mexico travel july

Mexico in July: Weather Info & Best Places to Visit [2024]

Planning a trip to Mexico in July?

You’re in the right place for info because I live in Mexico , and I’m going to share everything I know about visiting Mexico in July with you!

As a year-round destination, you can visit Mexico anytime, but July is only ideal for certain places — which you’re about to discover.

In this article, you’ll learn about the Top 10 Best Places to Visit in Mexico in July , including Cancun, Mexico City, Tulum and Cabo San Lucas (Los Cabos).

The 10 places highlighted include the ones that have the best weather in Mexico in July , and other special events in July.

Ready to learn all about traveling to Mexico in July? Let’s get to it!

Mexico in July weather

Typical mexico july weather.

You’re likely wondering, What is the weather like in Mexico in July? — so that you can plan the best trip possible.

I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but Mexico weather in July is less-than-ideal, though that shouldn’t deter you from traveling to Mexico in July.

July is smack dab in the middle of the rainy season in Mexico. In fact, if there’s one thing you can expect from Mexican weather in July — it’s rain.

Now, some areas are less rainy than others, and since the weather isn’t great, prices tend to come down a bit.

• When is the Mexico rainy season? The rainy season in Mexico runs from about May to October.
• When is the Mexico busy season? The busy season in Mexico runs from about November to April. If you don’t mind some rain, the rainy season is also the slow season in Mexico — which means fewer crowds and lower price tags.

Average temperatures in Mexico in July

There is no set temperature in Mexico in July, because temperatures fluctuate a lot from one part of the country to the other.

In general, expect a lot of precipitation and high temperatures — as you would with any tropical destination in July. The beaches in Mexico on the coast are much hotter than the cities in Central Mexico, like Mexico City , Guadalajara and San Miguel de Allende .

However, the cities are still on the hotter side, and you can expect afternoon showers on most days in Central Mexican cities.

Visiting Mexico in July

10 best places to visit in mexico in july.

Wondering where to go in Mexico in July?

Provided you don’t mind a little rain, you can really visit anywhere you’d like. Below you will find a list of the Top 10 places to travel in Mexico in July , with some information about what to expect in each one.

1. Cancun in July

For more information on visiting Cancun Mexico, check out this Cancun Travel Guide .

Cancun is the top travel destination in Mexico, and even though the weather isn’t ideal in July, that doesn’t stop people from visiting.

The summers are popular with families that have kids on summer break, so book your family-friendly Cancun all inclusive resorts ASAP!

Looking for the best things to do in Cancun in April? Don’t miss swimming in the Cancun cenotes , and the Mayan Ruins in Cancun .

What’s the average humidity in Cancun in July?

There is no way to sugarcoat this, so I won’t try.

The Cancun humidity in July averages 76% — so put clothing that doesn’t show sweat on your Mexico packing list ! It is quite muggy in Cancun in July, so plan for water activities during the day to escape the heat.

Wondering, What’s the average temperature in Cancun in July?

You can expect abut 97°F (36°C) during the day, and 88°F (31°C) at night. In short: It’s hot! Don’t forget to stay hydrated with this Water-To-Go bottle , and even this misting fan to cool your skin.

Swim With the Whale sharks in Cancun

Whale sharks are sharks , but they are a docile and harmless variety, similar to a nurse shark. They are also the largest fish in the sea at about 40- to 50-feet-long (12m-15m)!

Cancun Whale Shark Season runs from about June to September, but July and August are the best months. If you want to do a Cancun Whale Shark Tour , make sure you so book now , because capacity is limited and the tours do sell out.

Does it rain all day in Cancun in July?

Usually, no. It will typically rain for 1-2 hours in the afternoon, and then the sun will come back out. You should expect daily rain, but regular storms pass quickly.

If you happen to be visiting during a tropical depression, tropical storm, or even hurricane, then yes, it might rain all day. 

RELATED ARTICLE 🏖️ Cancun in July: Weather Info and Travel Tips

Atlantic Hurricane Season runs June 1 to November 30), so there’s a chance of a hurricane in Mexico in July. However, direct hit hurricanes inn Cancun are extremely rare.

By no means is July the wettest month in Cancun, but there’s always a chance of rain anywhere on the Mexican coast.

Cancun Weather in July

2. Mexico City in July

For more information on visiting Mexico City, check out this Mexico City Travel Guide .

Considering a Mexico City July trip?

Not many know this, but the winters in Mexico City are on the colder side, so if you don’t like the cold, July is a great month to visit Mexico City. You can expect some afternoon showers on most days, but it rarely rains all day.

One of the world’s biggest ( and best! ) cities, there are plenty of indoor things to do in Mexico City when it rains.

Start the day with a nice breakfast or brunch, then head to some of the best museums in Mexico City in the afternoons, like the Frida Kahlo Museum in Coyoacan . From the museum, enjoy some tacos at the best restaurants in Mexico City .

By then, the rains should have passed, and you’ll enjoy the Mexico City nightlife in peace.

Looking for the best things to do in Mexico City at night?! You must see a Lucha Libre wrestling match!

What’s the best time to visit Mexico City?

This will depend on your preferences, but the rainy season is from about April to October, so many want to avoid that.

It doesn’t usually rain too much in Mexico City, but if you want sunny days everyday on your trip, visit in the dry season from November to March.

🦋 Monarch Butterfly Season in Mexico: One of the best experiences is visiting the Piedra Herrada Butterfly Sanctuary during the annual butterfly migration in Mexico, from late-November to March.

Book a Mexico butterfly tour to see millions of butterflies in the mountains near Mexico City. On a personal note — I lived in Mexico City for a while, and my favorite time to visit is March during jacaranda season, when all the purple jacaranda flowers are in bloom.

The winters are too cold for my liking, so months like July are nice because you get warm days and mild, cool nights.

Weather in Mexico City in July

3. Cabo San Lucas in July

For more information on visiting Cabo San Lucas, check out this Cabo Travel Guide .

Cabo San Lucas and nearby San Jose del Cabo are located in the Los Cabos Municipality. In Spanish, los cabos means “the capes,” (as cabo means “cape”). These are the top two destinations in Los Cabos Mexico.

Cabo San Lucas is the more popular of the two Cabos, though the airport you’ll fly into is located in San Jose del Cabo, about 40 minutes away.

With a more relaxed vibe, San Jose del Cabo offers a nice alternative to lively Cabo San Lucas , so some travelers do stay there.

With warmer weather all year, Mexico is great year-round — and Cabo even more so. It averages 300 days of sunshine each year (though some say it gets 350 days of sunshine!) , so you can expect to have a nice trip to Los Cabos in July.

In fact, the Cabo rainy season only runs from about August to September, followed by a whopping 8-10 months of sunshine.

July is on the hotter side in Cabo, with temperatures averaging about 93°F (34°C), but it’s a beach town, so you can just hop in for a swim.

Cabo Weather in July

4. Tulum in July

For more information on visiting Tulum Mexico, check out this Tulum Travel Guide .

Once a sleepy beach town, Tulum is now one of the most popular and best places to visit in Mexico .

In recent years, it has also become one of the most expensive . Since July is one of the Tulum slow season months, you will find some of the best deals on Tulum resorts in July.

Weather-wise, it will likely rain for a bit each afternoon. However, if you’re planning to travel to Tulum on a budget , your money will stretcher further in the summer.

Since the Tulum weather in July isn’t perfect, less people visit, so there will be smaller crowds. With the money you can save visiting Tulum in the slow season, you may even want to extend your trip beyond Mexico and into Central America.

Just a few hours south of Tulum, you can do a land crossing into Belize near Lake Bacalar, Mexico . 

Tulum Weather in July

5. Oaxaca in July

For more information on visiting Oaxaca Mexico, check out this Oaxaca Travel Guide .

🗣 Before we talk about visiting Oaxaca in July, let’s clear up the Oaxaca pronunciation. If you’re wondering, How do you pronounce Oaxaca? , it’s waa-haa-kah. With that cleared up, let’s continue!

Oaxaca State is one of the most culturally-rich places in Mexico and all Latin America.

Oaxaca City, the capital of Oaxaca State, is well known as the Foodie Capital of Mexico thanks to its delicious Oaxacan cuisine . There’s also and colorful festivals, like Day of the Dead and the Guelaguetza .

When most people say “Oaxaca,” they are referring to Oaxaca City (AKA Oaxaca de Juarez) , in the central part of the state.

The beaches of Oaxaca , like Puerto Escondido , Mazunte , Zipolite and Huatulco , are also popular, but they are located on the Pacific Coast.

Oaxaca City has a more desert-like climate, versus the beaches that are quite tropical. Though a desert, Oaxaca City does have a rainy season which runs from about May to September. It shouldn’t rain too much, but expect afternoon showers.

Guelaguetza Festival in Oaxaca

Besides the Oaxaca Día de los Muertos ( Day of the Dead ) festival, there’s also the Oaxaca Guelaguetza in July.

The dates fluctuate each year, but it’s held the last two Mondays in July, and billed as the largest folk festival in Latin America, with music, dancing and food.  

Oaxaca Weather in July

6. Riviera Maya in July

The Riviera Maya is located between Cancun and Playa del Carmen, in the Yucatán Peninsula. It is the most posh area in Yucatan, where you’ll find many of the best resorts in Mexico and the nicest Mexico overwater bungalows .

Given its location, you can expect similar weather to Cancun, Tulum and Playa del Carmen, which is to say: hot!

Of course, you’ll be right on the Caribbean Sea, so you’ll likely have a nice breeze from time to time, but you can also jump in the sea to cool off.

🏝 Costa Maya in April : Located about 3.5 hours south of Riviera Maya, you’ll be in the beach town of Mahahual, Mexico on the Costa Maya. The weather in Riviera Maya and Coast Maya is similar, but the vibe is much more laid back in Costa Maya.

Besides the Caribbean, there are so many other places to cool off and swim near Riviera Maya.

From the cenotes in Tulum and cenotes near Cancun , both close to Riviera Maya, you also have water parks like Xcaret and Xel-Ha , and underground rivers, like Rio Secreto .

For a truly memorable experience, head about 40 minutes south to the beach town of Akumal .

It’s just south of Tulum, and one of the more up-and-coming Mexico resort towns. However, the real claim to fame is that you can swim with the turtles in Akumal Beach .

Riviera Maya Mexico Weather in July

7. Puerto Vallarta in July

For more information on visiting Puerto Vallarta Mexico, check out this Puerto Vallarta Travel Guide .

Puerto Vallarta is one of the safest cities in Mexico , and best beach towns in Mexico.

It appeals to all types of travelers, from solo travelers to honeymooners, families and LGBTQ+ travelers — as Puerto Vallarta is the gay capital of Mexico, or the San Francisco of Mexico.

If you’re looking to go on a cruise to Mexico in July, see if there are any to Puerto Vallarta. A top destination for cruises in Mexico, there’s no shortage of things to do in Puerto Vallarta when you venture off-boat.

🏝 Sayulita in April : Located about one hour from Puerto Vallarta, many visit or even take a day trip to Sayulita, Mexico . This bohemian beach town has the same great weather as Puerto Vallarta in April, and it’s absolutely worth checking out.

On one side of the city, there’s Bahía Banderas (Bay of Banderas), a tranquil inlet off the Pacific Ocean great for swimming, snorkeling , and whale watching (winter only).

The Sierra Madre mountains are located just behind the beach, so you really get the best of all worlds.

As with all Mexico beaches in July, you can expect hot, humid weather, and rain showers in the afternoons.

The showers usually pass quickly, and then you can go back to enjoying all the Old World charm, beautiful nature, and best beaches Puerto Vallarta has to offer.

Puerto Vallarta Weather in July

8. Playa del Carmen in July

For more information on visiting Playa del Carmen Mexico, check out this Playa del Carmen Travel Guide .

Though some call Playa del Carmen the mini-Cancun, it’s a destination in its own right. Now, to get there, you do have to travel from Cancun to Playa del Carmen (or just “Playa,” as the locals call it), but it’s just a one hour drive.

Once you arrive in Playa, it’s much more of a beach town than Cancun, which is a resort town.

Now, there are some beautiful resorts in Playa del Carmen , but it has a small town feel. It’s much more walkable than Cancun, which is great because there’s no Uber in Playa del Carmen .

What these two places do share, being so close to one another, is their weather .

Much like Cancun, you can expect hot, humid days, and rain in the afternoons. The best plan of action when traveling to Playa del Carmen in July is to be indoors, or in water, in the afternoons.

If you want to visit any of the nearby Mayan Ruins in Mexico , arrive early in the morning when they open, and you’ll be done touring the site by the time the rain rolls in.

When in the Yucatan Peninsula, don’t miss Chichen Itza Pyramids — one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

Playa del Carmen Weather in July

9. Puerto Escondido in July

For more information on visiting Puerto Escondido Mexico and all the best beaches of Oaxaca, check out this Oaxaca Beaches Travel Guide .

Located on the Pacific Coast of Mexico, Puerto Escondido is the most famous of all Oaxaca Beaches.

It is popular with surfers, artists, backpackers, and solo travelers in Mexico , but there’s really something for everyone in “Puerto,” as the locals call it.

Want to learn to surf in Puerto Escondido? Book some surfing lessons in July, one of the best months for waves in Puerto Escondido 🏄‍♀️

Many visitors start in the city, then make the Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido journey, for a complete Oaxaca state trip. There are so many things to do in Puerto Escondido , however, that you can easily spend your whole trip there.

While you might have afternoon rain showers in the city, it’s almost a guarantee in Puerto Escondido. The good news is there’s so many water activities that the rain may not even put a damper on your trip.

When in town, you’ll want to visit the best beaches in Puerto Escondido , like Playa Zicatela, Playa Bacocho, Playa La Punta, Playa Puerto Angel and Playa Carrizalillo .

You’ll also want to take a Puerto Escondido boat tour to see the dolphins that hang out just off-shore.

When the sun is going down, join a baby turtle release experience to send these adorable creatures into the sea for the first time. At night, head to Manialtepec Lagoon to see the bioluminescence.

Puerto Escondido Weather in July

10. Cozumel in July

🚢 Planning to take a Mexico cruise in July? Cozumel Island is one of the best Mexico cruise ports, especially for snorkelers and divers.

Cozumel is a Mexican Caribbean island, located about 30 minutes by ferry from Playa del Carmen. There are also flights to Cozumel, and you can land right on the island at Cozumel International Airport.

It’s also quite easy to travel from Cancun to Cozumel .

Some say Cozumel is the best place for snorkeling in Mexico, and the best place for diving in Mexico as well. Just off-shore, there’s the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second largest coral reef in the world, after the Great Barrier Reef.

There are plenty of ways to see the reef, even if you don’t want to swim.

That’s right, the Cozumel Submarine Tour is an unforgettable experience to see these coral reefs in an actual submarine. Cozumel also has beautiful beaches, and Mayan Ruins as well.

Of course, you will likely get rain when traveling to Cozumel in July.

However, the vast majority of all the best things to do in Cozumel involve being in, on or near the Caribbean Sea, so that makes the afternoon showers tolerable.  

Cozumel Weather in July

Weather in Mexico in July: Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best time to visit mexico.

Weather-wise, the best time to travel to Mexico is from November to March.

This is during the dry season, when you’ll see very little (if any) rain, low humidity, and few mosquitoes . This is also the high or busy season in Mexico, when most people visit.

For travelers who want to escape the crowds, the summer months will give you the most bang for your buck.

In July, you’ll see flight prices drop and get deals at many hotels. If you want to treat yourself to a fancy resort in Mexico, you’ll likely find the best deals in July.

When is the shoulder season in Mexico?

The shoulder season is a magical time when the weather is still nice, but the crowds have died down, and the prices have as well.

It takes place just as the busy season is about to begin, and right after it ends. For my money, this is the best time to visit Mexico! The Mexico shoulder season includes the months of October to November and April to May; though May is the hottest month in Mexico.

You may still find great Mexico travel deals in other months, but you likely won’t find low prices or small crowds anytime during the busy season.

How hot is it in Mexico in July?

You might want to know, Is it too hot to go to Mexico in July?

This answer is a matter of preference, but in short: It is pretty hot in Mexico in July. If you don’t like tropical weather, Mexico in November will be a much more enjoyable month for you.

July is one of the hottest months in Mexico, especially if you’re visiting the Mexico beach towns .

Average temperatures in Mexico in July hover around 90°F (32°C) on the beaches, but it can feel a few degrees hotter because of the humidity.

Is it sunny in Mexico in July?

Yes — It tends to be sunny in Mexico year-round, summers included.

Since summer is the rainy season in Mexico, the sun will come and go, depending on if there’s a storm or not. Do know that even if a storm rolls in, the sun usually comes back out in an hour or so. 

What is the average temperature in Mexico in July?

For Mexico beaches , you can expect 95°F days (35°C) and 85°F nights (29°C). With the humidity factored in, it might even feel hotter.

Inland, the cities of Mexico are considerably cooler, so plan for 80°F days (26°C) and 65°F nights (18°C).

When is Mexico Hurricane Season?

Mexico has about 5,800 miles (9330 km) of coastline, so there’s a lot of places susceptible to hurricanes.

⛈ Atlantic Hurricane Season runs from June 1 to November 30 , and with so many popular beach towns, you’ll want to be aware when visiting Mexico beaches in July.

What are the best beaches in Mexico in July?

I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but all beaches in Mexico will have about the same weather in July — hot, humid, rainy, and buggy .

That’s not to say people still don’t visit Mexico in July; they absolutely do. The thing you must do, however, is manage your expectations.

The Pacific Coast beaches (Puerto Vallarta and Sayulita ), Caribbean beaches (Cancun, Riviera Maya, Tulum and Playa del Carmen) and Yucatan beaches (Progreso, El Cuyo) will be much more humid than the beaches in Baja California — so you might opt for Cabo San Lucas.

Baja California is a peninsula located on Mexico’s west coast. It has two states, Baja California and Baja California Sur, and some of the best beaches in Mexico.

Besides Cabo San Lucas, some other great Baja beach towns include La Paz, Todos Santos, Loreto, San Jose del Cabo and Rosarito.

Should I go to Mexico in July?

It Depends — As long as you know you will likely get rain, maybe even daily showers, your Mexico July trip won’t be ruined.

If you want a yes/no answer to Is July a good time to visit Mexico? , it is a great time for Mexico budget travel, as July is an off-season month.

Can you go to Mexico in July?

Yes — For Mexico budget travelers, it’s actually one of the best times to visit, because July is the off-season, or slow season, when you can find cheap Mexico travel deals.

If you’ve had your eye on any posh, 5 Star Mexico resorts, you should find great promotions in July.

Are there mosquitoes in Mexico in July?

Yes — The mosquitoes are at their worst in Mexico in the summer months, like July.

You’ll want to pack insect repellent and wear it all day; I recommend this eco-friendly mosquito spray from Repel, or this combo reef-safe sunscreen/mosquito repellent from Bullfrog.

Are there any Mexico 4th of July celebrations?

Want to visit Mexico July 4th?

As a U.S. holiday, there are very few large celebrations in Mexico. Since Mexico and the U.S. share a border, and the largest number of tourists to Mexico come from the U.S., you may see some small-scale celebrations in tourist hot spots.

• Q: Does Mexico celebrate 4th of July?
• A: Not really, but popular tourist towns like Cancun and Cabo San Lucas often have some form of celebration for travelers from the United States.

Are there any major Mexico holidays in July?

While there are a lot of holidays in Mexico , there aren’t any major ones in July.

In smaller towns and pueblos magicos (which means “magical small towns”), you’ll find minor celebrations of the Fiesta of the Virgin of Carmen and Festival of St. James.

Fiesta de la Magdalena in Xico, Veracruz

The town of Xico (pronounced hee-ko) in Veracruz, Mexico, hosts one of the most colorful festivals in Mexico in July — the Fiesta de la Magdalena.

While the Xico pueblo magico is largely off the main tourist radar, this mid-July festival is a true cultural experience.

The Guelaguetza in Oaxaca is another one of the most popular Mexico festivals in July. Like the Fiesta de la Magdalena, it is a colorful event, with elaborate costumes, music, food and dancing in the streets.

Final Thoughts: Visiting Mexico in July

If you’re going to Mexico in July, just be prepared for some afternoon showers and higher temperatures, and you’ll do just fine.

The great thing about July Mexico weather is that though you’ll have rain, the storms tend to pass quickly, and the sun comes back out.

What’s the best place to visit in Mexico in July? In my opinion, Mexico City would be best. If you like venturing a bit off the beaten path, there’s also Guanajuato City .

Another one of the best things about summer in Mexico is that you’ll likely have smaller crowds, since it’s the off-season.

Mexico in July weather is definitely hot, but if you can plan to be indoors in the afternoon, or swimming, the weather won’t bother you too much.

If Mexico in July isn’t for you…

After reading this, you might have come to the conclusion that visiting Mexico in July just isn’t for you. If so, check out these other articles about visiting Mexico during other months of the year.

• Mexico in January
• Mexico in February
• Mexico in March
• Mexico in April
• Mexico in May
• Mexico in June
• Mexico in July
• Mexico in August
• Mexico in September
• Mexico in October
• Mexico in November
• Mexico in December

Mexico Travel Planning Guide

Should i buy mexico travel insurance.

YES — With basic coverage averaging just $5-10 USD per day, enjoy peace of mind with a plan from Travel Insurance Master , one of the biggest names in travel insurance. ( Read more )

Can you drink the water in Mexico?

No — You’ll want to buy this Water-To-Go Bottle , which filters your drinking water so you don’t get sick from drinking water in Mexico.

Also, it helps keep you hydrated while traveling Mexico. ( Read more )

Is it safe to rent a car in Mexico?

Yes — Renting a car in Mexico is one of the best ways to see the country! I always rent with Discover Cars , which checks international companies and local Mexican companies, so you get the best rates. ( Read more )

Will my phone work in Mexico?

Maybe — It depends on your company, so check with your provider. If you don’t have free Mexico service, buy a Telcel SIM Card . As Mexico’s largest carrier, Telcel has the best coverage of any Mexico SIM Cards. ( Read more )

What’s the best way to book my Mexico accommodations?

For Mexico hotels, Booking.com is the best site , but for hostels, use Hostel World . If you’re considering a Mexico Airbnb, don’t forget to check VRBO , which is often cheaper than Airbnb.

What do I pack for Mexico?

Head to the Ultimate Mexico Packing List + FREE Checklist Download to get all the info you need on packing for Mexico.

What’s the best site to buy Mexico flights?

For finding cheap Mexico flights, I recommend using Skyscanner .

Do I need a visa for Mexico?

Likely Not — U.S., Canadian and European Passport holders don’t need a visa for Mexico; but check here to see if you need a Mexico travel visa. Most travelers will get a 180-Day FMM Tourist Visa passport stamp a upon arrival.

Best Time to Visit Mexico: Month by Month Breakdown

Mexico is a vast country and there is a huge range of seasons and climates across the different regions.

