Planning a vacation in Mexico can be time-consuming and stressful. You have to select a destination, make a budget, make an itinerary, among other things. But before doing any of that, you have to select a time. So, what is the best time to travel to Mexico? You may be wondering about that right now.

The truth is, there is no such thing. There is not a standard answer that suits everyone. You have to consider several factors before making a decision. What matters most to you? Is it money? Do you want to beat the crowds? Are you worried about the weather? Do you want to attend any special events? By answering these questions, you will have a better idea. So, don’t panic ahead of time. Keep on reading.

Table of Contents

  1. If You’re Conscious About Savings
  2. Best Time to Beat the Crowds
  3. Best Time to Hit the Beach
  4. Best Time to See Good Weather
  5. Best Time to Attend Some Special Events
  6. It Depends on the Location…Really
  7. Bottom Line: It’s Always a Good Time!

If You’re Conscious About Savings

Piggy bank with a few coins showing.

Who doesn’t want to save some money? I’m all in for savings within reasonable limits. We’re not going to discuss any crazy ideas here. Some people go backpacking or take other extreme measures. That’s not for everyone, of course. However, even the average traveler wants to save money when possible. Nothing wrong with that.

For starters, you have to understand that the time of year you visit will heavily impact the price you pay. If possible, avoid traveling during the peak season. This period goes hand in hand with kids’ vacations. It makes sense since it’s easier for parents to plan out their vacation accordingly.

Generally speaking, the peak season in Mexico is:

  • Mid-December through early January
  • Semana Santa (the week before Easter)
  • Mid-July through mid-August
  • Long weekends and national holidays

Since more people visit during those times, demand increases, and prices go up as a consequence. Remember those Economics lessons in college?

Best Time to Beat the Crowds

Crowded beach with lots of tourists and colorful umbrellas.

This is closely related to the peak season. Tourism in Mexico increases exponentially during kids’ vacations. If you visit during peak season, you will not only encounter national tourists but international tourists as well. Many international tourists, especially those with kids, tend to travel in the summer or during the Christmas season, both of which coincide with the peak season in Mexico.

I understand it may be impossible to avoid those dates, or simply you are not willing to change your dates. Maybe you don’t have too much flexibility at work. Whatever the case may be, you still have a few options left. Avoid the beaches in this case. They always get crowded, some more than others, but beaches are always the most crowded spots. Keep that in mind if you’re visiting during the peak season.

Best Time to Hit the Beach

Beaches are some of the most visited places in Mexico and rightly so. We have many beautiful beaches on both coasts of our territory. The most visited ones are the ones in the Cancún/Riviera Maya area and the ones in Los Cabos. Many foreigners visit them to escape from the cold in their home countries.

As a rule of thumb, the best time to hit the beach based on the weather alone is between November and April, right after the end of the hurricane season. Temperatures are warmer, and there are fewer chances of rain. It’s the perfect time to do activities outdoors. The problem, though, is you will usually find more people during those times.

The truth is, you can visit the beach at any time of year. However, keep in mind the months of May, June, July, and August are extremely hot and can see frequent rains. The hurricane season in Mexico runs from June through October. However, you can score some good deals if you decide to travel in the summer.

Best Time to See Good Weather

Horizon showing the sun over the sea and white flowers at the front.

First of all, we have to take into consideration that Mexico has a vast territory and several microclimates throughout. Also, some places have high elevations, which also adds to the equation.

If you’re concerned about the weather because you’re planning to do outdoor activities, then your best bet is to visit during the dry season, which runs from November through April. The weather is drier, but some places can have low temperatures.

Many people think it’s hot all year round in Mexico, but in reality, it’s not. Although we don’t usually experience extreme temperatures during the winter like in Canada and Northern Europe, it can get really cold in some parts of the country like Durango and Chihuahua. Some parts experience cool temperatures even during the summer. Such is the case of San Cristóbal de las Casas in the south of Mexico.

We will address the weather in Mexico in further detail in a later post.

Best Time to Attend Some Special Events

There are special events in Mexico all year round. From festivals to parties to nature events, you can plan your vacation around those times.

Did you know there are carnivals in Mexico similar to those in Rio de Janeiro and New Orleans? Well, maybe not as rowdy, but we do have our share. The most famous carnivals in Mexico are held in the cities of Veracruz and Mazatlan. There are parades with a queen, concerts, food and special parties. You can attend those events in late February.

However, you can find carnivals in other parts of Mexico as well. There are carnivals in Ensenada, La Paz, Mérida, Cozumel, and Campeche City, just to name a few. If you have the opportunity to visit, please do so by all means.

New Year’s season also sees a lot of tourists from various parts of the world. If you’re into the party scene, you could visit Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Puerto Vallarta, or Los Cabos and have the time of your life. It’s one of the busiest and most expensive times to go, but it’s worth it.

Monarch butterfly feeding on an orange flower.

