The best time to travel comes down to what you want to see and do. When planning your trip, consider not only the climate but the peak tourist seasons, or plan your trip around particular events you are interested in experiencing. That way, you can decide when the best time to visit based on your preferences.
The Quick Answer
The weather can vary greatly depending on what region you are visiting, but if you want to travel widely, the winter season, Nov-Feb, provides the driest climate across the country. However this is also peak tourist season, so expect big crowds and high prices for accommodation and activities.
Dry Season
The dry season in Mexico runs from November to February. This is the high season in Mexico, with lots of sunshine, cooler temperatures, and lower humidity throughout most of the country. This is a great time to visit the jungle and coastal regions. The winter months are also the best time to view the monarch butterfly migration in the mountains outside of Mexico City.
Rainy Season
The rainy season extends from June to October, with hurricane season falling between August and October. These months are considered the low season and are the cheapest times to visit. Do not be discouraged by the rain, as storms are usually short-lived and provide a nice break from the heat and humidity that often accompany the summer months. Keep an eye on any hurricane warnings though. While smaller ones are possible to ride out, you want to avoid getting stuck in a big one (Cat 3 or higher) as the consequences can be devastating.
Tourist Season
Mexico is a popular holiday destination and as such, it has a busy tourist season that stretches from late November to early April, reaching a pinnacle over the Christmas and New Year period. Places like Cancun and Playa Del Carmen are particularly crowded during this time and prices for accommodation and activities are at a premium.
On top of that, during Spring Break in the US, the Yucatan Peninsula is also overrun with college kids looking to let loose and party their vacation away. If this is not your scene, it’s best to steer clear of these hot spots during this time.
For those looking to avoid the hustle and bustle of the peak season, the best time to visit this beautiful country is from May to October. During this period, the country experiences its low season, which means lower prices, smaller crowds, and more deals on flights and accommodation.
Festivals and Events
Mexico is renowned for its lively and colorful festivals and events. The traditional festivals are an incredible opportunity to experience Mexico's culture and cuisine up close. If you're looking to experience some of the country's culture, consider visiting during one of these occasions. Some of the highlights include:
Cinco de Mayo in Puebla (May)
Day of the Dead in Oaxaca (November)
Festival of the Virgin of Guadalupe in Mexico City (December)
Carnival in Veracruz (March)
Take a look at our month-by-month guide to events and festivals in Mexico for more ideas.
Mexico is a wonderful holiday destination with something to suit all tastes. If you’re traveling throughout the country, November to February is the best time to visit for a more consistent climate. However, if you want to avoid crowds, the rainy season might be a better option. There are plenty of events and festivals throughout the year which can make your Mexico getaway an even more memorable experience.
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