Guatemala is known to have great weather throughout the year, with its dry season during the first months of the year, outdoor activities are common and very popular, and destinations are in full bloom and peppered with beautiful fauna and flora.
Rainfall
This is the moth where you cant get much better. We all know a little rain makes life a little cooler even in tropics and here you dont have to worry about being wet and cold during February.
This is heart of the dry season and you shouldnt get much if any rainfall at all. Instead of telling you the average amount of rainfall which is good to know but doesnt do much for a tourist because it could all happen your visit to a Volcano the fact is that Februrary on average has just two days of rain. Thats right just two days of rain so unless you visit for a weekend and are the unluckiest person on the planet you should be pretty safe with having great weather during your stay.
Temperatures
Like most of the tropics temperatures change less during the year and more during the time of day. The lowlands are going to be hot and humid throughout the year and Februrary is no exception. You might reach some of your highest temperatures in the month of Febrary when visiting the cost of the Pacific of the Atlantic.
The highlands are quite different where you will experience 15°C to 27°C (60°F to 84°F) which is perfect weather temps for any vacation.
Things to Do in February
1. Experience Guatemala’s Carnival:
February is synonymous with Carnival in Guatemala, a lively celebration that fills the streets with color and music. The town of Mazatenango, in the Suchitepéquez department, is renowned for hosting one of the most elaborate Carnival celebrations in the country. Expect vibrant parades, traditional dances, and a festive atmosphere that showcases Guatemala’s cultural richness. This is a prime opportunity to immerse yourself in the local traditions and enjoy the joyous spirit of Carnival.
2. Explore Coffee Plantations:
Guatemala is known for its coffee production, stemming on local coffee farmers in the region like Antigua and Cobán, some of these farms offer the chance to tour inside and be part of the experience of coffee production during the harvest time. They include tasting and insights into the process of this wonderful bean.
With a scenery worth gasping for and the sweet smell of coffee beans in an astounding morning, exploring coffee plantations is a must in your itinerary.
3. Take a Visit to a Local Market:
You can not visit Guatemala without visiting a Volcano and as much can be said you can not visit Guatemala without visiting a real authentic market.
For me it is important to go with a guide. If you do not you are simply visiting an overcrowded place, with many mayan dressed women, and poor food manipulation. Which in itself is a site to see but with a guide you get the real “taste” and the social economics of the market and the lifestyle these people live and not just walking through an a show of what some of the most authentic markets in Latin America can look like. The only markets that can counter Guatemala’s markets are maybe Bolivia and Peru but Guatemala is right there with is colors, fresh food, and vibrant colors, and stories behind everyone who takes part in making these markets what they are.
4. Birdwatching in the Highlands:
Birdwatching is an activity that requires patience and knowledge but with a great reward. There are 781 bird species in Guatemala which does not quite beat the small country of Costa Rica but still is almost on par with the large country of the United States. The Biotopo del Quetzal, located in Baja Verapaz, is a prime location to spot the resplendent quetzal, Guatemala’s national bird. The cooler weather in February also makes hiking more comfortable, hikes such as “Sendero de los Helechos” y el “Sendero Los Musgos” are popular in this area.
The country also receives migratory birds from the north escaping the cold of the winter in the USA which adds to your list. Also very interesting is that there are more than a dozen birds endemic to Guatemala.
2. Guatemalan Impact Marathon:
One of a one-of-a-kind event for those looking for the perfect blend of athletic leisure and discovering blooming nature.
The race route is iconic, it takes the runners through the volcano where you can see solidified lava rivers, Mayan ruins and even some fauna racing you to the finish line. The marathon offers a wide range of versions of the activity, so anyone from amateur to professional can take part in this wonderful event.
3. Discover the Cobán Region:
If you’re seeking a destination off the beaten path, consider exploring the Cobán region in Alta Verapaz. February is an excellent time to visit this lush, mountainous area, known for its coffee plantations, waterfalls, and rich biodiversity. One of the highlights is Semuc Champey, a stunning series of natural turquoise pools and limestone bridges nestled in the jungle. The cooler weather in February makes it perfect for hiking through the surrounding forests or taking a refreshing dip in the pools. Additionally, Cobán is a hub for Guatemala’s coffee production, and many plantations offer tours where you can learn about the coffee-making process and sample some of the world’s best coffee.
Festivities and Events
1. Día de la Virgen de Candelaria:
February 2nd is celebrated as the “Día de la Virgen de Candelaria” across Guatemala, with particularly vibrant festivities in the town of Candelaria. This religious holiday honors the Virgin of Candelaria with processions, traditional music, and dances. The streets come alive as locals carry statues of the Virgin Mary, accompanied by colorful decorations and a deeply spiritual atmosphere. Visitors will gain a deeper understanding of Guatemala’s Catholic traditions and the significance of religious celebrations in the country.
1. Explore Coffee Plantations:
Guatemala is known for its coffee production, stemming on local coffee farmers in the region like Antigua and Cobán, some of these farms offer the chance to tour inside and be part of the experience of coffee production during the harvest time. They include tasting and insights into the process of this wonderful bean.
With a scenery worth gasping for and the sweet smell of coffee beans in an astounding morning, exploring coffee plantations is a must in your itinerary.
2. Birdwatching in the Highlands:
Birdwatching is an activity that requires patience and knowledge but with a great reward. Guatemala is no short in rewarding birdwatchers as The Biotopo del Quetzal, located in Baja Verapaz, is a prime location to spot the resplendent quetzal, Guatemala’s national bird. The cooler weather in February also makes hiking more comfortable, hikes such as “Sendero de los Helechos” y el “Sendero Los Musgos” are popular in this area.
3. Market Visits:
February is a great month to explore Guatemala’s vibrant markets. The Chichicastenango market, one of the largest and most famous in Central America, is particularly bustling during this time. The market is a riot of colors, with stalls selling everything from traditional textiles and handicrafts to fresh produce and flowers.Visiting the market is not only a shopping experience but also an immersion into the local culture and daily life of the Guatemalan people.
Conclusion
Februrary is simply one of the best months to visit. You are going to avoid a bit of the crowds due to school being in session in the USA, your temperature and weather will be perfect, and a few local traditions have picked this month to make it their own allowing for a cultural experience to top it off.
