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Mexico in May

Mexico weather in May

Avg. temperature: 28°C / 82°FSun: 8 hrs per day (sunshine) / 13.2 hrs per day (daylight)
Rain: 66.5 mm per monthAvg. Humidity: 49%

Visiting Mexico in May

If you are visiting Mexico in May, expect less tourists and fewer crowds as this month marks the start of the low season. Mexico’s temperatures in May are high and the days are warm, but as the wet season begins many choose to wait for the rain to end before planning their Mexican vacation.

Having said that, if you’re ok with a shower or two, May can be a fantastic time to see some of Mexico’s best sights as you can take advantage of fewer visitors and low season prices. There are some great deals to be had on air fare, accommodation and even entry to attractions during the quiet tourist season, so there are huge benefits to travelling to Mexico in May. Some prices drop as low as 50% below the standard high season rates!

And after all, a little rain never hurt anyone, right?

Things to do in Mexico in May

If you’re visiting Mexico in May, you’ve picked one of the best times for sightseeing as there are far fewer tourists throughout the country than in the drier months. Many sights and attractions that are usually flooded with visitors experience quieter spells, so take advantage of the low season. Here are some of the best things to do in Mexico in May.

Visit one of the most popular archaeological sites in Mexico, Chichen Itza

This ancient pre-Hispanic Mayan city and UNESCO World Heritage Site, occupying 4 square miles on the Yucatan Peninsula is one of the region’s most visited archaeological sites and tourist attractions. During the high season it is so busy it can be difficult to see all the site has to offer, so visiting during the month of May is the ideal time to ensure you don’t miss a thing.

Chichen Itza is said to have been built in the 400’s and years later it became the most powerful city in the Yucatan region after it was conquered by the Toltecs. Today, visitors come to the site to marvel at the ancient city and in particular, the iconic 30 meter high pyramid with its serpent-headed staircase. 

Take a day trip to Isla Mujeres to sport sea turtles in their natural habitat

If you are staying in Cancun, Isla Mujeres sits 13 km off the coast and is definitely worth a visit during your trip to Mexico in May. The weather is still relatively dry and the temperatures hot, making for the ideal time to bask in the island sun in a true tropical paradise.

It is famed for its white sand beaches and crystal clear waters, and for being a more calm version of its neighbour, Cancun. The perfect spot for relaxing, taking a dip in the ocean, snorkeling and participating in water sports, one of the best things to do in Isla Mujeres in May is visit The Turtle Farm (La Tortuga Granja).

Giant sea turtles come ashore to lay their eggs from May to September, and the eggs are gathered and placed in pens at the farm to protect them from predators. In May, you can see hundreds of turtles on the beaches and it is a must-see for wildlife and nature lovers. There is also a small aquarium at the farm, home to various sea life such as sea horses, lobsters and tropical fish.

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo in Mexico City

You’ve probably heard of Cinco de Mayo, Mexico’s annual celebration of when the Mexican army defeated French troops in the Battle of Puebla. If you’re going to celebrate it anywhere, celebrate it in Mexico City, the nation’s capital, where festivities continue throughout the month of May.

The main date for your diary should be 5 May, when a huge parade is held through Mexico City. People partaking are dressed as Mexican and French soldiers and there is loud music, marching bands and plenty of traditional dance performers. In the Penon de los Banos neighborhood after the parade, a reenactment of the battle is held in a spectacular display including realistic costumes, weapons and great acting.

Indulge in a wild day of water sports at El Medano Beach

If you’re staying in Cabo San Lucas during your visit to Mexico in May, you’ll want to go to El Medano Beach if you’re into water sports and adventure activities. There’s a scuba diving centre, jet skiing, kayaks for hire, paddle boarding, parasailing and more. The temperatures are high so you’ll want to cool off in the clear blue waters, and rainy season hasn’t quite hit here so you shouldn’t expect your day to be dampened by many showers!

