Mexico is a vibrant country full of never-ending adventure! While a lot of people think of warm, sunny beaches, there’s actually great diversity when it comes to the country’s regions and climates. It’s easy to decide on a Mexican getaway, but choosing when to go is a little more complicated. It all depends on where you’re visiting, what activities you wish to do, and what kind of weather you’re looking for. Keep reading to learn the best time to visit Mexico!
Summer (June-August)
Travel in Mexico is classified as high or low season; high season is the peak travel time with large crowds and high prices, while low season has fewer tourists and better bargains. The summer months technically fall during the low season, but in many resort towns, prices and crowd-size are higher than usual. Northern Mexico in August is hot, while the rest of the country is warm and steamy. This is the rainy season, and you’re sure to experience high temperatures, high humidity, and heavy storms. However, most storms tend to hit in the afternoon—with temperatures cooling in the evening—giving you plenty of time to explore. It’s also important to note that this is hurricane season. Hurricanes don’t hit too often, but it’s still a risk you have to consider. Despite the rain, this can be a good time to visit the country’s interior as the low season brings cheaper deals and temperatures are more pleasant than the coast’s scorching heat. This is also the best time to visit to join in on the once in a lifetime experience of releasing baby sea turtles into the ocean.
Fall (September-November)
The fall is a great time to visit Mexico. September is still in the thick of the rainy season, and rains become heavier—especially on the Pacific Coast. However, the rains breathe new life into the country, and you’ll find lush greenery at every turn. Independence Day falls in mid-September, and many cities have exciting festivities in its honor. Mexico in October is when the rains are coming to an end. Temperatures are starting to drop and crowds are scarce. This is a perfect time to visit beach resorts. The coast sees warm weather year-round, but October-May is when a beach vacation is most pleasant. November is considered one of the very best months to visit much of the country. The sun has almost fully returned and temperatures are mild, although they can get a bit chilly inland; tour Mexico City now, before the high season begins and temperatures become bitingly cold. One of the top reasons to visit Mexico in November is Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead. You’ll find lively celebrations all across the country honoring loved ones who’ve died. Oaxaca is known for some of the best Day of the Dead festivals in all of Mexico, and experiencing it first-hand is an unforgettable way to truly immerse yourself in Mexican culture.
Winter (December-February)
The winter is a popular time for travel. The weather is warm and dry on the coast, but colder inland and at high elevations. There’s even the chance of snow in the mountains. Mexico in December is particularly busy, especially in the time surrounding Christmas. Christmas is a true celebration here, with festivities such as Las Posadas in the weeks leading up to the holiday. Experiencing the Christmas season in Mexico is a wonderful experience, but prices are higher and flights and accommodations fill up quickly—be sure to plan far in advance! Another big holiday is Three Kings Day in early January, which rounds out the Christmas season. As mid-January and February roll around, prices and crowds drop once again (although it’s still the high season). It’s the ideal time to get up close and personal with the country’s diverse wildlife. Head to the Pacific Coast for whale watching. From January to March, you can see humpback, blue, and grey whales sing along the shores of Baja California. Bird watching is also at its best during the winter months. And for all the butterfly lovers out there, January and February are the peak months of the monarch butterfly migration in central Mexico. Over 100 million butterflies make their way through the country!
Spring (March-May)
The spring brings dry conditions and warming temperatures. Although conditions are perfect around the coast, this is not the time for a beach vacation if you’re hoping to avoid the crowds! Spring Break (usually in March) means resorts such as Cancun, Puerto Vallarta, and Cabo San Lucas are teeming with tourists. If you do fancy a trip there during this time, book well in advance. Crowds typically lessen mid-April through May, which is a good alternative. These months are also an ideal time to tour Mexico City, as temperatures are comfortably rising. No matter where you go, April will be packed because of Easter—Mexico’s most important holiday. There’s festivities all around, starting with the Holy Week. If you don’t mind splurging and braving the crowds, the Easter celebrations are a breathtaking experience you’ll cherish forever!
In the end, there’s no one answer to the question of “when is the best time to visit Mexico?” It depends on many factors, but generally dry season months (December-April) are a good bet. September, October, November, and May are also some of the best times to visit, but you’re guaranteed to have an incredible time no matter when you go. So what are you waiting for? Get booking!
