What To Do On A Rainy Day In Guatemala City

The weather in Guatemala is generally pleasant, but there is a rainy season, which runs from May to October. Here are some of the best places to go and things to do if you find yourself in Guatemala City on a wet day.

Delve into local history at a museum

Find out more about the indigenous Mayan culture of Guatemala at the Museo Popol Vuh, named after the sacred book of the Maya, or learn about the colourful textiles worn by locals at the Museo Ixchel del Traje Indigena. Another good choice is the National Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology.

Visit an art gallery

The art scene in Guatemala has been going from strength to strength, and there are some great galleries to visit. From contemporary galleries such as the 9.99 and Proyectos Ultravioleta to cultural spaces such as La Erre and Proyectos Poporopo, there are lots of great places where you can happily while away a few hours.

Vendors even set up stalls on the stairs leading to Mercado Central, Guatemala City

Pick up some souvenirs at the market

Duck into the Mercado Central in Zone 1 to avoid the rain and you’ll be greeted by a riot of noise and colour. It’s a great place to go food shopping, pick up a snap from one of the stalls or get some souvenirs for family and friends.

El Portal, the bar in Guatemala City where Che Guevara used to drink

Go for a drink at El Portal

Che Guevara reportedly used to drink here during his time in Guatemala City, and little has changed since. The decor remains the same, and the staff wear traditional whites. Sit down and order a beer and you’ll get free snacks at the same time. There are lots of screens around, too, so it’s a great place to spend a few hours if you’re into sports.

Shoot some pool

Spend a few hours playing pool and having a few beers until the rain stops. There is a pool table at KARMA Bar in Zone 4, or at the Metrobowl bowling alley in Zone 15. You can also have a game of bowling here if the downpour doesn’t stop.