Best Time of Year to Visit Mexico - Details on Months & Seasons

Why It’s Important to Know the Best Time to Visit Mexico

Mexico is a vast and diverse playground, spanning over 760,000 square miles (1,972,550 sq km) and bordered by the Pacific Ocean, Caribbean Sea, and Gulf of Mexico. With landscapes ranging from arid deserts in the north to lush coastlines and tropical mountains in the south, the country boasts seven unique climate zones that offer something new every season.

To fully experience Mexico's magic, timing is everything. Each region shines differently throughout the year, so knowing when to go can turn your trip into an unforgettable, personalized adventure.

Visiting Mexico: A Month-by-Month Breakdown

Since Mexico’s climate varies greatly across its regions, a monthly guide helps you know when and where to go for the best experiences. Align your trip with the best time for each activity and region to make the most of Mexico’s high altitudes, beaches, forests, and wildlife.

Visiting Mexico In January 

• Season: Dry Season (mid-winter)

• Average Day Temperature: 60°F to 70°F (20°C to 24°C) 

• Average Night Temperature: 50°F (10°C to 15°C)

• Regions to explore: All 

• Key Points:

• Perfect Weather: January offers dry, mild temperatures, making it one of the best months to explore Mexico’s outdoor beauty.

• Less Crowded: Though it’s a busy season, January is generally less crowded than other winter months, letting you enjoy popular spots comfortably.

• Ideal Destinations: The entire coast and inland regions are perfect. Higher altitudes in the north are best during the day; nights can still be colder.

• Monarch Butterfly Season: Check out millions of magical Monarch butterflies migrating from Canada to Michoacan’s Biosphere Reserve from November to March.

• Cabo Whale Shark Season: Swim with the harmless and giant whale sharks in the water of Cabo from November to April.

• Best Activities: 

  • Head to Baja California for whale watching as gray whales migrate here—an absolute must-see!

  • Explore Mayan ruins, hike around Mexico City, and explore the stunning Copper Canyon.

  • Hit the waves in Sayulita, a premier surf destination with perfect January weather.

• Cultural Celebrations and Events:

  • Three Kings Day (Dia de Los Reyes): This early January event celebrates the Three Wise Men, one of Mexico’s most cherished traditions.

  • Merida’s International Art Festival: Enjoy a vibrant mix of cultural events, art exhibits, and shows.

  • Mayan Village Show: Visit Xcaret Park in Cancun to celebrate Mayan traditions with fire ceremonies, festivals, and jungle walks!

Visiting Mexico in February

• Season: Dry season 

• Average Day Temperature: 72°F to 77°F (22°C to 25°C)

• Average Night Temperature: 66°F (19°C)

• Key Points:

• Perfect Weather: February is a fantastic month as the chill of winter fades, giving way to warm, spring-like weather—ideal for beach days, outdoor adventures, and sightseeing.

• Busy Season: February is one of the busiest months in Mexico with travelers flocking to popular spots across the country.

• Ideal Destinations: The entire coast is perfect and inland regions enjoy mild, pleasant weather. Higher altitudes in the north can still be colder.

• Cultural Celebrations and Events:

  • Carnaval (Carnival): Mid-February brings Carnaval celebrations to cities like Veracruz and Mazatlan with lively parades, fireworks, and dancing.

  • Festival Sayulita: This exciting film festival in Sayulita sees beachfront screenings, live music, and culture-packed events. Enjoy local food, surfing, and more!

Visiting Mexico in March

• Season: Dry season

• Average Day Temperature: 22°C to 28°C (72°F to 82°F)

• Average Night Temperature: 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F)

• Key Points: 

• Perfect Weather: March brings warmer temperatures across Mexico, making it perfect for hiking in the northern regions and exploring higher altitudes.

• Busy Season: March is a busy month and more crowded as college students from the U.S. arrive for Spring Break in the last two weeks of March.

• Ideal Destinations: All the beaches, central regions, and mountains in the north have warm weather ideal for getting outdoors and exploring.

• Last Chance for Monarch Butterfly and Cabo Whale Shark seasons. March marks the end of witnessing these natural wonders!

• Cultural Celebrations and Events:

• Spring Equinox at Chichen Itza: Experience the magic of Mayan dance performances amid the ancient pyramid ruins.

• Festival Internacional de Guitarra: This festival in Morelia celebrates guitar music with musicians worldwide.

Visiting Mexico in April

• Season: Spring Season 

• Average Day Temperature: 60°F to 70°F (18°C to 24°C)

• Average Night Temperature: 72°F (22°C )

• Average Rainfall: Up to 3 inches (77 mm) 

• Key Points:

• Seasonal Transition: April is a beautiful month of transition as spring brings vibrant blooms and a shift from dry to early rains in the southernmost regions—still ideal for beaches and outdoor activities.  

