Best time to visit Mexico
The dry season from November to April is the most popular time. Beach resorts peak in winter; Mexico City is pleasant year-round at altitude.
Month-by-month overview
| Month | High / Low | Rainfall | Crowds | Prices | Verdict | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 22° / 7°C | 10mm | High | $$$Peak | Great | — |
| Feb | 24° / 8°C | 5mm | High | $$$Peak | Great | — |
| Mar | 27° / 10°C | 10mm | High | $$$Peak | Great | Spring break crowds on coast |
| Apr | 28° / 12°C | 15mm | Medium | $$Mid | Great | — |
| May | 27° / 13°C | 50mm | Low | $Low | Good | — |
| Jun | 25° / 13°C | 135mm | Low | $Low | Okay | Rainy season begins |
| Jul | 24° / 12°C | 150mm | Medium | $$Mid | Okay | — |
| Aug | 24° / 12°C | 145mm | Medium | $$Mid | Okay | — |
| Sep | 23° / 12°C | 140mm | Low | $Low | Avoid | Hurricane risk on coast |
| Oct | 22° / 11°C | 65mm | Low | $Low | Good | Day of the Dead preps |
| Nov | 22° / 8°C | 15mm | Medium | $$Mid | Great | Día de los Muertos |
| Dec | 21° / 7°C | 5mm | High | $$$Peak | Great | — |
Month-by-month deep dives
Mexico ranks #19 in The Overtourism Risk Index 2026
Oaxaca, Mexico — Americas · Mexico. 260,000 residents; 3.2 million annual visitors (12.3×). Day-of-the-Dead week has become unmanageable; ordinances to cap hotel construction in historic centre passed 2024.
Read the full ranking →Mexico ranks #5 in The Luxury-per-Dollar Index 2026
Mexico City, Mexico — Americas. Four Seasons rooms from $420; world-class dining at <$60/cover.
Read the full ranking →Mexico ranks #3 in The Shoulder Season Score 2026
Mexico City, Mexico — Americas · Late September. Post-rainy, pre-Day of the Dead crowds, 73% of peak pricing.
Read the full ranking →Festivals & events
Día de los Muertos
NovIconic celebration of the dead with marigold altars, parades, and sugar skulls.
Guelaguetza
JulIndigenous cultural festival in Oaxaca with traditional dance and music.
Carnival of Veracruz
Feb–MarNine-day carnival rivalling Rio with parades and live music.
Mexicoweather & timing FAQ
When is the best time to visit Mexico?
November–April is the sweet spot. The dry season from November to April is the most popular time. Beach resorts peak in winter; Mexico City is pleasant year-round at altitude.
When is peak tourist season in Mexico?
Peak season runs through December–March. Expect higher prices, busier sites, and the need to book accommodation and major experiences several weeks ahead.
What's the cheapest time to visit Mexico?
May typically combines the lowest accommodation rates with the smallest crowds — still a good window on weather and conditions.
What's the weather like in Mexico in April?
April averages a high of about 28°C (82°F) with lows around 12°C. Expect roughly 15mm of rainfall across the month.
What festivals or events happen in Mexico?
Standout dates include Día de los Muertos (Nov), Guelaguetza (Jul), Carnival of Veracruz (Feb–Mar). Día de los Muertos: Iconic celebration of the dead with marigold altars, parades, and sugar skulls.
What should I pack for Mexico?
Mexico stays warm year-round with summer highs near 28°C. Pack lightweight, breathable layers; sun hat and reef-safe sunscreen; rain shell for the wet months.
Are there months to avoid in Mexico?
Skip September if you can — these months score lowest across weather, crowd, and price in our calendar. Common issues: Hurricane risk on coast.
How crowded does Mexico get?
Crowds peak in September, January, February, March, and December — book accommodation 6–8 weeks ahead and expect queues at flagship sights. Outside those windows, even popular cities feel noticeably calmer.
Book your Mexico trip for November–April
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