Weather in Retalhuleu

Planning your visit to Retalhuleu? In this section, you will find the most up-to-date weather information, including detailed forecasts and charts, to make your trip as comfortable as possible.

Retalhuleu features a warm tropical climate that delights travelers with enviably stable temperatures throughout the year. There are practically no distinct cold spells here: thermometer readings confidently stay within the comfortable range of +22°C to +24°C. During the day, the air usually warms up to +27–28°C, while nights bring a light, refreshing coolness, with temperatures rarely dropping below +18°C.

The weather during the year is clearly divided into two main periods: the dry season and the rainy season. From December to March, rainfall is minimal, making these months the most popular for excursions and long walks under clear skies. Starting from May and lasting until October, the weather changes: the wet season arrives, when rains become frequent and abundant travel companions, turning the surrounding landscapes into rich green tropical gardens.

The climate in Retalhuleu is characterized by enviable consistency, offering tourists warm and comfortable weather practically all year round. There are no sharp seasonal contrasts here typical of temperate latitudes. The average temperature varies smoothly within a very narrow range: from 22.5°C in January to 24.2°C in May. This makes the city an attractive destination for those looking to escape the cold, regardless of the calendar month.

The nominal "summer" and the hottest days fall during the spring period, especially in April and May, when daytime highs reach 28°C. This is when the warmest weather should be expected. The winter period, represented by December and January, feels only like a slightly milder season. Even in the "coldest" months, the air temperature holds around 22–23°C, and nighttime readings do not drop below 18°C, eliminating the need for warm clothing.

A characteristic feature of the local climate is the noticeable temperature drop during the day, which allows for a break from the daytime heat. The difference between the daily maximum and nightly minimum is consistently about 8–9 degrees. After the midday heat, when the air warms up to 27–28°C, pleasant and fresh evenings set in with temperatures around 19–20°C, ideal for walks and restful sleep.

Precipitation in Retalhuleu falls exclusively as rain, as the air temperature here remains warm year-round. In the city's climatic calendar, a relatively dry period can be distinguished, which falls on the winter months. December, January, and February are considered the "driest": the average rainfall is only about 1 mm, and the number of days with precipitation is minimal for this region (from 11 to 14 days per month).

The real rainy season comes into force in May and continues until October. During this period, travelers should be prepared for high humidity: statistics show that it can rain almost daily (up to 30–31 rainy days per month). The wettest months by volume of water falling are June (19 mm) and September (18 mm). Typical tropical downpours are characteristic of this time of year; they can be intense but are often short-lived.

The spring months, March and April, represent a transitional stage. Although the volume of precipitation remains low (3–7 mm), the frequency of rains increases significantly — up to 23–27 days per month. This suggests that instead of heavy downpours, light drizzle or very small rains are likely at this time. By November, the intensity of precipitation begins to subside, smoothly leading the weather towards the drier winter season.

Given the consistently warm climate of Retalhuleu, where the average temperature stays around +23°C year-round, the basis of your luggage should be light items made from natural breathable fabrics. T-shirts, shorts, summer dresses, and trousers made of cotton or linen will ensure maximum comfort during the day when the air warms up to +27°C. However, since temperatures can drop to +18°C in the evenings and early mornings, especially during the winter months, we recommend taking a light sweater, hoodie, or windbreaker to feel cozy after sunset.

Particular attention should be paid to protection from precipitation, as the amount of rain increases noticeably from May to October. During this period, be sure to pack a compact umbrella or a high-quality raincoat in your suitcase, and also prefer quick-drying clothes. Even in the "drier" months (from December to April), high humidity is possible, so the layering principle will help you quickly adapt to weather changes. Do not forget reliable sun protection: a hat, sunglasses, and high SPF cream are necessary at any time of the year due to the activity of the tropical sun.

For walking around the city and visiting sights, choose comfortable, proven flat-soled shoes, for example, light sneakers or trekking sandals. If you plan active recreation in nature, it is better to take closed shoes that will protect your feet. Also, given the region's humid climate, a useful addition to your first aid kit will be insect repellent, which will make your stay in Guatemala more carefree.