The weather can be roughly split into a wet and a dry season, although this mostly counts in the tropical regions south of Mexico City.

The north has a more arid, desert-like climate, while the central regions are at high altitude and enjoy much cooler weather than the rest of Mexico. 

Mexico also has distinct low and high seasons when it comes to tourism, especially in touristy destinations like Cancun and Puerto Vallarta. These generally coincide with the wet and dry seasons too. 

To inspire your next trip, here’s our guide on the best time to visit Mexico!

Don’t leave home without: Lonely Planet Mexico (Country Guide)

Table of Contents

Mexico Dry Season 

The dry season is the best time to visit Mexico, and it falls between November and April.

This is peak season, so you can expect things to be busy, especially over Christmas, but Mexico is such a vast country that you can always find a way to escape the crowds.

Here’s our month by month breakdown for Mexico’s dry season. 

Novem b er  in Mexico

November is the start of the dry season, and for travelers, this could be the best time to visit Mexico. 

Prices are still low and tourist numbers are still small compared to what’s going to hit the top destinations in December. This is a good time to visit popular destinations like Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Puerto Vallarta, as you’ll find some great deals on flights and accommodation. 

As the rainy season has only just ended, it’s not the best time for diving yet, but head to Baja California and you’ll catch the start of the Whale Shark season. 

Tropical Yucatan is getting much cooler and a lot less humid, so now is the time to explore the jungles and to visit those lost Mayan Ruins without working up too much of a sweat. 

December in Mexico

Weather-wise, December is easily the best time to visit Mexico. However, everyone else has the same idea too, and December is the worst time to visit Mexico if you’re looking for a quiet vacation away from the crowds! 

In December, especially over Christmas and New Year, the resorts of Cancun and the Maya Riviera are packed out and prices are at their peak. It’s no different in other popular tourist spots either, such as Puerto Vallarta or Baja California. 

The weather is crisp, sunny and dry though, and you’re not likely to have a single rainy day. If you’re not having a beach holiday though, then take a trip to explore the indigenous culture of Oaxaca or Chiapas where you can find beautiful weather. 

January in Mexico

January is just as busy as December, at least for the first two weeks. This is peak season across Mexico, especially in Cancun and along the Pacific Coast.

Travel to Mexico towards the end of January though and you can start to get a few good deals again, as the crowds start to thin out.

Weather-wise this is a great time to explore the south, so enjoy the dry weather along the coast, and visit Mayan archeological sites like Palenque or Chichen Itza.

Mexico City is lovely in January, as are the central highlands, although it can get chilly at night. 

February in Mexico

In February the weather starts to get hotter, especially in the tropical south. Up north and in the mountains it’s still very cool, however. 

You can expect the odd rain shower across the country but for the most part, this is still a beautiful time to travel around Mexico .

You’ll get lower prices in Cancun while the diving and snorkeling off the coast of Cozumel Island is glorious, with sparkling clear water. 

This is the perfect time to visit Baja California, on the Pacific Coast, where you’ll be right in the middle of the whale watching season, and you’ll have the chance to swim with Whale Sharks. 

March in Mexico

March brings a mixed bag when it comes to crowds and the weather. This can be the middle of Spring Break, so it’s a good idea to avoid the big tourist hotspots if this isn’t your scene. If you’re looking to party though, then head straight to Cancun or Tijuana.

Equally, if Easter falls in March then it can be busy everywhere, although this is a great time to soak up the local culture during Semana Santa, the holy week. 

Weatherwise, it can be a little more unpredictable. The south sees more rain while the north is heating up and seeing a few thunderstorms too. 

April in Mexico

Like March, it can be a little unpredictable in April too, so plan your trip in advance to avoid spring break dates or Easter holidays, which can both fall this time of the year. 

April is the last month of the dry season, although you will see the weather starting to turn. The colder winter months are over and summer is on the way, which means that along with the rain it’s getting much hotter, everywhere. 

This is your last chance to see the whales and Whale Sharks in Baja California before they move on for the summer, and it’s the last chance to get really good visibility and diving conditions around Cozumel Island and along the Maya Riviera. 

As the weather heats up, this is a great time to start exploring those high altitude destinations in Central Mexico, such as Guanajuato or San Miguel de Allende, where you can escape the heat. 

Mexico Wet Season

Mexico’s wet season runs from May through to October, however, this varies across the country. The south sees the most rain, and hurricanes can lash the coastlines.

It’s cooler and drier in the north this time of the year, where the climate isn’t tropical. The wet season is not the best time to visit the south of Mexico, but there are still plenty of great deals and places to explore outside of this traditional tourist hotspot. 

May in Mexico

May is officially the start of the wet season, and you can guarantee that it’s going to be hot and it’s probably going to be rainy.

This is a good month for shoulder season travel though because you can avoid the high season crowds in places like Cancun or the Pacific Coast.

It’s fine if you don’t mind a little humidity and have a swimming pool to cool off in because you’ll only get a few hours of rain a day at most.

It’s even better in Baja California, where you can enjoy dry weather for most of May, while temperatures soar into the 30s. Mexico City has cooler weather, and it feels like it’s summer, making the capital a great option in May. 

June in Mexico

June is not the best time to visit Mexico, although you can get some cheap deals on flights and hotels.

The reason it’s cheap though is because it’s the start of hurricane season. While hurricanes are rare, it’s definitely going to rain, although if you don’t mind risking that for a few hours a day it might be worth it 

Instead of going to the coast though, stick to the central highlands, where it’s much cooler and there’s much less rain. 

July in Mexico

July is just as hot and rainy, and while you can get cheap deals at the resorts and great value flights across the country, it’s really not the best time to visit Mexico. 

Hurricanes can hit the Caribbean and Pacific Coast, while everywhere is hot, stuffy and humid. 

You get the best weather in Baja California, but make sure you have a swimming pool where you can cool off.

The other option is to stay at altitude, as you’ll find that while Central Mexico is hot, it’s not quite as hot as the coast – especially at night time.

August in Mexico

In August, it’s still going to be uncomfortably hot across Mexico, although temperatures will start to cool off slightly, especially in the higher altitude areas of the country around Mexico City.

This is still very much hurricane season, so be prepared for this if you’re traveling to Cancun or the Pacific Coast in August.

On the plus side, there are few other vacationers around in August and the prices can be very low, on both flights and hotels! 

September in Mexico

In September, things are starting to look up again when it comes to the weather. This is still the rainy season, but the worst is behind you, and September can be a great time to escape the crowds and score some good deals. 

It’s a good time to be in Mexico City, where the rain is slack anyway and the high altitude means cooler climes.

It’s also Independence day in September, so you can expect plenty of parades and fiestas. 

October in Mexico

In October, it’s the last month of the rainy season and the hurricane season, and actually this can be the best time to visit Mexico.

Rainfall will be minimal, but prices are still low, so head to the beaches and make the most of the deals before the high season crowds arrive in November and December.

As a bonus, the end of October is also when you’ll be able to celebrate Day of the Dead across Mexico.

Our Top Recommended Mexico Tours

• Mayan Adventure with G Adventures – 22 days
• Yucatan Discovery: Cenotes & Seasides with G Adventures – 7 days
• Classic Mexico Adventure with G Adventures – 14 days
• Mayan Highlights with G Adventures – 9 days
• Cultural Wonders of Mexico with National Geographic Journeys – 9 days

More on Mexico:

• Ultimate Packing List for Mexico
• Ultimate Baja Mexico Cruise: Sea of Cortex with UnCruise
•   Kayaking in Mexico: 4 Days on the Sea of Cortez
• Ultimate 3 Days in Mexico City Itinerary
• Where to Stay in Mexico City: Best Districts & Hotels
• 12 Best Day Trips from Mexico City (That are Worth Taking)
• The Amazing Mexico City Pyramids of Teotihuacan
• Manzanillo Mexico Travel Guide: A Cancun Alternative
• 8 Amazing Things to Do in Cancun
• Best Time to Visit Cancun: Month by Month Breakdown
• 8 Things to Do in the Riviera Maya for an Epic Vacation
• Celebrating 15 Years of Travel with Barcelo Maya Grand Resort
• 10 Awesome Things to Do in Playa del Carmen
• 9 Incredible Things to Do in Cozumel
• Isla Espiritu Santo in Mexico: Ultimate Planning Guide

Did you like this story? Share it!

Travel planning resources, about david stock.

I have always been an outdoorsman so becoming an adventure traveler was just the next natural step. I love nature, I love to get off the beaten path and I like to explore. I enjoy scuba diving and cars. And yes, Lina and I have a naked dog.

1 thought on “Best Time to Visit Mexico: Month by Month Breakdown”

Such a beautiful place! Mexico’s dry season is the best for me. Thanks for sharing this Anna

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Journey To Mexico

Your Travel Guide To Mexico

Mexico In July: Weather, Things To Do and Travel Tips

The month of July in Mexico is typically the warmest and most humid time of the year. The conditions are ideal for spending time at the beach, relaxing in the water, and getting some exercise by swimming and diving in the ocean.

Even though July is the wettest month of the year, many cities still have a significant amount of sunshine during this time.

The rest of Mexico experiences high temperatures and significant levels of humidity during this month. Even though showers often arrive in the afternoon in July, which is the heart of Mexico’s rainy season, tour plans shouldn’t be affected by the precipitation. This month is extremely warm, making it an excellent time to travel to the beach.

At this time of year, the Mayan Riviera is a wonderful place to visit.

Things you'll find in this article

The temperature in Mexico in July

Rain in mexico during july, wind in mexico in july, 1. discover mexico city, 2. take part in the guelaguetza festival in oaxaca, 3. learn about chocolate, 4. explore guadalajara, 5. attend the guanajuato film festival, 6. soak up the sun in los cabos, 7. visit the jungles of chiapas, travel tips and resources.

Related Read: 

• Mexico in January
• Mexico in February
• Mexico in March
• Mexico in April
• Mexico in May
• Mexico In June

Weather in Mexico in July

July weather in Mexico can range from unfavorable to ideal depending on where you go. The month of July sees a little increased amount of rain, but showers are often brief and the overall amount of sunshine is high. Even if there is more precipitation on the Pacific Coast than in other parts of the south, the temperature is still quite high.

The average daytime high temperature in Mexico in July is between 90 and 95 degrees Fahrenheit, while the average nighttime low temperature is between 80 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit.

July is the wettest month on average in Mexico City, with 4.9 inches of rain falling throughout the month on average.

In July, the average wind speed in Mexico is 11 kilometers per hour (7 mph).

Things To Do in Mexico in July

Looking for a vacation spot in Mexico during July? Even if July gets a lot of rain, you can still visit any place in Mexico.For your convenience, we’ve compiled a list of the top things to do in Mexico in July, along with some details on each activity.

Related Read

• Mexico In August
• Mexico In September
• Mexico In October
• Mexico In November
• Mexico in December

Even if it’s raining, you won’t be bored in Mexico City. There are so many things to do indoors in this capital, which is one of the largest (and nicest!) cities in the world.

You should begin the day with a delicious breakfast or brunch, and then, in the afternoon, you should visit some of the top museums in Mexico City, such as the Frida Kahlo Museum in Coyoacan.

After seeing the museum, head to one of Mexico City’s top eateries for some delicious tacos. 

It shouldn’t be raining by then, so you should be able to enjoy the nightlife in Mexico City without any interruptions. If you are looking for some of the most exciting things to do in Mexico City at night, then you must go see some Lucha Libre wrestling!

The Guelaguetza (also known as Los Lunes del Cerro or “Mondays on the Hill”) is an annual indigenous Mexican traditional celebration . It takes place every July in Oaxaca and its neighboring towns.

This Oaxaca celebration is one of the most significant events in the city. For the Guelaguetza Festival, Oaxaca ‘s diverse communities gather to celebrate the richness of their customs and cultures. With 16 distinct ethnolinguistic groups living in the state, Oaxaca is a cultural melting pot.

Traditional costumes and regional folk dances are part of the Guelaguetza, a celebration that brings together members of these communities to perform together. Finally, towards the end of their performance, they hand out products from the region they represent.

It is thought that Mexico was the area where chocolate was first created. If you are a fan of the sweet treat, you should visit a chocolate shop while you are there.

They do, of course, sell chocolate, but in addition to that, they frequently include information on the process that is used to make your favorite sweet delicacy.

Take a seat, linger for a bit, and enjoy a cup of piping hot chocolate that is prepared right in front of you with a traditional wooden stir stick known as a molinillo.

It is highly recommended that you sample the hot chocolate in Oaxaca.

Despite being the second-largest city in Mexico , Guadalajara has managed to preserve its distinctive blend of colonial and indigenous Tapatos influences.

With its wide boulevards, picture-perfect parks, and beautiful ancient buildings with an air of European elegance, Guadalajara is a mecca for traditional Mexican culture.

A great way to see the city is on foot, thanks to the ancient city center’s cross-shaped grid of four main squares.

You can begin your sightseeing tour at Plaza de Armas, the best of the bunch. It’s a great place to see the 17th-century Government Palace and the Guadalajara Cathedral, which were built between 1558 and 1616.

Among Latin American film festivals, the Guanajuato International Film Festival has established itself as the most important forum for new directors.

GIFF, which began in San Miguel de Allende and Guanajuato City in 1998, offers a wide range of free screenings, workshops, conferences, and concerts to the public. For international film industry professionals, it’s also a must-visit destination for a wide range of networking possibilities.

From July 22–31, 2022, take part in this film festival in San Miguel de Allende, León, and Irapuato.

Los Cabos in Mexico refers to the towns of Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo. You’ll fly into San Jose del Cabo, which is about 40 minutes from Cabo San Lucas, but it’s the more popular of the two.

Mexico is a wonderful destination all year round because of the year-round mild weather, but it’s even better in Cabo San Lucas. In a typical year, it receives an average of 300 days of sunshine (but others claim it receives 350 days!) As a result, a trip to Los Cabos in July is sure to be enjoyable.

Los Cabos is one of the most popular beach destinations in Mexico , and it’s home to some of the most luxurious hotels and resorts in the world. There are also award-winning restaurants; top-ranked golf courses; and a wide variety of exciting tours and activities to enjoy even in rainy July.

To book this tour click here.

If you find yourself in Chiapas , don’t forget to pay a visit to Agua Azul. It is a breathtaking waterfall with waters of a brilliant blue color that cascade down canyons and rocks into pools below. With its location in the forest, it is an excellent spot from which to see a wide variety of exotic animals while you are there.

Chiapas is home to a significant number of indigenous people and features several Mayan archaeological sites , such as Palenque. Its tropical environment makes it an ideal location for a vacation or retreat.

More Tours From Mexico!

Travel Tips for Mexico in July

● If you are traveling to Mexico in July, bring an umbrella and a rain jacket with you just in case it rains.

● We also recommend that you bring a pair of waterproof shoes with you especially if you want to explore the countryside while you’re there.

● If Mexico City is on your agenda, you should be sure to bring along some warm clothing that is not too heavy.

● One of the most enjoyable months for swimming, scuba diving, and a variety of other water-based sports in July. Make plans to go on a tour to explore all of the top diving places, or sign up for private diving instruction.

Travel Insurance: I never leave home without travel insurance. My personal opinion is if you can afford to travel, you can afford to buy a travel insurance. All things can happen while on the road and you can never be too sure. And it's something that you'll be glad to have when you need it. For my preferred travel insurance, I use Safety Wing .

Where To Stay: I personally use Booking.com for all my accommodations. Check out for their latest deals here .

Hola! Que tal? I'm Christine, a Filipina but in love with Mexico. I used to live in Central America and Mexico is my favorite. Love tacos, tequila, and margarita.

Similar Posts

12 Best Things To Do In Oaxaca, Mexico

Are you looking for the best things to do in Oaxaca?  Located in the southwest of Mexico, Oaxaca is part of the state also called Oaxaca. The city is well-known for its delicious cuisine, vibrant streets, proximity to fascinating ruins, and its Day of the Dead celebration. READ MORE: Best Hotels In Oaxaca City Where…

11 Best Things To Do In Guanajuato, Mexico  

Are you looking for the best things to do in Guanajuato, Mexico? Since 1998, UNESCO has recognized Guanajuato’s deep history and unique architecture as well as its underground mine complex. It is one of Mexico’s total of 35 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The historic city of Guanajuato is in Central Mexico. It has been named…

11 Best Things To Do In Xalapa, Mexico

Are you looking for the best things to do in Xalapa, Mexico? Xalapa – also spelled Jalapa and officially Xalapa-Enríquez – is the vibrant capital city of the east-central Mexican state of Veracruz. Xalapa is famous for its scenic backdrop and lush tropical vegetation, hence the monicker “City of Flowers” or “Flower Garden of Mexico.”…

12 Best Things To Do In Chihuahua, Mexico

Are you looking for the best things to do in Chihuahua, Mexico? Chihuahua, the capital city of its namesake state in northern Mexico, is one of the largest cities in the country. It boasts a wealth of history and cultural heritage, which is seen in its numerous art galleries and museums, as well as various…

11 Top Things To Do in Isla Mujeres, Mexico

Located just 22 minutes from Cancun is a paradise island called Isla Mujeres. This small island has pristine beaches and sparkling blue waters, with plenty of activities to enjoy despite its compact size. Whether you’re into relaxing by the beach or swimming with whale sharks, there’s no shortage of things to do in Isla Mujeres….

Mexico In June: Weather, Things To Do And Travel Tips

Even though June in Mexico features weather that is less than ideal, you shouldn’t let this prevent you from planning a trip to Mexico during this month. In Mexico, rain is the one thing that can be anticipated during June. However, some regions receive less rainfall than others, and in general, when the weather isn’t…

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes
• Destinations

The Best Time to Visit Mexico for Good Weather and Affordable Prices

Here are the best times to go to Mexico for idyllic weather, wildlife sightings, major festivals, and more.

Anne Olivia Bauso is a travel writer and hotel expert based in New York City. She has written hundreds of hotel reviews, from 5-star Ritz-Carlton properties to treehouse eco-resorts in the jungle.

Mexico has earned its status as one of the most-visited destinations in the world. Nailing down the best time to visit completely depends on where you want to go and what you want to do. This is a giant country with microclimates and a staggeringly diverse topography: There are golden beaches and rugged canyons, sultry cities and high-altitude colonial towns. You may bask on a jungle-backed beach by day and cozy up to a fireplace in the mountains by night. With all these options to consider, it can be helpful to know your way around Mexico's tourist calendar:

• High Season: December to April
• Shoulder Season: July and August
• Low Seasons: May and June, plus September to November

Whether you're seeking balmy beaches, affordable flights and hotels , stunning wildlife, or colorful fiestas, these are the best times to visit Mexico for every type of getaway.

Michela Buttignol/Travel+Leisure

Best Times to Visit Mexico for Smaller Crowds

If you want to avoid crowds in Mexico, you should almost always skip the popular winter and early spring months. May and June, after the spring breakers have cleared out but before summer travelers have filtered in, can be pleasantly uncrowded, as can the fall.

These less-crowded months do correspond with the rainy season (which runs from June to October), but that might not be as bad as you think. The rain usually comes in the form of short afternoon storms, bookended by stretches of sun. These brief showers can be a welcome relief from the heat and humidity — and they offer a nice time for a siesta.

Best Times to Visit Mexico for Good Weather

The dry-season months of November to March promise the nicest, balmiest weather in most parts of Mexico — though those dreamy conditions do bring with them higher prices and larger crowds. On a regional level, though, you can find pleasant climes at many different times of year. Mexico's coastal hot spots, like Cancun and Los Cabos , offer warmth and sun almost year-round, while high-elevation Mexico City boasts consistently mild temperatures and plenty of indoor activities to enjoy when the rainy season hits.

Dry, warm November may be the ideal month to visit Mexico overall, offering a sweet spot between the heavy fall rains and the beginning of the busy season. (Other November pros: depending on your timing and whereabouts, you might catch Día de los Muertos festivities or the magnificent monarch butterfly migration.)

Best Times to Visit Mexico for Lower Prices

Airfare and accommodation prices tend to mirror the high and low seasons. Flights, hotels, and other travel expenses can surge starting in mid-December, when visitors from the U.S. escape the frigid winter weather and take advantage of the holiday break. Conversely, you can typically save on travel costs by booking during the off-season when demand is lower.

August, September, and October are the wettest months in Mexico. If you're willing to risk these less-than-ideal conditions — particularly in September, which is the peak of the Mexican hurricane season — your airfare and hotel costs should be correspondingly low.

Finally, even though it falls in the high season, January is a great option for lower-cost travel. There are often good deals to be found after the New Year holiday and before the winter and spring break frenzy, which begins in February.

Best Times to Visit Mexico for Whale Watching

At various points in the year, migrating whales spend time in the warm waters off both Mexican shorelines. From December to March, travelers to Baja or elsewhere on the Pacific coast might spot humpback, gray, and even enigmatic blue whales on their epic ocean journeys. Humpbacks love sheltered Bahía de Banderas off Puerto Vallarta; the best times to see them are January and February. In general, lovers of marine life will be in luck for most of the west coast's peak season. Between November and April, you can snorkel with whale sharks off Espíritu Santo Island or dive the protected waters of Cabo Pulmo (one of just three coral reefs on the west coast).

On the opposite coast, whale sharks are the species you're likeliest to spot. Their season lasts from mid-May to mid-September on Mexico's eastern shores, with a peak in June and July. From Cancun, travelers can take a boat tour to Isla Holbox or Isla Contoy to swim with whale sharks and other sea creatures such as manta rays, turtles, and dolphins.

Best Times to Visit Mexico for Surfing

The Pacific Ocean drums up fantastic swells along Mexico's west coast all year long. More experienced surfers will find the biggest, most consistent waves from May to October (peak surf season, coinciding with hurricane season), especially in July and August.

Some of Mexico's best waves pound the breezy Baja Peninsula, but waters are quite nippy here in the winter months. Further south, Nayarit, Barra de Nexpa, Troncones, and Puerto Escondido (home to the world-famous Mexican Pipeline) benefit from the Pacific's powerful barreling surf, but their waters remain warm all year.

Best Times to See Mexico's Butterfly Migration

Every fall, millions of monarch butterflies migrate to central Mexico , where they winter in pine and fir trees in the state of Michoacán. The sight of these brilliant golden-orange butterflies covering the mountain forest and fluttering against the bright blue winter sky is truly magical, and worth planning a trip around.

To witness the yearly phenomenon, visit one of many sanctuaries within the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve between November (ideally mid-November, once more butterflies have settled in) and March. At nearly all of the sanctuaries, you can hike, horseback ride, or bike to see the butterflies in their wooded habitat. At some, you can even zip-line back down the mountain. The afternoon, when the air is warmer and the butterflies dance among the trees, is the perfect time of day to visit the sanctuaries.