• Fewer Crowds: With the high season wrapping up, April offers a calmer atmosphere and better prices.

• Weather Highlights: Sunshine peaks along the eastern coast for ideal marine activities, while central and northern Mexico see little to no rain. Southern areas may experience a few early showers.

• Ideal Destinations: The eastern coast, central and north regions. Southern beaches may experience irregular rains, so plan accordingly.

• Cultural Celebrations and Events:

  • Semana Santa (Holy Week): One of Mexico’s most important holidays from Palm Sunday to Easter Sunday with colorful processions, music, and festivities honoring the Virgin Mary and the resurrection of Christ.

Visiting Mexico in May

• Season: Spring Season 

• Average Day Temperature: 60°F to 90°F (18°C to 34°C)

• Average Night Temperature: 73°F (23°C)

• Average Rainfall: Up to 8 inches (200 mm)

• Key Points:

• Hottest Month: With the full spring season, May is perfect for enjoying beaches, outdoor adventures, and sightseeing.

• Fewer Crowds: With fewer crowds and better prices, May offers a more relaxed travel experience.

• Weather Highlights: Central and northern regions remain dry, while southern states experience higher rainfall. Eastern coastal areas see rising rainfall but less than the south.

• Ideal Destinations: Central and northern regions. You can still visit beaches since the rains may last for 1-2 hours only.

• Cultural Celebrations and Events:

• Cinco de Mayo on 5th May celebrates Mexico's victory over the Second French Empire.

• Dia de la Santa Cruz or Day of the Holy Cross annual celebration on May 3rd.

Visiting Mexico in June

• Season: Summer Season

• Average Day Temperature: 88°F (31°C)

• Average Night Temperature: 75–76°F (23–24°C)

• Average Rainfall: 6-12 inches (150-300 mm) in southern states

• Key Points:

• Peak of Summer: Summer and rainy seasons coincide in Mexico so June marks the peak of summer with rains in some regions, suitable for beach trips along the eastern coast and exploring historical sites in central Mexico. Rain showers typically last only 1-2 hours.

• Fewer Crowds: There is comparatively less tourist activity. Although locals flock to the beaches before school resumes after summer vacation.

• Weather Highlights: Central and northern regions stay dry, while southern Mexico experiences heavy rainfall.

• Ideal Destinations: Central and northern regions. You can still visit beaches since rains may last for only 1-2 hours.

• Cultural Celebrations and Events:

• Dia de San Juan (June 23-24): Celebration of Saint John the Baptist's birth with lively festivities.

Visiting Mexico in July

• Season: Summer Season

• Average Day Temperature: 82°F to 91°F (28°C to 33°C)

• Average Night Temperature: 73°F (23°C) 

• Average Rainfall: 4.7-9.8 inches (120-250 mm)

• Key Points: 

• Hot and Humid: July brings high temperatures and humidity, but it’s still a good time for beachgoers, especially along the eastern coast. Central Mexico and northern regions are suitable for outdoor exploration with warmer temperatures.

• Rainy Season: Most areas, including central regions, receive significant rainfall, so be prepared for sudden downpours.

• Ideal Destinations: Central and northern regions but expect rains.

• Cultural Celebrations and Events:

• Guelaguetza is a vibrant annual indigenous cultural celebration held in Oaxaca in the last two weeks of July, celebrating the region's rich heritage.

• Ruta del Vino Bike Ride and Wine Festival in Baja California is a one-of-a-kind event where you get to ride through the largest wineries at scenic locations.

Visiting Mexico in August

• Season: Tropical Summer 

• Average Day Temperature: 82°F (28°C)

• Average Night Temperature: 75°F (24°C)

• Average Rainfall: 6-8 inches (150-200 mm) in coastal areas

• Key Points: 

• Warm and Humid: August brings warm, humid weather, making beach destinations less ideal, though central areas enjoy a cooler, moderate climate with irregular rains throughout the day—and lush greenery.

• Hurricane Season: This month falls within the hurricane season (July to October), so be cautious of weather patterns, though locals still head to the beaches for holiday fun.

• Ideal Destinations: Central and northern regions.

• Cultural Celebrations and Events:

• Nanacamilpa Firefly Sanctuary: A magical experience awaits in Tlaxcala, where thousands of fireflies illuminate the night sky—a rare natural wonder that peaks in August.

