If you’re wondering when the best time to visit Mexico is, our informative guide is on hand with travel advice for every month of the year. Plus, we’ve thrown in some of the top things to do whilst you’re there, too.
With its irresistible blend of culture, stunning landscapes and rich history, Mexico is an absolute must-visit destination. From enchanting beaches along the Caribbean and Pacific coasts to the awe-inspiring ancient ruins of the Aztecs, this destination offers a diverse range of experiences for every adventurer.
Whether you’re looking to indulge in the lively street markets, savour world-class cuisine or witness traditions that come alive amid a calendar of celebrations and festivals throughout the year, Mexico really should be at the top of your bucket list for 2024.
Best time of year to Visit Mexico
The best time to visit Mexico, like any country, largely depends on your travel preferences. Mexico is a large country and each different region offers a varied experience – from balmy beach escapes to cultural exploration and outdoor activities. We’ve rounded up optimal times to visit based on weather, crowds, budget and beyond, below, so you can get started on your itinerary.
Cheapest time to visit Mexico
The rainy season from May through to October in Mexico is typically the cheapest time of year to visit. Prices for flights and accommodation tend to be lower due to the weather conditions – there are also higher chances of hurricanes along the coast during these months.
Best time to visit Mexico to avoid crowds
If you’re looking to avoid the rush of people and hustle and bustle of other tourists then you should consider visiting Mexico in late spring (April through to early June) and early Autumn (September to October). These periods offer pleasant weather and fewer tourists compared to the peak winter months.
Best time to visit Mexico for good weather
Looking for that summer glow? The ideal time to visit Mexico for beautiful weather is during the dry season from November to April. Throughout these months you can almost guarantee lush sunny days, comfortable temperatures and minimal rainfall, making it the perfect time for leisurely beach days, outdoor activities and exploration without the interruption of heavy rainfalls. If you’re heading to popular tourist spots such as Cancun and Los Cabos, you’ll experience warmth and sunshine year-round.
Best time to visit Mexico with family
Whisking the family away to Mexico for a week or two? The ideal time to go would be during the winter months from December to April. Pleasant weather, fewer tourists and a range of family-oriented activities are in abundance during these months, perfect for all ages.
The Best Season to Visit Mexico
The dry season runs from November to April and serves up glorious weather ideal for outdoor adventures and activities. If keeping your budget down is key for you or you’re looking for a quieter experience, you should consider travelling in late spring and early autumn, both seasons offer the chance to avoid peak crowds, extreme weather, and can be more cost-efficient.
A month-by-month guide to visiting Mexico
Mexico in January
January in Mexico offers travellers a range of diverse weather across its regions. If you’re looking to pitch up along the Caribbean and Pacific coasts, you can expect beautiful sunshine and warm temperatures of 24°C-29°C with minimal rainfall, making it perfect for lazy beach retreats across popular tourist destinations such as Cancun, Playa del Carmen and Puerto Vallarta.
If cultural exploration is for you, there are many festivals and events during this month including the annual Dia de Reyes (the Day of the Kings) celebration, on January 6th, offering an insight into Mexican traditions.
Mexico in February
If you’re travelling to Mexico in February you can enjoy warm, sunny temperatures along the coasts, without too much humidity, making it perfect for outdoor activities such as snorkelling and watersports. Beachfront resorts in Cancun, Playa del Carmen and Cabo San Lucas are popular winter sun destinations in February.
If you’re looking to stay somewhere with cooler temperatures of around 18°C – 21°C, Mexico City is the perfect place, where you can explore historical sites such as Teotihuacan and also indulge in rich Mexican cuisine.
Mexico in March
March in Mexico marks the start of the beautiful weather and also numerous cultural events, such as Semana Santa (Holy Week) processions and festivities in the lead up to Easter. If you like a busy itinerary, you can indulge in a diverse range of activities across Mexico’s rich regions.
Puerto Vallarta on the coast offers hot sunny days perfect for the beach, with temperatures ranging from 24°C – 32°C and Mexico City will see temperatures of around 18°C – 24°C, providing pleasant weather for exploring historical sites and museums.
Mexico in April
Nature enthusiasts should visit the Mexican State of Baja California for its exceptional Whale-watching opportunities in April, while Copper Canyon in the Sierra Madre Occidental mountains is a beautiful place to visit for its stunning scenery and wildflower blooms.
Temperatures continue to hover between 24°C – 32°C down on the coast and 18°C – 24°C further inland. If you would like to explore some of Mexico’s historic sites, we suggest checking out the Zocalo and Frida Kahlo Museums. Also, don’t miss out on Teotihuacan’s ancient pyramids – a sight to behold.