Best Places to Visit in Mexico in May

For outdoor adventurers and hiking enthusiasts, head to Copper Canyon in northern Mexico

Springtime in Copper Canyon generally runs from February to May, and this is considered the dry season and the best time to visit the region. Located in northern Mexico, Copper Canyon is set in spectacular landscape and is a great place for an outdoor adventure, be that hiking, mountain biking or simply spectating the breathtaking views.

If you’re planning on hiking one of the trails at Copper Canyon, it is generally recommended to do so with an approved guide, and this is with your safety in mind as trails are not too well marked and are very rugged in certain areas.

Whilst the weather is almost ideal in Copper Canyon in May, just be cautious of the winds, as they tend to be high in May making for a more treachorous climb.

The Yucatan Peninsula is a little behind the seasons, so May is the last month to enjoy a dry spell before the rain hits

When someone mentions beaches in Mexico, you most likely imagine the gorgeous stretches of white sand that lead to the warm turquoise waters of the Caribbean sea. Those beaches sit along the Yucatan Peninsula, and include Cancun, by far the most visited destination along the coast with its many resorts, restaurants and waterparks. 

Then there’s Tulum, popular these days with celebrities as it’s home to more pristine, untouched beaches than its neighbour and is an idyllic place in a tropical jungle paradise.

Playa del Carmen, along the Riviera Maya, has plenty of nice beaches, though like Cancun is more of a tourist destination so expect them to be busier than in Tulum. Still, since you are visiting Mexico in May there are fewer tourists overall so it is the ideal time to take advantage of a quiet time in a usually busy beachtown . There’s an abundance of water sports to enjoy, lots of snorkeling and plenty of bars and restaurants so satisfy your cravings.

Baja California remains dry in May and is hot, hot, hot with highs of around 33°C / 91°F

Baja California is an 800 mile-long peninsula on Mexico’s wild Pacific Coast, just south of California in the United States and filled with mountain ranges and beaches, deserts and cities. If you’re craving high temperatures during your visit to Mexico in May, then look no further as these are some of the highest in the country, alongside very little rain.

If you’re looking to search (or watch people surf!) during the month of May the waves break on the eastern side of the peninsula. Swim in the Sea of Cortez (“the World’s aquarium” as it has been called by many) for your chance to spot some spectacular sealife, hit wine country in Valle de Guadalupe or go hiking in the stunning Parque Nacional Sierra San Pedro Mártir.

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When to visit

Mexico in April

Mexico weather in April

Avg. temperature: 19.6°C / 67.3°FSun: 232 hours a month
Rain: 22.5 mm per monthAvg. Humidity: 43%

Visiting Mexico in April

Spring is in full swing in April, and Mexico is no exception for that. If you are looking for an escape from the April showers at home, come to Mexico, because the May flowers bloom a month early here! Enjoy the delicious local cuisine in Oaxaca, take an urban adventure in Mexico City, or surf in Acapulco and bathe in the sun in Cancun — this country is huge, and when a country is huge, there are a lot of things to do! 

Water activities tend to be most ideal in April as the sea life tends to be the most vibrant and energetic at this time, as well as sea life starting to trickle in from either hemisphere. Since it is also Easter weekend, this is one of the most celebrated holidays in Mexico jam-packed 

April in Mexico is rather hot and dry. This means that there is still time to enjoy the beaches and the sun before the rainy season starts in May. Depending on where you are in Mexico, you may need to bring some warmer clothing as the nights tend to cool quite drastically compared to the days in Central and Western Mexico, as the cool spring air does travel to these parts from North America. 

Things to do in Mexico in April

Surfing and Sand

In the Pacific Coast, the cold winter offshore currents flow into the Southwest of Mexico. What lies in this region is the famed town of Puerto Escondido in the state of Oaxaca. This small tourist centre is less than a hundred years old, but has quickly become one of the most important destinations on the Oaxaca coast. This is the perfect place for those who want to escape the tourist crowd and rest and relax with the likes of a more eclectic crowd of backpackers, surfers, and local visitors. The Zicatela beach serves major surfing competitions with waves comparable to Acapulco and Puerto Vallarta.

