As far as vacation destinations go, Mexico is pretty fabulous. With fantastic fiestas, mouth-watering food, and some of the best beaches on Earth, it’s little wonder that travelers flock to this beautiful country year after year. Mexico is one of the hottest holiday spots in the world, and it gets busy. This blog will give you the inside scoop on when is the best time to visit Mexico based on the crowds, climate, and cultural events you won’t want to miss. Read on to learn how to avoid the tourists and beat extreme heat on your blissful Mexico vacation.
The best time to visit Mexico for great weather
Broadly speaking, Mexico is a country of 2 distinct seasons; the Wet Season and the Dry Season.
In the dry season, temperatures average at 84.2° F (28°C), and there is little rainfall. This is the time best suited for Mexico beach vacations; however, it is also when the crowds come in.
Temperature-wise, March-April is the optimum time for sun-seekers to plan a Mexico vacation, as the climate heats up substantially. Temperatures during these months climb to an average of 86° F (30° C).
The wet season is much cooler and, of course, wetter, than the dry season. This can suit people who want to hike or explore Mexico in more comfortable temperatures, but be aware that weather conditions can be unpredictable and tempestuous during this period, especially in coastal areas.
When is hurricane season in Mexico?
Hurricane season in Mexico is from June to November, with August to October being the most active months for strong storm activity. Coastal regions, including Yucatan and the Pacific coast, are most affected by hurricanes, although inland areas may also experience heavy rains and potential flooding.
When is the best time to visit Mexico for a cheap vacation?
It probably won’t surprise you to know that prices hit rock bottom in Mexico right in the midst of hurricane season. This is because demand is at the lowest point in the year, and although those prices may look tempting if you’re on a budget, you’ll likely want to avoid this period if you’re planning a beach vacation somewhere like Cancun.
For the best balance of lower prices and good weather, it’s worth checking out Mexico during the shoulder season; November is a favourite month for budget-conscious travellers who want to avoid the worst of the Wet Season.
Best Seasons for Seeing Wildlife
Mexico is something of a paradise for nature fans, with some of the most spectacular wildlife migrations passing through the country year-round. Budding David Attenboroughs can experience breathtaking animal encounters across Mexico.
Monarch Butterflies in Mexico
From November to February, a rather wonderful migration takes place. In Autumn, millions of majestic Monarch butterflies make a 3000-mile journey south to spend winter in the warm climate of central Mexico. To see this awesome spectacle for yourself, you can visit one of several Monarch butterfly reserves that are open to the public. There are sanctuaries in Mexico state and Michoacan. Mexico state has the Piedra Herrada and the Cerro Pelon sanctuaries. The two places to visit in Michoacan are El Rosario Santuario de la Mariposa Monarca and Sierra Chincua Santuario de la Mariposa Monarca.
When is the best time to visit Mexico to see whales?
December to March is peak whale season. During the warmer months, the seas around Mexico come alive with wildlife. Favourite tourist hotspots such as Cabo and Cancun are great bases for going whale watching, with the main attractions being Humpbacks, California Gray Whales and even, if you’re very lucky, the magnificent Blue Whale.
When can I see turtles in Mexico?
Everyone loves turtles. These majestic animals have been on our planet for around 250 million years, and are one of nature’s most beautiful creatures. Sea turtles lay their eggs on many of Mexico’s beaches, giving visitors the opportunity to see new generations of this ancient species. Visitors staying in Cancun can see them by taking a day trip to Isla Mujeres. From May to September, Giant Mexican Sea Turtles lay their eggs on the secluded beaches here. They are collected by volunteers, who protect them until they’re ready for release from August to October. There’s also a turtle farm on the island, where animals who are unable to survive in the wild are cared for. If you want to guarantee a turtle sighting, this is the place to come.
Witnessing Whale Sharks off the Mexican coast
Whale sharks are one of the most wonderful animals to see in the wild. These gentle giants have inspired and fascinated visitors to Mexico for years, and it remains one of the best places on Earth to see them. If you’re hoping to see them in Yucatan, May to September is your best bet. In Baja, you can look for whale sharks while enjoying the best of the weather, as they visit these shores from October to April.
When is Mexico the least crowded?
