Best Time To Visit Mexico - When To Go For by Month

Hola. Are you far behind on deciding when to buy your ticket for the upcoming journey to Mexico? Don’t worry, we’ve got your back. 

It goes without saying that Mexico is a special destination for everyone. With a stunning and diverse landscape, a vibrant culture, and world-renowned cuisine, there is so much to do and see (and eat!) in Mexico. 

In this article, our CabinZero team has summarised all the best times to visit Mexico as well as some interesting festivals and events for you to try out. Just walk through the month-by-month guide to Mexico so that your travel experience can be as amazing as it can be. Let us get started!

Best Time To Travel In Mexico For Your Best Trip: Month-by-month Guide

At a glance, Mexico's climate varies from arid to tropical, with a defined split.  Divided by the Tropic of Cancer, while the northern part of the country experiences cooler temperatures during the winter, the temperature remains constant in the southern regions throughout the year. 

That said,  we can hardly tell which is the best time to travel to Mexico. It's always a good time to travel, depending on your preferences. However, there are some variables that you might want to keep in mind to enjoy your trip to the fullest.

Image from Unsplash

Visiting Mexico in January - February

As part of the dry season, the weather during January and February across most of the country tends to be quite warm, even though this time of year is technically mid-winter. 

The temperature ranges from 26°C to 33°C, and there are almost no rainy days, which is quite pleasant and also the best weather out of the year. So if you are looking for a beach vacation with a mix of cosy winter and sunny spring, this is the ideal time to pay a visit to  Baja California or Pacific Coast.

What to see and do in Mexico during January - February

• Butterfly migration: During this time, millions of gorgeous monarch butterflies will be flying from  the United States and Canada to Mexico's central areas. After settling in Mexico, they will start to hibernate for the winter. 
• Whale watching: Although whale watching season in Mexico is from December through the end of March, February is the best month. This is the ideal time to spot the whales that migrate to Mexico on the Pacific Coast. Don't forget to include whale watching in Mexico on your bucket list for a lifetime experience. 
• Birding: Birdwatching in Mexico has been long appreciated by visitors again due to the rich diversity in species and January is the best month to witness these migratory birds wintering in the jungles, lagoons, wetlands, and mountains of the Pacific Coast. In fact, there will even be an International Migratory Bird festival hosted by San Blas from January to early February.

Thousands of monarch butterflies settling for winter. Image from Unsplash

Note: January and February are considered part of the peak season in Mexico. Therefore, with the influx of tourists across the country, there will be a high chance of you being stuck in the ocean of people trying to appreciate the great weather.

Visiting Mexico in March - April

If you’re more into a hot sunny beach day, head to Mexico between March and April. You will get the chance to enjoy the heat falling on your skin like a warm blanket wrapped around your entire body. 

As the last months of the dry season, temperatures in March and April are picking up, with an average daily high temperature above 78°F, which are excellent choices for some relaxation on the hot and sunny Yucatán Peninsula. Mexico City and the surrounding colonial towns and villages will also become warm.

Note: Like the first two months, March and April are still very much a “high season” for tourism in most of Mexico. As a result, thousands of young partiers and families will likely spend their vacation on Mexican beaches. In addition to the flocks of tourists, accommodation rates are also significantly higher, and you’ll pay a premium on airfares and hotel rooms. 

What to see and do in Mexico during March - April

• Whale watching: Most people believe February is the most pleasing month for whale watching. However, March and April are still excellent times to spot whales migrating to Mexico's coast. During this period, you get the chance to witness not only humpbacks but also blue and grey whales, all emerging from the sea. Wouldn't that be such a thrilling experience? But keep in mind that the season for this popular activity is relatively brief, so you should book no later than late April for this lifetime experience. 
• Holy Week / Semana Santa (April 10 – April 16): Holy Week, or Semana Santa, is the first week of the extended Easter holiday in Mexico, which is also an important holiday for most Mexican families or anyone heading to Mexico for a family vacation. During this time, acknowledge the fact that prices at your destination will increase considerably. 
• Yucatán Peninsula: Yucatàn offers a hot, tropical climate throughout the year, with average highs ranging from late 68°F to early 91°F. You can expect a few rainy days in Yucatan during March, but usually, the weather is comfortable in March. With calm skies and clear, more predictable seas, the period from March to April is ideal for outdoor activities such as snorkelling, diving and fishing.