Best Times to Visit Mexico for Festivals

Mexico offers countless celebrations and events to plan a trip around. Here are just a few:

• Come Feb. 2, Candelaria (Candlemas) is a big deal in San Juan de los Lagos and Tlacotalpan, a colonial town on the Gulf.
• Carnaval is the major February (or early March) event in Mexico, with the biggest parties in Mazatlán on the Pacific coast and Veracruz, Mérida, Cozumel, and Campeche on the Caribbean and Gulf coasts.
• Mexico's most important holiday, Semana Santa (Holy Week), occurs in March or April; expect crowded hotels and transit and processions threading through the streets.
• Foodies will love Puebla's Festival del Mole Poblano in June.
• A colorful celebration of indigenous dance and music, the Guelaguetza festival occurs in Oaxaca City and neighboring villages in late July.
• Mexico's Independence Day in September is toasted with dancing, parades, and fireworks.
• October sees several big annual events: the Cervantino arts bash in vibrant Guanajuato, the Morelia International Film Festival in Michoacán's UNESCO-listed capital, and the all-month extravaganza of Fiestas de Octubre in Guadalajara.
• For many travelers, Day of the Dead (Nov. 1–2) is the crown jewel of the Mexican calendar. Festivities across the central and southern regions (and especially in Pátzcuaro) honor the departed with picnics, graveyard vigils, papier-mâché skeletons, and intricate dress and makeup.

Best Times to Visit Mexico's Canyon Country

The wild, rocky landscape of northwest Mexico's Copper Canyon — one of the deepest canyons in the world, and bigger than the Grand Canyon — is among the country's most spectacular sights, but the elements can be unforgiving. Spring (particularly March) and fall (particularly November, after the wet season) are the best bets to time a trip, with flowing rivers and waterfalls and mild temperatures throughout the canyons. A scenic train line called the Ferrocarril Chihuahua al Pacífico (or Chepe ) cuts through the canyon, but if you want to ride, it's best to book your seat in advance.

Best Times to Go to Mexico City

To experience Mexico City 's weather at its best, time your trip in March, April, or May, before the rainy summer but after the winter months, when overnight temperatures can drop into the 30s. Spring temperatures linger in the 70s on average, with cooler evenings bottoming out in the mid-50s. The city will be busy with fellow travelers this time of year, but affordable hotel rates can still be found.

Jorge Castro/Travel + Leisure

Best Times to Go to Oaxaca

Spring and fall are the best times to head to the enchanting southern city of Oaxaca . April to May and September to October are blessed with idyllic weather (average temperatures in the low 70s and high 60s) and lighter crowds than at other times of year. June through August and the Christmas/New Year holiday season are the busiest periods for tourists. In late July, the Guelaguetza festival celebrates folk music and dance. If you're there around Christmastime, you'll coincide with Oaxaca City's yearly radish-carving competition, Noche de los Rábanos (Night of the Radishes).

Worst Times to Visit Mexico

The worst time to visit Mexico depends on one key question: Is your goal to have great weather or fewer crowds? Though best and worst times will vary by region, that general metric can be your guide. Crowd-averse travelers should avoid the popular spring season, and sun-seekers should skip summer and fall, which come with near-daily rain.

Vacationers seeking a peaceful coastal getaway will want to steer clear of March and April, when a huge influx of American college students and Mexican families arrive in resort areas like Cancun during spring break and the Semana Santa holidays. Beachgoers shouldn't fail, though, to consider the weather. Hurricane season — which stretches from June to November, with a peak in September and October — is a risky time to visit the Gulf and Caribbean coasts, and warming ocean waters each spring and summer bring seaweed masses that can put a damper on swimming and sunbathing.

For the best mix of pleasant weather and bearable crowds, try visiting in the off-peak, dry months of November and January.

Mexico Weather in July

Book your individual trip , stress-free with local travel experts

• roughguides.com
• North America
• Travel guide
• Itineraries
• Local Experts
• Travel Advice
• Accommodation

The weather in Mexico in July offers huge azure skies, warm breezes and attracts millions of visitors to its shores. However, it is also hurricane season (July and August). This is when Mexican families take their summer vacations in top resorts like Acapulco , Los Cabos and Puerto Vallarta , meaning high prices and busy beaches. Even inland in the mountains can get packed: mountain resorts like Creel are invaded by Mexican tour groups – and the best hotels can often get completely booked up at this time.

What is the weather like in Mexico in July?

Is mexico warm in july, is july a good time to visit mexico, average rainfall in mexico in july, festivals and events in mexico in july, visit mexico in other months, tailor-made travel itineraries for mexico, created by local experts.

17 days  / from 1590 USD

The Magic of the Yucatan and Mexico City

Explore the magic of the Yucatan Peninsula: from colonial towns like Merida to Archaeological sites like Uxmal and Calakmul, close to the Guatemala border, to beaches in Bacalar and Tulum, this itinerary shows you the real Yucatan before heading out to explore Mexico City.

15 days  / from 1430 USD

Mexico City, Oaxaca & the Yucatan

Explore Central Mexico with its ever-busy capital Mexico City, visiting Teotihuacan and the famous museums in the city. Further on to Oaxaca City, the gateway to the Archaeological Site Monte Alban. Afterwards, continue to the white beaches of the Yucatan: Cancun and Isla Holbox await.

18 days  / from 1735 USD

Fascinating Mexico: From Guanajuato to the Yucatan

Discover Mexico from fascinating San Miguel de Allende over busy Mexico City all the way to the Yucatan Peninsula. This itinerary combines public transportation with domestic flights to ensure you can make the most of discovering fascinating Mexico within two weeks.

Tailor-made trips for   Mexico

July is summer in Mexico and average temperatures rise as clouds disappear. This month the coastal regions, such as Cancún , Puerto Vallarta, and Acapulco, tend to experience warm temperatures averaging around 28-33°C (82-91°F).

These destinations bask in the sunshine, ideal for mucking around on the beach and swimming. In contrast, cities like Mexico City enjoy milder temperatures ranging from 14-22°C (57-72°F), making exploring the city's streets a little less hot and hectic.

Rough Guides tip: do you want to get the best out of your trip? Check our Mexico itineraries .

Isla Mujeres, Mexico ©Shutterstock

The weather in Mexico in July is warm. Parts of Mexico hit their highest temperatures in July with Isla Mujeres receiving 10 hours of sunshine daily. Along the coast, temperatures range from 28°C to 33°C (82°F to 91°F).

In popular destinations such as Cancún, the thermometer hovers around 31°C (88°F), creating the perfect beach weather. Along the shores of Puerto Vallarta, the temperature averages around 32°C (90°F), inviting visitors to bask in the sun and savour the warm waters of the Pacific.

Along the Yucatán Peninsula, destinations like Playa del Carmen have temperatures averaging around 30°C (86°F). Inland, Mexico City offers a respite from the coastal heat, with temperatures of around 14°C to 22°C (57°F to 72°F).

With our tailor-made trip to Enchanting Mexico , you will discover Mexico's capital before heading to your first Mexican beach: Puerto Escondido. After some days of relaxing in the sun, head to Cancun to pick up your rental car and explore the Yucatan Peninsula in your own car.

The weather in Mexico in July makes it one of the most popular months to visit Mexico. This is when the Caribbean and Pacific coasts are at their most inviting with sun-drenched beaches that get packed with sunseekers.

It's also a good time to experience some of Mexico's most notable fiestas, including the highly-popular Guelaguetza in Oaxaca , which marries a mixture of traditional dancing and rites on the Cerro del Fortín.

The flip side of July's appeal is the influx of tourists. This is peak season, particularly along the coasts. Spots like Cancún and Playa del Carmen can be bustling, and accommodations are in higher demand and more expensive.

There are also higher humidity levels, especially in coastal regions. Those sensitive to heat might find the weather uncomfortable but the odd sharp downpour does level those levels off somewhat.

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

Cancún, Mexico © Shutterstock

July is the start of hurricane season in Mexico and regions across the country experience varying levels of precipitation. Destinations like Cancún and Riviera Maya on the Caribbean Coast receive intermittent rain showers and an average rainfall of around 120 mm (4.7 inches) in July.

In Central Mexico, home of the capital, Mexico City, there is a modest average rainfall of approximately 160 mm (6.3 inches) in July.

The coastal resort of Puerto Vallarta on the Pacific Coast witnesses an average rainfall of about 220 mm (8.7 inches) during the month, which can cool the hot temperatures.

In Southern Mexico, around cities like Oaxaca, July brings an average rainfall of around 170 mm (6.7 inches). The Highlands, meanwhile, experiences an average rainfall of approximately 250 mm (9.8 inches) in destinations like San Cristóbal de las Casas.

Baja California is an off-the-beaten-track unspoiled paradise. The area is home to mountains, deserts and thousands of kilometres of gorgeous Pacific coastline. Come here with our tailor-made trip to Baja: Pacific Coast Paradise and explore, snorkel, dive or do a spot of whale watching.

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

• Día de Santiago (St James’s Day) July 25. An opportunity for a fiesta in many parts of the country, most notably in Chiapas, where big celebrations are held at San Cristóbal de las Casas.
• Fiesta de la Preciosa Sangre de Cristo (first Wed in July). Teotitlán del Valle, near Oaxaca, holds a festival with traditional dances and religious processions.
• Guelaguetza (last two Mon in July). In Oaxaca, a mixture of traditional dancing and rites on the Cerro del Fortín. Highly popular; tickets for the good seats are sold at the tourist office.
• Día de San Cristóbal (July 17). Celebrated enthusiastically in San Cristóbal de las Casas and in nearby villages such as Tenejapa and Amatenango del Valle.
• Día de Santiago (July 25). Provokes widespread celebrations, especially in San Cristóbal de las Casas.
• Fiesta de Santo Domingo de Guzmán (last week of July, first week of Aug). Comitán’s fair, with concerts, rodeos and more.
• Fiesta de Nuestra Señora del Carmen (July 15–30). Ciudad del Carmen (Campeche) and Motul (Yucatán).

For more practical guidance that will help you make the most of your Italy trip, have a chat with our local experts , who can help you plan your dream trip or browse our Mexico itineraries and find the best option to suit your tastes.

The Rough Guides to Mexico and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Travel advice for Mexico

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Mexico

• Visa and entry requirements Mexico
• Crime and personal safety tips Mexico
• Eating and drinking in Mexico
• How to get to Mexico
• Getting around Mexico: Transportation Tips
• Travel Tips Mexico for planning and on the go
• Best time to visit Mexico

Find even more inspiration here

• Central America & the Caribbean

Ready to travel and discover Mexico?

Get support from our local experts for stress-free planning & worry-free travels.

• Where to stay
• Travel advice

Change location

• UK / International
• Call toll-free tomorrow from 9am EDT 617-223-4521 617-223-4970 or
• REQUEST A QUOTE

When is the best time to visit Mexico?

• Month-by-month

The best time to visit Mexico is during the dry season between December and April, when there is virtually no rain. The coolest months are between December and February, although temperatures can still reach averages of 82°F during the dry season.

The wet season begins in the south in May and lasts until October. A heavy shower during this period usually clears the increased humidity before it builds up again. The Caribbean coast can be affected by the hurricane season, which runs from June to November.

Mexico is a huge country, and the weather varies by season and by region. It’s worth checking the local forecast for your chosen destination.

• Make an inquiry
• Request a brochure

Month-by-month guide for traveling in Mexico

Visiting Mexico in January - February

January and February are part of the dry season across most of Mexico. Although this time of year is technically mid-winter, they are still warm months across the country — ideal for exploring or for time on the beach. January to March are the months to visit Baja California to see the visiting whales.

Events & Festivals

• Butterfly migration (January and February): Millions of beautiful monarch butterflies which have settled in Mexico's central areas begin their journey north to Canada — a magnificent sight for any wildlife lover.
• Whale watching (January to March): This is the best time to spot the whales that migrate to Mexico's coast, with humpbacks, blue and gray whales all making an appearance at this time of year.

Visiting Mexico in March - April

Usually the last months of the dry season, temperatures in March and April are picking up and they can be excellent choices for some relaxation on the hot and sunny Yucatán Peninsula . Mexico City and the surrounding colonial towns and villages are also becoming pleasantly warm.

Visiting Mexico in May

A hot month to visit Mexico, May is also the start of the country's rainy season, although rains tend to make a slow start in the south, gradually creeping northwards over the coming months.

Visiting Mexico in June

The rains make their presence known in June, although often only in the form of an afternoon storm, which can be timed with a 'siesta'. Temperatures and humidity levels are high across the country.

Visiting Mexico in July

July is the heart of Mexico's rainy season, although showers often only arrive in the afternoon and shouldn't affect touring plans. It's a hot month — ideal for those seeking a beach stay. The Mayan Riviera is ideal at this time of year. The hot days are cooled by rain showers late in the afternoon, and the temperatures in the evenings drop to a more pleasant level. Inland areas around Mexico City remain cooler.

Visiting Mexico in August - September

Considered low season across the country, rains in August and September do become heavier; particularly on the Pacific Coast, where it is almost monsoon like. This is the middle of hurricane season. Temperatures are generally high across the country, although the central interior is cooler.

• Independence Day (September 15 and 16): Mexico celebrates its Independence Day with crowds across the country gathering to eat, drink, dance, and shout 'Viva Mexico' while enjoying military parades and firework shows.

Visiting Mexico in October

Officially the last month of the rainy season, with rains starting to ease a little. However, high temperatures, heavy showers and humid conditions remain across much of the country.

Visiting Mexico in November

A good month for a visit to most destinations within Mexico. The rains have generally eased (although haven't completely disappeared), days are hot, and the crowds that appear later in December are yet to arrive.

• Day of the Dead (November 1): Mexico's 'Day of the Dead' celebrations sees festivities take place in central and southern Mexico to honor friends and relatives who have died. Expect candles, elaborately decorated skull-shaped masks and music.

Visiting Mexico in December

December is a popular month for travel to Mexico, with the weather generally warm and dry across the country. It can get particularly busy around Christmas and New Year, so plan your travel well in advance.

Mexico Climate Guide

Why travel with audley.

• 100% tailor-made tours
• Fully protected travel
• Established for over 25 years
• 98% of our clients would recommend us

Travel advice

Practical tips for traveling to Mexico, from social protocols to guidance on money matters, with a link to the latest US State Department travel advice.

Request our brochure

Covering all seven continents, The World Your Way shows you how you can see the world with us. It features trip ideas from our specialists alongside hand-picked stays and experiences, and introduces our approach to creating meaningful travel experiences.

Trip ideas and travel guides for exploring Mexico

Highlights of Mexico: Mexico City, Mérida & Isla Holbox

11 days from $4,700pp

Luxury Mexico tour

14 days from $9,665pp

Family vacations in Mexico

10 min read

A first timer's guide to Chichén Itzá

• Mexico Tours
• Mexico Travel Guide
• When to Visit Mexico

Mexico in July: A Rainy Adventure

• ~ mins read

July is one of the wettest months of the year in Mexico. But that does not mean that the weather is nothing but overcast and gloomy all the time. In fact, you will find plenty of bright days with lots of sunshine during your trip to Mexico in July. Plus, soaring temperatures and humidity make all water-related activities particularly attractive. Spend time on the beach, go diving and snorkeling, and get your adrenaline pumping while kayaking around Isla Espiritu Santos.

Mexico is a large country, and some parts are cooler than others meaning that there are plenty of things to do even in July. Take advantage of the relatively moderate temperatures in the Sierra Madre and go hiking. Else, explore Mexico City , which rarely becomes unpleasantly hot even in July.

• Georgina Lowe
• From England

Mexico Weather in July

Broadly speaking, Mexico’s weather in July is hot and humid. You can expect more than seven hours of sunshine on the beaches of Cancun, along with 13 hours of daylight, which means that the weather is just right to spend a lot of time in the water, be it in a resort pool or in the ocean. Here, the average high temperature during this month is 33ºC.

However, July is also the season of hurricanes, and you are highly likely to encounter a tropical storm if not a full-blown typhoon on the country’s east coast. The Pacific coast of the country is no different than its Caribbean counterpart in July, except for a higher chance of rainfall. Further inland, Mexico City experiences pleasant weather during this time of year, with the average temperature fluctuating between 11.6°C and 21.7°C.

For a more in-depth seasonal overview, browse through our travel guide on the best time to visit Mexico .

Weather in Mexico in July - Rainfall and Temperatures

Why visit mexico in july.

Although the fear of a storm or a hurricane deters crowds from traveling to Mexico in July , there are many reasons why traveling to the country during this time of year is worth it. We have listed a few of them below

• Fewer people: Fewer travelers mean more fun. You no longer have to jostle for space on beaches or contend with crowds while exploring Mayan ruins during your trip.
• Discounts: Expect to pay less in hotel tariffs and airfare in July. In fact, many of the country’s top resorts slash prices significantly to lure travelers.
• Splash away: July is one of the best times of year to indulge in a variety of water sports. Be it diving or kayaking, there are plenty of excellent opportunities to take the plunge and beat the heat.
• Balmy capital: Mexico City’s weather in July remains moderate compared with the rest of the country. Go on a walking tour of the capital and discover its vibrant art scene along with world-class museums.
• Cenote-diving: How about taking a plunge in a cave full of water? July is an ideal month for this spectacular underwater adventure.
• Festival season: July is packed with fascinating festivals and events. The big ones are the Guelaguetza festival in Oaxaca, with its focus on the local culture and traditional dances; the Guanajuato Film Festival, one of the most important film festivals in Latin America; the Whale Shark Festival held in Isla Mujeres, where you can swim with these beautiful creatures; and Queretaro’s Fiestas de la Vendimia, which involves wine-tasting and other fun activities.

Where to go and what to do

Make the most of the low tourist season by heading for Mexico in July. Revel in Mexico City’s pleasant weather , discover its food and art scene, admire its colonial-era architecture and visit the city’s top sights. A trip to Guadalajara, the second-largest city in the country, would also mean seeing moderate weather conditions in July. Fall in love with its cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, colored houses, and excellent museums.

Drive through the Guadalupe Valley, Mexico’s main wine-producing region, and visit its wineries to savor some excellent wines paired with local dishes. The Ruta del Vino Bike Ride and Wine Festival combines a cycling adventure with a wine tour. You might also want to swim with majestic whale sharks in the waters near Isla Mujeres, where there are many sport-fishing and snorkeling opportunities as well. In case swimming in the sea is not your cup of tea, head for the island’s turtle farms and see species like the Carey and green turtles during your visit to Yucatan. The cenotes, or ancient sinkholes, of Yucatan are home to at least 15 species of fish and extraordinary geological formations like stalactites and stalagmites. Discover this strange and beautiful subterranean world during your stay on the peninsula.

What to bring

Make sure that you carry a rain jacket as well as an umbrella while heading for Mexico in July. Just in case you want to discover the country’s outdoors, we also suggest that you carry a pair of waterproof shoes. If your itinerary includes Mexico City, make sure that you pack a few light, warm clothes as well.

Looking forward to a personalized Mexican experience? Get in touch with our travel experts  in the country for a tailor-made itinerary for the country . For more tips, check out our travel guide on  how many days to spend in Mexico . We recommend a  10-day stay for the ideal vacation. However, if you have a more restrictive schedule, you could opt for a  7-day itinerary  to cover all the major sights in the country.

So, book a trip to Mexico in July and make the most of reduced prices and few travelers. 

Our other similar travel guides that may interest you: Mexico in June Mexico in August Mexico private tour Mexico group tour

Related Articles

Best Time To Visit Mexico

Mexico is home to some of the greatest things... read more

Mexico in January: Nature's Welcome

The weather in January makes a trip to Mexico... read more

Mexico in February: Weather, Tips & More

The weather in Mexico in February is warm and... read more

Mexico in March: Welcome the Springbreak

March marks the end of the winter season in M... read more

Mexico in April: Festivities Galore

With the rainy season still a month away, hot... read more

Mexico in May: Weather, Tips & More

The weather in Mexico in May is mostly hot an... read more

Mexico in June: A Rainy Adventure

Mexico’s weather in June is warm and humid. H... read more

Mexico in August: Beaches Beckon

It is hot and rainy in Mexico in August, with... read more

Mexico in September: Divers' Paradise

The weather in Mexico in September is hot and... read more

Mexico in October: Weather & Travel Tips

Rains start winding up in Mexico towards the ... read more

Mexico in November: All You Need to Know

November combines the best aspects of a trip ... read more

Mexico in December: A Summery Winter

The weather in Mexico in December is superb, ... read more

Summer in Mexico: Weather and Top Destinations

Whether you are looking to relax on the sand,... read more

Winter in Mexico: Top 9 Destinations

From lazing on the beach to skiing on the slo... read more

Related Categories

• How Long To Stay In Mexico
• Mexico Travel Advice
• What To Do In Mexico
• When To Visit Mexico
• Previous Post

Popular Destinations

• Europe Tours
• Everest Base Camp Trek
• Italy Tours
• Spain Tours
• Argentina Tours
• Canada Tours
• Sri Lanka Tours
• Chile Tours
• Antarctica Tours

© Marco Bottigelli / Getty

Check out this year's Best in Travel winners

Palm-fringed beaches, chili-spiced cuisine, steamy jungles, teeming cities, fiesta fireworks: Mexico conjures diverse, vivid dreams – and then delivers them.

Best Time to Visit

Best places to visit, leave the planning to a local expert.

Experience the real Mexico. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Tulum Ruins

Tulum is one of the most visited archaeological zones in Mexico and for good reason: it’s sublime. The ruins sit on seaside cliffs, high above turquoise…

Parque Nacional Isla Contoy

A white sand beach with manta rays gliding through the shimmering turquoise waters. No hotels. No nightclubs. No roads or cars of any kind. It’s hard to…

Teotihuacán

North of Mexico City

This fabulous archaeological zone lies in a mountain-ringed offshoot of the Valle de México. Site of the huge Pirámides del Sol y de la Luna (Pyramids of…

Wandering barefoot through the contemporary art museum at Azulik hotel, you feel like you’re in a giant cocoon. Nature surrounds you, inside and out:…

Palacio de Bellas Artes

Alameda Central

Immense murals by world-famous Mexican artists dominate the top floors of this splendid white-marble palace – a concert hall and arts center commissioned…

Jardín Botánico de Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta

For a change of scenery from the beach, head for the tropical highlands of the Sierra Madre mountains and wander the well-curated Jardín Botánico de…

Museo Maya de Cancún

Surrounded by dense tropical forest, the contemporary Museo Maya de Cancún is a welcome respite from the beach and buffet lines of the neighboring high…

Home to a small fishing community, the picturesque beach of Yelapa hugs an emerald coastline backed by jungle-shrouded mountains. The remote coastal…

Top picks from our travel experts

The best things to do in mexico: 19 unmissable experiences.

