Best Time to Visit Mexico

Mexico is a country bursting with culture, colour, and diversity — from the beaches of Cancún and the jungles of Chiapas to the ancient ruins of Chichén Itzá and the bustling streets of Mexico City. With such varied landscapes, the best time to visit Mexico depends on your interests and where you plan to go. Here’s a guide to help you plan your perfect trip.

Mexico by Season: A Complete Guide

🌸 Dry Season (November – April): The Ideal Time to Visit

The dry season is the most popular time to visit Mexico. Warm, sunny days and low humidity make it perfect for sightseeing, exploring archaeological sites, and relaxing on the beach. It’s also the best time for festivals and outdoor adventures across the country.

• Highlights: Warm temperatures (25–30°C), ideal for beaches, city breaks, and cultural sightseeing, Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) celebrations in November, perfect weather across most regions — but book early for the coast.

☀️ Hot Season (May – June): Sunshine and Fewer Crowds

Temperatures start to climb before the rains arrive, but this short window between the dry and wet seasons offers plenty of sunshine and smaller crowds. The beaches are quieter, and hotel prices begin to drop, making it a good time for budget-conscious travellers.

• Highlights: Hot temperatures (28–35°C, higher in inland areas), great for beach holidays and diving in the Riviera Maya, smaller crowds and better travel deals, warm seas and long days.

🍂 Rainy Season (July – October): Lush Landscapes and Local Life

The rainy season brings short, heavy showers, usually in the afternoons, leaving the rest of the day warm and sunny. The countryside turns green and vibrant, and it’s a wonderful time to experience authentic Mexican culture away from the tourist crowds. Coastal areas may experience tropical storms, but most rain doesn’t last long.

• Highlights: Warm temperatures (25–33°C), lush scenery and fewer tourists, affordable prices on hotels and flights, occasional tropical showers in coastal regions. This is also the hurricane season, so be sure to check forecasts for coastal travel.

❄️ Winter Highlands (December – February): Cool and Comfortable

While coastal areas remain warm, Mexico’s highlands — including Mexico City, Puebla, and San Cristóbal de las Casas — enjoy cooler, crisp weather. It’s an excellent time for sightseeing and exploring Mexico’s cultural heartlands without humidity or heat.

• Highlights: Pleasant daytime temperatures (18–25°C, cooler at night), perfect for exploring cities and historical sites, Christmas and New Year festivities, clear skies and comfortable sightseeing.

From the Caribbean coastline of Tulum to the colonial charm of Oaxaca and the vibrant culture of Mexico City, every season in Mexico brings its own magic. With a little planning, you can enjoy this colourful country at its absolute best — whenever you decide to visit.

Top Travel Tips for Mexico

• Visa & Entry: US, Canadian, and most EU citizens do not need a visa for tourist stays up to 180 days. You just need a valid passport. The old paper FMM (visitor's permit) is being phased out at airports and replaced with a simple passport stamp and digital record on arrival.
• Water Safety: Do NOT drink the tap water anywhere in Mexico, not even at high-end resorts. Use bottled or purified water for drinking and brushing your teeth. Ice in restaurants and bars is commercially made from purified water and is safe to consume.
• Currency: The official currency is the Mexican Peso (MXN). While US dollars are widely accepted in tourist hubs like Cancún and Cabo, you will almost always get a much better price by paying in pesos. Use an ATM at a reputable bank (not a standalone one on the street) to withdraw pesos.
• Tipping (Propina): Tipping is customary and appreciated. In restaurants, leave 10-15% of the bill. For street taxis, tipping isn't common (just agree on the fare *before* you get in), but you should tip Uber/Didi drivers. Tip hotel bellhops and leave a daily amount for housekeeping.
• Common Scams: Be aware of taxi overcharging (always use official taxi stands or rideshare apps), gas station attendants not resetting the pump to zero, and "free" tours offered at the airport (they are high-pressure timeshare presentations).

Things to do in Mexico

Explore the ancient ruins of Chichén Itzá, swim in the crystal-clear cenotes of the Yucatán, or discover the vibrant street food and art of Mexico City. Book your tours and activities easily via our trusted partners: