So, you want to travel to Cancún. It is important to know that the best time to visit Cancun depends on what you’re looking for. The high season for tourism in Cancun is from December to April, when the weather is dry and sunny. This is an ideal time to visit if you want to enjoy outdoor activities, such as swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.
But If you’re looking for a more affordable time to visit Cancun, you may want to consider visiting during the low season from May to November.
It is always important to be clear about the weather before planning your trip to the Riviera Maya. Thanks to its tropical climate, Cancun is a year-round destination, and there are seasons that are more favorable than others to enjoy its incredible beaches. You don’t want the rain to ruin your vacation! However, it all depends on what you are looking for. In this post we tell you month by month what is the best time to travel to Cancun so that you know what awaits you at each time of the year.
The weather in Cancun
Cancun is one of the most visited cities in Mexico by tourists. However, its main attraction is the beaches, so it is better to ensure good weather before visiting. Below we will tell you some general characteristics of the climate of Cancun so that you become familiar with the city and know when it is best to travel to Cancun.
Cancun has two seasons: dry and rainy
Dry season in Cancún
The dry season is the best time to travel to Cancun. It runs from November to April! During these months, the temperatures are the most pleasant of the year, the sun shines, the breeze is welcoming and there is very little chance of rain. During this season, the tourist destination is very crowded, as many people seek refuge from the cold and enjoy a vacation on the beach.
Because of this, prices for hotels and tourist activities are likely to be more expensive during this time. However, prices do not prevent tourists from continuing to visit Cancun to enjoy its beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters, pleasant climate, and fun nightlife. Without a doubt, the best time to travel to Cancun!
Rainy season in Cancún
On the other hand, the rainy season in Cancun lasts from May to October. During these months the temperature of the city stays warm and you can find fewer tourists, which makes this season one of the best to visit Cancun if you want to have peace of mind and save a few dollars.
However, it is important that you keep in mind that during this time of year the chances of rain and thunderstorms are greater. For this reason, we recommend you to wear a raincoat and be close to safe areas.
Despite the rains, Cancun continues to receive quite a few tourists during this time of year. That being said, the rainy season is the best opportunity to enjoy this amazing destination without breaking the bank.
Something important that you should take into account is that during the rainy season (May to October), Cancun tends to get sunny at times of the day. The rains usually occur in short, intense bursts. In addition, September is the month where you can see more rain, between 100mm and 200mm of precipitation.
However, you will not have problems if you decide to travel between those months, since you will be able to enjoy most of your trip without extreme weather. This is because most of the rainfall occurs during the night or early in the morning, making the day the perfect time to enjoy this destination.
Hurricane season between September and October
Hurricane season runs from the beginning of June to the end of November. However, the sea temperature is higher between September and October, which also means that the risk of hurricanes is higher during that period.
During these months, we recommend you pay more attention to the weather reports in the area. Also, some important recommendations include having a supply of water, food, and an evacuation plan if necessary.
If we talk about the maximum temperature, during the day it varies between 30 and 33ºC. While at night, it revolves around 22 and 25ºC. Along with this, it is worth mentioning that the humidity is also usually somewhat higher during this season.
However, Cancun has an early warning system and a tourist infrastructure ready to minimize risks in case of emergency. Also, only two major hurricanes have passed through this city in 17 years. So, as long as you are aware of the weather information, stop worrying and enjoy your trip to this incredible destination.
Best time to visit Cancún by month
If you are one of those who seeks to enjoy a warm and dry climate, from November to April is the best time to travel to Cancun.
Especially January: it is the month that we most recommend to visit this beautiful destination. The temperature that you will find oscillates between 24 and 30ºC, which makes this moment the best time to travel to Cancun and enjoy its beaches.
Also, during these months it is less likely to rain, so it is the ideal time for you to practice water sports such as diving, snorkeling or kayaking. And since you are going to be outdoors, we have to tell you that another advantage of this season is that since there is less humidity, there are also fewer mosquitoes that could bother you.
1. Travel to Cancun in November
If what you are looking for is a pleasant climate and with fewer tourists, November may be one of the best times to travel to Cancun. During this season, you will find an average temperature of around 27°C. Along with this, you will enjoy cool nights that will invite you to walk along the beach or enjoy an outdoor dinner. In addition, the sea water remains warm, similar to room temperature, making it perfect for swimming, diving or water sports.
Another of the main attractions of this month is El Día de los Muertos, which is celebrated on November 1 and 2. During this beautiful celebration of the deceased, you will find impressive decorations, ceremonies and a spectacular parade that we are sure you will want to witness.
2. Travel to Cancun in December
During December, the days in Cancun are shorter, but the temperature stays at an average of 28°C during the day and 20°C at night. However, it is quite an expensive month to travel to Cancun for the Christmas holidays.
The warm climate and sea temperature is ideal to enjoy the nightlife in the Hotel Zone of Cancun. During your visit, we recommend that you take part in the Sunset Boat Parade, where you can see illuminated boats in the Nichupté Lagoon, perfect for sharing with family and friends.
3. Travel to Cancun in January
The best month to travel to Cancun. There is nothing better than starting the year in one of the most amazing destinations in all of Mexico. In January, the temperature varies between 19ºC and 28ºC, which is perfect for enjoying the beach without being overwhelmed by the heat.