Mercado 20 de Noviembre

Oaxaca City

Looking for cheap street food? Look no further. Dozens of good, clean comedores (food stalls) fill this large market where wait staff will thrust menus to…

Museo del Tequila y el Mezcal

Centro Histórico

This museum on Plaza Garibaldi has exhibits explaining the origins and production process of Mexico’s two most popular distilled agave drinks. The tour…

Los Danzantes

Excellent Mexican fusion food in a spectacular architect-designed patio makes Los Danzantes one of Oaxaca’s special dining spots. The hierba santa …

Museo Frida Kahlo

Coyoacán & San Ángel

Renowned Mexican artist Frida Kahlo was born in, and lived and died in, Casa Azul (Blue House), now a museum. Almost every visitor to Mexico City makes a…

Instituto Cultural de Cabañas

Guadalajara

Standing proudly at the eastern end of dramatic Plaza Tapatía is one of Guadalajara’s architectural landmarks, and a Unesco World Heritage site since 1997…

Templo Mayor

Before the Spaniards demolished it, the Aztec 'Great Temple' Teocalli of Tenochtitlán covered the site where the cathedral now stands, as well as the…

Antiguo Colegio de San Ildefonso

Diego Rivera, José Clemente Orozco and David Siqueiros painted murals here in the 1920s. Most of the work on the main patio is by Orozco; look for the…

Plaza Garibaldi

Every night the city’s mariachi bands belt out heartfelt ballads in this festive square. Wearing silver-studded outfits, they toot their trumpets and tune…

Jardín Etnobotánico

In former monastic grounds behind the Templo de Santo Domingo, this garden features plants from around Oaxaca state, including a staggering variety of…

Xochimilco Canals

Mexico City

Hundreds of colorful trajineras (gondolas) await passengers at the village’s 10 embarcaderos to paddle you through the waterways dotted with birdlife and…

Plaza de los Mariachis

Just south of Avenida Javier Mina and the Mercado San Juan de Dios, this is the very birthplace of mariachi music. By day it’s just a narrow walking…

Los Cocuyos

Suadero (beef) tacos abound in the capital, but this always-open stand reigns supreme. Follow your nose to the bubbling vat of meats and go for the artery…

Auto-mechanic shop by day, taco diner by night. No worries, though: the experts slicing down those excellent al pastor (spit-cooked pork) tacos aren't the…

Playa Carrizalillo

Puerto Escondido

Small is beautiful at Carrizalillo, set in a sheltered cove west of the center that's reached by a stairway of 157 steps. It’s popular for swimming and…

Museo Memoria y Tolerancia

A mazelike, unique museum of 55 halls dedicated to preserving the memory of genocide victims. The multimedia exhibit chronicles crimes committed against…

Museo de la Tortura

Displaying European torture instruments from the 14th to 19th centuries, including a metal-spiked interrogation chair and the menacing skull splitter,…

Museo de Arte Popular

A major showcase for folk art, this is a colorful museum that even kids love. Crafts are thematically displayed from all over Mexico, including carnival…

Mano Santa Mezcal

Often compared to having a drink at home because of the cheap, quality mezcal (or because you live in a designer-school laboratory), this small bar…

Museo de la Revolución

This pockmarked 19th-century house was the scene of the first battle of the 1910 Revolution. The renovated house retains its bullet holes and some…

Blink and you might walk right past the coolest neighborhood mezcalería in town. Behind the Bósforo’s nondescript curtain await top-notch mezcals, an…

Por Siempre Vegana Taquería

Vegans can join in the street-food action with soy and gluten taco versions of al pastor, loganiza (sausage) and chorizo. The late-night experience is…

Museo Mural Diego Rivera

This museum is home to one of Diego Rivera’s most famous works, Sueño de una tarde dominical en la Alameda Central (Dream of a Sunday Afternoon in the…

Museo del Calzado El Borceguí

At this shoe museum – and the oldest shoemaker in Mexico, operating since 1865 – there are over 2000 pieces of footwear on show, many from famous feet…

Pirámide Tepanapa

The incredible Pirámide Tepanapa looks more like a hill than a pyramid, but it's still the town's big draw, and with miles of tunnels veining the inside…

Mercado Medellin

Self-caterers can stop into this colorful market for quality cuts of meat, fresh produce and nuts amongst the piñatas. It's also a popular spot for lunch:…

Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip.

Best Things to Do

From swimming in cenotes and eating street food to soaking up the history and culture of this vibrant nation, here are the best things to do in Mexico.

Transportation

From ski slopes and jungle to deserts and sublime stretches of sand, expect to use many transport options to get around the world's 13th biggest country.

Visa Requirements

If you’re planning a vacation in Mexico, these are some of the ins and outs of navigating its visas, tourist permits and more.

Money and Costs

Soak up history and art without spending a cent, and find out how to make every peso stretch further with our top tips for visiting Mexico on a budget.

Best Road Trips

Fuel your wanderlust on the open road in Mexico with these epic drives.

Traveling with Kids

Family is at the center of daily life in Mexico, and children are warmly welcomed almost everywhere. Here are the top things to do with little ones in tow.

Plan with a local

Experience the real Mexico

Let a local expert craft your dream trip.

Latest stories from Mexico

Filter by interest:

• All Interests
• Adventure Travel
• Art & Culture
• Beaches, Coasts & Islands
• Food & Drink

Feb 1, 2024 • 7 min read

We asked four of our Mexico correspondents for recommendations about where they vacation in their country.

Oct 30, 2023 • 6 min read

Oct 24, 2023 • 4 min read

Oct 18, 2023 • 7 min read

Oct 13, 2023 • 8 min read

Oct 10, 2023 • 9 min read

Oct 9, 2023 • 14 min read

Oct 8, 2023 • 5 min read

Oct 7, 2023 • 14 min read

Aug 24, 2023 • 4 min read

in partnership with getyourguide

Book popular activities in Mexico

Purchase our award-winning guidebooks.

Get to the heart of Mexico with one of our in-depth, award-winning guidebooks, covering maps, itineraries, and expert guidance.

Mexico and beyond

Protect Your Trip »

Best places to visit in mexico for 2023-2024.

With year-round warm weather and diverse destinations ranging from metropolitan Mexico City to the sands of Tulum, Mexico boasts vacation spots that appeal to all sorts of visitors. To help you determine which locale is best for you, U.S. News compiled this list of the best places to visit in Mexico by factoring in cultural attractions, food options, beaches, water-based activities and nightlife, along with traveler votes and expert opinions. Vote for your favorite vacation spots below to help us determine next year's ranking. (Note: The U.S. Department of State advises against traveling to certain Mexican states due to crime; check the  website  for updates before booking your trip, and be cautious if you decide to travel.)

Zihuatanejo

Isla mujeres, isla holbox, mexico city, playa del carmen.

Located on Mexico's Pacific coast, Zihuatanejo offers travelers an authentic Mexico experience full of brilliant sunsets and laid-back vibes. In this fishing village, shopaholics can buy local handicrafts (think: ceramics and woodcarvings), and foodies can savor fresh fish tacos and ceviche along the beach. The city's Playa La Ropa serves as the main beach and stands out because of its clean, family-friendly atmosphere. Playa Larga, another excellent beach option, is set slightly outside of town, so it offers a quieter atmosphere and plenty of room to sprawl out. Just off the coast, divers and snorkelers can pick from several dive sites brimming with marine life.

Home to Mexico's most famous waterfront Mayan ruins, Tulum appeals to history buffs and water lovers alike. Positioned along a coastal stretch of the Riviera Maya, about 40 miles south of Playa del Carmen, Tulum offers some of the best hotels in Mexico , ranging from small boutique hotels to wellness retreats to all-inclusive resorts. Regardless of where you stay, you can spend time lounging on some of the world's most beautiful beaches (try traveler-approved Playa Paraíso or Playa Ruinas), exploring ancient ruins (consider booking a daytrip to nearby Chichén Itzá for a larger-scale site) and swimming in secluded cenotes, unique underwater caves located around the Yucatán Peninsula.

This island is probably best known for two things: coral reefs and cruise ships. Travelers love this destination's brilliant blue water and laid-back beaches, plus its abundance of water sports activities. Numerous outfitters and resorts offer kayaks, paddleboards and snorkeling gear. While you could spend every minute in the water or on the beach with a good book, Cozumel is also a quiet place to learn about Mayan culture. Visit the Mayan ruins at San Gervasio archaeological site for a dose of pre-Hispanic history.

Ixtapa's curved coastline is packed with hotels, restaurants and nightlife, giving the Pacific coast city (located just north of Zihuatanejo) a bustling vibe. Playa El Palmar, the main beach, often proves better for sunset strolls and people-watching than swimming or snorkeling due to the strong waves. Still, warm, clear and generally gentle water and coral beds farther offshore make Ixtapa one of the best places for beginner scuba enthusiasts. Anyone interested in the area's history should also explore the Archaeological Museum of the Costa Grande, a small museum that details the various cultures and events that make the region unique. 

A great option for a weekend stay or a quick daytrip tour , Isla Mujeres is set off the coast of Cancún and offers beautiful beaches perfect for relaxation and coral reefs ready for exploration. In fact, it's one of the best places to go snorkeling in the world thanks to a unique underwater museum and one of the world's largest coral reefs (home to all sorts of colorful fish). See marine life from another perspective on a glass bottom boat. When you want to catch some rays, Playa Norte is the most popular beach, framed by white sand, turquoise water and swaying palm trees.

Quiet beaches, a relaxed atmosphere and stunning crystal-clear water are some of Isla Holbox's standout attributes. This up-and-coming slice of paradise is perfect for travelers looking to truly get away from it all, thanks to its car-free, off-the-beaten-path location. Isla Holbox is situated off the northern coast of the Yucatán Peninsula and only 26 miles long. Expect quaint boutique hotels, stretches of white sand beaches (Playa Punta Cocos and Punta Mosquito are two top spots), opportunities for snorkeling and sailing, and more than 100 species of birds, including vibrantly colored flamingoes.

About 25 miles north of Puerto Vallarta, Sayulita is a small beach town known for awesome surfing conditions and scenic stretches of sand. If you've never surfed before, sign up for a lesson from a local to learn. Visitors can also go whale watching, snorkeling, scuba diving, horseback riding or zip lining, or hop on a relaxing boat tour. After a day of fun in the sun, head into town to check out the local art galleries and grab a bite to eat at one of the tasty restaurants (Sayulita is a burgeoning foodie destination), which feature everything from cheap eats to fine dining.

Anglers recognize Manzanillo as a world-class deep-sea fishing destination for anyone searching for sailfish and marlin, but many types of travelers will enjoy a trip to this Pacific coast destination, located 170 miles south of Puerto Vallarta. The city's two bays mean there is no shortage of beaches for visitors to swim and sunbathe on: Top spots include Playa la Audiencia and Playa Salagua. Water sports like snorkeling and kayaking are also popular activities to enjoy here. If you have time, visit the small town of Barra de Navidad (about 30 miles northwest) for charming hotels, restaurants and stores along the beach. 

Dreamy white sand , nightclubs, all-inclusive resorts and inexpensive flights from the U.S. make Cancún a go-to spot for spring breakers and vacationers seeking an easy beach getaway. But this city on the Yucatán Peninsula also sits close to lush jungles and tranquil cenotes, making it an excellent option for nature lovers. Not to mention, travelers will find diverse and cheap street food served from various carts in the downtown area. Visiting in fall or winter will ensure you see this city (one of the most-visited spots in Mexico) in its most tranquil light, but December through April is when the weather is closest to perfect.

Ornate baroque and neoclassical buildings, busy plazas and colorful homes are everywhere you turn in this UNESCO World Heritage-listed city. Guanajuato, situated about 50 miles west of San Miguel de Allende, is known for its subterranean streets and tunnels, which you can explore on a walking tour or at your own leisure. After admiring the city's cobblestone roadways and charming colonial architecture, grab a souvenir or bite to eat at the bustling Mercado Hidalgo. If you enjoy art, arrive in October when the popular Festival Internacional Cervantino takes place.

As the capital of Yucatán, Mérida's rich culture is visible around every turn. White stone mansions line Paseo de Montejo (the city's main street), while vibrant Sunday markets provide a taste of old-world Mexico. Those looking for Mayan ruins are also in luck; many ancient archaeological sites are in close proximity, including the famed Chichén Itzá just 75 miles east. Meanwhile, museum and art enthusiasts praise El Gran Museo del Mundo Maya de Mérida, as well as the city's art galleries and local murals. When it comes to lodging, travelers will have their pick of quaint boutique hotels.

The most populous city in Mexico is steeped in history and culture. Mexico City boasts delectable cuisine, ancient Aztec sites and world-class hotels – all at fairly low costs – but if you feel like splurging, you'll find an array of high-end shops along the tree-lined Avenida Presidente Masaryk in the Polanco neighborhood. Must-see attractions in Mexico City include the Zócalo, the Palace of Fine Arts, Chapultepec Castle and the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe. And if you want to eat your way through the city, consider signing up for a food tour .

For a vacation packed with authentic character, head to Puebla. This city, which sits about 80 miles southeast of Mexico City, is filled with colonial architecture and numerous churches, but its main draws are its stunning Talavera pottery, its historical forts and museums, and its sweet and spicy cuisine. Visitors must try mole poblano (made with numerous ingredients, including chiles, meat, chocolate, cinnamon and garlic) and chiles en nogada (chiles stuffed with beef and served with a walnut sauce and fruit like peaches, apples and pomegranate seeds). When the sun sets, venture to Callejón de los Sapos to listen to live music.

Playa del Carmen boasts an exciting food scene, with eateries dishing out everything from delectable tacos and tostadas to sushi and expertly cooked seafood, plus an even hipper bar culture. What's more, this destination in the Riviera Maya beckons to vacationers with its soft white sand blanketing its beaches and its stunning shoreline views. Visitors can also bike to a nearby cenote for a refreshing dip or hit the links at one of the numerous surrounding golf courses. All-inclusive resorts , vacation rentals and boutique properties abound in Playa del Carmen, too, giving travelers plenty of options to find the best fit for their preferences and budgets.

This secluded vacation spot is known for its luxurious lodging options (from vacation rentals to high-end hotels like the St. Regis and the Four Seasons), golf courses and charming beaches, such as El Anclote and Playa de Punta Mita. The small resort village of Punta Mita sits on a peninsula in Banderas Bay and most appeals to travelers seeking a relaxing atmosphere. Those interested in scuba diving, snorkeling, fishing and surfing will be able to enjoy those activities here as well. If you're visiting between December and March, book a whale watching tour for a chance to see humpback or orca whales.

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

Puerto Vallarta

Cabo San Lucas

San Miguel de Allende

Guadalajara

You May Be Interested In

Best Mexico Beaches for 2024

Best Places to Visit in the Caribbean for 2023

Best Spring Break Destinations

Central & South America

Best Places to Visit in Central and South America in 2023

Best Cheap Winter Vacations

Best Cheap Mexico Vacations

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Erin Vasta December 22, 2023

26 Cheap Beach Vacations for Travelers on a Budget

Kyle McCarthy|Sharael Kolberg December 4, 2023

The 50 Most Beautiful White Sand Beaches in the World

Holly Johnson December 1, 2023

The 26 Best Zoos in the U.S.

Rachael Hood November 16, 2023

44 Cheap Tropical Vacations That Feel Expensive

Holly Johnson|Alissa Grisler November 10, 2023

Mexican Adventures

Exploring the Vibrant Festivities: Celebrating Mexico Holidays in July

Mexico Holidays in July often celebrate important cultural and historical events. The most prominent holiday during this month is Mexico’s Independence Day on July 16th. Other notable holidays include the Feast Day of Our Lady of Mount Carmel on July 16th and the Day of the Dead celebrated on July 31st. Visitors can witness vibrant parades, fireworks, traditional dances, and indulge in Mexican cuisine during these festive occasions.

What are the best destinations to visit in Mexico during July?

What are the weather conditions like in mexico in july, what are some popular festivals and events taking place in mexico in july, what are the top beach destinations in mexico for a july getaway, what are the cultural attractions and historical sites to explore in mexico during july, what is the traditional cuisine of mexico during july, are there any special travel tips or considerations for visiting mexico in july, what are the recommended activities for families in mexico during july, what are some off-the-beaten-path destinations to discover in mexico in july, what are the best ways to experience mexico’s rich traditions and heritage during july.

Some of the best destinations to visit in Mexico during July include:

1. Cancun: Known for its beautiful beaches, turquoise waters, and vibrant nightlife, Cancun is a popular choice for many vacationers in July. Enjoy the clear Caribbean Sea, explore the ancient Mayan ruins, and indulge in delicious Mexican cuisine.

2. Playa del Carmen: Located on the Riviera Maya, Playa del Carmen offers a perfect blend of beautiful beaches, water activities, and a lively atmosphere. It also serves as a great base to explore nearby attractions such as Cozumel and Tulum.

3. Mexico City: The capital city of Mexico has a rich cultural heritage, offering numerous museums, historical sites, and delicious street food. In July, you can enjoy various festivals, including the Guelaguetza in Oaxaca, where traditional dances and music take place.

4. Puerto Vallarta: Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Sierra Madre Mountains, Puerto Vallarta offers stunning beaches, vibrant art scene, and charming colonial architecture. July is a great time to visit the nearby Marietas Islands for snorkeling and wildlife spotting.

5. Tulum: Located on the Yucatan Peninsula, Tulum is famous for its well-preserved ancient ruins overlooking the Caribbean Sea. In July, you can enjoy warm weather, explore cenotes (natural sinkholes), and relax on the beautiful beaches.

6. Guanajuato: This colorful colonial city is known for its picturesque streets, underground tunnels, and vibrant arts scene. July is a great time to visit as you can experience the International Cervantino Festival, a major cultural celebration featuring music, theater, and dance performances.

These are just a few of the many incredible destinations to explore in Mexico during July. The country offers a diverse range of options, whether you prefer beach relaxation, cultural immersion, or outdoor adventures.

The weather conditions in Mexico in July vary depending on the region. Generally, it is the rainy season in Mexico during July, although some areas may experience dry and hot weather. Coastal areas such as Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Puerto Vallarta can have high temperatures between 27-32 degrees Celsius (81-90 degrees Fahrenheit) with occasional rain showers or thunderstorms. Inland cities like Mexico City and Guadalajara usually have mild temperatures ranging from 20-25 degrees Celsius (68-77 degrees Fahrenheit) with frequent rain showers. The Yucatan Peninsula, including popular destinations like Tulum and Merida, experiences high temperatures and humidity, along with a chance of tropical storms or hurricanes. It is advisable to check the specific weather forecast for the area you plan to visit in Mexico in July.

Some popular festivals and events taking place in Mexico in July include: 1. Guelaguetza Festival in Oaxaca – A traditional celebration of music, dance, and food from the various indigenous cultures in the state of Oaxaca. 2. Festival Internacional de Cervantino in Guanajuato – A renowned international arts festival showcasing music, theater, dance, and visual arts. 3. Feria Nacional del Mezcal in Oaxaca – A festival dedicated to showcasing the traditional distilled alcoholic beverage called Mezcal, including tastings, workshops, and cultural activities. 4. La Guelaguetza Chica in Mexico City – A smaller version of the Guelaguetza Festival celebrated by the Oaxacan community living in Mexico City. 5. Expo Feria Gómez Palacio in Durango – A fair and expo featuring agricultural exhibitions, livestock shows, cultural events, and amusement rides. 6. Festival de la Tortuga Marina in Veracruz – A festival promoting the conservation of marine turtles through educational activities, workshops, and releasing baby turtles into the sea. 7. Festival Internacional del Globo in León, Guanajuato – One of the largest hot air balloon festivals in Latin America, featuring colorful displays, night glow events, and live music. 8. Feria del Mango in Tenango del Valle, Estado de Mexico – A festival celebrating the harvest of the mango fruit, featuring agricultural exhibitions, culinary competitions, and traditional dances. 9. Feria Nacional Potosina in San Luis Potosí – A state fair showcasing cultural displays, concerts, amusement rides, and agricultural and livestock exhibitions. 10. Festival de la Sierra in Pachuca, Hidalgo – A cultural festival highlighting the traditions and heritage of the indigenous communities in the Sierra region of Hidalgo.

Some of the top beach destinations in Mexico for a July getaway are:

1. Cancun- Known for its stunning white sand beaches and turquoise waters, Cancun offers a range of activities such as snorkeling, diving, and exploring ancient Mayan ruins.

2. Tulum- Famous for its picturesque beaches, Tulum is an eco-friendly destination with boutique beachfront hotels, crystal-clear cenotes, and ancient Mayan ruins perched on a cliff overlooking the ocean.

3. Playa del Carmen- Located on the Riviera Maya, Playa del Carmen boasts beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and a wide variety of dining options. It is also an excellent base for exploring nearby attractions like Cozumel and cenotes.

4. Puerto Vallarta- Nestled on the Pacific Coast, Puerto Vallarta offers stunning beaches with a backdrop of lush mountains. This charming coastal town provides a blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and water activities like snorkeling and yacht tours.

5. Cabo San Lucas- Situated on the southern tip of the Baja California Peninsula, Cabo San Lucas is famous for its impressive rock formations, luxurious resorts, vibrant nightlife, and water sports like fishing and scuba diving.

6. Riviera Maya- Stretching along the Caribbean coast, the Riviera Maya offers breathtaking beaches, ancient ruins such as Tulum and Coba, as well as numerous cenotes for swimming and diving. It is also home to luxury all-inclusive resorts and eco-parks like Xcaret and Xel-Há.

These destinations provide an ideal combination of stunning beaches, warm weather, and a variety of activities to enjoy during a July getaway in Mexico.

Mexico has numerous cultural attractions and historical sites to explore during July. Some popular options include:

1. Chichen Itza: This ancient Mayan city is a UNESCO World Heritage site and boasts the iconic El Castillo pyramid. Visitors can explore the temples, ball courts, and the sacred cenote.

2. Teotihuacan: Located near Mexico City, Teotihuacan is home to the impressive Pyramids of the Sun and Moon. It was once one of the largest cities in the world and provides insight into pre-Columbian Mesoamerican civilizations.

3. Palenque: This archaeological site in Chiapas showcases Maya ruins amidst lush jungle scenery. The Temple of the Inscriptions, the Palace, and the Temple of the Cross are must-sees.

4. Mexico City’s Historic Center: The heart of the country’s capital is filled with historical sites such as the Metropolitan Cathedral, the National Palace, and the Templo Mayor Aztec ruins. It offers an immersive experience in Mexican history.

5. Monte Alban: Located near Oaxaca, this ancient Zapotec archaeological site offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and mountains. The impressive pyramids and temples illustrate the rich heritage of the Zapotec civilization.

6. Guanajuato City: Known for its colorful facades and charming streets, this UNESCO-listed city is famous for its well-preserved colonial architecture and historic sites, like the Alhondiga de Granaditas and the Basilica of Our Lady of Guanajuato.

7. Tulum: This coastal Mayan city in Quintana Roo boasts stunning ruins overlooking turquoise waters. Visitors can explore the temples, walls, and the picturesque beach.

8. Oaxaca City: A colonial gem, Oaxaca is known for its vibrant arts and crafts scene, delicious cuisine, and rich indigenous traditions. Attractions include the Santo Domingo de Guzman Church, the Zocalo, and the Monte Alban ruins.

