Best time to visit Mexico

WHEN'S MEXICOS DRY SEASON?

If you’re after non-stop sunshine, head to Mexico between December and April. Temperatures average at a comfortable 24C during these months, so expect cloud-free, clear blue skies. Nightlife lovers should visit in March and April to make the most of Spring Break in party central Cancun, located on the Caribbean Coast.

WHEN'S MEXICO'S RAINY SEASON?

Rainy season in Mexico runs from May to September, but don’t let that put you off. Showers tend to take place in late afternoon in short, sharp bursts, meaning you’ll still have hours of glorious sunshine to enjoy for most of the day. Meanwhile, official hurricane season in Mexico runs from June until November. According to the Met Office, the highest risk of hurricanes occurs between September and October, due to higher sea temperatures.

WHEN'S IT QUIETEST IN MEXICO?

If you want to skip the crowds on your trip, avoid spots like Cancun in March and April when Spring Break takes place. May, just as rainy season begins, and November, when hurricane season ends, are two of Mexico’s quietest months. So, whether you’re after a secluded beach in Playa del Carmen, or want to explore the jungle in Riviera Maya, you won’t be competing with the crowds at these times of year.

WHEN'S BEST FOR SPOTTING WHALES?

Mexico’s known for its whale shark-spotting opportunities, but when’s best to go to see them depends on which part of the country you pick. If you opt for a Los Cabos escape, whale shark migration season starts in November and runs until February. But if you fancy Cancun instead, you’re most likely to see whale sharks if you visit in May. And, in Puerto Vallarta, January and February are your best bet. You can see gray whales in Los Cabos, too – their famous migration runs between November and March. To see blue whales, visit Los Cabos between January and May. And, if humpback whales are your favourite, book your Los Cabos trip between the end of December and the end of January – plus, in February, you’ll be in with the chance of seeing baby humpbacks.

You can book whale-spotting excursions through TUI – check out what’s on offer

WHEN'S BEST FOR SEEING SEA TURTLES?

Los Cabos is home to five types of sea turtle – hawksbill, green, western ridley, loggerhead and leatherback. Turtle season in Los Cabos runs from August to December. During this period, sea turtles make their way to shore to lay their eggs – after around 45 days the baby turtles emerge. Keep an eye out for hatchling release events put on by local turtle protection programmes for a guaranteed sighting.

WHEN'S BEST FOR SURFING?

Los Cabos is the best place to go if watersports are at the top of your holiday to-do list. The prime surfing season in Los Cabos runs from November to April. So, if hitting the waves are your thing, that’s the time to go. Meanwhile, in Cancun, surf’s up between June and November. And, in Puerto Vallarta, between November and March is the best time to visit for surfing.

ADD THESE EVENTS TO YOUR CALENDAR

Inception Music Festival- March

The largest Spring Break event in the world, Inception Music Festival, takes place for a month each spring in Cancun. This festival is marked by spectacular day and night parties at Cancun’s best venues, including The City, Dady’O, Palazzo, Mandala and Mandala Beach. Plus, you can expect music from chart-topping acts like Lil Wayne, Fedde Le Grand, and Alan Walker.

Cinco De Mayo- 5th May

Cinco De Mayo commemorates the Mexican victory over French forces at the Battle of Puebla, which took place in Mexico City in 1862. Expect street parades flanked by mariachi bands, dancers, and plenty of opportunities to tuck into Mexico favourites like tacos and burritos. Plus, locals often dress in brightly coloured costumes and re-enact the battle.

Day of the Dead – 2nd November

Day of the Dead celebrations take place each November. The holiday, which honours departed loved ones, is marked by dressing up in traditional costumes and face paint. Puerto Vallarta is one of the best places to be on Día de Muertos, with mariachi and ballet performances, fireworks display, and chances to tuck into traditional lunches.

Lord of the Wind showdown - January

This annual competition takes place in Los Cabos, and attracts professional windsurfers and kiteboarders from around the world to try their hand at taking on the infamous El Norte winds. It’s the perfect opportunity to watch the experts take on the waves. Plus, you can get involved with the concerts, parties and fiestas that accompany the festival.

Ready for your Mexican getaway?

Browse our holidays to Mexico, plus take a look at our pick of the best hotels to visit and the excursions to try while you’re there.

Author: Lizzie Butler