Whale Watching

More on the subject of April’s prime time for water-related activities, Rincon de Guayabitos is a great way to spend time away from the cities of Tepic and Guadalajara. Located in the Nayarit state, Rincon de Guayabitos is a popular resort town priding itself on its natural beauty, affordable prices and really great swimming opportunities. A rustic setting, most of the accommodation here are cabins and hotel rooms with kitchens. This is an extremely popular fishing town, so buying a catch and cooking to your own taste is a popular pastime for tourists. Whale watching is a famous sighting in Rincon de Guayabitos as the gentle waves create an ideal environment for whales to emerge and tourists to marvel at without battling currents.

A Mexican Easter

This is one of the most significant holidays in Mexico after Christmas. The majority of Mexican being deeply conservative Roman Catholics, parties, celebrations, parades and processions fill the streets for the entire weekend. The season begins with Carnival, with the largest in Mexico being in Mazatlan. In Oaxaca, Carnival is celebrated on Easter Sunday. Samaritan Day (fourth friday of Lent) is a special day where free refreshments are served to passersby as a token of goodwill. These drinks include horchata, jamaica and chilacayote. During the Holy Week, the cities fill up with grand processions of worshippers reenacting the Passion of the Christ, from his parade, crucifixion and resurrection. Mexicans celebrate Easter with great passion, so no matter where you will be in Mexico, you will not miss the festivities.

Flower Fest

The beginning of April marks the Festival de Flores y Jardines in Mexico City. The botanical garden in Chapultepec as well as the entire city decorated itself with flowers and artists parade through the streets with their floral design pieces in preparation for the floral design competition. 

Best Places to Visit in Mexico in April

Mexico City

It goes without saying that Mexico City is worth visiting. An impressively massive capital city, Mexico City is teeming with activity. The colonial historic centre has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, as did the floating gardens of Xochimilco. Take a gander at the Plaza de La Constitucion with the main plaza and the Spanish Colonial buildings. Explore the ancient Aztec temple in what was once the Aztec metropolis of Tenochtitlan, and a walk down the Paseo de la Reforma, an avenue built after the Champs-Elysees. The vibrant nightlife and the busy days will be a firestorm of activity for travelers who want the quintessential Mexican urban experience!

Acapulco

Tracing the Pacific coast in Mexico, Acapulco is a prime beach destination for a nice, easy-living experience. During the 1950s and 1960s, Acapulco exploded with foreign investment and became the glitzy Hollywood vacation destination for the likes of Elizabeth Taylor, Frank Sinatra, Elvis and Brigitte Bardot. You can still find the vacation homes of these famed film stars for an Old Hollywood adventure. Relax by the beaches with the beautiful skyline behind you and the big blue in front of you for an experience rivalling Rio De Janeiro. For a bit of adventure, Acapulco is a prime surfing and sailing destination. The winds from the North bring the currents and breezes that make the activities prime for the April season.

Oaxaca

For a true taste of Mexico, Oaxaca is the place to be. Known as the indigenous capital in Mexico, this is the true culinary destination. A gastronomic centre, Oaxaca is best known for its traditional methods of cooking, its brewing of drinks, among others. Mole is among the best known dishes of Oaxaca. This is a thick hearty sauce that is served with protein and rice. Visit the Ethnobotanical Garden where you can look at the wide variety of natural local plants that include the many varieties of cacti. If you want to visit a beautiful and historic centre, visit the colourful Oaxaca city centre. Heavily shaded which will make a welcome escape from the sun and allow you to focus on the historic and aesthetic significance of the city.