These are just a few examples, and Mexico has many more cultural attractions and historical sites to explore during July.

The traditional cuisine of Mexico during July includes dishes such as tamales, pozole, chiles en nogada, and various seafood dishes. Additionally, July in Mexico is mango and avocado season, so you can expect to find these fruits incorporated into many dishes and desserts during this time.

Yes, there are some special travel tips and considerations for visiting Mexico in July:

1. Weather: July is part of the rainy season in Mexico, particularly in the central and southern regions. Prepare for frequent showers and pack a lightweight raincoat or umbrella.

2. Heat and humidity: Mexico can experience high temperatures and humidity during July. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, wear breathable clothing, and seek shade or air-conditioned spaces to cool down.

3. Crowds: July is a popular month for tourism in Mexico due to summer vacations. Expect larger crowds at popular tourist destinations, especially beach towns and resort areas.

4. Mosquitoes: The rainy season also brings an increase in mosquitoes. Use mosquito repellent, wear long-sleeved clothing, and consider staying in accommodations with screens or air conditioning to minimize exposure to mosquitoes.

5. Festivals: July is a vibrant month in Mexico, with numerous festivals and celebrations taking place. Research and consider attending local events or fiestas to immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the country.

6. Safety: While Mexico offers incredible travel experiences, it’s essential to be mindful of safety precautions. Stay updated on travel advisories, avoid displaying valuable items, use trusted transportation options, and stick to well-lit and populated areas, especially at night.

7. Language: Although many people in tourist areas can speak English, learning a few basic Spanish phrases can greatly enhance your travel experience and communication with locals .

Remember to check for any specific travel requirements, such as visa, passport validity, or COVID-19 related guidelines before your trip.

There are several recommended activities for families in Mexico during July. Some of these include:

1. Exploring the Mayan Ruins: Families can visit famous archaeological sites such as Chichen Itza or Tulum and learn about Mexico’s rich history.

2. Enjoying the Beaches: Mexico is known for its beautiful coastlines and pristine beaches. Families can spend their days swimming, snorkeling, or simply relaxing on the sandy shores.

3. Visiting Cenotes: Cenotes are natural sinkholes found in the Yucatan Peninsula. They offer unique swimming and diving experiences, perfect for adventurous families.

4. Experiencing Wildlife: Mexico is home to many wildlife sanctuaries and parks. Families can visit places like Xcaret or Xel-Ha to witness different species of animals and enjoy activities like swimming with dolphins or interacting with sea turtles.

5. Enjoying Water Parks: Mexico has a variety of water parks that are great for families, such as Xel-Ha or Ventura Park. These parks offer water slides, pools, and other fun water activities that are suitable for all ages .

6. Participating in Cultural Festivals: July in Mexico is filled with numerous cultural festivals and events. Families can attend events like the Guelaguetza festival in Oaxaca or the annual Day of the Dead parade in Mexico City to learn more about Mexican traditions and immerse themselves in local culture.

7. Exploring Colonial Towns: Mexico is dotted with charming colonial towns that are perfect for family sightseeing. Places like Guanajuato, San Miguel de Allende, or Oaxaca offer beautiful architecture, colorful streets, and traditional markets to explore.

8. Enjoying Water Sports: Families can engage in various water sports activities during July, such as snorkeling, scuba diving, kayak tours, or paddleboarding. Many coastal destinations in Mexico offer organized tours and rentals for these activities.

9. Sampling Mexican Cuisine: Mexico is famous for its delicious cuisine. Families can enjoy trying different traditional dishes, such as tacos, quesadillas, tamales, or mole. Food tours or cooking classes can also be a fun and educational experience.

10. Attending Family-Friendly Shows: Mexico has many entertaining shows suitable for all ages, such as traditional folk dances, mariachi performances, or lucha libre wrestling. Families can find a variety of shows to enjoy together across different cities in Mexico.

Some off-the-beaten-path destinations to discover in Mexico in July include:

1. Bacalar: Known as the “Lagoon of Seven Colors,” Bacalar is a picturesque town located in the southern part of the Yucatan Peninsula. It is home to stunning turquoise-blue lagoons, ancient Mayan ruins, and a laid-back atmosphere perfect for relaxation.

2. Real de Catorce: Located in the desert of the Sierra de Catorce in central Mexico, this ghost town offers a unique experience. Explore the narrow cobblestone streets, visit the historic church, and take a journey into the surrounding desert for breathtaking scenery.

3. Xilitla: In the Huasteca Potosina region, Xilitla is a hidden gem famous for its Surrealist Garden created by Edward James. This whimsical garden features towering sculptures, waterfalls, and lush vegetation, making it a captivating and surreal experience.

4. Sayulita: A small fishing village turned bohemian surf town, Sayulita offers a laid-back vibe on Mexico’s Pacific coast. Enjoy surfing or paddleboarding, wander through colorful streets, indulge in local cuisine, and relax on the tranquil beaches.

5. Las Pozas: Situated in the jungle near Xilitla, Las Pozas is another marvel created by Edward James. This surrealist sculpture garden showcases intricate structures, cascading waterfalls, and natural pools, providing a unique and surreal experience in the heart of the Mexican rainforest.

6. Isla Holbox: Located off the northern coast of the Yucatan Peninsula, Isla Holbox boasts pristine beaches, crystal clear turquoise waters, and abundant marine life. The island remains relatively untouched by mass tourism, making it a perfect off-the-beaten-path destination for relaxation and wildlife encounters.

7. Hierve el Agua: Situated in the Oaxaca region, Hierve el Agua is a natural wonder consisting of petrified waterfalls and mineral springs. Explore the hiking trails, swim in the natural pools, and soak in the breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding valleys.

Remember to check travel advisories and take necessary precautions before visiting any destination, especially during the current COVID-19 pandemic.

Some of the best ways to experience Mexico’s rich traditions and heritage during July include:

1. Attend the Guelaguetza Festival: This vibrant cultural event takes place in Oaxaca annually and showcases traditional dances, music, and costumes from various indigenous communities in the region. It is a great opportunity to observe and participate in traditional rituals and celebrations.

2. Visit Mexico City: As the capital, Mexico City offers a wide range of cultural experiences. Visit the National Museum of Anthropology to explore archaeological treasures and learn about Mexico’s pre-Hispanic civilizations. Additionally, visit iconic sites such as the Templo Mayor, Frida Kahlo Museum, or the Palacio de Bellas Artes for an immersion in Mexican art and history.

3. Explore ancient Mayan ruins: Mexico is home to several well-preserved Mayan archaeological sites like Chichen Itza, Tulum, or Palenque. These sites provide insight into the ancient civilization’s architecture, culture, and traditions. Guided tours can offer valuable information about these historical wonders.

4. Celebrate Dia de los Muertos: Although the traditional Day of the Dead celebrations occur in November, there are often smaller celebrations during July in some regions. Participate in festivities like parades, altars, and art installations dedicated to honoring deceased loved ones.

5. Witness Lucha Libre: Mexican wrestling, known as Lucha Libre, is a unique spectacle that intertwines athleticism, humor, and theatricality. Attend a live match to experience the vibrant atmosphere and be a part of this cherished Mexican tradition.

6. Visit local markets and artisan villages: Mexico has a rich tradition of crafts and traditional arts . Explore local markets like Mercado de Sonora in Mexico City or the Mercado de Artesanias in Oaxaca to find handmade crafts, textiles, pottery, and traditional clothing. Additionally, visit artisan villages like Tonala or Tlaquepaque, near Guadalajara, to witness traditional artisans at work and purchase authentic Mexican handicrafts.

7. Taste traditional cuisine: Mexican cuisine is recognized globally for its diversity and flavors. Sample traditional dishes like mole, tamales, pozole, or fresh seafood in coastal regions. July is also the season of delicious fruits like mangoes and pineapples, so indulge in the wealth of flavors available during this time.

Remember to research and respect local customs and traditions, engage with the local community, and always prioritize sustainability and cultural preservation in your travels.

• Privacy Policy
• Terms And Conditions

Mexico - weather in July

Weather in Cabo San Lucas in July + Events & Things To Do

Disclaimer: This page may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase using one of those links, I may earn a commission at zero cost for you. Please see my disclaimer policy here, and my privacy policy here.

Wondering about the Weather in Cabo San Lucas in July? In this post I will tell you all about it and more!

Cabo San Lucas is a stunning tropical destination, known the world over for its breathtaking white-sand beaches, world-class resorts, and vibrant nightlife.

The city is a year-round destination, but there are slight variations in the weather throughout the calendar.

In this post, I will tell you all about Cabo weather in July along with the events taking place this month and the things you can enjoy.

Located at the southern tip of the Baja Peninsula in Mexico, Cabo San Lucas is a popular resort destination for tourists looking to relax and unwind in the beautiful scenery as well as those looking for an exciting getaway.

You can enjoy plenty of activities such as sampling delicious cuisines at gourmet restaurants, hitting up some of the many great clubs and bars, and shopping at luxury boutiques.

With its stunning beaches and warm water temperatures all year long, you can lay out on one of the many beaches or take part in some of the exciting water sports like kayaking, snorkeling, scuba diving, or swimming with exotic marine creatures.

One of the best reasons to visit Cabo San Lucas in winter is for its mild temperatures and abundant sunshine.

With ideal weather, warm days, and pretty much no cloud cover, visitors can enjoy outdoor activities in winter without feeling uncomfortable from heat or humidity – while also avoiding the freezing temperatures of their home country.

Other than being perfect for beach days and long hikes through the desert terrain, these winter temperatures also allow visitors to explore local attractions as well.

If you’re visiting in July, I’ll tell you all about the weather, events, and things to do this time of year.

So let’s do exactly that!

Weather in Cabo San Lucas in July – An Overview

Cabo weather in July is perfect to visit Mexico’s stunning Baja California peninsula. The weather this time of year is ideal for beach-goers, with temperatures rarely exceeding 96°F and humidity that stays below 74%.

If you’re traveling to Cabo for a summer vacation, there are many activities and events to enjoy during your stay.

From outdoor adventures such as diving or snorkeling to exploring the region’s famous landmarks like the El Arco rock formation, there’s something for everyone in Cabo.

Below, we’ll take a more detailed look at the weather in Cabo in July.

The temperature in Cabo in July

July is an especially nice time to visit Cabo. The weather is hot and sunny but the average temperature remains comfortable thanks to coastal breezes.

The temperatures in Cabo during July range from an average high of 91°F (32.7°C) during the day to an average low of 79°F (26°C) in the evenings.

The humidity is also higher during the month, making days feel muggy; but it’s still not as high compared to the tropical humidity of other vacation destinations in Mexico, which means July is one of the nice months to visit Cabo for a budget vacation with fewer crowds.

Cabo Weather by Month

JAN | FEB | MARCH | APRIL | MAY | JUNE | JULY | AUG | SEPT | OCT | NOV | DEC

Precipitation in Cabo in July

July marks the beginning of the rainy season in Cabo, but, with 0.5 inches of rain, the average rainfall is minimal this time of year with a handful of rainy days throughout the month.

Precipitation in Cabo in July tends to occur more toward the end of the month and will typically take the form of light showers.

However, you will notice more cloud cover in July.

During this period, visitors should pack an umbrella or a light raincoat just in case they get caught out in a shower.

However, with an average temperature of 85°F (29.4°C) throughout July and plenty of sunshine still available each day, tourists won’t be disappointed if they plan their trip for this month!

Sunshine in Cabo in July

July starts with lots of sunshine hours, with its first day being 13 and a half hours long.

As the month progresses, the length of the day starts decreasing; but even the shortest day of July is 13+ hours long, so you will get plenty of time to enjoy everything this beautiful beach city has to offer. 

However, as I mentioned earlier, the month of July comes with increased cloud cover, especially in the latter half of the month which also features a few occasional rainy days.

These are just light showers, so they make the hot daytime temperatures bearable if anything.

Sea water temperature

The average sea temperature is close to a comfortable 80°F (26.5°C) in July, the warmest it gets – which means one of the best swimming and diving experiences of the year.

Surfing is also at its peak this time of year, so you can try your hand at this thrilling activity as well while in Cabo San Lucas during July.

The comfy water temperature of summer months makes for a pleasant respite from the hot days, so make sure you have tons of beach days planned for your Cabo vacation in July.

What’s more, diving and snorkeling are amazing during the month as well, so you will have plenty of opportunities for adventure!

Events in Cabo in July

🎉 fiesta of the virgin of carmen.

The day commemorates Virgin Mary as the protector of Mexico. Craft stands, parades, puppeteers, animal-friendly bullfights in the downtown area, and a fishing tournament at the marina are all part of the celebrations in Cabo San Lucas.

🎇 Festival of St. James

The feast day of St. James, patron saint of Spain revered for bringing Catholicism to Mexico is celebrated with various events and local celebrations – including riding demonstrations and re-enactments on white horses typically held in the town square.

Pros of Visiting Cabo in July

✅ Cabo San Lucas can be an expensive vacation destination, but July is one of the best months to avoid the peak season’s high prices and plan a budget trip to it.

✅ July is typically considered one of the hottest months in the year, but it features pleasant weather in Cabo – especially in the first half of the month.

✅ Availability is sometimes an issue during the high season months, but July is when you don’t have to worry about it. (Still, try to make reservations as early in advance as you can to get better rates and the best discounts on everything.)

✅ With the high season and spring break over, July is when there are almost no crowds – meaning it’s the perfect time to take a family trip to Cabo and enjoy an intimate vacation while the weather is still better than the late summer months. Just make sure you bring along lots of sunscreens!

✅ July features some of the warmest water temperatures of the year, and the best surfing is also found in Cabo this time of year.

Cons of Visiting Cabo in July

👎 The rainy season in Cabo San Lucas starts in July, so expect a few light rain showers during the month. Though, you won’t have to worry about any tropical storms during the month as the chances of one are next to none.

👎 The summer months mean hot and muggy Los Cabos weather and July is the hottest month of the year, so you will find excursions inland a little uncomfortable in the daytime. But they’re still enjoyable and the beach weather is also great with warmer water temperatures – making for excellent water activities during July.

👎 The average relative humidity also increases in July, which means outdoors may feel muggy compared to the winter months.

Things to Do in Cabo in July

▶ snorkeling with mobula rays.

Snorkeling with Mobula Rays in Cabo San Lucas is an experience that you’ll never forget.

Not only will you get to witness these majestic creatures in their natural environment, but also have the opportunity to swim alongside them. 

Cabo San Lucas weather in July is great for swimming with Mobula Rays, and there are many tours available in Cabo that take you on this unforgettable journey.

On your guided tour you’ll be surrounded by crystal-clear waters that invite you to take a dip and get up close and personal with these gentle giants.

Snorkeling tour in Cabo San Lucas | 245 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Reviews

✔️ A half-day swimming and snorkeling cruise to Santa Maria Beach ✔️ 3h 30 min tour

▶ Watch the sunset from Monuments beach

Cabo San Lucas is renowned for its stunning sunsets, and one of the best places to watch them is Monuments Beach.

This gorgeous stretch of sand on the Sea of Cortez side lies just a few miles outside of town, along the way to San Jose del Cabo.

With its stunning views and tranquil atmosphere, Monuments Beach is a must-stop destination for any visitor to Cabo.

At Playa Monumento, visitors can enjoy a romantic stroll along the shoreline while they watch the orange-red sky transition from day to night.

If you’re visiting here in July, I highly recommend taking the trip here to watch the sun sink into the horizon and take in its majestic beauty.

▶ Go on a hike

If you’re looking for a way to explore the beauty of Cabo, then going on a hike is a great option!

Taking in the stunning sights as well as exploring the unique flora and fauna of this part of Mexico are just some of the benefits that come with going on a hike.

What’s more, there are several trails available in Cabo San Lucas to accommodate different levels of hikers – whether you’re an experienced hiker or just starting out.

For those who are eager to go on their first hiking adventure in Cabo San Lucas, there’s no need to worry; there are also lots of hiking tours so you’ll have all the help and guidance you need!

Hikes range from easy to moderately difficult, taking anywhere from one hour to half a day.

Suggested tours in Cabo in July

1. Los Cabos Luxury Sailing, Snorkel, and Lunch Cruise

4.5⭐ 981 Reviews

Luxury sailing in Cabo San Lucas has become a popular activity , and it’s no wonder why.

A sailboat tour will take you out on the ocean where you can enjoy snorkeling with colorful fish and paddleboarding, or simply soak up the sun on board.

What’s more, this tour includes a delectable lunch, a full open bar, and a pick-up service.

Great Adventure Loved the relaxing atmosphere and great crew. The snorkeling was fun and we had fabulous weather. Enjoyed the fun with family. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Kathy_P, Jan 2023

👉 Book your Los Cabos Luxury Snorkel & Lunch Cruise on  VIATOR

2. Cabo San Lucas Downtown Food and Tacos Tasting Experience

5⭐ 727 Reviews

This unique gastronomic journey will take you through the streets of downtown Cabo, where you can savor authentic Mexican dishes from some of the best local eateries.

You’ll get to try traditional fare while also learning interesting bits about the region from the experienced guide.

As you make your way around town, you’ll be able to explore the colorful atmosphere of this lively city while indulging in all it has to offer!

FUN time !! Great food ! Great taco and Tequila tour! Milton was an awesome guide and very gracious and was great to walk around town and learn things. Wonderful group of people on tour as well. Easy was a great host about the  history of Tequila  and the kinds. Highly recommend it !! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Kathleen_M, Jan 2023

👉 Book your Downtown Food & Tacos Tasting Experience on  VIATOR

3. Los Cabos Arch and Playa del Amor Tour by Glass Bottom Kayak

5⭐ 538 Reviews

Los Cabos Arch and Playa del Amor Tour by Glass Bottom Kayak is a must-do for any visitor to the beautiful Baja California region.

Not only do you get to experience the stunning beauty of Mexico’s Pacific side, but you also get to explore two of its most iconic sites: El Arco and Playa del Amor (Lovers Beach).

On this tour, you’ll be taken out in a glass-bottom kayak so that you can see the unique rock formations, marine life, and other sights beneath the water.

Enjoy swimming or snorkeling in crystal clear waters while taking in views of El Arco de Cabo San Lucas and Lovers Beach from your perspective on top of the sea.

You will also have plenty of opportunities to take photos along this 3-hour journey!

Great time! It was a great way to start our trip. Carlos, the main guide was excellent! He answered all the questions quickly and really knew the area. Even though the waves were a bit choppy we made to the arch with no problem. The snorkel area is excellent there the was a sea lion interacting with people! Carlos, fed and guided the fish right to where we were. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Mike_S, Nov 2022

👉 Book your Los Cabos Arch and Playa del Amor Tour on  VIATOR

Tips For Visiting Cabo in July

✔ July is when the higher temperatures of summer hit, so pack light and make sure to also bring a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses to protect your skin from the sun during the daytime.

✔ Despite July being the peak of the hot season in Mexico, you should pack a light jacket for the occasional chilly night temperature of Cabo.

✔ It’s also a good idea to bring lots of sunscreen when visiting Cabo San Lucas in July.

Raw Elements Certified Natural Sunscreen | Non-Nano Zinc Oxide, 95% Organic, Very Water Resistant, Reef Safe, Non-GMO, Cruelty-Free, SPF 30+

✔️   Performance-driven face and body sun protection lasts up to 80 minutes and does not run or sting your eyes ✔️ DAILY USE FOR ALL AGES: Gentle, moisturizing formula can be used as part of your daily skincare routine and is gentle enough for kids ✔️  ORGANIC AND CERTIFIED NATURAL MINERAL SUNSCREEN: Soy, gluten, and nut free,

✔ Although the month of July is far from being the rainiest month, it’s still the first month of the wet season, so make sure you have some rainy day plans just in case.

✔ At this time of year, temperatures during the day can reach as high as 95°F (35°C), so the best way to avoid feeling too hot is by taking advantage of any opportunities to cool off. During your stay in Cabo, you should plan plenty of beach time and take regular dips in the sea or go snorkeling around nearby coves and islands.

✔ July is the best time of year for discounts and deals on everything, so make sure you look for those when booking your flight, rooms, and activities to save up even more on the already low prices!

Recommended hotels

🏨 budget hotels, 1. casa palo verde.

Located less than a couple of kilometers from the famous Medano Beach of Cabo, Casa Palo Verde should be your go-to hotel if you’re on a budget.

Despite its pocket-friendly rates, the hotel comes with an array of amenities and spacious rooms that are sure to provide the comfort you need for an unforgettable vacation.

Here you will enjoy amenities like an outdoor pool, secure parking, a garden, and modern furnishings in each air-conditioned room.

👉 Check out rates and availability on  Booking.com  |  Expedia  |  Hotels.com

2. Los Milagros hotel

Another great budget hotel with a stunning location is the Los Milagros Hotel. Situated just a quick walk from the marina, this quaint hotel offers premium amenities like a pool, terrace, and secure parking along with charming rooms featuring a mix of Colonial decor and modern facilities.

The hotel is rated very highly, the Los Cabos International Airport is only 45 minutes from it, and lots of great restaurants, bars, and cafes are nearby as well – making it one of the best budget options.

🏨 Mid-range hotels

3. castillo blarney inn.

The Irish-inspired Blarney Castle is an amazing lodging option for those looking to explore the charms of Cabo while staying in an equally unique and charming hotel .

Nestled on a cliff and overlooking the Sea of Cortez, this hotel is where you will find top-notch facilities combined with expansive sea views.

Castillo Blarney Inn is highly regarded for its exceptional service and friendly staff and offers modern amenities such as free WiFi, air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, private kitchenettes and bathrooms, on-site parking, and daily housekeeping.

4. Cabo Vista hotel adults only

Cabo Vista Hotel is an adults-only paradise in Cabo where you can experience the epitome of luxury.

The hotel has various amenities like a pool and garden and a homey vibe. Every room at the hotel is equipped with a kitchenette including a refrigerator and microwave, allowing you to prepare your own meals during your stay.

If you prefer dining out, there are several nearby restaurants to choose from.

🏨 Luxury Hotels Cabo

5. the cape at thompson los cabos.

The Cape at Thompson Los Cabos is a secluded beachfront resort located on the road going to San Jose del Cabo, just steps from Las Viudas Beach.

The resort offers a variety of accommodations to cater to individual preferences, whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway or an adventurous vacation.

The rooms are well-appointed with modern furnishings and boast private balconies, minibars, and concierge service

In addition to the stunning Pacific Ocean views, the resort offers several amenities to enhance your comfort, including two outdoor swimming pools, a spa, a jacuzzi, a fitness center, two restaurants, a bar, a 24-hour front desk, and a garden.

Whether you’re looking to relax, rejuvenate, or be entertained, The Cape at Thompson Los Cabos has something for everyone.

6. Nobu Cabo

Nobu Cabo Hotel is the ultimate destination for a relaxing and convenient vacation. The property boasts an outdoor pool with stylish lounge chairs and umbrellas, offering the perfect place to soak up the sun and enjoy a refreshing drink.

