Rainy Season – Reasons to Visit

Lake Atitlan is known as the “Land of Eternal Spring”. As such, it’s a beautiful place to visit throughout the whole year. Guatemala is a tropical/semi-tropical country, as such, there are basically two seasons. These are known as the dry season and the rainy season. The dry season takes place from December to March which ”they say” is the best times to travel to the region, but many don’t realize how hospitable Lake Atitlan remains during the summer months.

People miss the beauty and majesty of the rainy season, which runs from April to November. This time of year stays warmer at night, and is the perfect time to enjoy a dip in the lake. Although the rains sometimes slow travel in the afternoons, they usually consist of predictable, regular showers that are easy to enjoy.  There’s no better time to take some space from the hustle and bustle of daily life, slow down with a retreat, and enjoy the local activities. Here are some reasons why one should travel to Lake Atitlan during the rainy season.

1. Most Beautiful Thunderstorms

Think of sitting in places like the Doron Yoga Shala or Buddha Cafe, sipping a spicy hot chocolate or a glass of red wine and be amazed by the flashes of a thunderstorm happening frequently across Lake Atitlan. The volcanoes (Toliman and Atitlan) are illuminated by the glow. It is a spectacular –  beautiful lightning across the dark sky right after dinner. Safely sheltered from the rain, the sound of rain adds to the serenity of the center, and helps awaken your inner zen.

2. Fewer Tourists

As many travelers think that the rainy season gives fewer options for traveling, one big benefit is that are are fewer tourists around the lake and villages. Boats are less packed, and you can enjoy a more local experience from start to finish. In terms of a retreat, it’s a perfect time for peace and calm. An opportunity to dive deep in, and have some personal time. Yoga classes here are smaller and more intimate with more personal attention. Still, there are many kind-hearted souls to connect with and get to know.

3. Waterfall Showers

During the dry season many of the waterfalls around Tzununa are dry. Once it starts raining again, everything becomes green around the hills and the waterfalls are flowing with fresh water. From Doron Yoga there is a short walk to one of the beautiful waterfalls where you can take a refreshing shower. The river that runs through the property is also fuller, cleaner, and flows stronger throughout the season.

4. More Affordable

As it is a low season, most local businesses decrease their prices, or offer special discounts. Summer is the optimal time to make the most out of your time at Atitlan. At Doron Yoga, we offer 10% off personal retreats from May-October. 

5. Green Green Green!

At the dry season, the mountains are more exposed and the ground is dry. Truthfully, everything is dry. Rainy season brings in so much abundance of life.  If you are looking to connect with Nature, rainy season is really the only choice for visiting the lake. The coffee plants bloom with delicate white flowers and red berries. Green maize covers the mountains, the jocote trees give their delicious orange fruit, birds are chirping, and the river is flowing with more power. The valley is rich with growth and flow while the  mountains around flourish. All turns lush, and it is the purest nourishment for the body, mind and soul.

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