Accommodation in Mexico

Mexico during the April month is definitely a busy month. With the onset of Easter, this is when you will not only be contending with the international spring-breakers, but the local vacationers who close up shop and travel with their families in Easter. The busiest places for international tourism will most definitely be in the Yucatan Peninsula, where it is suggested you book months in advance, as you might want to in the rest of the country, although not as busy. Rule of thumb is to arrive before Good Friday. Other major cities in Mexico will be busy as locals are visiting families in their respective towns and cities, so book any private transportation well in advance. Although it will be busy during this time, don’t fret as Mexico is a very large, diverse and dynamic country with no shortage of beaches, history and fun! 

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Mexico in March

Mexico weather in March

Avg. temperature: 25°C / 77°FSun: 8.6 hrs per day (sunshine) / 12.1 hrs per day (daylight)
Rain: 57 mm per monthAvg. Humidity: 48%

Visiting Mexico in March

As the spring equinox approaches in the second half of the month, if you’re thinking about going to Mexico in March, you can expect the days to get longer and warmer and the nights shorter as the season officially changes. The weather is reliably calm and dry throughout the month of March in preparation for the summer rain to roll in over the coming months.

Mexico’s temperature in March averages at around 25°C / 77°F, with coastal regions along the Pacific and Caribbean coasts heating up beyond that. For this reason the southern coasts are getting busier as the heat rises and the dry season begins to come to a close, for beach-dwellers wanting to soak up the sun before the rainy season hits in the following months.

Even the cities experience busy tourist spells as they heat up and remain dry, with Mexico City having one of its busiest periods for tourism.

Whether you’re looking for a beach break, craving some culture or angling for adventure, if you’re visiting Mexico in March you will find plenty of activities to satisfy your vacation needs. Here are some of our top picks.

Things to do in Mexico in March

Step into Spring with equinox celebrations

The Spring equinox falls on 20 or 21 March every year and is widely celebrated throughout Mexico as day and night become equal in length. Not only does it mark the beginning of longer days, it is significant in Mexico as a sign of renewal and fertility, a kind of regeneration and, specifically in agricultural industries, it is a time for planting new crops. 

Ceremonies, festivals and parades are held throughout the country to celebrate the Spring equinox. You might want to consider some of the highlights, which we’ve outlined below.

Chichen Itza

This ancient Mayan city and UNESCO World Heritage Site on the Yucatan Peninsula is one of the region’s most visited archaeological sites and tourist attractions. Just over 100 from Cancun, it is believed that Chichen Itza was built as early as the 400’s and years later it became the most powerful city in the Yucatan region after it was conquered by the Toltecs. 

Today, it is home to very well-maintained and restored structures and sculptures, including the iconic 30 meter high pyramid with its serpent-headed staircase. You will notice many carvings and figures in the shape of a snake – this snake is Kulkulkhan, the serpent deity worshipped by the ancient people who comes to life twice a year during the spring and autumn equinoxes.

If you’re visiting for the equinox, you’ll see how the corners of the pyramid were carefully constructed to create a serpent-like shadow (said to be that of Kulkulkhan) on the sides of El Castillo’s staircase. The site gets extremely busy on this date as visitors come in their thousands to witness the spectacle in awe, so we recommend planning your day and booking in advance to avoid disappointment.

Teotihuacan

The Teotihuacan archaeological site, just north of Mexico City, is one of the world’s most impressive, housing a 65 meter tall Pyramid of the Sun and a 43 meter tall Pyramid of the Moon, amongst other smaller temples that line the Avenue of the Dead at the heart of the city.

Given the two most significant and prominent structures located in the ancient city, you can probably already see why it is such an important and popular site to visit on the day of the equinox. Visitors scramble to the top of the temples of the Moon and the Sun, often dressed in all white or all red, and perform rituals and sun salutations to welcome the sun and absorb its energy.

Expect to see dancing, incense burning and chanting in this celebration, and to leave feeling invigorated.

