Lake Atitlán Weather: A Complete Guide

Temperatures, Seasons, and the Xocomil Wind

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

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What is the best time to visit Lake Atitlán?
The dry season (November to April) offers the sunniest days and clearest skies. December to February is ideal for hiking. The rainy season (May-October) has lower prices and a greener lake, with rain mainly in the afternoon.
What is the temperature of Lake Atitlán throughout the year?
The temperature in Atitlán is stable: 20-25°C during the day and 12-16°C at night. There are no major seasonal variations. December and January are the coolest months (nights of 10-12°C); April is the warmest (up to 27°C).
Does it rain a lot in Atitlán?
During the rainy season (May-October), it mainly rains in the afternoon, with intense but short showers. Mornings are generally sunny. During the dry season (November-April), rain is very scarce.
What clothes to bring to Lake Atitlán based on the weather?
Light clothing for the day and a jacket or sweatshirt for the evenings (essential all year round). During the rainy season, bring a light rain jacket or poncho. Sunscreen SPF 50+ always — the altitude intensifies UV radiation.
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