Northern Lowlands, Guatemala: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]
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Ready to pack for Northern Lowlands, Guatemala? If you're planning to go to Northern Lowlands, I've got some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Northern Lowlands
- Important essentials for Northern Lowlands
- Activities for Northern Lowlands
- Northern Lowlands in January: weather and what to pack
- Northern Lowlands in February: weather and what to pack
- Northern Lowlands in March: weather and what to pack
- Northern Lowlands in April: weather and what to pack
- Northern Lowlands in May: weather and what to pack
- Northern Lowlands in June: weather and what to pack
- Northern Lowlands in July: weather and what to pack
- Northern Lowlands in August: weather and what to pack
- Northern Lowlands in September: weather and what to pack
- Northern Lowlands in October: weather and what to pack
- Northern Lowlands in November: weather and what to pack
- Northern Lowlands in December: weather and what to pack
When to go to Northern Lowlands, Guatemala
Based on the climate and weather in Northern Lowlands, Guatemala, the best time to go is January. See below for details.
What to wear/what to pack for Northern Lowlands, Guatemala
Already know when you're traveling?
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Northern Lowlands, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
What to wear/what to pack for Northern Lowlands, Guatemala by month
January
Traveling to Northern Lowlands in January, you will notice that it is pretty consistently hot and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 80s F (high 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Extra socks
Light skirts
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Short pants or heavy shorts
Bug repellent
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Sunscreen lotion
Breathable footwear or sandals
Sandals
A rain jacket to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants can be a lifesaver in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things don't get wet. We recommend:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly product.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great kit.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Northern Lowlands. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Guatemala has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you pick the right kind. A lot of adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most places.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel pillow
An excellent option is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
February
If you visit Northern Lowlands during February, you may find that it is pretty consistently hot and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 60s F (high 10s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about a third of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunglasses
Loose-fit shorts
Skirts
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and cool you.
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can keep you cool and guard against the sun:
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice also cleans contaminants:
thisBug repellent
Waterproof sandals
A rain poncho to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants are essential in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags don't get wet. We suggest:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly option.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Northern Lowlands. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Given current world events, Guatemala has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
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
Our fave is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you get the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters on sale are simply plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most locations.
March
Traveling to Northern Lowlands in March, you will notice that it can be sweltering. Expect it to rain about a third of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the high 80s F (low 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Waterproof sandals
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice also cleans dangerous contaminants:
thisSunglasses
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Bug repellent
Skirts
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and help you stay cool.
Loose-fit shorts
Breatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can keep you comfortable and protect you from UV rays:
A rain poncho to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants will be vital in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a great option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases don't get wet. We recommend:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb kit.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Northern Lowlands. 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 stuff.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Guatemala has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you get the right type. The vast majority of adapters currently available are just plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most areas.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
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
April
If you go to Northern Lowlands in April, you will notice that it is extremely hot. Expect it to rain regularly. Daytime temperatures are in the low 90s F (low 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can keep you comfortable and protect you from UV rays:
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and cool you.
Sunglasses
Skirts
Waterproof sandals
Bug repellent
Insulated water bottle
Our choice also cleans dangerous contaminants:
thisLoose-fit shorts
A rain jacket to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
Rain pants
These can be a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings remain dry. We like:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb choice.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Northern Lowlands. 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 airlines constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Given current world events, Guatemala has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to choose the correct type. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most locations.
Travel pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
May
Traveling to Northern Lowlands in May, you will notice that it is sweltering and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 90s F (mid 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light linen shorts
Sunglasses
High-SPF sunscreen lotion
Insulated water bottle
Bug repellent
Thin short sleeve shirts
Be sure pack extra, since these easily get wet or dirty.
Cooling tank or crop tops
These are engineered to cool you:
Waterproof sandals
Personal cooling fan
thisLightweight 'harem' pants
Bug bite relief
UV protecting legwear
These will keep you safe from UV rays while also cool. Our favorites:
Skirts
Light dresses
These Columbia dresses are created to help you stay cool and offer UV protection.
Rain poncho
A high quality rain poncho to wear over your coat saves you time and money by protecting your main coat. We like this one.
Stormy weather makes rubber rain boots essential. These boots are great for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is made for storms.Waterproof luggage cover
So your things stay dry. Even the most durable luggage can let water in. We like:
Rain pants
These are vital in a storm.