Celebrate the music, theatre and culture in Mexico City

During the month of March the Festival del Centro Histórico runs for two weeks in Mexico City, and it’s the city’s biggest party of the year. It focuses around Mexico City’s historic centre and offers special stagings of various theatrical performances, concerts and musical performances, art exhibitions, dance productions and more. It’s the ideal time to immerse yourself into Mexican culture – and cuisine – as artists of every kind come together to stage this spectacular event every year.

See the jaw-dropping Jacarandas in full bloom

While you’re in Mexico City in March, it will be hard to miss the jacaranda trees that line the streets of the Mexican capital. Reminiscent of cherry blossoms in Japan, in March they come into full bloom with lovely lavender coloured petals as they impose beautifully on the streets and form a covered archway over many roads throughout the city. Definitely a photo opportunity you don’t want to miss!

Best Places to Visit in Mexico in March

For city-dwellers wanting a break from the norm, Malinalco and Chihuahua are great alternatives to Mexico City

Both have plenty of history and culture and experience great weather in March, but there’ll be significantly fewer tourists so you won’t need to battle the crowds.

West of Mexico City, Malinalco is a beautiful and charming town filled with ancient history and begging to be explored. It is known in Mexico as a “Magical Town” for its quaint beauty as it sits against a mountainous backdrop and offers peace and tranquility to its visitors. There’s an archaeological site set high above the hills, a 16th century Augustinian Convent right in the heart of the zocalo, plenty of independent, unique stores in the town and lots of local cuisine to be enjoyed in one of many restaurants on offer.

Chihuahua is a larger city in northern Mexico filled with colonial buildings and mansions and palaces that are open to the public. It has plenty of museums, a stunning cathedral that overlooks the main square and a striking Government Palace with an impressive courtyard. The city is filled with history and culture, while the outskirts of town are dotted with ranches in what is known as “Mexico’s cowboy country”. A great alternative to Mexico City, Chihuahua has plenty on offer for those looking for a city escape.

For spa-lovers seeking a relaxing retreat, head to the Tolantongo caves for the ultimate hot spring experience

Las Grutas Tolantongo in Mexico’s Mezquital Valley are best visited in March as the weather is perfect to enjoy this incredible array of hot springs that have been built into the natural landscape. Located in a canyon a few hours from the Mexican capital, the many pools sit in the cliffside and are filled with natural mineral water that is heated by the surrounding volcanoes. With waterfalls, hot springs, rivers and waterslides this is a truly mesmerising experience set in the heart of paradise, and the ideal retreat for relaxing in the wonder of nature.

The Pacific Coast is the best place to visit in Mexico in March for beach-goers

Puerto Vallarta is the Pacific Coast’s answer to Cancun, boasting miles of white sandy beaches and plenty of boutique hotels and luxurious all inclusive resorts. The Pacific ocean of the coast of Mexico is a popular spot for swimming, snorkelling and sea sports during March and the beaches are truly beautiful. Nuevo Vallarta is a little further north and features a stylish marina and lush beaches, with plenty of impressive resorts with every amenity imaginable.

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Mexico in February

Mexico weather in February

Avg. temperature: 22.9°C / 73.2°FSun: 7 hrs per day (sunshine) / 11.5 hrs per day (daylight)
Rain: 51 mm per monthAvg. Humidity: 78%

Visiting Mexico in February

If you’re thinking about visiting Mexico in February, the weather is likely to be one of the most important factors. With year-round pleasant weather, February is no exception as Mexico’s temperature in February averages at 22.9°C / 73.2°F making it a great escape from the Northern Hemisphere’s wicked winters. 

There’ll be plenty of sunshine and very little rain as February falls in the heart of Mexico’s dry season. It’s also high tourist season, though, so make sure to plan ahead to get the best deals on travel and accommodation before flights and hotels become fully booked.

From adrenaline and adventure to rest and relaxation, there is something for everyone in February in Mexico. Take a look at our guides for the top activities.

Best Places to Visit in Mexico in February

Sun, sea and surf on the Yucatan Peninsula

Cancun is the most-visited destination on Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, but there are plenty more places to see along this luscious coastline.

