Mexico Weather in May

As May arrives, Mexico transforms into a captivating paradise of sunlit splendour. With spring in full bloom, the country beckons travelers to experience its diverse climates, from coastal havens to cultural treasures. In this article, we embark on a journey through the weather in Mexico in May, unveiling a tapestry of destinations that promise unforgettable moments amidst the warm embrace of the sun. Join us in embracing the beauty of this enchanting season!

What is the weather like in Mexico in May?

The weather in Mexico in May features warm temperatures ranging from 60°F to 90°F (18°C to 34°C), making it an ideal time for cultural exploration, beach adventures, and outdoor activities across the country

Oaxaca experiences warm temperatures ranging from 70°F to 80°F (24°C to 30°C). It marks the start of the rainy season, with occasional showers adding to the lush greenery, making it perfect for cultural exploration and savouring local cuisine.

In Mexico City and the central highlands, May offers mild and pleasant weather, with temperatures ranging from 60°F to 70°F (18°C to 24°C). It's an ideal time to explore the capital's historical sites and enjoy outdoor activities without the peak tourist crowds.

The Yucatán Peninsula, including Mérida, Tulum, Ruta Puuc, and Chichén Itzá, enjoys tropical warmth with temperatures ranging from 80°F to 90°F (29°C to 34°C). The region experiences the beginning of the rainy season, but most days are sunny, making it perfect for beach adventures and discovering ancient Mayan ruins.

Overall, May presents a favorable time to visit Mexico, with pleasant temperatures and occasional rains to nurture the landscapes.

Rough Guides tip: a trip to Mexico is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Do you want to get the best out of your trip? Check our Mexico itineraries and also find out how to get to Mexico.

Is Mexico warm in May?

The weather in Mexico in May sees an increase in temperatures. On the Yucatan Peninsula, Cancun and the Riviera Maya welcome visitors with warm days and average temperatures around 84°F (29°C) with approximately 10 hours of daily sunshine.

On the Pacific coast, Mazatlán has warm, pleasant temperatures of around 81°F (27°C).

In the center of Mexico, the captivating city of Oaxaca experiences more moderate days, with average temperatures of around 79°F (26°C), perfect for attending one of its many fiestas.

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Is May a good time to visit Mexico?

As the peak tourist season subsides, May presents an excellent opportunity to explore the country without the bustling crowds. The weather in May is generally pleasant, with warm temperatures making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Don't miss the Cinco de Mayo Celebrations (May 5) in Acapulco or visiting Tequila for its Día de la Santa Cruz (May 3) fiesta with mariachi and plenty of imbibing of the local tipple. World Tequila Day (May 27) is also celebrated with parades and drinking, but in Amatitán instead.

However, it pays to do your research before visiting as some businesses are only open at the weekends and many more shut in May, such as those Querétaro.

Rough Guides tip: make sure to read all about the best time to visit Mexico.

Average rainfall in Mexico in May

The weather in Mexico in May provides rain the northern regions of Mexico, averaging from 0 to 1 inch (0 to 25 mm).

Central regions, including Mexico City, maintain relatively dry conditions with an average rainfall of around 0.2 to 0.6 inches (5 to 15 mm).

Eastern coastal areas, like the Yucatan Peninsula and destinations such as Cancun and the Riviera Maya, start to experience an increase in rainfall, with averages ranging from 2 to 4 inches (50 to 100 mm).

Southern states like Chiapas and Oaxaca see higher rainfall amounts, with averages ranging from 4 to 8 inches (100 to 200 mm).

With our tailor-made trip to Mexico's Highlands and Coast, you will discover Mexico City's historic highlights and the wonders of sites like Teotihuacan, Campeche and Palenque before you jet off to the Central Highlands. Discover archaeological ruins and traditional tribal villages, then fall for the charms of Mexico's old colonial cities and the glitzy Caribbean coast.

Find even more options for your trip in our list of the best vacation destinations in May.

Festivals and events in Mexico in May

There are several festivals and events that take place in Mexico during the month of May. This is the biggest:

• Cinco de Mayo (May 5). Commemorating the 1862 Battle of Puebla, it’s a public vacation in Mexico, but is actually celebrated more enthusiastically in the US, where many Gringos (who see the date as a chance to have a theme party involving sombreros, nachos and tequila) have come to believe that it’s Mexico’s equivalent of the US’s July 4. In Mexico it’s not such a big deal, except in Puebla, where it is celebrated with an exuberant fiesta.

Rough Guides tip: Find tons of ideas for your Mexican adventure in our guide to the best vacation spots in Mexico.

Plan your trip with our Mexico itineraries

Our Mexico itineraries are crafted to help you experience the best of the country, stress-free. Think of them as a starting point — perfect for planning, but flexible enough to adjust to your own pace and interests. After all, travel is about freedom, but a little planning goes a long way.

• Mexico itinerary 7 days: A week in Mexico lets you focus on one or two key regions. Perfect for a quick mix of culture, history, and a bit of beach relaxation.
• Mexico itinerary 10 days: Ten days allows you to see multiple regions, balancing city exploration and natural beauty. You’ll have time for iconic sites, local food, and some downtime.
• Mexico itinerary 14 days: Two weeks offers a deeper dive into Mexico’s diverse landscapes, from ancient ruins to scenic beaches.
• Mexico itinerary 3 weeks: Three weeks gives you the freedom to explore Mexico at a leisurely pace, covering cities, coastlines, and rural areas. Great for an in-depth experience that captures the country’s culture, cuisine, and natural wonders.

Visit Mexico in other months

• January
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• December