Quetzaltenango: When to Go

The highlands region is best visited in the dry season (Nov-May); the height of the tourist season is between Christmas and Easter, when days are dry and warm. From mid-May to mid-October, heavy rains can make travel slow-going and uncomfortable. There's a secondary high season from June to August when North Americans and Europeans come to Quetzaltenango to study Spanish, volunteer on projects or just travel around. Xela's biggest annual event is the Feria de la Virgen de Rosario, in the week from September 15, with entertainment and street parties.

Weather

The emerald-green grass, tall fields of yellow maize (corn) and towering stands of pine that characterize the highlands all depend on the abundant rain that falls between May and October, peaking in June and September. If you visit during the rainy season, be prepared for some damp, dreary days. December to March are the coolest and driest months, often with no rainfall at all.

At 2335m (7705ft) Quetzaltenango can get very chilly at night throughout the year, so pack some warm clothes. But when the sun comes out, the region surrounding Xela is stunning to behold.

Temperature (average ° C)

Rainfall (average mm)