The best time to visit Mexico

Updated: 30th August 2023

Cancun beach on sunny day - Mexico - Best Time to Visit
Visit Cancun between December and April for the best beach weather

Seasons and Weather

Mexican temperatures are mostly similar to other northern hemisphere countries, where it's warmer in summer (July/August) and cooler in winter (December/January), but temperatures vary according to location and altitude.

The rainy season which starts around May/June and gradually works its way through until September/October throughout Mexico. Don't be put off by the term rainy season, as this generally only means sporadic downpours a couple of times a day. Of course, there are times when this is not the case but it is fairly rare for continual rain to persist. Generally the hottest time in Mexico will be the months March to May before the rain comes.

The hurricane season on the Caribbean side of Central America and the Gulf of Mexico runs from September to November. Usually this only means high winds and occasional storms. Therefore, the best time to visit Cancun and Playa del Carmen for a beach break is between December and April though this coincides with peak season, which means higher prices and more crowds.

Climate | Mexico City

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Temp Min °C6681112131212121086
Temp Max °C192124252624232323212019
Rainfall (mm)13510205311917015213051188

Climate | Cancun

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Temp Min °C192022232526262524232221
Temp Max °C272829293132323232312928
Rainfall (mm)8956414111717810915022921897109
Mexico Day of the Dead crafts - Best Time to Visit
Ghoulish crafts available during the run up to the Day of the Dead festival

Festivals and Events

From ancient ruins to pristine beaches to vibrant cities, Mexico has it all, so it only makes sense that this intriguing country has some incredible festivals to top it all off. Combining traditional rituals and modern entertainment, the wide array of events that take place in Mexico throughout the year caters to all tastes. Here are some of our favourites.

What is Carnaval?

One of Latin America’s biggest celebrations of the year is Carnaval and, naturally, Mexico doesn’t miss out on the action. While the whole country parties hard during this period, our attention is primarily focused on its biggest celebration, which takes place in Veracruz. Expect spectacular costumes being paraded down the streets, piles of delicious Mexican snacks and music floating along the airwaves until the early hours.

What is Vive Latino?

A celebration of all things Latin, this music festival, which takes place in Mexico’s sprawling capital city, is an amalgamation of genres from various Latino artists. The purpose of the event is to promote an awareness of Latin culture and, of course, to have a good time whilst doing so. There is also, usually, an emphasis on environmentalism with organisers taking care to neutralise their carbon footprint as much as possible and encouraging audience members to do the same.

What is the Feria Internacional del Mezcal?

Oaxaca is famous for a number of different reasons and not least for its Mezcal production, so it only makes sense to have a festival in honour of Mexico’s national tipple. This event brings together artisanal and industrial Mezcal makers who come to show off their wares. Visitors to the festival will have the chance to try samples of different brands and purchase some to take home. If you are looking for an authentic Mexican souvenir, you might just find it here.

What is the Mariachi Festival of Guadalajara?

Perhaps Mexico’s most famous musical export, mariachi gets its very own festival in the enormous city of Guadalajara. With a healthy mix of culture, colour and camaraderie, the iconic musicians perform in venues across the city, from the streets to the hallowed halls of churches and cathedrals. Over 500 performers come from far flung countries around the world to celebrate their passion for mariachi music.

What is the Festival Internacional Cervantino?

Originally created to celebrate the famous writer Miguel de Cervantes, who authored the renowned Don Quixote, the Festival Internacional Cervantino has now become one of the best arts festivals in the country. Opera, theatre, music and much more takes place throughout the duration of the event and performers come from all over the world to take part. Previous years have seen drumming groups from Japan, orchestras from Russia and jazz singers from Norway. Despite its expansion in recent years, the focus of the festival is still heavily based on Cervantes.

What is Dias de los Muertos?

Possibly one of the most internationally famous Mexican festivals, the Dias de los Muertos festival (Days of the Dead) celebrates the spirits of the deceased with feasts, music and dancing. Offerings of food and flowers are placed on altars where lay loved ones who have passed away. Typically, children are remembered on the first day of celebrations and adults on the subsequent day.

What is BPM Festival?

The BPM festival is a ten day electronic music event that sees people from around the world come together to enjoy a cold beverage in the golden sunshine of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. The events are spread out across numerous venues throughout Playa del Carmen and this year’s edition expects there to be over 375 artists. If you are looking for a bit of fun in the sun, this is a festival not to be missed.

See Also

For further help planning your visit to Mexico check out our useful resources:

Best Places to Visit - what to see and where to go in Mexico
Top Travel Tips - useful info on health, food and money in Mexico

Mexico Trip Styles