Weather overview
Чальчуапа enjoys a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. From November to April, the weather in Чальчуапе is mostly dry, with warm days and cooler nights. This period is ideal for exploring the town’s archaeological sites and nearby landscapes without frequent rain interruptions.
Starting in May, the rainy season gradually sets in, peaking between June and September. While downpours can be heavy, they are often short-lived, leaving plenty of time for outdoor activities. The lush greenery that emerges during these months adds a vibrant touch to Чальчуапу and its surroundings.
By October, rainfall begins to taper off, and the transition back to drier conditions starts. The air remains warm year-round, making Чальчуапа a comfortable destination regardless of the season.
Temperature
Temperatures in Чальчуапе stay consistently warm, with daytime highs ranging from +30.3 °C in November to +34.9 °C in April. The hottest months are March and April, when the sun is strongest and shade becomes especially welcome during midday hours.
Nighttime temperatures offer slight relief, dropping to around +18.6 °C in February and +21.3 °C in May. Even during the cooler months, such as December and January, the difference between day and night is modest, rarely exceeding 10 °C.
The rainy season brings a slight dip in daytime temperatures, with highs around +31.3 °C in June and +31.6 °C in September. However, the humidity makes the air feel warmer, so lightweight clothing remains essential throughout the year.
| Month | Minimum | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| January | 18.7 | 31.6 |
| February | 18.6 | 32.7 |
| March | 19.8 | 34.8 |
| April | 20.6 | 34.9 |
| May | 21.3 | 34.5 |
| June | 20.4 | 31.3 |
| July | 20.5 | 32.8 |
| August | 20.4 | 32.3 |
| September | 20.3 | 31.6 |
| October | 20.1 | 30.9 |
| November | 19.7 | 30.3 |
| December | 19.2 | 30.9 |
Precipitation
The dry season in Чальчуапе spans from November to April, with rainfall as low as 5.5 mm in January and 9 mm in February. These months are characterized by clear skies and minimal precipitation, making them popular for travel and outdoor exploration.
Rainfall increases sharply in May, reaching 123.3 mm, and peaks in June with 370.5 mm. The heaviest downpours occur between June and September, though they are typically brief and followed by sunshine. October sees a gradual decline in rainfall, with 188.8 mm, before the dry season resumes.
Despite the intensity of the rainy season, Чальчуапа rarely experiences prolonged storms. The showers are often predictable, occurring in the late afternoon or evening, which allows for morning activities to proceed as planned.
| Month | Precipitation |
|---|---|
| January | 5.5 |
| February | 9 |
| March | 16 |
| April | 68.3 |
| May | 123.3 |
| June | 370.5 |
| July | 164.6 |
| August | 170.7 |
| September | 236.8 |
| October | 188.8 |
| November | 87 |
| December | 18.3 |
What to pack
For visits to Чальчуапе during the dry season, pack lightweight, breathable clothing to stay comfortable in the warm temperatures. A wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential for protection against the strong sun, especially in March and April.
During the rainy season, a compact umbrella or a light rain jacket will come in handy for sudden showers. Quick-drying fabrics are ideal, as humidity can make clothes feel damp even when it’s not raining. Footwear with good grip is useful for navigating wet paths or uneven terrain.
Year-round, Чальчуапа’s warm climate means you won’t need heavy layers. However, a light sweater or shawl can be useful for cooler evenings, particularly in December and January, when temperatures dip slightly.
| Month | Wind speed |
|---|---|
| January | 2.4 |
| February | 2.4 |
| March | 2.1 |
| April | 1.8 |
| May | 1.7 |
| June | 1.3 |
| July | 1.8 |
| August | 1.5 |
| September | 1.3 |
| October | 1.5 |
| November | 2.3 |
| December | 2.5 |