For beautiful beaches, Tulum offers gorgeous white sand and crystal clear turquoise waters. The beaches here are less-trodden than the typical tourist spots in neighboring Cancun and the town is becoming a favorite with celebrities for its tranquil tropical jungle surroundings and stunning scenery. The weather here is near-perfect in February so it’s a great time to soak up the sun in peaceful surroundings.

Playa del Carmen is at the heart of the Riviera Maya and is a great base for exploring all the coast has to offer. Visit the nearby cenotes – underground swimming holes – such as Cenote Cristalino, a natural swimming hole surrounded by lush jungle, or Cenote Chaak Tun, with a spiral staircase descending into its depths where you can observe stalactites and other cave formations in this natural wonder.

Playa del Carmen is at the heart of the Riviera Maya and is a great base for exploring all the coast has to offer. It has adventure activities, water sports and plenty of other activities on offer and is a really popular tourist destination. If you prefer to relax, Playa del Carmen also has numerous beaches perfect for a restful day on the sand.

Carnival celebrations on the Pacific Coast’s Mazatlan

The Mazatlan carnival is an annual 6-day event leading up to the start of lent each February. The third largest carnival in the world, this event is not to be missed if you’re visiting Mexico in February!

Mazatlan is a port city on the Pacific Coast, and with sunny beaches and a historic downtown area it is the perfect combination of relaxing and cultural. Each year it plays host to the carnival which attracts over a million visitors, who come to engage with the local culture and tradition during this vibrant festival.

Expect big bands, loud music and live performances, plenty of dancing and flamboyant costumes throughout this elaborate and extravagant parade. There’ll be drinking and dancing, socialising and singing and plenty of excitement to keep you entertained!

Things to do in Mexico in February

Visit the Riviera Maya’s cenotes

Near Playa del Carmen, there are plenty of cenotes – underground swimming holes – that are well worth a visit for the chance to explore some of the natural wonders the Mexican landscape has to offer.

Some of the best include Cenote Cristalino, a natural swimming hole surrounded by lush jungle, or Cenote Chaak Tun, with a spiral staircase descending into its depths where you can observe stalactites and other cave formations in this natural wonder.

Parasail in paradise in Cancun

For adrenaline junkies there are plenty of water sports on offer throughout the country, and if you’re visiting Mexico in February the weather will be perfect to get out on the ocean for an enthralling activity. If you choose to parasail you’ll experience the feeling of flight as you get a birds eye view of Caribbean sea, the surrounding resorts and gorgeous tropical islands off the shores of Cancun. 

If this is a little much for your taste, there are plenty of other activities on offer; jet-skiing, surfing, paddle boarding and kayaking are amongst those on offer!

Watch the whales in Puerto Vallarta

Whale watching season in Puerto Vallarta runs from mid-December to March, so February is prime time to spot the giant humpbacks that migrate to the Bay of Banderas to give birth and mate. There are plenty of tours on offer, but we recommend doing some research and travelling where possible in a smaller vessel that holds a maximum of 10-15 people. These are less intrusive and you’ll have the opportunity to get a lot closer to these majestic mammals. Plus, it;s bound to be a more authentic experience!

Hotels in Mexico in February

If you’re visiting Mexico in February it’s the height of the tourist season, so you’ll want to plan your trip in advance to secure the best deals. 

It’s the American spring break in February, so we recommend doing some research and avoiding those dates to stay away from the crowds and parties and experience a more authentic Mexican vacation, particularly in the coastal resort regions. You’ll likely get more value for money on your hotel stay, too, as the prices tend to increase in line with popular holidays. 

Look out for special offers such as ‘stay for 5 nights, pay for 4’ or food and drinks packages at the large resorts!

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Mexico in January

Mexico weather in January

Avg. temperature: 22.7°C / 72.9°FSun: 6 hrs per day (sunshine) / 11 hrs per day (daylight)
Rain: 76 mm per monthAvg. Humidity: 80%

Thinking about visiting Mexico in January? 

