Guatemala Rainfall by City

Monthly precipitation data for 35 cities — explore by month, compare destinations

Nov-Apr: Dry Season (Verano) May-Oct: Rainy Season (Invierno)

Guatemala Rainfall by City: Monthly Precipitation Data

Guatemala receives between 500 and 4,000 mm of rainfall per year depending on where you are. The Pacific coast and Caribbean lowlands are drenched, the highlands are moderate, and the eastern valleys are practically desert. This variation happens across a country smaller than Tennessee.

The rainy season runs from May through October. Rain follows a reliable daily pattern: clear mornings, clouds by noon, and showers from 2-5 PM. September is the wettest month nationally, while July often brings a brief dry spell called the canicula.

Use the interactive tools below to explore rainfall data for 35 Guatemala cities. Click any month to see which cities are wettest and driest, or compare cities side by side.

For a complete narrative guide with travel advice, packing lists, and month-by-month tips, read our Guatemala Rainy Season 2026 guide. For current weather conditions, see our weather page.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How much rain does Guatemala get per year?

It varies dramatically by region. The Pacific coast and Caribbean lowlands receive 2,000-3,500 mm (80-140 inches) annually, while the eastern dry corridor around Zacapa gets only 500-800 mm (20-31 inches). Highland cities like Guatemala City and Antigua average 1,200-1,500 mm (47-59 inches).

What is the rainiest month in Guatemala?

September is the wettest month for most of the country. Coastal cities like Retalhuleu and Puerto Barrios can receive over 300 mm in September alone. The highlands see 200-250 mm. Even during the wettest months, rain typically falls between 2-5 PM with clear mornings.

Which Guatemala city gets the least rain?

Zacapa, in the eastern dry corridor, receives roughly 700 mm per year — less than a third of what Pacific coast cities get. Chiquimula and the eastern valleys are also notably dry, creating a semi-arid landscape that surprises visitors expecting a tropical country.

What is the canicula in Guatemala?

The canicula (also called veranillo de San Juan) is a brief dry spell in late July to early August that interrupts the rainy season. Rain decreases noticeably for 2-3 weeks in highland and Pacific areas. Not every year has a strong canicula, but when it occurs, it creates a welcome travel window.

Does it rain all day during the rainy season?

No. Guatemala's rain follows a predictable daily cycle: clear mornings, clouds building by noon, and showers from roughly 2-5 PM. All-day rain is rare outside of tropical storms. Most visitors plan outdoor activities for the morning and barely notice the afternoon showers.