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great one.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly option.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, 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 Northern Lowlands. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports always losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Guatemala has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
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
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to choose the necessary type. Many adapters for sale now are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most countries.
Travel neck pillow
Our favorite is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
June
June is consistently hot and very rainy. Temperatures average in the low 90s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains most days.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Breatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can keep you comfortable and protect you from skin damage:
Waterproof sandals
Insulated water bottle
Our pick also cleans contaminants:
thisBug repellent
Loose-fit shorts
Skirts
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and keep you cool.
Sunglasses
Rain poncho
A high quality rain poncho to wear over your coat saves you time and money by protecting your nice coat. We like this one.
The stormy weather makes rubber rain boots a necessity. These boots are great for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is made for stormy weather.Waterproof luggage cover
So your belongings remain dry. Even the most durable suitcases can let moisture in. We recommend:
Rain pants
These are a lifesaver in heavy rain.
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly product.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little 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 Northern Lowlands. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Given current world events, Guatemala has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to pick the right type. Many adapters currently being sold are just plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most areas.
Travel pillow
A great choice is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
July
If you are traveling to Northern Lowlands in July, you will notice that it is consistently hot, extremely rainy and somewhat stormy. Expect it to rain most days. Daytime temperatures are in the high 80s F (low 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunglasses
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Waterproof sandals
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and cool you.
Skirts
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite also cleans contaminants:
thisLoose-fit shorts
Bug repellent
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can cool you down quickly and guard against UV rays:
Rain poncho
A good rain poncho to wear over your coat saves you time and money by protecting your nice jacket. We like this one.
Rainy weather makes rubber rain boots essential. These boots are well-suited for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is built for bad weather.Waterproof luggage cover
So your belongings stay dry. Even the best luggage can let rain in. We like:
Rain pants
These can be essential in heavy rain.
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly product.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
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 recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Northern Lowlands. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Given current world events, Guatemala has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to choose the right kind. A lot of adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most areas.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck pillow
What we like is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
August
August in Northern Lowlands is extremely hot, extremely rainy and somewhat stormy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) to high 80s F (low 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Waterproof sandals
Insulated water bottle
Our pick also filters dangerous contaminants:
thisSunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Bug repellent
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and keep you cool.
Sunglasses
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can keep you cool and guard against skin damage:
Loose-fit shorts
Skirts
Rain poncho
A durable rain poncho to wear over your coat can be a lifesaver by protecting your nice coat. We like this one.
Stormy weather makes rubber rain boots essential. These boots are great for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is designed for stormy weather.Waterproof luggage cover
So your belongings remain dry. Even the most durable suitcases can let water in. We suggest:
Rain pants
Rain pants will be vital in a storm.
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb choice.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: 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 protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Northern Lowlands. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Given current world events, Guatemala has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck pillow
Our fave is this one
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. Make sure to get the necessary type. Most adapters available are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most locations.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
September
In September, Northern Lowlands is consistently hot, extremely rainy and somewhat stormy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 80s F (low 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 70s F (low 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Northern Lowlands, with most of the days of the month having rain.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and cool you.
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can cool you down quickly and protect you from skin damage:
Sunglasses
Insulated water bottle
Our choice also cleans dangerous contaminants:
thisLoose-fit shorts
Bug repellent
Waterproof sandals
Skirts
Rain poncho
A high quality rain poncho to wear over your coat will avoid travel headaches by protecting your nice coat. We like this one.
The stormy weather makes rubber rain boots a must. These boots are well-suited for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is built for stormy weather.Waterproof luggage cover
So your things stay dry. The finest luggage can let rain in. We suggest:
Rain pants
These pants will be essential in heavy rain.
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly product.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great option.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Northern Lowlands. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Given current world events, Guatemala has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you find the right type. Most adapters on sale are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most countries.
Travel neck pillow
A versatile choice is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
October
October for Northern Lowlands is constantly hot and very rainy. Temperatures average in the 80s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains most days.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunglasses
Insulated water bottle
Our best choice also filters dangerous contaminants:
thisWaterproof sandals
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can cool you down quickly and protect you from UV rays:
Loose-fit shorts
Skirts
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and cool you.