For those looking to unwind, there is also a sauna and hot tub available onsite.

The hotel offers luxurious pampering and exceptional service to make your stay truly unforgettable.

From the chic pool area to the high-end amenities, every aspect of Nobu Cabo is designed to provide you with the ultimate relaxation and comfort.

Cabo in July FAQs

Is july a good time to go to cabo.

Yes, July is a great time to visit Cabo! With the high season over and spring breakers gone, you will find fewer crowds here along with pocket-friendly prices.

With daily highs in the low 90s and nighttime temperatures in the high 70s, the weather is also sunny and warm during this month, which means lots of enjoyment opportunities.

What’s more, the rainy season is barely beginning, so chances of a thunderstorm spoiling your plans are rare as well – though light showers towards the end of the month are a little more likely.

Nevertheless, July is a great month to visit Cabo for a laid-back vacation.

However, it’s worth mentioning here that July is not a good time to visit Cabo if you’re after ideal weather or want to go whale watching from La Paz.

The high season features great weather with warm winter temperatures and whale season (October-March) is when you can spot humpback whales and whale sharks, both of which are rare to find by the end of the season.

Is it rainy in Cabo in July?

Cabo typically experiences little to no rainfall during the month of July. This time of year is considered the beginning of the rainy season, but with warm temperatures and mostly clear skies being the norm, July is definitely not the wettest month of the year.

However, July also isn’t one of the driest months, so it’s always a good idea to check the local weather forecast before your trip, as weather patterns can be unpredictable.

Is hurricane season in Cabo in July?

The hurricane season in Cabo starts in mid-May and lasts until early November, so yes – July is part of the hurricane season in Cabo.

However, the chances of a storm during the early months are slim. May, June, and most of July feature warm weather with little rain; while August and September tend to be the rainiest months of the year.

Is Cabo too hot in July?

July is the hottest month in Cabo, so expect high temperatures and increased humidity. With average temperatures ranging from the high 70s to low 90s°F (25-35°C), it can be quite hot in Cabo during this time.

However, this also means warm water temperatures and a great beach experience; so, in the end, it all depends on personal preference and tolerance for heat and humidity.

If you prefer cooler temperatures, you may want to visit Cabo in the winter, spring, or fall months, when temperatures are milder.

Can you swim in Los Cabos in July?

Yes, you can swim in Los Cabos in July. This month is the peak of the summer season in Los Cabos and is known for its warm water temperatures and 13+ hours of sunshine.

This makes it an ideal time for swimming, snorkeling, and other water activities in the area.

Can you swim in the ocean in Cabo in July?

Sure. With pleasantly warm ocean temperatures, July is an ideal time for those seeking a summer getaway and a chance to enjoy the ocean in Cabo.

With an array of stunning beaches, each offering a unique experience, from serene coves to lively shores, visitors can indulge in various water activities, from relaxing in the sun to swimming, snorkeling, or participating in thrilling water sports.

Is Cancun or Cabo better?

The better choice between Cancun and Cabo depends on personal preferences and the type of vacation you’re looking for.

Cancun is known for its beautiful beaches, nightlife, and vibrant culture, while Cabo offers a more laid-back atmosphere with stunning landscapes, outdoor activities, and world-class golf courses.

Both destinations have their own unique appeal, so it’s best to research and consider what you’re looking for in a vacation before making a decision.

Is July too hot for Mexico?

July is considered one of the warmest months in Mexico, with average minimum temperature in the high 70s and daytime temperatures in the low 90s°F (25-35°C) in most regions.

The heat can be intense in some parts of the country, particularly in the coastal regions where there is high humidity.

Luckily, the summer and early fall months are also the hurricane season in Mexico so brief, light showers help cool off the days and make the muggy day more bearable.

What’s more, the cool breeze is another great way to tackle the heat, which makes for a great excuse to spend time at the beaches!

Weather in Cabo in July: Final thoughts

Cabo in July is fantastic for snorkeling, finding decent deals, and enjoying swimming the warm water. There are no whales to watch, so for that, you will need to go to Cabo in November, but otherwise, July is a great time to travel to Cabo.

Isabella is traveler and animal lover, a former tourism professional with an multinational background that lead her to Mexico, that she can proudly call home. After seven years in Cancun where she's still a resident, she took a bold leap, leaving her fancy job to embrace a nomadic lifestyle. She traveled all over Mexico, from Baja California to Ciudad Juarez, Oaxaca, Chiapas Hidalgo exploring and living like a local. Isabella founded Let's Travel to Mexico to help travelers plan their own trip on and off the beaten path in this beautiful land that she loves so dearly.

Situation in Haiti April 5, 2024

U.s. citizens in haiti, update january 10, 2024, information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

• Travel Advisories |
• Contact Us |
• MyTravelGov |

Find U.S. Embassies & Consulates

Travel.state.gov, congressional liaison, special issuance agency, u.s. passports, international travel, intercountry adoption, international parental child abduction, records and authentications, popular links, travel advisories, mytravelgov, stay connected, legal resources, legal information, info for u.s. law enforcement, replace or certify documents.

Before You Go

Learn About Your Destination

While Abroad

Emergencies

Share this page:

Travel Advisory August 22, 2023

See state summaries.

Reissued after periodic review with general security updates, and the removal of obsolete COVID-19 page links.

Country Summary: Violent crime – such as homicide, kidnapping, carjacking, and robbery – is widespread and common in Mexico. The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in many areas of Mexico, as travel by U.S. government employees to certain areas is prohibited or restricted. In many states, local emergency services are limited outside the state capital or major cities.

U.S. citizens are advised to adhere to restrictions on U.S. government employee travel. State-specific restrictions are included in the individual state advisories below. U.S. government employees may not travel between cities after dark, may not hail taxis on the street, and must rely on dispatched vehicles, including app-based services like Uber, and regulated taxi stands. U.S. government employees should avoid traveling alone, especially in remote areas. U.S. government employees may not drive from the U.S.-Mexico border to or from the interior parts of Mexico, except daytime travel within Baja California and between Nogales and Hermosillo on Mexican Federal Highway 15D, and between Nuevo Laredo and Monterrey on Highway 85D.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Mexico.

Do Not Travel To:

• Colima state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Guerrero state  due to  crime .
• Michoacan state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Sinaloa state due to  crime  and  kidnapping
• Tamaulipas state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping.
• Zacatecas  state due to  crime  and  kidnapping .

Reconsider Travel To:

• Baja California  state due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Chihuahua state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Durango state  due to  crime .
• Guanajuato state  due to  crime and kidnapping .
• Jalisco state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Morelos state  due to  crime .
• Sonora state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .

Exercise Increased Caution When Traveling To:

• Aguascalientes  state due to  crime .
• Baja California Sur state  due to  crime .
• Chiapas state  due to  crime .
• Coahuila state  due to  crime .
• Hidalgo state  due to  crime .
• Mexico City  due to  crime .
• Mexico State  due to  crime .
• Nayarit state  due to  crime.
• Nuevo Leon  state due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Oaxaca state  due to  crime .
• Puebla state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Queretaro state  due to  crime .
• Quintana Roo state  due to  crime .
• San Luis Potosi state  due to  crime and kidnapping .
• Tabasco state  due to  crime .
• Tlaxcala state due to  crime .
• Veracruz state  due to  crime .

Exercise Normal Precautions When Traveling To:

• Campeche state
• Yucatan state

Visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas .

If you decide to travel to Mexico:

• Keep traveling companions and family back home informed of your travel plans. If separating from your travel group, send a friend your GPS location. If taking a taxi alone, take a photo of the taxi number and/or license plate and text it to a friend.
• Use toll roads when possible and avoid driving alone or at night. In many states, police presence and emergency services are extremely limited outside the state capital or major cities.
• Exercise increased caution when visiting local bars, nightclubs, and casinos.
• Do not display signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive watches or jewelry.
• Be extra vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Follow the U.S. Embassy on Facebook and Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Mexico.
• Mariners planning travel to Mexico should check for U.S. maritime  advisories  and  alerts , which include instructions on reporting suspicious activities and attacks to Mexican naval authorities.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .
• Visit the CDC page for the latest travel health information related to your travel. 

Aguascalientes state – Exercise Increased Caution

Exercise increased caution due to crime.

Criminal activity and violence may occur throughout the state.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Aguascalientes state.

Baja California state – Reconsider Travel

Reconsider travel due to crime and kidnapping.

Transnational criminal organizations compete in the border area to establish narco-trafficking and human smuggling routes. Violent crime and gang activity are common. Travelers should remain on main highways and avoid remote locations. Of particular concern is the high number of homicides in the non-tourist areas of Tijuana. Most homicides appeared to be targeted; however, criminal organization assassinations and territorial disputes can result in bystanders being injured or killed. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

U.S. government employees must adhere to the noted restrictions:

• Mexicali Valley:  U.S. government employees should avoid the Mexicali Valley due to the heightened possibility of violence between rival cartel factions.  The boundaries of the restricted area are: to the east, the Baja California/Arizona and Baja California/Sonora borders; to the south, from La Ventana (on Highway 5) due east to the Colorado River; to the west, Highway 5; and to the north, Boulevard Lazaro Cardenas/Highway 92/Highway 1 to Carretera Aeropuerto, from the intersection of Highway 1 and Carretera Aeropuerto due north to the Baja California/California border, and from that point eastward along the Baja California/California border.
• Travelers may use Highways 2 and 2D to transit between Mexicali, Los Algodones, and San Luis Rio Colorado during daylight hours. Travelers may also use Highways 1 and 8 to transit to and from the Mexicali Airport during daylight hours.  Travel on Highway 5 is permissible during daylight hours.

There are no other travel restrictions for U.S. government employees in Baja California state. These include high-traffic tourism areas of border and coastal communities, such as  Tijuana ,  Ensenada , and  Rosarito .

Baja California Sur state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Baja California Sur state.

Campeche state – Exercise Normal Precautions

Exercise normal precautions.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Campeche state.

Chiapas state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Chiapas state.

Chihuahua state – Reconsider Travel

Violent crime and gang activity are common. Most homicides are targeted assassinations against members of criminal organizations. Battles for territory between criminal groups have resulted in violent crime in areas frequented by U.S. citizens and U.S. government employees, including restaurants and malls during daylight hours. Bystanders have been injured or killed in shooting incidents. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

U.S. government employee travel is limited to the following areas with the noted restrictions:

• Ciudad Juarez:  U.S. government employees may travel to the area of Ciudad Juarez bounded to the east by Bulevar Independencia; to the south by De los Montes Urales/Avenida Manuel J Clouthier/Carretera de Juárez; to the west by Via Juan Gabriel/Avenida de los Insurgentes/Calle Miguel Ahumada/Francisco Javier Mina/Melchor Ocampo; and to the north by the U.S.-Mexico border.  Direct travel to the Ciudad Juarez airport (officially called the Abraham González International Airport) and the factories located along Bulevar Independencia and Las Torres is permitted.  Travel to San Jerónimo is permitted only through the United States via the Santa Teresa U.S. Port of Entry; travel via Anapra is prohibited.

U.S. government employees may only travel from Ciudad Juarez to the city of Chihuahua during daylight hours via Federal Highway 45, with stops permitted only at the Guardia Nacional División Caminos station, the Umbral del Milenio overlook area, the border inspection station at KM 35, and the shops and restaurants on Federal Highway 45 in the city of Ahumada.

• U.S. government employees may travel between Ciudad Juarez and Ascension via Highway 2.
• Nuevo Casas Grandes Area (including Nuevo Casas Grandes, Casas Grandes, Mata Ortiz, Colonia Juárez, Colonia LeBaron, Paquimé and San Buenaventura):  U.S. government employees may travel to the Nuevo Casas Grandes area during daylight hours via Mexico Federal Highway 2, and subsequently Federal Highway 10, to Nuevo Casas Grandes.  Employees are permitted to stay overnight in the cities of Nuevo Casas Grandes and Casas Grandes only.
• City of Chihuahua:  U.S. government employees may travel at any time to the area of the city of Chihuahua bounded to the north by Avenida Transformación; to the east by Avenida Tecnológico/Manuel Gómez Morín/Highway 16/Blvd.José Fuentes Mares; to the west by the city boundary; and to the south by Periférico Francisco R. Almada.
• U.S. government employees may travel on Highways 45, 16, and 45D through the city of Chihuahua and to the Chihuahua airport (officially called the General Roberto Fierro Villalobos International Airport). 
• U.S. government employees may travel to Santa Eulalia to the east of the city of Chihuahua, as well as to Juan Aldama via Highway 16 to the northeast.
• U.S. government employees may travel south of the city of Chihuahua on Highway 45 to the southern boundary of Parral, including each town directly connected to Highway 45, including Lázaro Cárdenas, Pedro Meoqui, Santa Cruz de Rosales, Delicias, Camargo, Ciudad Jiménez, and Parral itself.
• U.S. government employees may only travel on official business from the city of Chihuahua on Highway 16 to Ciudad Cuauhtémoc bounded by Highway 21 to the north and east, Highway 5 to the west, and Bulevar Jorge Castillo Cabrera to the south. 
• Ojinaga:  U.S. government employees must travel to Ojinaga via U.S. Highway 67 and enter through the U.S. Port of Entry in Presidio, Texas.
• Palomas:  U.S. government employees may travel to Palomas via U.S. highways through the U.S. Port of Entry in Columbus, New Mexico, or via Highway 2 in Mexico.

U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of Chihuahua, including  Copper Canyon .

Coahuila state – Exercise Increased Caution

Violent crime and gang activity occur in parts of Coahuila state. 

U.S. government employees must adhere to the following travel restrictions:

• Zaragoza, Morelos, Allende, Nava, Jimenez, Villa Union, Guerrero, and Hidalgo municipalities : U.S. government employees may not travel to these municipalities.
• Piedras Negras and Ciudad Acuña:  U.S. government employees must travel directly from the United States and observe a curfew from midnight to 6:00 a.m. in both cities.

There are no other restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Coahuila state.

Colima state – Do Not Travel

Do not travel due to crime and kidnapping.  

Violent crime and gang activity are widespread. Most homicides are targeted assassinations against members of criminal organizations. Shooting incidents between criminal groups have injured or killed bystanders. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.  

Travel for U.S. government employees is limited to the following areas with noted restrictions: 

• Manzanillo:   U.S. government employee travel is limited to the tourist and port areas of Manzanillo.  
• Employees traveling to Manzanillo from Guadalajara must use Federal Toll Road 54D during daylight hours.  

U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of Colima state. 

Durango state – Reconsider Travel

Reconsider travel due to crime.

Violent crime and gang activity are common in parts of Durango state.

• West and south of Federal Highway 45:  U.S. government employees may not travel to this region of Durango state.

There are no other restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Durango state.

Guanajuato state – Reconsider Travel

Gang violence, often associated with the theft of petroleum and natural gas from the state oil company and other suppliers, occurs in Guanajuato, primarily in the south and central areas of the state.  Of particular concern is the high number of murders in the southern region of the state associated with cartel-related violence. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

• Areas south of Federal Highway 45D:  U.S. government employees may not travel to the area south of and including Federal Highway 45D, Celaya, Salamanca, and Irapuato.

There are no other restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Guanajuato state, which includes tourist areas in:  San Miguel de Allende ,  Guanajuato City , and  surrounding areas.

Guerrero state – Do Not Travel

Do not travel due to crime.

Crime and violence are widespread. Armed groups operate independently of the government in many areas of Guerrero. Members of these groups frequently maintain roadblocks and may use violence towards travelers. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping in previous years.

Travel for U.S. government employees is limited to the following area with the noted restrictions:

• Taxco:  U.S. government employees must use Federal Highway 95D, which passes through Cuernavaca, Morelos, and stay within downtown tourist areas of Taxco. Employees may visit Grutas de Cacahuamilpa National Park during the day with a licensed tour operator.

U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of the state of Guerrero, including to tourist areas in  Acapulco ,  Zihuatanejo , and  Ixtapa .

Hidalgo state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Hidalgo state.

Jalisco state – Reconsider Travel

Violent crime and gang activity are common in parts of Jalisco state. In Guadalajara, territorial battles between criminal groups take place in tourist areas. Shooting incidents between criminal groups have injured or killed innocent bystanders. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

• Jalisco-Michoacan border and Federal Highway 110:  U.S. government employees may not travel to the area between Federal Highway 110 and the Jalisco-Michoacan border, nor travel on Federal Highway 110 between Tuxpan, Jalisco, and the Michoacan border.
• Federal Highway 80:  U.S. government employees may not travel on Federal Highway 80 south of Cocula.

There are no other restrictions on travel for U.S government employees in Jalisco state which includes tourist areas in:  Guadalajara Metropolitan Area ,  Puerto Vallarta (including neighboring Riviera Nayarit) ,  Chapala , and  Ajijic .

Mexico City (Ciudad de Mexico) – Exercise Increased Caution

Both violent and non-violent crime occur throughout Mexico City. Use additional caution, particularly at night, outside of the frequented tourist areas where police and security patrol more routinely. Petty crime occurs frequently in both tourist and non-tourist areas.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Mexico City.

Mexico State (Estado de Mexico) – Exercise Increased Caution

Both violent and non-violent crime occur throughout Mexico State. Use additional caution in areas outside of the frequented tourist areas, although petty crime occurs frequently in tourist areas as well.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Mexico State.

Michoacan state – Do Not Travel

Do not travel due to crime and kidnapping.

Crime and violence are widespread in Michoacan state. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

Travel for U.S. government employees is limited to the following areas with the noted restrictions:

• Federal Highway 15D:   U.S. government employees may travel on Federal Highway 15D to transit the state between Mexico City and Guadalajara.
• Morelia:  U.S. government employees may travel by air and by land using Federal Highways 43 or 48D from Federal Highway 15D.
• Lazaro Cardenas:  U.S. government employees must travel by air only and limit activities to the city center or port areas.

U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of the state of Michoacan, including the portions of the  Monarch Butterfly Reserve  located in Michoacan.

Morelos state – Reconsider Travel

Violent crime and gang activity are common in parts of Morelos state.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Morelos state.

Nayarit state – Exercise Increased Caution

Criminal activity and violence may occur throughout Nayarit state.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S government employees in Nayarit state.

Nuevo Leon state – Exercise Increased Caution

Exercise increased caution due to crime and kidnapping.

Criminal activity and violence may occur throughout the state. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Nuevo Leon state.

Oaxaca state – Exercise Increased Caution

Criminal activity and violence occur throughout the state.

U.S. travelers are reminded that U.S. government employees must adhere to the following travel restrictions:

• Isthmus region:  U.S. government employees may not travel to the area of Oaxaca bounded by Federal Highway 185D to the west, Federal Highway 190 to the north, and the Oaxaca-Chiapas border to the east.  This includes the cities of Juchitan de Zaragoza, Salina Cruz, and San Blas Atempa.  
• Federal Highway 200 northwest of Pinotepa:  U.S. government employees may not use Federal Highway 200 between Pinotepa and the Oaxaca-Guerrero border.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees to other parts of Oaxaca state, which include tourist areas in:  Oaxaca City ,  Monte Alban ,  Puerto Escondido,  and  Huatulco .

Puebla state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Puebla state.

Queretaro state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Queretaro state.

Quintana Roo state – Exercise Increased Caution

Criminal activity and violence may occur in any location, at any time, including in popular tourist destinations.  Travelers should maintain a high level of situational awareness, avoid areas where illicit activities occur, and promptly depart from potentially dangerous situations. 

While not directed at tourists, shootings between rival gangs have injured innocent bystanders.  Additionally, U.S. citizens have been the victims of both non-violent and violent crimes in tourist and non-tourist areas.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Quintana Roo state. However, personnel are advised to exercise increased situational awareness after dark in downtown areas of Cancun, Tulum, and Playa del Carmen, and to remain in well-lit pedestrian streets and tourist zones.

San Luis Potosi state – Exercise Increased Caution

Criminal activity and violence may occur throughout the state.  U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in San Luis Potosi state.

Sinaloa state – Do Not Travel

Violent crime is widespread. Criminal organizations are based in and operating in Sinaloa. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

• Mazatlan:  U.S. government employees may travel to Mazatlan by air or sea only, are limited to the Zona Dorada and historic town center, and must travel via direct routes between these destinations and the airport and sea terminal.
• Los Mochis and Topolobampo:  U.S. government employees may travel to Los Mochis and Topolobampo by air or sea only, are restricted to the city and the port, and must travel via direct routes between these destinations and the airport.

U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of Sinaloa state.

Sonora state – Reconsider Travel

Sonora is a key location used by the international drug trade and human trafficking networks. Violent crime is widespread. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping. Travelers should maintain a heightened level of awareness of their surroundings in all their travels in Sonora.  Security incidents may occur in any area of Sonora.

• Travel between Hermosillo and Nogales:  U.S. government employees may travel between the U.S. Ports of Entry in Nogales and Hermosillo during daylight hours via Federal Highway 15 only. U.S. government employees may not use ANY taxi services, public buses, nor ride-share applications due to a lack of secure vetting and/or dispatching procedures. Travelers should exercise caution and avoid unnecessary stops as security incidents, including sporadic, armed carjackings, and shootings have been reported along this highway during daylight hours. Travelers should have a full tank of gas and inform friends or family members of their planned travel.
• Nogales:  U.S. government employees may not travel in the triangular area north of Avenida Tecnologico, west of Bulevar Luis Donaldo Colosio (Periferico), nor east of Federal Highway 15D (Corredor Fiscal). U.S. government employees also may not travel in the residential and business areas to east of the railroad tracks along Plutarco Elias Calle (HWY 15) and Calle Ruiz Cortino, including the business area around the Morley pedestrian gate port-of-entry. U.S. government employees may not use ANY taxi services, public buses, nor ride-share applications in Nogales due to a lack of secure vetting and/or dispatching procedures and the danger of kidnapping and other violent crimes.  
• Puerto Peñasco:  U.S. government employees may travel between Puerto Peñasco and the Lukeville-Sonoyta U.S. Port of Entry during daylight hours via Federal Highway 8 only. They may not travel on any other route to Puerto Peñasco. U.S. government employees may not use ANY taxi services, public buses, nor ride-share applications in Puerto Peñasco. due to a lack of secure vetting and/or dispatching procedures and the danger of kidnapping and other violent crimes.
• Triangular region near Mariposa U.S. Port of Entry:  U.S. government employees may not travel into or through the triangular region west of the Mariposa U.S. Port of Entry, east of Sonoyta, and north of Altar municipality.
• San Luis Rio Colorado, Cananea, and Agua Prieta : U.S. government employees may travel directly from the nearest U.S. Port of Entry to San Luis Rio Colorado, Cananea (via Douglas Port of Entry), and Agua Prieta, but may not go beyond the city limits. Travel is limited to daylight hours only. Travel between Nogales and Cananea via Imuris is not permitted. U.S. government employees may not use ANY taxi services, public buses, nor ride-share applications in these cities due to a lack of secure vetting and/or dispatching procedures and the danger of kidnapping and other violent crimes.
• Eastern and southern Sonora (including San Carlos Nuevo Guaymas and Alamos):  U.S. government employees may not travel to areas of Sonora east of Federal Highway 17, the road between Moctezuma and Sahuaripa, and State Highway 20 between Sahuaripa and the intersection with Federal Highway 16. U.S. government employees may travel to San Carlos Nuevo Guaymas and Alamos; travel to Alamos is only permitted by air and within city limits.  U.S. government employees may not travel to areas of Sonora south of Federal Highway 16 and east of Federal Highway 15 (south of Hermosillo), as well as all points south of Guaymas, including Empalme, Guaymas, Obregon, and Navojoa.  U.S. government employees may not use ANY taxi services, public buses, nor ride-share applications in these areas due to a lack of secure vetting and/or dispatching procedures and the danger of kidnapping and other violent crimes.

