Guatemala City, Guatemala: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.

Ready to pack for Guatemala City, Guatemala? If you're planning to go to Guatemala City, we have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Guatemala City, Guatemala

Based on the climate and weather in Guatemala City, Guatemala, the best time to go is March. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Guatemala City, Guatemala

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Guatemala City, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Guatemala City, Guatemala by month

January

January here is mild and dry with little rain. Temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains sometimes.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Guatemala has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Guatemala City. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to get the right type. The majority of adapters currently available are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you go to the Ixchel Museum of traditional costumes, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

February

If you go to Guatemala City in February, you will notice that it is warm, somewhat hazy and dry with little rain. Daytime temperatures are in the low 70s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Guatemala has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Guatemala City. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to pick the right type. Most adapters currently sold are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

If you go to the Ixchel Museum of traditional costumes, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

March

If you vacation in Guatemala City during March, you are likely to see that it is warm, very hazy and dry with little rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 50s F (mid 10s C). Humidity is generally between 40 and 50% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain sometimes.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Guatemala has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Guatemala City. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to pick the correct type. A lot of adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to the Ixchel Museum of traditional costumes, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

April

If you vacation in Guatemala City during April, you are likely to see that it is warm and extremely hazy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 50s F (mid 10s C). Humidity is generally between 40 and 50% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Guatemala has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Guatemala City. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to find the correct kind. Many adapters on sale are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you go to the Ixchel Museum of traditional costumes, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

May

May for Guatemala City is a perfect temperature, somewhat rainy, somewhat stormy and extremely hazy. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Guatemala has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Guatemala City. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to choose the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most areas.

If you go to the Ixchel Museum of traditional costumes, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

June

If you go to Guatemala City in June, you will notice that it is warm, extremely rainy and very stormy. Expect it to rain most days. Daytime temperatures are in the low 70s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Guatemala has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Guatemala City. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you choose the correct type. The vast majority of adapters currently available are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

If you go to the Ixchel Museum of traditional costumes, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

July

If you are traveling to Guatemala City in July, you will notice that it is a perfect temperature, very rainy and somewhat stormy. Expect it to rain about two thirds of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 70s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Guatemala has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Guatemala City. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to get the correct kind. Many adapters currently available are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you go to the Ixchel Museum of traditional costumes, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

August

If you vacation in Guatemala City during August, you will probably notice that it is warm, very rainy and somewhat stormy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 60s F (mid 10s C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about two thirds of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Guatemala has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Guatemala City. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you get the necessary kind. Most adapters currently being sold are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most areas.

If you go to the Ixchel Museum of traditional costumes, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

September

Traveling to Guatemala City in September, you will notice that it is mild, extremely rainy and very stormy. Expect it to rain most days. Daytime temperatures are in the low 70s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Guatemala has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Guatemala City. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to get the necessary type. The majority of adapters available are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you go to the Ixchel Museum of traditional costumes, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

October

October in Guatemala City is balmy and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Guatemala has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Guatemala City. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to choose the right type. Many adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most countries.

If you go to the Ixchel Museum of traditional costumes, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

November

November for Guatemala City is balmy. Temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Guatemala has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Guatemala City. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to find the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are just plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

If you go to the Ixchel Museum of traditional costumes, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

December

December is mild. Temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Guatemala has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Guatemala City. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to choose the right kind. A lot of adapters available online are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you go to the Ixchel Museum of traditional costumes, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

What to do in Guatemala City, Guatemala

Guatemala City, the capital of Guatemala, is fast emerging as one of the top tourist destinations in Central America. The city offers a unique blend of ancient Mayan heritage and modern sophistication. From ancient ruins to lively markets and museums, Guatemala City has something for everyone. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in the city.

1. Tikal National Park

Located in the northern part of Guatemala, Tikal National Park is one of the biggest and most important archeological sites in Central America. Home to towering pyramids, ancient ruins, and rich wildlife, the park offers visitors a unique glimpse into the ancient Mayan civilization.

2. La Aurora Zoo

A popular attraction among families, La Aurora Zoo is home to a vast array of animals, including elephants, tigers, lions, and monkeys. The zoo also features several fun-filled activities for visitors, including zip lines and a butterfly garden.

3. The National Palace

An architectural masterpiece, the National Palace in Guatemala City is worth visiting for its impressive colonial architecture, lush gardens, and museums. The palace is home to several government offices and the National Museum of History.

4. Mercado Central

For a slice of Guatemalan life, head over to Mercado Central, one of the biggest and most colorful markets in Central America. Here, visitors can sample fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and handcrafted souvenirs.

5. Casa Santo Domingo

A converted 16th-century convent, Casa Santo Domingo houses one of the best hotels in Guatemala City, as well as a world-class museum featuring ancient works of art, Mayan artifacts, and colonial-era furnishings.

6. Plaza Mayor

The historic hub of Guatemala City, Plaza Mayor is surrounded by stunning architecture, museums, shops, and restaurants. Visitors can explore the nearby National Cathedral or take a stroll through the plaza's lush gardens.

7. Popol Vuh Museum

For art lovers, the Popol Vuh Museum offers an exceptional glimpse into pre-Columbian art and culture. The museum houses a vast collection of artifacts, pottery, and sculptures, including several works of Maya art.

Guatemala City offers an incredible mix of historical landmarks, vibrant culture, and natural beauty. Whether you're a history buff, an art lover or just looking for a fun-filled family vacation, Guatemala City has plenty to offer. So why wait? Start planning your trip today!

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

Check out our guides for these other locations: Southern Alberta, Alberta, Canada, Yantai, China, Kroonstad, South Africa, Madaba, Jordan, Castelfranco Veneto, Italy, Ko Tarutao, Thailand, Akhisar, Turkey, Kičevo, Macedonia, Mirpur Khas, Pakistan, Ramoji Film City, India, and Juigalpa, Nicaragua.