With warm weather and sunny beaches along the Caribbean and Pacific Coasts – and in the heart of the dry season – it can be the ideal place to beat the winter blues.

If you’re seeking city life, you can also soak up the sun in Yucatan, Ixtapa or Acapulco while indulging in some Mexican culture.

For a more typical winter retreat, head to the Copper Canyon in northern Mexico for cooler temperatures perfect for popular hiking trails and ski trips. 

Whether you’re travelling with family, eager for adventure or just looking to relax, there are plenty of things to do in Mexico in January and there is something for everyone. We’ve outlined the best places to visit in Mexico in January below.

Things to do in Mexico in January

Go whale watching in Baja, California

One of the best things to do in Mexico in January is whale watching in Baja California, which sits on an 800 mile-long peninsula on Mexico’s wild Pacific Coast. Known by many as the best place for whale watching on earth, you can expect to see a huge variety of whales and dolphins than anywhere else in the world as they migrate to the region’s shallow waters to mate and give birth between January and March.

Be sure to do some research and book on a reputable tour for the best experience. Forget big boats with large crowds and opt for a smaller vessel with a maximum of 10-15 people for the ultimate authentic experience led by local fishermen and whale experts. They’ll allow you to get up close and personal – so close you might even be able to touch a whale with your bare hands!

Marvel at Monarch’s near Mexico City

January is one of the best times to observe the migration of Monarch butterflies at the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve, 100 km north-west of Mexico City. Millions of butterflies head to this UNESCO World Heritage Site every year to escape the harsh winter frost of North America, fluttering in their thousands to settle in the branches of oyamel fir trees, the beating of their wings in such volume mimicking the sound of gently falling rain. This is a must-see for wildlife lovers during your visit to Mexico in January.

Swim in the sea on the stunning Pacific Coast

Mexico’s Pacific Coast is a picture-perfect holiday destination. Puerto Vallarta is one of the most popular destinations along the coast, with Mazatlan and Acapulco coming in a close second and third.

The Pacific ocean of the coast of Mexico is a popular spot for swimming, snorkelling and whale watching during January. You can bask on the beaches of the famous resort regions in Puerto Vallarta, or go off the beaten track for a more natural experience in the jungle of Yelapa or the Marieta Islands.

Bask on the beaches on the Yucatan Peninsula

When you think of beaches in Mexico, you probably picture the white sands of Cancun leading to the warm Caribbean sea. Cancun is the most popular place to stay along the coast as it has the most resorts, restaurants and waterparks, not to mention the obvious; miles upon miles of endless sandy beaches. Other popular locations include Tulum, Playa del Carmen, Merida and Puerto Morelos.

There are plenty of beautiful beaches with bright turquoise waters to while away the hours if you’re looking to relax during your Mexican vacation in January.

For some culture during your beach stay, visit the Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza where the most famous monument is the 30 meter high pyramid, with its serpent-headed staircase. The ancient city is a must-see, particularly if you’re travelling from Cancun to Tulum or vice versa.

There’s a three week festival in Merida

The Merida International Arts Festival is held every January and is worth a visit during your Yucatan vacation. Merida is a cultural city year-round, but especially during January it’s a great place to attend events such as art exhibitions, orchestral concerts and more held in major cultural venues across the city such as Museums, Universities and Theaters.

Travel and accommodation in Mexico in January

For many, January can be considered the best time to visit Mexico. Most travellers begin to head home after the festive season and one of the busiest months for tourists, December, with other visitors typically not arriving until February. While January is considered part of the high season, it is considerably less crowded than its neighboring months meaning there are good deals to be found on travel and accommodation, particularly around the capital, Mexico City.

