What to Wear When Traveling in Guatemala
Are you wondering what to wear in Guatemala? Guatemala is a beautiful country with three distinct regions, which vary in climate, elevation, and landscape. There are sharply contrasting hot, humid tropical lowlands and colder, drier highland peaks. That can make things interesting when it comes to deciding what to pack.
Guatemala Weather
Guatemala has two seasons: rainy and dry. The rainy season inland is from May to October with a break for approximately four to seven weeks in July and August called a canícula. Along the coasts, the rainy season extends to December. In the rainy season, it generally is sunny in the mornings with late afternoon showers. These showers can be quite heavy. The dry season extends from November through April with little to no precipitation, and the days are typically sunny throughout.
Guatemala is more conservative when it comes to dressing. Casual, conservative clothing is practical and appropriate. Below is a packing list to help you plan what to wear in Guatemala based on where you’re traveling in the country.
Highlands of Guatemala – Temperate Zone
The Highlands of Guatemala is an incredibly beautiful and popular tourist destination. This region includes Guatemala City, Antigua, Lake Atitlan, and Chichicastenango. Due to its proximity to the equator and its altitude (3,300 to 6,600 feet above sea level), this area has a very temperate climate, with year-round daytime temperatures ranging from 70-80°F (21-27°C) and nighttime temperatures from 55-65°F (13-18°C).
Guatemala City is often overlooked by travelers who rush to visit Tikal, Antigua, and Lake Atitlan. However, you shouldn’t miss the colonial architecture of its central plaza and its archaeological museums. The city is a mix of people in suits, dresses, jeans, and T-shirts. Pack some comfortable yet elegant clothes for the evening.
Antigua is more casual, with most people passing through, so jeans and a shirt are suitable for men, and jeans and a blouse or casual dress work for women. The streets are cobblestone and uneven, so comfortable shoes are a must. High heels are not practical in most places in Guatemala.
Lake Atitlan is a hiking and sightseeing haven. Lightweight pants, jeans, and a short-sleeved shirt are ideal. Good, sturdy shoes or hiking boots are recommended. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are essential as the sun is strong during the day. Pack a lightweight jacket for the evenings. If you’re traveling during the rainy season, bring rain gear. Showers are common in the late afternoon and can be heavy.
Chichicastenango is much like Quetzaltenango in terms of attire. If you’re heading to Chichi to see the market, dress comfortably in lightweight pants and a short-sleeved shirt or blouse. Bring rain gear in the rainy season and a warm jacket for the evenings, as it tends to get cool.
What to Wear When Traveling in Guatemala Quetzaltenango (Xela) – Cool Zone
Guatemala’s cool zone includes the rural areas around Quetzaltenango. This mountainous region sits 7,500 feet (2,300 meters) above sea level, with daytime temperatures in the 70’s°F (22-26°C) and nighttime temperatures dropping below freezing. Homes and public buildings are often unheated, so pack warm clothes and dress in layers. Bring sturdy shoes or boots, a warm jacket, a sweatshirt, long pants, and a hat for the evenings. During the rainy season, don’t forget your rain gear. Light pants and short-sleeved shirts are comfortable during the day, but layering is key for cool mornings and evenings.
The Beaches – Tropical Zone
Guatemala borders both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean, and coastal towns have a tropical climate with hot and humid weather year-round. Daytime temperatures range from 85-95°F (29-35°C) with high humidity, while nighttime temperatures drop to the 70’s°F (22-26°C). The heat and humidity can make daytime hours uncomfortable, so pack multiple tops as hand-washed clothes may not dry overnight. Bathing suits, shorts, tank tops, and flip-flops are appropriate for the beach. Don’t forget a hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun. At dusk and dawn, wear mosquito repellent as mosquitoes are most active during those times.
Other General Tips
Do’s:
- Show respect for the people and their culture.
- Dress conservatively while traveling. Indigenous Mayans are modest dressers, so wear pants or a long skirt when visiting religious attractions and remove your hat when entering.
- Learn some Spanish phrases like “Por favor,” “Gracias,” “Buenos días,” and “Hola.”
- Wear insect repellent at the beach, especially at dusk.
- Pack a rain jacket or umbrella if traveling between May and October.
- Bring earplugs.
Don’ts:
- Don’t carry large amounts of money or wear expensive jewelry.
- Avoid excessive alcohol consumption.
- Avoid drinking tap water; opt for bottled water instead.
- Don’t photograph people without permission.
- Don’t flush toilet paper; dispose of it in the trash can.
- Don’t avoid all unfamiliar food out of fear of getting sick.