Travel Journal

Mexique

When to Go to Mexico: Yucatán, Oaxaca & Baja

By Globale Explore Tours · Updated

When to Go to Mexico: Yucatán, Oaxaca & Baja

In short

The best time to visit Mexico is generally November to April, during the dry season. December to March is the best compromise for the Yucatán and Oaxaca, while grey whales in Baja California are seen in winter.

  • Best periodDecember to March
  • AvoidJune to September (rain, storms, hurricanes)
  • Dry seasonNovember to April
  • Suggested length6 to 8 nights per region

Mexico is a huge country: you do not travel to Tulum, Oaxaca or the Sierra Tarahumara at the same time of year. Here is how to pick your dates according to the region you dream of.

What is the best time to visit Mexico?

Specialist sources generally agree on a dry season from November to April and a wet season from May to October. In the south and on the Caribbean coast, the hurricane season runs roughly from June to November, with a higher risk in September and October. We therefore suggest aiming for winter and early spring, unless your plans depend on a specific season.

  • JanIdeal
  • FebIdeal
  • MarIdeal
  • AprGood
  • MayPossible
  • JunAvoid
  • JulAvoid
  • AugAvoid
  • SepAvoid
  • OctPossible
  • NovGood
  • DecIdeal

This calendar shows a general trend: the weather varies from year to year and from region to region. Tell us your dates and we will adapt the itinerary.

Our experts' tip

If you are flexible, favour December to March to combine clear skies with good sightseeing conditions. The year-end holiday weeks are in higher demand, so book early.

When to go to the Yucatán and the Riviera Maya?

For Mayan ruins, cenotes and Caribbean beaches, December to March is generally the most pleasant period. Our trip Riviera Maya: Tulum, Chichén Itzá and Secret Cenotes is recommended from November to April. Conversely, from June to November rain is more frequent and hurricanes are possible, especially in September and October.

When to visit Oaxaca and cultural Mexico?

Oaxaca is a good destination from November to March. Our trip Oaxaca, the Country's Cultural Soul is recommended in October-November and from February to April. Markets, mezcal, Monte Albán: the historic centre is explored on foot, and dry weather makes it far more comfortable.

Good to know

In early November the country celebrates the Day of the Dead, which draws many visitors. If it appeals to you, book several months ahead.

What about the Copper Canyon, Baja California and the Pacific?

Grey whales come to calve every winter in the lagoons of Baja California: our trip the Copper Canyon and Baja California is recommended from January to March, and in October-November for the canyon part. On the Pacific coast, June to September is generally avoided because of humid heat and storms.

RegionBest periodAvoidHighlights
Yucatán, Riviera MayaDecember to MarchSeptember and OctoberRuins, cenotes, beaches
OaxacaNovember to MarchPeak rainy seasonMarkets, mezcal, Monte Albán
Copper Canyon, Baja CaliforniaJanuary to March—El Chepe train, grey whales
Pacific coastNovember to AprilJune to SeptemberBeaches, more bearable heat

Our trips to Mexico

Frequently asked questions

What is the best month to go to Mexico?

There is no single answer, but December to March is generally the best compromise for the Yucatán and Oaxaca: it is the dry season, before the great heat.

Should I avoid the hurricane season?

On the Caribbean coast the hurricane season runs roughly from June to November, with a higher risk in September and October. It is not a ban, but it is wise to stay flexible and well insured.

When can I see grey whales in Baja California?

They come to the lagoons every winter to calve. Our trip is recommended from January to March.

Your trip to Mexico, tailor-made

Tell us your dates and wishes: our team replies with a tailor-made proposal within 24 hours.

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