Did you also know that thousands of whales visit Mexico between December and March? They escape from the cold in Alaska and Canada to have their babies in warmer waters. They’re smart creatures for sure!

Not only whales but also butterflies make Mexico their temporary home. Each year, millions of monarch butterflies migrate to Mexico between November and March. You can see them in Michoacán and Estado de México.

Last but not least, Día de Muertos or Day of the Dead. It’s one of Mexico’s most famous traditions worldwide. You can experience Mexican culture at its best this way. The dates to visit are November 1-2. The most famous locations are Pátzcuaro, Michoacán; Mitla, Oaxaca and Mixquic, Mexico City.

It Depends on the Location… Really

The location you visit is one of the most important factors to consider. Remember Mexico is a vast country with large cities, small towns, beaches, deserts, mountains, and forests. Because of that, there is not a single answer to the eternal question. The weather varies greatly between destinations.

Some people consider the weather, the cost, or the season first and then look for a destination. On the other hand, some pick a destination and then look for the best time to go. That’s why the answer regarding the best time to go varies.

Bottom Line: It’s Always a Good Time!

There are several factors to consider when planning a trip to Mexico. You have to consider what is more important to you. Is it the weather, the cost, the crowds, or the time of the year? Reflect on this carefully, and you will be able to reach a decision. The truth is, there is never a wrong time to visit Mexico! So, what are you waiting for?

As always, feel free to leave your questions and comments below. I’m currently looking for ideas for my next destination, but I will make sure to get back to you as soon as possible. See you soon!

Book your trip now!

Book your flight

The first thing you have to do is find cheap flights. But where do you find those? There are many search engines, but the one I highly recommend is Skyscanner. Here you can compare fares from all over the world and pick the one that suits you best.

Book your accommodation

The next thing you have to do is secure your lodging. Whether you prefer a hostel, a guesthouse, a B&B, or a hotel, you can find them all on Booking. You can find lodging of all kinds ranging from cheap to expensive and somewhere in between. Many people have scored good deals using it.

Another popular option is Hostelworld. This website focuses on hostels as opposed to hotels.

Book a tour

In some places, you might want to hire a tour. Not all places are equally accessible to visit by oneself. It helps enormously when you visit with a local guide who can show you around and answer any questions you might have…all in your native language. My to-go place is Viator as they offer tours of all kinds and have a presence all over the world.

Rent a car

Public transportation is usually cheaper than renting a car, but it’s sometimes more complicated and time-consuming. That’s a reality. In some cases, it’s more convenient to rent a car. My recommendation is Rentalcars.com. Here you can compare rates and choose the one that fits you best.

Book your bus tickets

You can save money by booking bus tickets online. My favorite site to do this is Busbud.

Get travel insurance

Never travel without a travel insurance policy, especially these days! Travel insurance can save your life. My recommendations are World Nomads and Insured Nomads. Both companies cover COVID-19 related incidents, which is crucial these days.

More resources

Just click on the “Plan your trip” tab at the top of this page, and you will find more resources like getting Mexican insurance for your foreign car, buying travel accessories, and learning Spanish. And, of course, don’t forget to check back often to read more tips on Mexico travel.

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18 Replies to “Best Time to Travel to Mexico – A Quick Reference Guide”

  1. I am so glad I came across your site today.  I have been trying to figure out the best time to go to Mexico but wasn’t sure the right time of the year.  You have shown me that I shouldn’t plan on going with the hurricane season which seems to be the same every year.

    Have you ever been around a hurricane?  It doesn’t look like a fun time at all.  One question for you though is would it be a good idea to go in July?  I mean they have air conditioners at the resorts and you can always swim in the pools so why not other than it can be super hot?  

    This is a great guide for anyone looking to travel to Mexico and needs to know the best time of the year to go.  Thank you for putting this out there and I look forward to my trip there next year I hope.  

    1. Hi, Douglas,

      You’re welcome to my site anytime you want!

      Answering your question, yes, I have a few times. In fact, last year I went to Campeche City in the Yucatan Peninsula. The weather was super hot and humid, but it only rained once. Well, it drizzled and was over in no time, but the second time it rained more. Other than that, I haven’t experienced any hurricanes, and I hope I don’t ever LOL!

      It’s true that you can stay inside during the summer and beat the heat. That’s not my type of vacation, but I understand there are people who may differ.

      Thank you very much for commenting. Feel free to come back anytime for more tips and info on Mexico.

  2. Hi, I have a friend that just got back from Mexico. He goes all the time, like every year. I think he spent a week there and went in the beginning of January. I also have friends that like to go in February as well. It really depends on where you’re going and what you want to do. How many people you’re going with. If you’re going with kids or not.

    1. Hey, Jake,

      You have another excellent point there. Your companions will also affect your decision. Kids and elderly people are more susceptible to illnesses during cold weather, so it’s better not to expose them. The same goes for super hot weather.