Note: Bear in mind that March to early April is still part of the Spring Break – when hordes of US college students head for the Yucatán. So, if you are not a big fan of all the booze-fuelled partying, steer clear of the Riviera Maya for a more peaceful travel experience.

People in traditional dress on the street. Image from Pexels.

Visiting Mexico in May

May in Mexico marks the beginning of the rainy season. Still, there will not be too many rainy days as rains tend to make a slow start in the south, gradually creeping northwards at the end of the month. Temperature ranges around 75-80 °F during the day, thus cooling down in the evening and getting chilly at night. 

In addition, if you are on a budget and want to skip the crowds on the upcoming trip, May is the perfect time for you. As the US's spring break and Mexico's Semana Sant is over, May appears to be perfect for any travellers looking for a more relaxed and quiet vacation. This is a great time to find good deals on flights and accommodation since the prices usually drop to 50 percent. 

What to see and do in Mexico in May

• Labour Day (May 1): Labour Day (Día del Trabajo), also known as May Day (Primero de Mayo),  is a national holiday in Mexico to commemorate the Mexican workers' union movements. It is a day off for everyone, so schools and most businesses are closed. During this precipitous event, you will often find Labour Day parades, rallies or demonstrations that feature large crowds holding banners to promote workers' rights on the main streets of major cities.
• Cancún Jazz Festival (Memorial weekend): While you are in Cancún, visit the Playa Delfines and Playa Tortuga. Famous jazz musicians from all over the world will gather at these exciting festivals. In addition, there will be spectacular live performances for you to experience throughout Cancíun. So make sure to visit the Parque de las Palapas and around the Convention Centre, and get immersed in the great piece of music. 
• Feast of San Isidro (May 15): During this event, the Mexicans honour the patron saint of farmers around the world. There will be a mass at church and then a parade with oxen carts, horses, and fireworks. So if you are seeking to experience an authentic Mexican celebration, this event is the perfect choice for you. 

 People enjoying the Jazz Festival. Image from Pexels.

Visiting Mexico in  June - July

June and July are considered one of the hottest months in Mexico, especially the Mexico beach towns, which is definitely a to-go phase for those seeking a beach stay. Average temperatures in Mexico between June and July hover around 90°F (32°C) on the beaches. Still, the humidity can make it even hotter. 

During this rainy season, you should be prepared for the frequent afternoon storms, yet you don't have to be too concerned. We can guarantee that these showers wouldn't affect your touring plans or travel experience. Instead, we believe the travel experience would become more comfortable and enjoyable since the scorching hot days are chilled down by those rain blitzes in the late afternoon. Also, the temperatures in the evenings will drop to a more pleasant level. 

What to see and do in Mexico during June - July

• Whale watching: As mentioned above, January and February are the best time for travellers in Baja, Bahía de Banderas or elsewhere in the Pacific to spot humpback, grey, and even enigmatic blue whales on their epic ocean journeys. However, from mid-May onwards, you will get the chance to swim with whale sharks and other sea creatures such as manta rays, turtles, and dolphins on the opposite coast. June and July are the best months for this whale-shark season.
• Festival del Mole Poblano: Any foodies will fall in love with the Festival del Mole Poblano, which takes place in Puebla. During this event, neighbourhoods across Puebla City will host art exhibitions, kids' games, talks and conferences, and the Best Mole contest. If you happen to be in town, you will also have the chance to taste the mole poblano - a thick, creamy sauce with dozens of ingredients. The mouthwatering cuisine is also where the pride of Puebla residents lies. 
• Guelaguetza Festival: Home to 16 different and diverse ethnolinguistic groups, the state of Oaxaca is where the colourful celebration of indigenous dance and music often takes place. During this festival, in late July, representatives from the many communities of Oaxaca will gather around, wear their traditional clothing, and perform folk dances that are particular to their region. There will also be a variety of Indigenous foods and crafts available, such as handmade textiles. So, if you're a big fan of culture and cuisine, this festival is definitely for you.

People in traditional dress on the street. Image from Pexels.