The weather is during this season is irresistible, you can enjoy a warm, dry and sunny temperature. Although you may experience some occasional showers, since the hurricane season is over, it is safer to travel to Cancun. But it is also a good opportunity to go on excursions to the many Mayan ruins found in Tulum.
4. Travel to Cancun in February
February is another dry and sunny month to visit Cancun, with warm and pleasant temperatures to enjoy the sun and the beach, ranging from 26ºC during the day to 20ºC at night. The rains are scarce and the humidity low, which makes the weather conditions excellent to enjoy outdoor activities such as diving, snorkeling or simply relaxing on the beach.
Another advantage of this month is that the conditions are the best to have a day of tourism. So don’t forget to pack your most comfortable shoes to visit the Chichén Itzá archaeological complex, probably the most important attraction in Mexico. However, February is still considered a high season month.
5. Travel to Cancun in March
If you hate rain, March is one of the best months to travel to Cancun. Also, if you are also a fan of partying, March is probably the best time to visit Cancun. Especially since a large part of the students in the United States go to this beach to enjoy their vacations. In this month you will find an average temperature of 29°C and a somewhat more humid climate.
However, this environment may not be what you are looking for and you prefer to venture into the Mexican jungle in search of the highest pyramids. You can also participate in the Cancun Half Marathon, an annual event that is organized on March 5 for International Women’s Day.
6. Travel to Cancun in April
April is the driest month of the year in Cancun. It hardly rains three days in the whole month! In addition, the rainy season is just around the corner and many take the opportunity to enjoy the beach before the rains arrive. However, there are several events and festivities to celebrate the founding of Cancun, making it an exciting time to visit the city.
If you like music festivals, you can take advantage of your stay to attend the Paradise Blue Festival, a three-day electronic music event that attracts music fans from all over the world. In addition, you can be a part of the Cancun Music Week, which is celebrated for five days.
7. Travel to Cancun in May
May marks the start of the rainy season in Cancun, which means there is more chance of isolated storms. However, the sea temperature remains warm, averaging 28°C. This makes it a great time to enjoy the beach.
In addition, this month is considered low season, which means that prices for accommodation and other activities are cheaper for those looking to save. If you are a nature lover, you will love this month! Since the flora and fauna are in full bloom.
8. Travel to Cancun in June
In Cancun, the hurricane season starts in June, so you should be aware of local recommendations regarding the weather. However, you should not let this stop you from visiting this beautiful destination.
The average air temperature is between 25ºC and 32ºC, while the sea temperature is approximately 28ºC. Also, since the rains have not reached their peak, you will have many opportunities to enjoy the beach and its water activities. The water temperature is warmer and there are many options to explore the coral reefs and marine life in the area.
9. Travel to Cancun in July
July is one of the hottest months in Cancun, with an average temperature of 28°C. Although it is also one of the wettest months, with an average of 130mm of rain, which can generate some storms.
Also, this is a month full of events and festivities, such as the Caribbean Festival, which offers a variety of cultural and musical activities that we are sure you will enjoy. We must also remind you that this is a month of high season in Cancun. Going from May to September is the best time to travel to Cancun and see turtles
10. Travel to Cancun in August
August is the warmest month to travel to Cancun, with temperatures that can reach 33°C. Also, this is one of the most popular months for tourists, since in many countries, they go out for summer vacations. This, in turn, causes prices to become higher than normal.
As for the weather, you can expect some rainy days due to hurricane season, but most will be sunny and hot. Be sure to bring light clothing, sunscreen, and above all, try to visit the beaches early in the morning or at sunset to avoid the midday sun.
11. Travel to Cancun in September
September is the highest peak in the hurricane season. Therefore, you will not find crowds of tourists, but you will find lower prices for accommodation and activities. Also, September is the rainiest month in Cancun, so there may be some interruptions in outdoor activities. During this month, you will find a temperature of up to 32ºC and extreme humidity.
However, if you want to visit Cancun in September, you can also attend the Mexican Independence Day festivities.
12. Travel to Cancun in October
On the occasion of Halloween, traveling to Cancun in October is an excellent option for those looking to have fun in the hotels, bars and nightclubs of the city. In this month, the temperature is slightly less warm, but there may still be rain. However, the days are usually mostly sunny and the water temperature is still pleasant for swimming and water sports.
Regarding the budget, you will find attractive offers in hotels and tourist activities. Plus, you’ll find that there are fewer tourists on the beaches, which means you’ll have a more relaxing experience.
If you love music or go fishing, try going to the Island Time Music Festival, which for 4 days puts on musical shows and fishing competitions on beautiful Isla Mujeres.
In short, what is the best month to visit Cancun?
January is the best month to travel to Cancun. Of course, better wait for the first week to pass and prices drop, since they usually remain high after the Christmas, New Year and Epiphany festivities. During the last three weeks of January, there are not as many crowds as in March and April and it is not as hot. Our favorite month to travel to Cancun!
What is the worst month to travel to Cancun?
For us, the worst month to travel to Cancun is September. This is because it is the peak of the hurricane season in the Caribbean. Also, it is the wettest month, with an average of 14 to 15 rainy days.
