When is the Best Time to Visit Mexico
Mexico is a vast county with 4 time zones, meaning you’re likely to experience a variety of weather conditions depending on where you’re visiting. The country has a diverse landscape too, ranging from sandy beaches to rocky canyons, bustling cities, and historical towns.
Generally, the best time to visit Mexico would be between December to March as the hurricane season is over and the weather is typically settled and dry.
Visiting Mexico in January
January is a pleasant month to visit Mexico in which you can expect warm, dry, and sunny weather in contrast with snow-covered mountains. Although it is mid-winter, it is still warm enough for exploring the local area or heading to the beach. Whale-watching season is in full flow off Baja California and migratory birds are in abundance.
Visiting Mexico in February
Much the same as January, February is mid-winter in Mexico, but you’ll still experience warm temperatures in some regions. This is the best month to visit before the spring tourist season arrives; so, you can explore key attractions and beaches without the crowds. Whale watching in Baja California continues, while Mexico’s biggest fiesta – Carnaval occurs which features a mix of fantastic costumes, food, music, and dancing.
Visiting Mexico in March
Temperatures start to pick up in March and coastal resorts including the likes of Riviera Maya start to welcome the spring crowds. This is the last month of the year for whale watching, but Easter celebrations begin. Be aware that shops, attractions, and restaurants are closed during Holy Week, so isn’t the best time to travel around towns and cities in Mexico.
Visiting Mexico in April
Temperatures are still increasing throughout April and mark the last of the dry weather before the rainy season arrives. Midway through the month, the spring tourists will start to diminish, so you can visit local villages and beaches in a more relaxing and leisurely manner.
Visiting Mexico in May
Although May is one of the hottest months of the year in Mexico, it also marks the start of the rainy season. Short, sharp showers start in the south, before gradually moving north. As May is ‘shoulder month’ and typically quieter than March and April, it is a good time to visit key sites including Tulum, Chichen Itza, and Palenque so you don’t have to worry about the crowds.
Visiting Mexico in June
June is hot, humid, and rainy. It also marks the beginning of the hurricane season – so don’t be surprised if locals decide to shut up shop at this time of year. During this month, why not instead explore the natural beauty of Mexico in the form of its lush jungles and historical sites in the major cities?
Visiting Mexico in July
July is the peak month of the rainy season, so expect heavy downpours almost every day – especially in the afternoon. Yet, the climate remains hot and sticky. To cool off, why not take a relaxing dip in the Mayan Riviera? Grab your binoculars to spot whale sharks in large numbers off the Yucatan Peninsula. If you’re not a fan of heat, escaping to the inland Mexico City would be ideal, thanks to the cooler and more comfortable temperatures.
Visiting Mexico in August
Considered as low season across the country, August is the rainiest month of the year, particularly on the Pacific coast. There is a significantly higher chance of hurricanes, while temperatures and humidity levels are high. Again, you may decide to escape to inland regions for cooler and more settled weather.
Visiting Mexico in September
The hurricane season continues in September; therefore, tourist numbers are low. During this month, the country celebrates Independence Day with locals gathering to drink, dance, and share food while firework shows, and colourful parades take place.
Visiting Mexico in October
October is officially the last month of the rainy season, so heavy showers become much sparser, and temperatures start to cool off. But with the risk of hurricanes still present, be aware that beaches are likely to be closed during the whole of the month.
Visiting Mexico in November
November is considered one of the best times of the year to visit Mexico. The torrential downpours are far and few between and the weather is hot, sunny, and dry. On the 1st of November, residents celebrate the ‘Day of the Dead’ festival to honour loved ones who have died, in which you can expect to see outrageous costumes and get involved with lively festivals.
Visiting Mexico in December
Sunny, dry, and pleasantly cooler, December is another great month to visit Mexico. Whale watching season begins in Baja California and Christmas is a major holiday in Mexico with festive celebrations in full force, so book well in advance to secure flights and hotels.