista aérea con tres volcanes
Atardecer en el Lago de Atitlán Guatemala volcanes
Logo The Wall Street Journal
Pueblos mayas del Lago de Atitlán: Santiago Atitlán

Temperaturas, temporadas y el viento Xocomil

Frequently Asked Questions