Visiting Mexico in September

• Season: Rainy Season

• Average Day Temperature: 68°F to 88°F (20°C to 31°C)

• Average Night Temperature: 73°F (23°C)

• Average Rainfall: 6-8 inches (150-200mm) in coastal areas

• Key Points:

  • Transition to Fall: September eases out of the summer heat, bringing pleasant temperatures throughout Mexico. Beaches may still experience some showers as hurricane season continues, but overall weather is more temperate.

  • Ideal Shoulder Season: With fewer tourists, September offers a perfect mix of quiet beaches, affordable rates, and ideal conditions in central and northern Mexico.

  • Ideal Destinations: Central and northern regions. 

  • Cultural Celebrations and Events:

    • Festival Internacional de Santa Lucia: From late September to early October, this vibrant festival is Mexico's third-largest music event.

    • Independence Day Festivities: On September 16, expect spirited celebrations across Mexico as the country commemorates its independence.

Visiting Mexico in October

• Season: Summer Season

• Average Day Temperature: 77°F to 86°F (25°C to 30°C)

• Average Night Temperature: 72°F to 81°F (22°C to 27°C)

• Average Rainfall: 4-6 inches (100-150 mm) in coastal regions

• Key Points: 

  • Prime Shoulder Season: October is an ideal month to visit as summer heat fades and the rainy season winds down. Temperatures are cooler and humidity drops, creating a comfortable climate for outdoor exploration.

  • Weather Highlights: Coastal areas still experience rain, but inland regions and northern mountains see cooler, more pleasant weather.

  • Ideal Destinations: Central and northern regions.

  • Cultural Celebrations and Events:

    • Feria de Colima (late October to November 11) is a major festival in Colima.

    • Festival Internacional Cervantino (mid-October): Held in Guanajuato this is one of Latin America's premier arts festivals showcasing a blend of Mexican and international music for almost 16 days.

Visiting Mexico in November

• Season: Rainy to Dry season

• Average Day Temperature: 72°F to 75°F (24°C to 22°C)

• Average Night Temperature: 70°F (21°C)

• Key Points: 

• Prime Shoulder Season: November is perfect as rains and summer heat subside, but the high-season crowds haven’t arrived yet.

• Weather Highlights: Northern regions cool down significantly, while central and coastal areas enjoy comfortable, mild temperatures. Coastal spots are popular, drawing visitors seeking warmth and sunshine as winter approaches in the northern hemisphere.

• Ideal Destinations: All regions.

• Cultural Celebrations and Events:

• Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead): This celebration honors departed loved ones and reflects a deep cultural acceptance of life and death.

Visiting Mexico in December

• Season: Dry Season

• Average Day Temperature: 77°F (25°C)

• Average Night Temperature: 50°F to 77°F (10°C to 25°C)

• Key Points:

• Peak Travel Season: December ushers in the busy season with winter weather drawing visitors to Mexico's warm, sunny shores.

• Weather Highlights: Coastal areas remain delightfully warm, around 77°F (25°C), offering a sunny escape from sub-zero, snowier climates elsewhere.

• Ideal Destinations: All regions.

• Cultural Celebrations and Events:

• Christmas Celebrations: Experience unique Mexican holiday traditions as Mexico fills with colorful lights and joyous gatherings everywhere.

Hottest Time to go to Mexico

• May to July is the hottest time in Mexico

Why should you book your Mexico adventure with AdventureTripr?

Picking the right month for your Mexico climb can elevate your adventure. With Mexico’s varied climates, some months bring perfect weather for hiking volcanoes or exploring rugged trails while others are best for sunshine on beaches. When you book with AdventureTripr, you’ll get insider tips on the best timing, tailored itineraries, and a hassle-free experience. Leave the planning to us, and get ready for a climb you’ll never forget!

Frequently Asked Questions:

Question 1: What is the best time of year to visit Mexico?

Answer 1: The best time to visit Mexico depends on your destination and activities. November through April is popular for overall cooler and drier weather. However, visiting in the shoulder seasons (May to June and October to November) offers fewer crowds, lower prices, and good weather in many regions.

Question 2: When is Mexico's rainy season?

Answer 2: Mexico's rainy season is from May to October. Coastal and southern regions experience the most rainfall while central and northern regions see irregular showers. 

Question 3: Are there any months to avoid due to hurricanes?

Answer 3: The Atlantic hurricane season runs from July to October, with August to October being the most active months. It's best to avoid these months, especially in coastal regions.

Question 4: When is the best time to visit Mexico for beach vacations?

Answer 4: November to April is ideal but May is the hottest and least crowded.

Question: When is the best time for hiking and climbing in Mexico?

Answer: The best months for hiking and climbing are typically November to March as cooler temperatures make outdoor adventures in higher altitudes and central Mexico comfortable.