Visiting Mexico in August - September - October

If you want to deal with lesser masses of tourists, then the months of September-October are some good bets. Considered low season across the country, August and September tend to experience heavier rains, particularly on the Pacific Coast. During this time, you can expect high temperatures, heavy showers, and humid conditions across much of the country.

One thing to keep in mind is that August, September, and October are the wettest months of the year, also known as the hurricane season, with lashing rains on both coasts. So if you are on a tight budget but still want to pay a visit to Mexico, this period is the most reasonable time. You can reliably save on travel costs by booking when demand is lower. 

However, if you are travelling to Mexico with your family or with children, we would not recommend this hurricane season for travelling. After all, it is better to be safe than sorry.

What to see and do in Mexico during August - September - October

• Mexican Independence Day (15th and 16th September): In celebration of its Independence Day in September, Mexico is toasted with crowds across the country gathering to eat, drink, and dance while enjoying the fireworks and the military parades. 
• Feria Nacional Zacatecas: Visit the UNESCO-recognized city of Zacatecas, first to the third week in September in order to experience a three-week celebration with a lot of musical performances, entertainment for kids, theatre performances, and other cultural events. 
• Snorkelling & Diving: September brings out some of the best conditions for snorkelling and exploring places such as San Miguel de Allende and The Yucatán Peninsula. Those are some of the best activities to enjoy in September. Diving in the Yucatán Peninsula or Cozumel, you will be able to witness crystal-clear water and coral reefs teeming with unique, diverse marine life. Hurry up and schedule a visit right before the end of the season! 

Image from Unsplash

Visiting Mexico in November

The dry-season month of November promises the most excellent, balmiest weather to most destinations within Mexico, as the rains have generally eased. However, bear in mind that airfare and lodging prices are much higher, and crowds tend to be more intense during this time

What to see and do in Mexico in November

• Day of the Dead (October 30 – November 2): El Día De Los Muertos, or The Day Of The Dead, is a celebration of life and death, which begins at midnight on October 31 and runs through November 2. This lively Mexican celebration is not only an occasion for family union but also helps people remember the deceased and celebrate their memory. During this time, you will see festivities taking place in central and southern regions (especially in Pátzcuaro). Expect candles, graveyard vigils, papier-mâché skeletons, elaborately decorated skull-shaped masks as well as intricate dresses and makeup. 
• Butterfly Migration: Every November, especially towards the end of the month, thousands of monarch butterflies fly from Canada and the United States. The reason for which these stunning creatures fly around 2,800 miles is to spend the coldest months of the year in warmer lands in Mexico's central areas. During this time, the mountain forest is covered in brilliant golden-orange butterflies fluttering against the bright blue winter sky. This gorgeous and magnificent phenomenon is truly a sight to behold, and it should be on every nature lover's bucket list.

A decorative display of skeleton figures for the Day of the Dead, a beloved Mexican holiday. Image from Unsplash

Visiting Mexico in December

December is a wonderful time to travel to Mexico, as the weather is generally warm and dry across the country. In fact, it tends to be warm in the south and cold in the north. Temperatures are around 70-75 °F during the day and drop to approximately 40 °F during the night in certain regions. As December brings about big holiday celebrations and excellent wildlife viewing, it can get bustling around Christmas and New Year. So plan your travel in advance and be prepared for the high-season crowds. 

What to see and do in Mexico in December

• Navidad (December 25): Not simply a one-time event like in any other country, Christmas in Mexico is an entire month of celebrations, starting from December 12 and lasting until January 6. This holiday is marked with family feasts and lots of piñatas. Later there will be firework shows setting off, parades filling the streets, and live musical performances taking place throughout the city. So book a flight ticket to Mexico to experience the local culture and immerse yourself in various local ceremonies there!
• Water Sports: During this month, we highly recommend you try out some of the most popular water sports activities, such as kiteboarding and windsurfing in Los Cabo, along with snorkelling and diving.

 

It’s not uncommon to see houses and stores decorated with lights and ornaments to celebrate the festive season.  Image from Unsplash.

Those who love travelling from all over the globe often find themselves drawn to Mexico because of its stunning scenery and amazing landmarks every month. From our recommendations of the best time to visit Mexico, we hope that you will be well-prepared to make the most of your stay there. 

Phuong Nguyen