      Where does your friend go in Mexico if you don’t mind my asking?

      Thanks for dropping by.

  3. Thank you so much for this great checklist to help plan a trip to Mexico. I have been fortunate to visit a few places in Mexico and at all different times of the year. I advise people to strongly consider the weather, as it can get very hot and humid and feel like Summer in Mexico much earlier than a lot of people will expect. With this in mind, I agree that there are places in Mexico that are perfect to visit no matter what time of year (just as long as one is prepared for the environment). Thanks for the information!

    1. Hi, Aly,

      Totally agreed. The weather can be a determining factor when deciding where to go. Some places like the Yucatan Peninsula are very hot and humid during the summer. I can tell from experience. Regardless of that, I have always enjoyed my stay.

      Where in Mexico have you been? I’d love to know.

      Thanks for commenting.

  4. You have made me interested in considering visiting mexico sometime in the future because you have made it look appealing to visit the place and see what cool scenery and things are there. I did not know that Mexico was so varied in its landscape and I can’t wait to see a beach in Mexico someday. Do you like Mexico in comparison to other south American countries?

    1. Hi, Jon,

      Glad to be of assistance.

      Yes, Mexico is one of the most diverse countries in the world. You can find a little bit of everything.

      Answering your question, I haven’t visited South America yet, but I hope to do it soon.

      Thanks for commenting.

  5. Thanks for this very useful guide on the best times to travel to Mexico. Such a reference guide is something that anyone considering travel there will find helpful for planning purposes so they can get the most out of the trip. All the times I have been to Mexico I really had little choice, it was going when you had the time.

    Now that I am a bit older, I have more free time and the ideal times can be selected. This means I can get more bang for my buck, consideration as a retiree that you don’t have as a full-time employed person. I have bookmarked the website and page so I can get back here. Great post I love traveling to Mexico and I do agree that it always is the best time to go!

    1. Hi, Dave,

      I get you. I’ve had jobs where I didn’t have that much flexibility to plan my vacation. 

      Where in Mexico have you been? I’d like to know.

      Feel free to come back anytime for more tips and info on Mexico. I’m always glad to help. Thanks for commenting.

  6. Thanks for this guide I found the peak season timing very helpful and will take that into consideration when planning a trip to Mexico.  I also liked the special events that you shared there were several such as the whales that I no idea about.  I look forward to planning a trip there in near future.

    1. Hi, Daniel,

      You’re very welcome. 

      There are many special events in Mexico throughout the year. I will write about them in further detail in a later post.

      Thanks for dropping by.

  7. Thanks for writing such a great post, I personally love travelling as it opens our mind. It helps us to understand the meaning of life and it also help us become better people. Each time you travel, you see the world with new eyes.

    Myself and daughter planned a holiday two years ago to go to Cancun however we never went due to unforeseen circumstances. I think now it will be even more excited to start planning again because we will have the right information.

    we love outdoor activities therefore we will consider going between November through to April.

    very helping tips about the best time to visit Mexico, I have learned a lot.

    How is Cancun Mexico?, what are the adventures things one can do there?

    1. Hi, Princess,

      Totally agreed. I love traveling whenever I can. I cherish the memories of each trip close to my heart.

      I’m sorry you couldn’t make it. Fortunately, there will always be another chance. Planning a trip always makes us feel excited. I love that feeling. 🙂

      I’m glad to be of assistance. Don’t hesitate to leave any other questions you have.

      Regarding Cancun, you can check out this article. Let me know if you need anything else. Thank you for commenting.

  8. Hi Enrique, 

    Mexico sounds beautiful!

    I have been looking to go travelling but never considered Mexico, by the way you describe it it really sounds like a great place to travel and with the weather being rubbish in the UK that’s something that drawed my attention.

    I’m going to take your advice and book a trip for 2020 to Mexico but for an off peak time. I can imagine its carnage around those 4 dates you mentioned.

    Thanks for sharing this guide as now I have a resource to go to as I book my trip in the future.

    Josh

    1. Hey, Josh,

      Mexico is a popular destination during wintertime, not only for Mexicans but foreigners as well. The beach waters are not as warm as in July, but you can get in with no problem.

      Glad to hear you’re considering visiting. Feel free to check out my other posts for more tips and info on Mexico. Thanks for dropping by.

  9. I have always wanted to travel to Mexico but life happens and ended up going somewhere instead. Thank you for letting me know about the peak season. Thankfully I can manage my work schedule and it is always cold in NYC so I am always wanted to find a way out. This year I will make sure to visit Los Cabos. Thanks again for the tips 🙂

    1. Hi, Nuttanee,

      I can only imagine. I’ve never been to NYC, but I’ve heard it gets really cold around this time of the year.

      There’s never a wrong to visit Mexico, especially its beaches. However, you have to determine what matters to you most.

      Feel free to come back anytime for more info and tips. Thanks for commenting.

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