Mexico in May
Travelling to Mexico in May? Make sure you’re somewhere where you can enjoy the annual Cinco De Mayo celebrations, held on 5th May, which is a celebration of Mexico’s victory over the second French Empire at the Battle of Puebla in 1862.
May is also the beginning of the off-peak season, meaning fewer tourists and more affordable prices. Explorers should visit the picturesque town of Oaxaca, renowned for its indulgent culinary scene and indigenous culture. Additionally, you could visit the stunning Mayan Ruins of Chichen Itza.
Mexico in May promises diverse experiences and affordability, making it a great time for travellers to visit.
Mexico in June
June in Mexico starts to see the beginning of the rainy season, so occasional showers and humidity are common. If you’re eager to tick off some sights and landmarks, head over to the National Museum of Anthropology in Mexico City.
Other popular attractions across the country include the Mayan Ruins of Tulum, the hustle and bustle of the Oaxaca markets and the famous powder-white beaches of Tulum and Isla Holbox. June can be a great time to visit, however, be prepared for some wet weather in many of its regions.
Mexico in July
It may be the start of the rainy season, but you can still expect some humidity across coastal destinations such as Cancun and Puerto Vallarta in July, with temperatures varying between 27°C – 32°C.
Temperatures around Mexico city hover around 18°C – 24°C degrees, providing perfect conditions to explore cultural sites such as the National Palace and the Frida Kahlo Museum.
Popular attractions in July also include Chichen Itza’s Ancient Ruins, the charming town of San Miguel de Allende and the picturesque beaches of Playa del Carmen. Festival wise, July also marks the start of the Guelaguetza festival in Oaxaca, where you can witness traditional artistry and dances.
Mexico in August
While the warm weather turns up a notch in August, the rainy season remains in full flow. With frequent showers still present, this makes it a great time to explore some of Mexico’s lush jungles and waterfalls.
Inland Mexico still sees milder temperatures, providing tourists ideal weather to explore cultural gems such as the Metropolitan Cathedral and Chapultepec Castle. August also features local festivals, like the Mariachi Festival in Guadalajara.
Mexico in September
September in Mexico marks the tail end of the rainy season and starts to prepare for its Independence Day celebrations taking place on the 16th of the month, with lively parades and festivities nationwide. It’s an excellent time to explore Mexico’s rich cultural heritage with attractions such as the waterfalls of Chiapas and the Templo Mayor and Diego Rivera’s murals being must-visits.
Mexico in October
As the rainy season in Mexico starts to wind down, October in Mexico offers a diverse range of experiences for visitors. Coastal areas like Playa del Carmen and Cancun start to see recent warmer climates ease up slightly, making it great for beach relaxation and watersports – the beautiful beaches of Zihuatanejo are highly recommended. The country also starts to prepare for the world-famous Dia de los Muertos (Day of The Dead) celebrations, which take place in November.
Mexico in November
November is one of the best times to travel to Mexico. The country is ablaze with wild celebrations for the popular Dia de Los Muertos; if you can, plan to visit during this vibrant festival, where you’ll witness families throw parties at cemeteries and cover their loved ones’ gravestones in marigolds and candles. The locals love to dress up in their best Halloween costumes and decorate the streets, so you can expect a display that will leave your eyes and imagination dazzled.
Mexico in December
Looking to spend Christmas in Mexico? The charming town of San Miguel de Allende sure knows how to enjoy the season’s festivities with a beautiful array of decorations across the town sure to leave your heart feeling warm and fuzzy. December in Mexico is prime time to enjoy rich cultural traditions and festivities too, with traditional posadas (inns or lodges) hosting holiday gatherings in the lead up to Christmas, from December 16th to 24th.
Mexico is a destination for all seasons. Choosing when and where to go can be challenging, but with our detailed guide, we hope to simplify that decision for you. Whether you’re looking to relax on the sun-kissed beaches of Cancun and Playa del Carmen, partake in vibrant festivals, marvel over the cultural riches of Mexico City and Oaxaca or admire archaeological jewels such as Chichen Itza – there’s something to do for every traveller.
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FAQs for the Best Time to Visit Mexico
The rainy season in Mexico varies across its different regions, however, it typically occurs from June through to September. Coastal areas such as Cancun and Puerto Vallarta experience heavier rainfall during these months.
A week to ten days in Mexico gives you plenty of time to experience some of its key attractions across one or two of its regions – should you wish to do some travelling. If you’re looking for a more comprehensive trip, then you should consider staying for two to three weeks, giving you the ideal amount of time to truly immerse yourself in Mexican culture and explore its diverse landscapes.