Best time to visit Mexico

Understanding Mexico’s Seasons: A General Overview

Mexico’s vast size means its climate varies significantly from the desert north to the tropical south. However, there are general seasonal patterns that provide a useful starting point. Consider this a quick-reference guide to the country’s rhythm before we explore the specifics of each region.

High Season (December – April)

• Weather: This period offers what many consider perfect conditions: generally dry, sunny, and pleasantly warm across most of the country. It is the most reliable time for excellent weather.
• Crowds & Prices: Expect the largest crowds and highest prices for flights and accommodations. This is especially true during the peak holiday weeks of Christmas, New Year’s, and Easter/Spring Break (Semana Santa).
• Best for: Travelers seeking guaranteed sunshine and a welcome escape from colder northern winters.

Shoulder Seasons (May – June & October – November)

• Weather: These are transitional months. May and June can be quite hot just before the summer rains begin. October and November mark the end of the rainy season, revealing incredibly lush landscapes and progressively clearer skies.
• Crowds & Prices: You will find fewer crowds and more competitive pricing. These months offer a superb balance of favorable weather and greater value.
• Best for: Budget-conscious travelers and those who prefer a more relaxed atmosphere without the peak-season crowds.

Low/Rainy Season (July – September)

• Weather: This season is characterized by afternoon showers and higher humidity, particularly in the south and along the coasts. It is important to note that it rarely rains all day. This is also hurricane season for coastal regions.

– Crowds & Prices: This is the period with the fewest tourists and, consequently, the lowest prices for travel and lodging.

• Best for: Travelers on a strict budget who don’t mind some rain and wish to see the country at its greenest and most vibrant.

A note on hurricane season: While the risk of a major storm exists, it is not a constant threat. We strongly advise purchasing comprehensive travel insurance and monitoring weather forecasts closely if your travel dates fall within this period.

Regional Climate Breakdown: When to Go Where

This is perhaps the most important section for planning your trip. The “best time to visit” truly depends on which part of Mexico you will be experiencing. Below is a guide to the distinct climates of the country’s most popular regions.

Caribbean Coast (Cancún, Tulum, Riviera Maya)

Best Time (December – April):

• You’ll find perfect beach weather: consistently sunny days, low humidity, and minimal rainfall.
• Conditions are ideal for snorkeling and diving, with excellent underwater visibility.

Shoulder Time (May, October, November):

• May is hotter and more humid as the season begins to shift. November is particularly beautiful as the rains subside and the landscape is still green.
• These months are excellent for avoiding the peak season crowds and prices while still enjoying pleasant weather.

Time to Be Cautious (June – September):

• Hurricane season is active in the Atlantic. While direct hits are not a daily concern, the risk is higher during these months.
• Expect frequent, though usually brief, afternoon thunderstorms and high humidity.
• Sargassum seaweed can be an issue on the beaches during the warmer months. We recommend checking recent local sargassum reports online if traveling during this time.

Pacific Coast (Puerto Vallarta, Sayulita, Cabo San Lucas)

Best Time (November – May):

• Enjoy dry, sunny, and warm days complemented by cooler, comfortable evenings.
• This timeframe aligns with the spectacular humpback whale watching season, which typically runs from mid-December to March.

Shoulder Time (June & October):

• These months mark the beginning and end of the rainy season. Good deals on accommodations can often be found.
• The landscape is particularly green and vibrant in October following the summer rains.

Time to Be Cautious (July – September):

• This is the rainiest and most humid period. The Pacific coast also has a hurricane season, so it is wise to be aware of forecasts.
• For surfers, this is a prime time to visit, as the summer swells are at their peak.

Central Highlands (Mexico City, San Miguel de Allende, Oaxaca)

Best Time (October – May):

• This is the dry season, offering mild, spring-like weather. Days are typically warm and sunny, while nights are cool and crisp.
• The months of March through May are the warmest, just before the rains begin.

It is worth noting that Mexico City’s high altitude (2,240m / 7,350ft) keeps it from getting excessively hot, even during its warmest months.

Rainy Season (June – September):

• This is not a bad time to visit the highlands. Rain typically arrives in short, intense afternoon bursts, often clearing up for pleasant evenings.
• The countryside is beautifully lush and green, and major tourist sites are generally less crowded than during the high season.

Traveling by Month: A Snapshot

For a quick overview, here is a summary of what to expect throughout the year:

• January – March: Peak season. Excellent weather nearly everywhere. Prime time for whale watching on the Pacific coast.
• April – May: Shoulder season. The weather gets hotter across the country. Good deals can be found before the summer rains begin.
• June – September: Low/Rainy season. Expect afternoon showers and high humidity on the coasts. This is the period of highest hurricane risk. Prices are at their lowest.
• October – November: Shoulder season. The rains subside, leaving behind stunningly green landscapes. This is the time for Day of the Dead celebrations.
• December: High season begins. Weather is fantastic, but be prepared for holiday crowds and a sharp increase in prices toward the end of the month.

Key Events & Festivals to Plan Around

Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead – Late Oct/Early Nov)

This unique and profound celebration of life and memory is best experienced in cities with deep-rooted traditions, such as Oaxaca, Pátzcuaro, or certain neighborhoods in Mexico City.

Please be advised that this is a major cultural event that draws visitors from around the globe. It is essential to book flights and hotels many months, or even a year, in advance to secure reservations.

Semana Santa (Holy Week – The week before Easter)

This is one of the most important national holidays in Mexico. Expect widespread travel by Mexican families, leading to crowded beaches, full hotels, and peak pricing, particularly in coastal destinations. Many businesses may operate on reduced hours.

Whale Watching Season (December – March)

A truly magnificent natural spectacle. The best viewing is primarily in Baja California for gray whales and in the Bay of Banderas near Puerto Vallarta for humpback whales.

Monarch Butterfly Migration (Late Oct – March)

Witness millions of Monarch butterflies as they winter in the oyamel fir forests of Michoacán and the State of Mexico, located a few hours’ drive from Mexico City. For the most impressive viewing, plan your visit for January or February when the colonies are most active.