U.S. government employees may travel to other parts of Sonora state in compliance with the above restrictions, including tourist areas in: Hermosillo , Bahia de Kino , and Puerto Penasco .

Tabasco state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Tabasco state.

Tamaulipas state – Do Not Travel

Organized crime activity – including gun battles, murder, armed robbery, carjacking, kidnapping, forced disappearances, extortion, and sexual assault – is common along the northern border and in Ciudad Victoria. Criminal groups target public and private passenger buses, as well as private automobiles traveling through Tamaulipas, often taking passengers and demanding ransom payments.

Heavily armed members of criminal groups often patrol areas of the state and operate with impunity particularly along the border region from Reynosa to Nuevo Laredo.  In these areas, local law enforcement has limited capacity to respond to incidents of crime. Law enforcement capacity is greater in the tri-city area of Tampico, Ciudad Madero, and Altamira, which has a lower rate of violent criminal activity compared to the rest of the state.

U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

• Matamoros and Nuevo Laredo:  U.S. government employees may only travel within a limited radius around and between the U.S. Consulates in Nuevo Laredo and Matamoros, their homes, the respective U.S. Ports of Entry, and limited downtown sites, subject to an overnight curfew.
• Overland travel in Tamaulipas:  U.S. government employees may not travel between cities in Tamaulipas using interior Mexican highways. Travel between Nuevo Laredo and Monterrey is limited to Federal Highway 85D during daylight hours with prior authorization.

U.S. government employees may not travel to other parts of Tamaulipas state.

Tlaxcala state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Tlaxcala state.

Veracruz state – Exercise Increased Caution

Violent crime and gang activity occur with increasing frequency in Veracruz, particularly in the center and south near Cordoba and Coatzacoalcos. While most gang-related violence is targeted, violence perpetrated by criminal organizations can affect bystanders. Impromptu roadblocks requiring payment to pass are common.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Veracruz state.

Yucatan state – Exercise Normal Precautions

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Yucatan state, which include tourist areas in:  Chichen Itza ,  Merida ,  Uxmal , and  Valladolid .

Zacatecas state – Do Not Travel

Violent crime, extortion, and gang activity are widespread in Zacatecas state. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

• Zacatecas City : U.S. government employee travel is limited to Zacatecas City proper, and employees may not travel overland to Zacatecas City.
• U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of Zacatecas state.

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

Passport must be valid at time of entry

One page per stamp

Yes, if visiting for more than 180 days

See Travelers’ Health section

Embassies and Consulates

EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE FOR U.S. CITIZENS IN MEXICO From Mexico: 800-681-9374 or 55-8526-2561 From the United States: 1-844-528-6611

U.S. Citizen Services Inquiries: Contact Form

U.S. Embassy Mexico City

Paseo de la Reforma 305 Colonia Cuauhtémoc 06500 Ciudad de México

U.S. Consulate General Ciudad Juarez

Paseo de la Victoria #3650 Fracc. Partido Senecú 32543 Ciudad Juárez, Chihuahua

U.S. Consulate General Guadalajara

Progreso 175 Colonia Americana 44160 Guadalajara, Jalisco

U.S. Consulate General Hermosillo

Monterey, Esqueda 141 El Centenario 83260 Hermosillo, Sonora

U.S. Consulate General Matamoros

Constitución No. 1 Colonia Jardín 87330 Matamoros, Tamaulipas

U.S. Consulate General Merida

Calle 60 No. 338-K x 29 y 31 Colonia Alcalá Martin 97050 Mérida, Yucatán

U.S. Consulate General Monterrey

Avenida Alfonso Reyes 150 Colonia Valle del Poniente 66196 Santa Catarina, Nuevo León

U.S. Consulate General Nogales

Calle San José s/n Fracc. Los Álamos 84065 Nogales, Sonora

U.S. Consulate General Nuevo Laredo

Paseo Colon 1901 Colonia Madero 88260 Nuevo Laredo, Tamaulipas

U.S. Consulate General Tijuana

Paseo de las Culturas s/n Mesa de Otay Delegación Centenario 22425 Tijuana, Baja California

Consular Agencies

Acapulco Hotel Continental Emporio Costera M. Alemán 121 – Office 14 39670 Acapulco, Guerrero Cancun

Blvd. Kukulcan Km 13 ZH Torre La Europea, Despacho 301 77500 Cancún, Quintana Roo

Los Cabos Las Tiendas de Palmilla L-B221, Km. 27.5 Carretera Transpeninsular 23406 San José del Cabo, Baja California Sur

Playa Gaviotas 202, Local 10 Zona Dorada 82110 Mazatlán, Sinaloa

Oaxaca Macedonio Alcalá 407, Office 20 68000 Oaxaca, Oaxaca

Piedras Negras Abasolo 211, Local 3, Centro 26000 Piedras Negras, Coahuila

Playa del Carmen Plaza Progreso, Local 33 Carretera Federal Puerto Juarez-Chetumal, Mz. 293 Lt. 1. 77710 Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo

Puerto Vallarta

Paradise Plaza, Paseo de los Cocoteros 85 Sur, Local L-7 63732 Nuevo Nayarit, Nayarit

San Miguel de Allende Plaza La Luciérnaga, Libramiento Jose Manuel Zavala 165, Locales 4 y 5 Colonia La Luciérnaga 37745 San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato

Destination Description

See the  State Department’s Fact Sheet on Mexico  for more information on U.S.-Mexico relations.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

A valid passport book is required to enter Mexico by air, and those attempting to enter at an airport with a U.S. passport card only may be denied admission.

Review the Mexican government’s most current  entry, exit, and visa requirements  ( Spanish only ) or visit the  Embassy of Mexico  in Washington, D.C., for more information.

For travelers entering Mexico by air only, Mexican immigration authorities implemented a process to replace the previous paper Forma Migratoria Multiple or FMM with a Forma Migratoria Multiple Digital or FMMD.  The FMMD process is in place at all 66 international airports in Mexico.  Upon arrival at an airport, Mexican immigration authorities will determine a traveler’s authorized length of stay and either place a date stamp in the traveler’s passport or direct the traveler through a self-service electronic gate (E-Gate) that will generate a printed receipt with QR code. Air travelers who wish to download a record of their FMMD or find more information on the FMMD process may visit the National Migration Institute’s (INM) website .

Travelers entering Mexico by land should have a valid passport book or card.  If you enter Mexico by land and plan to travel beyond the immediate border area (approximately 12 miles or 20 kilometers into Mexico), you must stop at an INM office to obtain an entry permit (Forma Migratoria Multiple or FMM), even if not explicitly directed to do so by Mexican officials.  INM may opt to allow tourists entry of up to 180 days without a visa or may limit authorized stays to shorter periods at their discretion; visitors should confirm the specific length of authorized stay written on the entry permit (FMM) or by the stamp in their passport. Mexican immigration authorities could ask you to present both your passport and entry permit if applicable at any point and may detain you while they review your immigration status if you are not carrying your passport and proof of legal status in Mexico, or if you have overstayed your authorized stay. Immigration check points are common in the interior of Mexico, including in popular tourist areas far from the border.  

You will also need a temporary vehicle import permit to bring a U.S.-registered vehicle beyond the border zone. These permits are processed through Banjercito and require a deposit that will be refunded once the vehicle leaves Mexico.  For more information, visit the  Banjercito  website ( Spanish only ).

Baja California, Baja California Sur, and Sonora have a “hassle-free” zone that allows cars traveling without an entry permit or car registration within the zone. 

Mexican authorities can impound a vehicle that enters the country without a valid U.S. registration, a vehicle driven by a Mexican national who is not resident in the United States, or a vehicle found beyond the border zone without the temporary import permit.

Mexican law permits Mexican immigration authorities to deny foreigners entry into Mexico if they have been charged with or convicted of a serious crime in Mexico or elsewhere.

Travelers bringing in goods beyond their personal effects worth $300.00 or more must declare those goods with Mexican customs (SAT) Mexican customs  ( Spanish only ) or risk having them confiscated. This also applies to used goods or clothing, including items for donation. U.S. citizens driving such items into Mexico without declaring them or without sufficient funds to pay duty fees are subject to having their vehicle seized by Mexican customs authorities. For further information about customs regulations, please read our  customs information page .

The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents in Mexico.

A parent or legal guardian departing Mexico with minor children should carry a notarized consent letter from the other parent if traveling separately. INM requires at least one parent to complete a  SAM  ( Formato de Salida de Menores, Spanish only ) for all Mexican or foreign minors with Temporary Resident, Temporary Student Resident, or Permanent Resident status departing Mexico alone or with a third party.  Further information about the  prevention of international parental child abduction  is available on our website.

Find information on dual nationality , and customs regulations on our websites. Both Mexico and the United States allow dual nationality.

Safety and Security

Travelers are urged to review the  Mexico Travel Advisory  for information about safety and security concerns affecting the country on a state-by-state basis.

U.S. citizens traveling to and residing in Mexico should not expect public health and safety standards like those in the United States. Even where such standards exist, enforcement varies by location. Travelers should mitigate the risk of illness or injury by taking standard health and safety precautions.

The phone number to report emergencies in Mexico is “911.”  Although there may be English-speaking operators available, it is best to seek the assistance of a Spanish speaker to place the call.

Crime:  Crime in Mexico occurs at a high rate and can be violent, from random street crime to cartel-related attacks. Over the past year, Mission Mexico has assisted U.S. citizens who were victims of armed robbery, carjacking, extortion, homicide, kidnapping, pick-pocketing, and sexual assault. Increased levels of cartel-related violence have resulted in territorial disputes and targeted killings, injuring or killing innocent bystanders. Travelers who find themselves in an active shooter scenario should flee in the opposite direction, if possible, or drop to the ground, preferably behind a hard barrier.

Drivers on roads and highways may encounter government checkpoints, which often include National Guard or military personnel. State and local police also set up checkpoints in and around cities and along the highways to deter criminal activity and enforce traffic laws. In some parts of Mexico, criminal organizations and other non-governmental actors have been known to erect unauthorized checkpoints and have abducted or threatened violence against those who fail to stop and/or pay a “toll.” When approaching a checkpoint, regardless of whether it is official, cooperate and avoid any actions that may appear suspicious or aggressive.

While Mexican authorities endeavor to safeguard the country’s major resort areas and tourist destinations, those areas have not been immune to the types of violence and crime experienced elsewhere in Mexico. In some areas of Mexico, response time of local police is often slow. In addition, filing police reports can be time consuming. See our  Mexico Travel Advisory  for more information.

Demonstrations  occur frequently.  They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events.  Protesters in Mexico may block traffic on roads, including major thoroughfares, or take control of toll booths on highways.  Travelers who encounter protesters who demand unofficial tolls are generally allowed to pass upon payment.  U.S. citizens should avoid participating in demonstrations or other activities that might be deemed political by authorities, as Mexican law prohibits political activities by foreign citizens and such actions may result in detention or deportation.

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable, avoid areas around protests and demonstrations.  
• Past demonstrations have turned violent.
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.  

International Financial Scams:  See the  Department of State  and the  FBI  pages for information.  

Internet romance and financial scams are prevalent in Mexico. Scams are often initiated through Internet postings/profiles or by unsolicited emails and letters. Scammers almost always pose as U.S. citizens who have no one else to turn to for help. Common scams include:   

• Romance/Online dating 
• Money transfers 
• Lucrative sales 
• Grandparent/Relative targeting 
• Free Trip/Luggage 
• Inheritance notices 
• Bank overpayments 

Mexico’s consumer protection agency,  PROFECO  (Procuraduría Federal del Consumidor, Spanish only), can sometimes  provide assistance  (Spanish only) to victims of such scams. In addition, there have been allegations of banking fraud perpetrated by private bankers against U.S. citizens. U.S. citizens who believe they have been victims of fraud can file a police report  file a complaint  (Spanish only) with the Mexican banking regulatory agency, CONDUSEF  (Comision Nacional para la Proteccion y Defensa de los Usuarios de Servicios Financieros, Spanish only), or consult with an attorney.

Victims of Crime:  U.S. victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy or nearest Consulate for assistance.  Report emergencies to the local police at 911, report crimes already committed to the Ministerio Publico, and contact the Embassy or Consulate at +52-55-85262561.  Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes.

U.S. citizen victims of crime should contact the local authorities to file a Mexican police report before departing Mexico. In most instances, victims of crime will file reports with the Ministerio Publico (equivalent to the office of public prosecutor or district attorney in the United States) and not with police first responders. U.S. citizens should also inform the  U.S. Embassy or nearest consulat e . 

See our webpage on  help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .    We can:

• help you find appropriate medical care,
• assist you in reporting a crime to the police,
• contact relatives or friends with your written consent,
• provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion, 
• provide a list of local attorneys,
• provide information on  victim’s compensation programs in the United States ,
• provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution,
• help you find accommodation and arrange flights home,
• replace a stolen or lost passport.

Domestic Violence:  U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the  U.S. Embassy or nearest consulate  for assistance.

Kidnapping:  Mexico experiences very high rates of kidnapping.  If you believe you or your U.S. citizen or Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR) relative has been kidnapped, please contact the U.S. Embassy or nearest consulate immediately.

Robbery:  Mexico experiences robberies, typically in cities, in which abductors force victims to use their debit or credit card to withdraw money from ATMs in exchange for their release. Perpetrators commonly work in cooperation with, or pose as, taxi drivers. To minimize the risk of such robberies:

• Only use a reputable taxi company or a trusted ride-sharing app.
• Book taxis through your hotel or an authorized taxi stand.

Extortion:  Extortion schemes are common in Mexico.  In a typical scheme known as a virtual kidnapping, criminals convince family members that a relative has been abducted, when, in fact, the person is safe but unreachable.  The purported abductors will often use threats to persuade victims to isolate themselves, making communication with family members less likely.  Unable to reach their loved ones, family members often consent to paying the “ransom” demand.  Criminals use various means to gather information about potential victims, including monitoring social media sites, eavesdropping on conversations, or using information taken from a stolen cell phone.  Some of these extortions have been conducted from Mexican prisons.  You can reduce the risk of falling victim to this type of extortion through the following:

• Do not discuss travel plans, your room number, or any other personal information within earshot of strangers.
• Do not divulge personal business details to strangers in person or over the phone, especially when using hotel phones.
• If you are threatened on the phone, hang up immediately.

Sexual Assault:  Rape and sexual assault are serious problems in some resort areas. Many of these incidents occur at night or during the early morning hours, in hotel rooms, on hotel grounds, or on deserted beaches. In some cases, assailants drug the drinks of victims before assaulting them. Pay attention to your surroundings and to who might have handled your drink.

Credit/Debit Card “Skimming:”  There have been instances of fraudulent charges or withdrawals from accounts due to “skimmed” cards. If you choose to use credit or debit cards, you should regularly check your account to ensure there are no unauthorized transactions. Travelers should limit the amount of cash they carry in public, exercise caution when withdrawing cash from ATMs, and avoid ATMs located in isolated or unlit areas.

Alcohol:  If you choose to drink alcohol, it is important to do so in moderation and to stop and seek medical attention if you begin to feel ill. There have been reports of individuals falling ill or blacking out after consuming unregulated alcohol. The Mexican Federal Commission for the Protection against Sanitary Risk,  COFEPRIS  ( Comision Federal para la Proteccion contra Riesgos Sanitarios, Spanish only ), is responsible for inspecting hotels, restaurants, and other establishments for health violations, including reports of unregulated alcohol. Please email COFEPRIS at  [email protected]  for more information or if you wish to file a report. You can file a report online (Spanish only) via the COFEPRIS website, by calling the COFEPRIS call center at 800 033 50 50 (from Mexico) or +52 (55) 5080-5425 (from the United States), or by scheduling an appointment  (Spanish only)  to visit a COFEPRIS office.

There have also been instances of criminals drugging drinks to rob or sexually assault victims. Additionally, if you feel you have been the victim of unregulated alcohol or another serious health violation, you should notify the U.S. Embassy or nearest consulate . You may also contact the U.S. Department of State – Bureau of Consular Affairs in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries).

Drug Smuggling:  Mexican criminal organizations are engaged in a violent struggle to control trafficking routes. Criminal organizations smuggling drugs into the United States have targeted unsuspecting individuals who regularly cross the border. Frequent border crossers are advised to vary their routes and travel times and to closely monitor their vehicles to avoid being targeted.

Tourism:  In major cities and resort areas, the tourism industry is generally well-regulated.  Best practices and safety inspections are regularly enforced.  Hazardous areas and activities are identified with appropriate signage, and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities.  In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country.  Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and/or provide life-saving assistance.  In smaller towns and areas less commonly frequented by foreign tourists, the tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities do not commonly occur.  Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field.  In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in or near major cities.  First responders are generally unable to access areas outside of major cities to provide urgent medical treatment.  U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance . 

Since 2016, Mexico has opened seven multilingual Centers for the Care and Protection of Tourists (CAPTA) and Tourist Assistance Centers (CATTAC) in Los Cabos, La Paz, Acapulco, Playa del Carmen, Mazatlan, Ciudad Madero, and Queretaro. These offices have proven helpful assisting U.S. citizen visitors in resolving disputes with merchants and government entities, filing criminal reports, securing needed services, and locating special needs accommodations. 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:  You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities prior to practicing or operating a business.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website.

Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy or nearest consulate immediately. See our  webpage  for further information.

The Mexican government is required by international law to contact the U.S. Embassy or consulate promptly when a U.S. citizen is arrested if the arrestee so requests.  This requirement does not apply to dual nationals.  

Firearms and Other Weapons:  Weapons laws in Mexico vary by state, but it is generally illegal for travelers to carry weapons of any kind including firearms, knives, daggers, brass knuckles, as well as ammunition (even used shells). Illegal firearms trafficking from the United States to Mexico is a major concern, and the Department of State warns all U.S. citizens against taking any firearm or ammunition into Mexico. If you are caught entering Mexico with any type of weapon, including firearms or ammunitions, you likely will face severe penalties, including prison time. U.S.-issued permits allowing an individual to carry weapons are not valid in Mexico.  Visit the Department’s  Traveling Abroad with Firearms webpage .

Vessels entering Mexican waters with firearms or ammunition on board must have a permit previously issued by a Mexican embassy or consulate.

Drugs:  Drug possession and use, including medical marijuana, is illegal in Mexico and may result in a lengthy jail sentence or fines.  

Electronic Cigarettes (Vaping Devices):  It is illegal for travelers to bring electronic cigarettes (vaping devices) and all vaping solutions to Mexico. Customs will confiscate vaping devices and solutions and travelers could be fined or arrested. Avoid delays and possible sanctions by not taking these items to Mexico. 

Real Estate and Time Shares:  U.S. citizens should exercise caution when considering time-share investments or purchasing real estate and be aware of the aggressive tactics used by some sales representatives. Before initiating a real estate purchase or time-share investment, U.S. citizens should consult with a Mexican attorney to learn about important regulations and laws that govern real estate property.

Mountain Climbing and Hiking:  The Mexican government has declared the area around the Popocatepetl and the Colima volcanoes off limits. In remote rural areas, there can be limited cell phone coverage and internet connectivity, and it may be difficult for rescue teams and local authorities to reach climbers and hikers in distress.

Potential for Natural Disasters:  Mexico is in an active earthquake zone. Tsunamis may occur following significant earthquakes. Please visit our  disaster and crisis preparedness  webpage for more information. For additional information concerning disasters, see:

• U.S. Embassy Mexico City website
• Civil Protection  ( Proteccion Civil, Spanish only ) provides information from the Mexican Government about natural disaster preparedness
• U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)  provides general information about natural disaster preparedness
• U.S. Geological Survey  provides updates on recent seismic and volcanic activity

Storm Season:  Tropical storms in the Gulf of Mexico or along the Caribbean and Pacific Coast between May and November can produce heavy winds and rain. Please visit our disaster and crisis preparedness  webpage for more information.

Spring Break:  Millions of U.S. citizens visit Mexican beach resorts each year, especially during “ spring break ” season. The legal drinking age in Mexico is 18. See the “Alcohol” section above to learn more about the risks associated with drinking, as well as reports of illnesses associated with the possible consumption of unregulated alcohol.

Resort Areas and Water Activities:  Beaches in Mexico may be dangerous due to strong currents, rip tides, and rogue waves. Warning notices and flags on beaches should be taken seriously. Not all hazardous beaches are clearly marked. If black or red warning flags are up, do not enter the water. Strong currents can lead to dangerous conditions for even the most experienced swimmers. U.S. citizens simply walking along the shore or wading have been swept out to sea by rogue waves, and some citizens have drowned or disappeared at Mexican beaches. Avoid the consumption of alcohol while engaging in water activities and do not swim alone. 

Boats used for excursions may not be covered by accident insurance and sometimes lack adequate life jackets, radios, and tools to make repairs.  Participation in adventure sports may not be covered by accident insurance and safety protections and regulations for these activities may differ from U.S. standards.  Visit  our website  and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about adventure travel.

Counterfeit and Pirated Goods:  Although counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries, they may still be illegal according to local laws. You may also be subject to fines or forced to relinquish the goods if you bring them back to the United States. See the  U.S. Department of Justice website  for more information.

Faith-Based Travelers:  See the following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report  – see country reports
• Human Rights Report  – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTQI+ Travelers:  There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or on the organization of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, or Intersex (LGBTQI+) events in Mexico. However, due to sporadic reports of violence targeting LGBTQI+ individuals, U.S. citizens should exercise discretion in identifying themselves publicly as LGBTQI+. See our LGBTQI+ Travel Information page and Section 6 of the  Department of State’s Human Rights Report for Mexico  for further details.

Travelers with Disabilities:   Mexican law prohibits discrimination against persons with physical, sensory, intellectual, or mental disabilities.  Social acceptance of persons with disabilities in public is not as prevalent as in the United States.  The most common types of accessibility may include accessible facilities, information, and communication/access to services/ease of movement or access.  Expect accessibility to be limited in public transportation, lodging, communication/information, and general infrastructure in more rural and remote parts of the country, and more common in public transportation, lodging, communication/information, and general infrastructure in major cities.  U.S. citizens with disabilities should consult individual hotels and service providers in advance of travel to ensure they are accessible.