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Visiting Mexico For Christmas

Christmas in Mexico

Avg. temperature: 23°C / 73.4°FSun: 6 hrs per day (sunshine) / 10.9 hrs per day (daylight)
Rain: 179 mm per monthAvg. Humidity: 81%

With average temperatures of 23°C / 73.4°F in December, you should not expect a Winter Wonderland in Mexico at Christmastime but instead mild, pleasant temperatures and plenty of sunshine. But don’t let that dissuade you from making Mexico your festive destination! With so much to see and so much to do, Mexican Christmas culture is something not to be missed.

Ready to start planning your Mexico Christmas? Read on to learn more about the country’s traditional celebrations!

A Traditional Mexican Christmas

You may be surprised to find out that in Mexico, Christmas lasts for almost a month! Beginning on 12 December every year, the festive season continues until 6 January when the celebrations conclude.

Nativity Scenes

In Mexico, nativity scenes are a traditional and important part of Christmas with displays being set up by 12 December until they are finally taken down on 2 February. Known as ‘nacimiento’, the elaborate scenes typically feature the holy family – Mary, Joseph, Jesus, Shepherds and the Three Kings – alongside some unexpected figures such as Mexican women cooking tortillas or market vendors selling birds and animals! The displays are often vast, taking up plenty of space in peoples homes and on the streets of Mexico.

Posadas

For nine nights from 16 December until Christmas Eve, the celebration of the Posadas is held throughout Mexico which is one of the most important parts of the Christmas festivities. ‘Posada’ literally translates from Spanish as ‘inn’ or ‘shelter’ and this tradition marks Mary and Josephs arrival to Bethlehem and their search for a place to stay. The scene is reenacted throughout the country during the Posada processions, where children parade the streets with candles and religious clay figures in hand as they visit the houses of friends, neighbours and loved ones.

They sing Christmas carols about Mary and Joseph asking for a room in which to stay, but at each house they are told ‘no’ so they proceed to the next. Eventually, they are told ‘yes’ and are welcomed inside to give thanks and say prayers before parties filled with food and games and fireworks. Each of the nine Posadas is held at a different household, representing a true sense of community and love as the locals come together during the festive season.

Christmas Eve in Mexico

The final Posada is held on 24 December, Christmas Eve, and is the most significant of all. Known as ‘Buena Noche’, it is during this final celebration that the baby Jesus is placed into the manger, and families throughout Mexico return home to enjoy their main Christmas meal. After dinner, they attend church services at midnight to ring in the start of Christmas. Parties are held on the streets where children play with piñata’s, fireworks are displayed in the night sky and music and dancing ensues until the early hours.

Visiting Mexico City during Christmas

If you plan on spending Christmas in the Mexican capital, you won’t be disappointed! It is a fun time of year to spend in Mexico City with celebrations extending for more than four weeks. On 12 December, the start of the festivities, Mexicans celebrate the ‘Day of the Virgin of Guadalupe’, a popular Catholic feast that sees millions of people visit the Basilica of Guadalupe in Mexico City.

The date marks the time in 1531 when it is said that a man encountered Mexico’s patron saint, the Virgin Mary, in Mexico City, and it is recognised as a public holiday and a date of great religious importance. There are parades, fireworks, packed-out churches and music and dancing for all to enjoy.

During the Posadas the streets of Mexico City are alive as communities come together in this important religious and cultural celebration, marking Mary and Josephs journey to Bethlehem. The streets fill with nativity scenes, Christmas lights and beautifully decorated trees, the most impressive of which being in the centre of town in the main square.

In the city’s main square (the zocalo) an impressive array of festive lights are strung and lit, forming ornate patterns and a visually spectacular display of vivid colours; a great photo opportunity if you’re passing by!

You’ll be able to enjoy the lights from the city’s open air ice skating rink which is set up for the month, offering the ultimate winter experience as visitors can glide over the ice whilst listening to Christmas music blaring from the surrounding speakers.

Wherever you’re visiting in Mexico this Christmas, you will be sure to have a blast as you indulge in the local traditions!

Cover photo source: https://www.insightguides.com/inspire-me/blog/places-to-spend-christmas-holidays-in-mexico

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