Bug repellent
Rain poncho
A high quality rain poncho to wear over your jacket saves you time and money by protecting your coat. We like this one.
Stormy weather makes rubber rain boots a necessity. These boots work well for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is designed for stormy weather.Waterproof luggage cover
So your things don't get wet. Even the finest luggage can let moisture in. We recommend:
Rain pants
These can be a lifesaver in a storm.
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent kit.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Northern Lowlands. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Given current world events, Guatemala has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to pick the necessary kind. The majority of adapters that you can buy are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.
Travel neck support pillow
An excellent option is this one
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 huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
November
November in Northern Lowlands is extremely warm and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and help you stay cool.
Skirts
Bug repellent
Loose-fit shorts
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can keep you cool and protect you from UV rays:
Sunglasses
Waterproof sandals
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice also removes harmful contaminants:
thisA rain poncho to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants will be essential in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things stay dry. We recommend:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great kit.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can find 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 little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Northern Lowlands. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Given current world events, Guatemala has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to choose the right type. Most adapters that you can buy are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most places.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Travel neck 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
December
If you vacation in Northern Lowlands during December, you might notice that it is pretty consistently hot and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 60s F (high 10s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Breathable footwear or sandals
Extra socks
Sunscreen lotion
Light skirts
Sandals
Bug repellent
Short pants or heavy shorts
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants are vital in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases don't get wet. We suggest:
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great choice.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly product.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Northern Lowlands. 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.
Given current world events, Guatemala has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to choose the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most places.
Travel neck pillow
Our favorite 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
What to do in Northern Lowlands, Guatemala
The Northern Lowlands of Guatemala are an ideal destination for anyone interested in exploring the country's ancient cultures, natural wonders and colonial architecture. Located in the northwestern part of the country, this region boasts a rich heritage of Mayan civilization, stunning waterfalls, magnificent lakes, and charming towns that preserve their colonial-era charm. From world-renowned archaeological sites to breathtaking landscapes, let's explore some of the top tourist attractions in the Northern Lowlands of Guatemala.
Tikal National Park
Tikal is one of the most prominent Mayan sites in the world and is undoubtedly the crown jewel of Guatemalan tourism. Situated in the heart of the jungle, this UNESCO World Heritage site features towering pyramids, sprawling palaces, and impressive stelae that showcase the sophistication and power of the ancient Mayans. Visitors can explore the ruins on their own or opt for a guided tour to learn more about the site's complicated history and culture.
Yaxhá
A lesser-known but equally impressive Mayan ruin in the Northern Lowlands is Yaxhá. This recently excavated site features over 500 structures, including a massive pyramid that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding jungle and nearby Lake Yaxhá. Just like Tikal, Yaxhá offers a chance to explore the rich history and culture of the ancient Mayans in a serene and peaceful setting.
Semuc Champey
Semuc Champey is a natural wonder that features a series of crystal-clear pools cascading along the Cahabón River. Located in the heart of the jungle, this hidden gem offers travelers an unforgettable opportunity to swim, hike, and marvel at the beauty of Mother Nature. Visitors can also explore the nearby K’anba Cave, which features stunning rock formations and underground pools.
Rio Dulce
A picturesque river town located on the Caribbean coast, Rio Dulce is another must-visit destination in the Northern Lowlands. The town's main attraction is the 27 km-long Rio Dulce Canyon, which offers stunning views of the surrounding jungle and mangrove forests. Visitors can also take a boat tour to explore the river and its vibrant flora and fauna or visit the nearby San Felipe Castle, a 17th-century fortress built to protect the town from pirates.
Livingston
Located at the mouth of the Rio Dulce, Livingston is a unique town that offers visitors a glimpse into the Garifuna culture, a vibrant blend of indigenous, African, and European traditions. Tourists can stroll along the lively waterfront, sample local cuisine, and enjoy live music and dance performances. The nearby Siete Altares Waterfall and Playa Blanca beach are also popular spots for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
Conclusion
The Northern Lowlands of Guatemala offer an incredible range of attractions that are sure to captivate travelers of all interests and ages. Whether it's exploring the history and culture of the ancient Mayans, basking in the beauty of nature, or immersing oneself in the local culture, this region has something for everyone. So, pack your bags, grab your camera, and head out to discover the wonders of Guatemala's Northern Lowlands!

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.
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