Semuc Champey Weather Guide: Seasons, Rain & Climate

Semuc Champey is a natural monument located in the deep, subtropical rainforests of Alta Verapaz, Guatemala. Its climate is defined by high humidity, consistent warmth, and two distinct seasons—the dry season (Verano) and the rainy season (Invierno)—which dictate the color and clarity of its famous limestone pools.

Typical Weather Patterns

Because it sits at a relatively low altitude (approximately 341 meters) compared to the Guatemalan highlands, Semuc Champey is significantly hotter and more humid than nearby Cobán. The region experiences a tropical rainforest climate, meaning rain can happen at any time of year, even during the peak of the dry season. The annual average temperature stays around 25°C (77°F), but high humidity often makes the "real feel" much hotter.

The Daily Cycle

The day typically begins with a heavy mist or fog clinging to the dense jungle canopy. As the sun rises, the temperature climbs rapidly, peaking between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM. This is the period of highest humidity, often referred to by locals as being "stuffy" or "sticky." In the rainy season, you can almost set your watch by the afternoon showers, which usually arrive between 3:00 PM and 5:00 PM. Evenings bring a slight cooling effect, but the dense forest traps heat, ensuring nights remain mild and rarely drop below 18°C (64°F).

Seasonal Trends

• Dry Season (November to April): This is the high season for travelers. Skies are generally clearer, and the pools reach their iconic turquoise-blue hue because there is less sediment-heavy runoff from the hills. March and April are the hottest months, with temperatures occasionally reaching 32°C (90°F).
• Rainy Season (May to October): Rainfall increases dramatically, often in the form of intense afternoon thunderstorms. During this time, the surrounding Cahabón River—which normally flows beneath the limestone bridge—can swell. If rainfall is exceptionally heavy, the river may overflow the bridge, turning the turquoise pools into a muddy chocolate brown.
• The Canícula (July/August): A unique logic-defying period occurs in late July or early August known as the canícula. This is a brief "mini-dry season" within the rainy season characterized by a week or two of hot, dry weather, offering a window of clear water and bright sun before the heavy rains return in September.

Local Experience and Adaptations

Locals in the nearby town of Lanquín manage the weather by starting their day very early to avoid the midday convective heat. The tropical rain is so frequent that it is rarely seen as an interruption; life continues under the canopy, though the unpaved roads leading to the monument can become treacherous and muddy. The local Q'eqchi' Maya names for the area reflect its hydrology, with "Semuc Champey" meaning "where the river hides under the earth."

Microclimates and Specific Phenomena

The limestone bridge itself acts as a thermal regulator. While the Cahabón River rushing underneath is cold and powerful, the tier of pools on top is fed by smaller springs and rainfall. These pools are generally warmer (roughly 20°C to 22°C / 68°F to 72°F) than the river, creating a refreshing but manageable temperature for swimming.

Historical Context and Hazards

Historically, the Alta Verapaz region is one of the wettest in Guatemala. Significant weather events, such as hurricanes or tropical depressions from the Caribbean, can cause the Cahabón River to rise so high that it completely submerges the limestone bridge. In such cases, the park is closed for safety until the water levels recede and the bridge is cleared of debris.