Crowds in Mexico are at their absolute lowest in June, right in the middle of the wet season. You’re also likely to encounter a hurricane or two at this time of year. So we recommend taking a balanced approach. November is the best time to visit Mexico for fewer crowds, while still having great weather for enjoying this fabulous destination. Shoulder season also has the benefit of lower prices.
When are the best festivals and events in Mexico?
Mexicans love a fiesta, and the annual calendar in Mexico is stuffed full of events and festivals. Here are just a few of the yearly highlights;
February – Fiesta de la Candelaria
Taking place every year on 2nd February (the same day as Groundhog Day), Fiesta de la Candelaria (or Candlemas in English) is a vibrant religious festival that draws people from miles around. It takes place in Tlacotalpan, alongside a lively 3-day festival showcasing traditional Veracruz music.
March/April – Festival de Mexico
Taking place in Mexico City, this huge festival celebration of the arts attracts acts from all around the world in a city-wide showcase of drama, dance, music and opera.
November – Día de los Muertos
Probably one of the most famous festivals in the world, Dia de Los Muertos is as quintessentially Mexican as it gets. Every year on November 1st and 2nd, Mexicans celebrate their departed loved ones. It’s a colourful, moving and joyful spectacle, which attracts huge crowds.
November – Fiesta de la Santa Cecilia
On November 22nd every year, Mexico City pays homage to Saint Cecilia, the patron saint of musicians. Traditional musicians, including mariachi bands, rock up to Plaza Garibaldi for a party of music and dance which goes on all night.
August – La Morisma
For something a little bit different to the usual street parties and dancing (although you’ll find plenty of that here as well), check out La Morisma. Every year, in historic Zacatecas, reenactors turn the usually peaceful streets into a war zone, as they recreate battles between Christians and Moors in Spain. The spectacle attracts 2000 participants and hoards of rowdy spectators.
Visiting Mexican historical sites
One of the biggest draws in Mexico is the awe-inspiring Mayan ruins and historical sites scattered across the country. But when is the best time to visit these amazing attractions?
The dry season, when the weather is good and warm, is the best time for enjoying sites such as Chichen Itza and the Chicxulub asteroid crater. For mild temperatures and fewer crowds, November is a good bet.
The best time to visit Cancun
Cancun is one of the most popular vacation spots in Mexico. This beautiful beach resort sits on the Yucatan Peninsula and has very little variation in temperature throughout the year. Expect temperatures between 73.4 °F (23 °C) in the winter 82 °F (28 °C) in the summer. The most popular time to visit Cancun is between November and March when the weather is at its best. However, good weather draws large crowds, and accommodation is at its most expensive at this time of year. For bargain hunters, the wet season (May to October) sees cooler temperatures and much lower rates for flights and accommodation. Just be aware; the likelihood of bad weather, including hurricanes, is high during this period.
Here at Top Villas, we offer a brilliant range of vacation homes in Cancun and across Mexico. With luxurious touches including private pools, resort amenities and awesome outdoor spaces, our villas in Cancun and Cabo can make your Mexico vacation truly special.
Book with Top Villas
Whichever month you decide to plan your Mexico vacation, Top Villas guarantees you comfortable, first-rate service. Our exclusive luxury villas in Cabo and Cancun all promise an unforgettable vacation experience.
If you’re looking to enhance your holiday further, our Guest Experience team is contactable 24/7 to show you our range of Travel Extras, such as park tickets and spa days.
What’s more, our new Affirm credit payment option* allows you to easily distribute the cost of your stay over 3, 6 or 12 month periods. When booking, simply look out for properties with the Affirm banner.
*Subject to meeting Affirm’s credit criteria. T’s & C’s apply.
Choosing Our Flex Homes
Our new flex cancellation policy also applies to many of our beachfront rentals. With this policy, if you cancel your stay within the specified time – no matter the reason – you will receive a full refund. Or, you can amend your travel dates without charge.
In order to benefit from our cancellation policy, simply reserve a vacation home with one of the following badges:
- Flex 14 – Cancel for a full refund or amend your dates free of charge, up to 14 days before check in.*
- Flex 30 – Cancel for a full refund or amend dates free of charge, up to 30 days before check in.*
*T’s & C’s apply.