Students:  See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers:  There were several reports of sexual assault or domestic violence involving U.S. citizen women over the past year. See our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

Excellent health facilities are available in Mexico City and other major cities. Ambulance services are widely available, but training and availability of emergency responders may be below U.S. standards. Injured or seriously ill travelers may prefer to take a taxi to a health provider. Mexican facilities often require payment “up front” before providing medical care, and most hospitals in Mexico do not accept U.S. health insurance. A list of doctors and hospitals is available on the U.S. Embassy or consulate website.

U.S. citizens have lodged complaints against some private hospitals in Cancun, the Riviera Maya, and Los Cabos to include exorbitant prices and inflexible collection measures.  Travelers should obtain complete information on billing, pricing, and proposed medical procedures before agreeing to any medical care in these locations.  Be aware that some resorts have exclusive agreements with medical providers and ambulance services, which may limit your choices in seeking emergency medical attention.  Some hospitals in tourist centers utilize sliding scales, deciding on rates for services based on negotiation and on the patient’s perceived ability to pay.  In some instances, providers have been known to determine the limits of a patient’s credit card or insurance, quickly reach that amount in services rendered, and subsequently discharge the patient or transfer them to a public hospital.

Visit the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  website for information on Medical Tourism.

For emergency services in Mexico, dial  911 .  Although there may be English-speaking operators available, it is best to seek the assistance of a Spanish speaker to place the call.

Ambulance services are: 

• widely available in major cities but training and availability of emergency responders may be below U.S. standards,
• not present in many remote and rural areas of the country,   
• not equipped with state-of-the-art medical equipment.  
• Injured or seriously ill travelers may prefer to take a taxi or private vehicle to the nearest major hospital rather than wait for an ambulance.  

We do not pay medical bills:  Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas.  Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.  

Medical Insurance:  Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas.  Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See  our webpage  for more information on insurance coverage overseas. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas. 

We strongly recommend  supplemental insurance  to cover medical evacuation as well.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.  Check the Mexican government’s Drug Schedule to ensure the medication is legal in Mexico. 

Vaccinations:  Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations  recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information :

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ( CDC)

Air Quality: Visit AirNow Department of State for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.

The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals .  We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic. 

Medical Tourism and Elective Surgery: 

• U.S. citizens have suffered serious complications or died during or after having cosmetic or other elective surgery.   
• Medical tourism is a rapidly growing industry. People seeking health care overseas should understand that medical systems operate differently from those in the United States and are not subject to the same rules and regulations.  Anyone interested in traveling for medical purposes should consult with their local physician before traveling and visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information on Medical Tourism.  
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance  to cover medical evacuation in the event of unforeseen medical complications.  
• Your legal options in case of malpractice are very limited in Mexico.  Several foreigners have successfully enlisted the support of  PROFECO  (Spanish only) in order to resolve disputes over medical services.
• Although Mexico has many elective/cosmetic surgery facilities that are on par with those found in the United States, the quality of care varies widely.  If you plan to undergo surgery in Mexico, make sure that emergency medical facilities are available and professionals are accredited and qualified.  

Pharmaceuticals

• Exercise caution when purchasing medication overseas.  Pharmaceuticals, both over the counter and requiring prescription in the United States, are often readily available for purchase with little controls.  Counterfeit medication is common and may prove to be ineffective, the wrong strength, or contain dangerous ingredients.  Medication should be purchased in consultation with a medical professional and from reputable establishments.  
• The Drug Enforcement Agency reports counterfeit prescription pills are sold by criminals on both sides of the border. These pills are sometimes represented as OxyContin, Percocet, Xanax, and others, and may contain deadly doses of fentanyl. Counterfeit pills are readily advertised on social media and can be purchased at small, non-chain pharmacies in Mexico along the border and in tourist areas.  U.S. citizens have become seriously ill or died in Mexico after using synthetic drugs or adulterated prescription pills.
• U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration are responsible for rules governing the transport of medication back to the United States.  Medication purchased abroad must meet their requirements to be legally brought back into the United States.  Medication should be for personal use and must be approved for usage in the United States.  Please visit the U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration websites for more information.   
• Visit the  Mexican Health Department  website (Spanish only) or contact the  Embassy of Mexico  in Washington, D.C., for more information about obtaining a permit to import medicine into Mexico.
• For a list of controlled substances in Mexico, visit the  COFEPRIS  website (Spanish only) and the  Mexican Drug Schedule  (Spanish only). U.S. citizens should carry a copy of their prescription or doctor’s letter, but it is still possible that they may be subject to arrest for arriving in Mexico with substances on these lists. Note that a medicine considered “over the counter” in some U.S. states may be a controlled substance in Mexico. For example, pseudoephedrine, the active ingredient in Sudafed, is considered a controlled substance in Mexico. For more information, contact the  Embassy of Mexico  in Washington, D.C.

Assisted Reproductive Technology and Surrogacy  

• If you are considering traveling to Mexico to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please see our ART and Surrogacy Abroad page . 
• Surrogacy is legal for foreigners in most of Mexico, in some states surrogacy is either not legal or is not governed by regulation. 
• If you decide to pursue parenthood in Mexico via assisted reproductive technology (ART) with a gestational mother, be prepared for long and unexpected delays in documenting your child’s citizenship. 
• Make sure you understand Mexican law, which can vary from state to state and is ambiguous in its treatment of non-Mexican or same-sex intending parents. Mexican courts, for example, may fail to enforce surrogacy agreements between non-Mexican or same-sex intending parents and gestational mothers.
• Gestational mothers are normally treated as the child’s legal parent with full parental rights in most states. The gestational mother’s name is typically listed on the Mexican state-issued birth certificate.  In Mexico City, the intended parents may be listed on the Mexican birth certificate if they can demonstrate a valid surrogacy agreement was in place regarding the child’s birth.
• Be aware that individuals who attempt to circumvent local law risk criminal prosecution.  Mexican authorities have made arrests stemming from surrogacy cases.

Carbon Monoxide

• Many hotels and other lodgings are not equipped with carbon monoxide detectors, even if they contain sources of this potentially lethal gas. U.S. citizens have died as a result of carbon monoxide poisoning throughout Mexico. If your lodging is not equipped with a carbon monoxide detector, consider traveling with a portable one.

Water Quality: 

• In many areas in Mexico, tap water is not potable. Bottled water and beverages are safe, although you should be aware that many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested. Be aware that ice for drinks might be made using tap water.

Altitude: 

• Many cities in Mexico, such as Mexico City, are at high altitude, which can lead to altitude illness. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about  Travel to High Altitudes .

Adventure Travel

• Participation in adventure sports and activities may not be covered by accident insurance and safety protections and regulations for these activities may differ from U.S. standards.  Visit  our website  and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website  for more information about adventure travel.

General Health

The following diseases are prevalent:

• Typhoid Fever
• Travelers’ Diarrhea
• Chikungunya
• Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever
• Parasitic Infections
• Chronic Respiratory Disease
• Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about Resources for Travelers regarding specific issues in Mexico.   

Air Quality

• Air pollution is a significant problem in several major cities in Mexico. Consider the impact seasonal smog and heavy particulate pollution may have on you and consult your doctor before traveling if necessary.

For further health information, go to:

• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  (CDC)

  Private Residential Treatment Facilities: 

• These facilities provide care to U.S. citizens throughout Mexico and include child behavior modification facilities, rehabilitation facilities, and assisted living centers. 
• There is a wide range in standards for education, safety, health, sanitation, immigration, and residency.  Staff licensing may not be strictly enforced or meet the standards of similar facilities in the United States.  
• The State Department has received reports of abuse, negligence, or mismanagement at some of these facilities. U.S. citizens should exercise due diligence and do extensive research before selecting a residential treatment facility.

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:  Motor vehicle accidents are a leading cause of U.S. citizen deaths in Mexico. If you have an emergency while driving, dial “911.” If you are driving on a toll highway (“ cuota ”) or any other major highway, you may contact the Green Angels ( Spanish only ), a fleet of trucks with bilingual crews, by dialing 078 from any phone in Mexico.  Generally, individuals involved in an accident who do not require immediate medical care should contact their insurance providers, who may come to the site to provide an immediate assessment.

Avoid driving on Mexican highways at night. Travel with a charged and functional cell phone capable of making calls in Mexico. Travelers should exercise caution at all times and should use toll (“ cuota ”) roads rather than the less secure free (“ libre ”) roads whenever possible. Do not hitchhike or accept rides from or offer rides to strangers anywhere in Mexico. Travelers encountering police or security checkpoints should comply with instructions.

Road conditions and maintenance across Mexico vary with many road surfaces needing repair. Travel in rural areas poses additional risks to include spotty cell phone coverage and delays in receiving roadside or medical assistance.

Vehicular traffic in Mexico City is subject to restriction Monday through Saturday, according to the license plate number, in order to reduce air pollution. For additional information, refer to the  Hoy No Circula website  ( Spanish only ) maintained by the Mexico City government. See our  Road Safety Page  for more information.  Also, visit  Mexico’s national tourist office website , MexOnline, and Mexico’s customs website  Importacion Temporal de Vehiculos  ( Spanish only ) for more information regarding travel and transportation.

Traffic Laws:   U.S. driver’s licenses are valid in Mexico. Mexican law requires that only owners drive their vehicles or that the owner be inside the vehicle. Failing to abide by this law may lead to impoundment and a fine equal to the value of the vehicle.

Mexican citizens who are not also U.S. citizens or LPRs may not operate U.S.-registered vehicles in Mexico. Mexican insurance is required for all vehicles, including rental vehicles. Drivers involved in accidents, even minor incidents, may be subject to arrest if they are found to be driving without proper insurance, regardless of whether they were at fault. Driving under the influence of alcohol, using a mobile device while driving, and driving through a yellow light are all illegal in Mexico.

If you drive your vehicle into Mexico beyond the immediate border area (approximately 12 miles into Mexico), you must apply for a temporary vehicle import permit with Mexican customs, Banjercito , or at some Mexican consulates in the United States. The permit requires the presentation of a valid passport and a monetary deposit that will be returned to you upon leaving Mexico before the expiration of the permit. Failing to apply for a temporary vehicle import permit may lead to impoundment and a fine equal to the value of the vehicle. 

Vehicles crossing into Mexico must have a valid license plate and registration sticker. Mexican authorities will often refuse to admit vehicles with temporary or paper license plates. Vehicles with expired registration or unauthorized plates will likely be confiscated and the operator could be charged with a fine equal to the value of the vehicle.

The Mission Mexico Vehicle Recovery Unit  assists with the return of stolen U.S. vehicles recovered by Mexican authorities.

If you have an emergency while driving, dial “911.” If you are driving on a toll highway (“cuota”) or any other major highway, you may contact the Green Angels (Spanish only), a fleet of trucks with bilingual crews, by dialing 078 from any phone in Mexico.  Generally, individuals involved in an accident who do not require immediate medical care should contact their insurance providers, who may come to the site to provide an immediate assessment.

Public Transportation/Taxis:  Security on public buses varies throughout the country but is considered a relatively safe transportation option in Mexico City and other major tourist centers. Passengers should protect their personal possessions at all times as theft is common. Intercity bus travel should be conducted during daylight hours in preferably first-class buses using toll roads.

Robberies and assaults on passengers in taxis not affiliated with a taxi stand (known as “libre” taxis) are common. Avoid taking any taxi not summoned by telephone or contacted in advance, including “libre” taxis. When in need of a taxi, telephone a radio taxi or “sitio” (regulated taxi stand) and ask the dispatcher for the driver’s name and the taxi’s license plate number. Application-based car services such as Uber and Cabify are available in many Mexican cities, and generally offer another safe alternative to taxis. Official complaints against Uber and other drivers do occur, however, and past disputes between these services and local taxi unions have occasionally turned violent, resulting in injuries to U.S. citizens in some instances.

See our Road Safety page for more information. 

Aviation Safety Oversight:  The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the Government of Mexico’s Civil Aviation Authority as not being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Mexico’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel:  Mariners planning travel to Mexico should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts .  Information may also be posted to the  U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the NGA broadcast warnings .

If you enter by sea, review the Mexican boating permit requirements  prior to travel or contact the  Embassy of Mexico  in Washington, D.C., for more information.

Maritime Safety Oversight:  The Mexican maritime industry, including charter fishing and recreational vessels, is subject solely to Mexican safety regulations.  Travelers should be aware that Mexican equipment and vessels may not meet U.S. safety standards or be covered by any accident insurance.

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Mexico . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.

Travel Advisory Levels

Assistance for u.s. citizens, learn about your destination, enroll in step.

Subscribe to get up-to-date safety and security information and help us reach you in an emergency abroad.

Recommended Web Browsers: Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome.

Check passport expiration dates carefully for all travelers! Children’s passports are issued for 5 years, adult passports for 10 years.

Afghanistan

Antigua and Barbuda

Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba

Bosnia and Herzegovina

British Virgin Islands

Burkina Faso

Burma (Myanmar)

Cayman Islands

Central African Republic

Cote d Ivoire

Curaçao

Czech Republic

Democratic Republic of the Congo

Dominican Republic

El Salvador

Equatorial Guinea

Eswatini (Swaziland)

Falkland Islands

France (includes Monaco)

French Guiana

French Polynesia

French West Indies

Guadeloupe, Martinique, Saint Martin, and Saint Barthélemy (French West Indies)

Guinea-Bissau

Isle of Man

Israel, The West Bank and Gaza

Liechtenstein

Marshall Islands

Netherlands

New Caledonia

New Zealand

North Korea (Democratic People's Republic of Korea)

Papua New Guinea

Philippines

Republic of North Macedonia

Republic of the Congo

Saint Kitts and Nevis

Saint Lucia

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Sao Tome and Principe

Saudi Arabia

Sierra Leone

Sint Maarten

Solomon Islands

South Africa

South Korea

South Sudan

Switzerland

The Bahamas

Timor-Leste

Trinidad and Tobago

Turkmenistan

Turks and Caicos Islands

United Arab Emirates

United Kingdom

Vatican City (Holy See)

External Link

You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State.

Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.

You are about to visit:

Vacations in Mexico

Search hundreds of travel sites at once for vacation package deals in mexico.

Let KAYAK do the searching

Save on your next vacation

Search and compare hundred of travel sites at once for vacation packages in Mexico

We’re completely free to use - No hidden charges or fees

Filter by free cancellation, free breakfast and more

Cheap Mexico package deals

Most popular mexico flight and hotel deals, all inclusive vacation packages to mexico, last minute vacation packages to mexico, search by stars, search by review score, search by board, search by price, search by freebies, when to book a vacation in mexico, tips for finding mexico package deals.

• There are loads of types of vacations in Mexico and the cost will depend on what type of trip you’re taking and for how long you’d like to stay. Here are the latest prices for a 3 night trip for 2 travelers: Top vacation $566; Family vacation $528; Romantic vacation $706; Luxury vacation $699; Budget vacation $297.

Why should you book a vacation package to Mexico?

Head to the coastline for some of the best Mexican travel packages with popular cities including Mazatlan, Cancun, and Playa del Carmen. Whether you're looking for cheap Mexican vacation packages or luxurious all-inclusive beachfront resorts, there will be perfect holiday accommodation to complement your next Mexican getaway.

When should you book a vacation package to Mexico?

Visit Mexico in the fall when prices are inexpensive and the weather is more moderate. For a taste of the local culture, attend the popular "Day of the Dead" celebration on November 1st when you will find throngs of people lining the streets honoring the lives of the deceased with food, drinks, colorful themed costumes, and parties.

Where should you stay in Mexico during your vacation?

For any vacation type in mexico:.

The Grand Park Royal Cancun Caribe is known for it's customized service, classic Caribbean décor, and many outdoor excursions. Situated in the coveted La Isla inlet in the Cancun area, this hotel is just 15 miles from the airport, with many taxis offering affordably fixed fares. Mahekal Beach Resort is perfect for travelers looking to combine their intimate private accommodation with a bustling city nightlife in Playa del Carmen. The resort offers safe, non-stop transportation to and from Cancun International Airport for a seamless transition on your next Mexican trip.

For family vacations in Mexico:

Cozumel Palace all-inclusive resort has something for everyone in the family to enjoy from water sports to nightly shows. Located on the secluded Cozumel Island, this Caribbean hotel is easily accessible via Cozumel International Airport, with free airport transfers for qualifying guests.The Grand Oasis Palm in Cancun offers a comprehensive array of family-friendly amenities including a kids club with planned activities like arts and crafts, a game room, waterslides, and even a disco! Cancun International airport is just a 20 minute ride away and easily accessible via shuttle van or taxi.

For romantic vacations in Mexico:

Occidental at Xcaret is an intimate eco-archaeological hotel with over 40 on-site attractions which combine the best of ancient Mayan culture with modern first-class amenities. Take advantage of the coastline views with a rental car for added flexibility when you travel from Cancun International Airport.Crown Paradise Club Hotel is a 5 star hotel just minutes from prime shopping centers which offers incredible Mexican travel deals when you book its all-inclusive packages. It's easy to pre-book your hotel shuttle for travelling between Cancun International Airport and Crown Paradise Club Hotel.

For luxury vacations in Mexico:

Pueblo Bonito Emerald Bay is the only AAA four diamond resort in Mazatlan, located in Northwestern Mexico along the Pacific coastline. Both Las Cabos and Mazatlan International Airports offer routine taxi and airport shuttles to nearby hotels. Iberostars Cancun is a stunning 5 star all-inclusive resort offering above-and-beyond facilities including a convention center, youth "star" camps, and comprehensive spa services. Just a 15-minute drive from Cancun International Airport, the hotel offers a complimentary shuttle service in their all-inclusive Mexico package deals.

For budget vacations in Mexico:

Ibis Cancun Centro offers inexpensive Mexican travel packages right in the center of one of the country's most popular tourist thoroughfares. For added savings, consider utilizing public transportation options that will give you more money for other out-of-town excursions.Hotel Plaza Revolucion in Mexico City puts you in the cultural center for a truly unforgettable trip. Subway line B will take you straight from the airport to your hotel's front door for a convenient way to skirt around the bustling traffic of Mexico's capital city.

Where to stay in Mexico

Mexico vacation information, other popular package vacation destinations.

• Jamaica package vacations
• The Bahamas package vacations
• Florida package vacations
• Dominican Republic package vacations
• Maui package vacations
• Denver package vacations
• Aruba package vacations
• Puerto Vallarta package vacations
• Turks and Caicos Islands package vacations
• Cozumel package vacations
• Bermuda package vacations
• San José del Cabo package vacations
• Tulum package vacations
• Canada package vacations
• Quintana Roo package vacations
• Cancun package vacations
• Cabo San Lucas package vacations
• Playa del Carmen package vacations

The 2024 total solar eclipse is 1 week away. Here's what you need to know.

We're ready, are you? The countdown to the total solar eclipse has begun!

Last minute preparations

Eclipse weather.

There's only one week left until the total solar eclipse 2024 is visible across North America! Are you ready? 

Memories will be made when the moon crosses in front of the sun and turns the daytime sky dark. The total solar eclipse will travel through Mexico, 15 U.S. States and Canada and will be one of the most-watched eclipses ever. You can view the entire path of totality including start and end times for different stages of the solar ellipse at each location in this helpful interactive map from NASA . 

If you cannot watch the eclipse in person you can watch the total solar eclipse live here on Space.com courtesy of NASA. Coverage will begin at 1 p.m. EDT (1700 GMT) . You can also keep up with all the actions with our total solar eclipse 2024 live updates blog.

And if you capture a great photo of the solar eclipse and would like to share it with us and our readers, please email it to [email protected] .  

Related: Solar eclipse viewing through history: A roundup of some of the best photos  

Our how to read and understand a solar eclipse map will help you get the most out of your eclipse viewing venture!

By now you've most likely decided on a viewing location and have all the supplies needed for a successful eclipse viewing experience (don't forget those eclipse glasses !). 

But if you're still scrambling for some solar-safe viewing equipment and haven't been able to get hold of a pair of eclipse glasses don't worry, we've got some alternative ways to view the eclipse with items from around the home . 

Get the Space.com Newsletter

Breaking space news, the latest updates on rocket launches, skywatching events and more!

If you're looking for a way to entertain the little ones before, during and after the eclipse we've got a great guide on how to organize an eclipse event for kids . 

As we get closer to April 8, more reliable meteorological weather forecasts will become available. NOAA's Weather Prediction Center is a great place to find increasingly reliable forecasts, which can help you decide on a viewing location where the probability of cloud cover is low. While we are all wishing for clear skies, we can't help but wonder how clouds could impact the viewing experience. It turns out a cloudy forecast might not be as bad as you would initially think, as it all depends on the type, thickness and extent of the cloud cover. You can read more about what happens if it's cloudy during the eclipse and how to give yourself the best chance of clear skies in our helpful guides 

With so many people flocking to watch the eclipse safety is the top priority. Here we've compiled a couple of guides on How to stay safe during the eclipse and also how to avoid getting stuck in traffic on the big day.

Everyone observing the partial phases of this eclipse — and for those outside the path of totality, that's the entire event — will need to wear solar eclipse glasses while cameras, telescopes and binoculars will need solar filters placed in front of their lenses. 

Only those in the path of totality will be able to remove them briefly to see the sun's corona with their naked eyes. Those not in the path of totality must keep them on the entire time. Our how to observe the sun safely guide tells you everything you need to know about safe solar observations.

Solar eclipse glasses are crucial for most to safely observe the eclipse, but with such high demand for the vital piece of kit, fake eclipse glasses are rife. The American Astronomical Society (AAS) is warning people about the risks of counterfeit and knock-off solar glasses so we have come up with a guide to how to check yours are safe . 

Join our Space Forums to keep talking space on the latest missions, night sky and more! And if you have a news tip, correction or comment, let us know at: [email protected].

Daisy Dobrijevic joined Space.com in February 2022 having previously worked for our sister publication All About Space magazine as a staff writer. Before joining us, Daisy completed an editorial internship with the BBC Sky at Night Magazine and worked at the National Space Centre in Leicester, U.K., where she enjoyed communicating space science to the public. In 2021, Daisy completed a PhD in plant physiology and also holds a Master's in Environmental Science, she is currently based in Nottingham, U.K. Daisy is passionate about all things space, with a penchant for solar activity and space weather. She has a strong interest in astrotourism and loves nothing more than a good northern lights chase! 

Coding the cosmos: Building an app for the total solar eclipse 2024 (op-ed)

My dogs and I watched the 2017 total solar eclipse, but we won't travel for this one

Maya nobility performed bloodletting sacrifices to strengthen a 'dying' sun god during solar eclipses

Most Popular

By Daisy Dobrijevic April 06, 2024

By Space.com Staff April 06, 2024

By Joe Rao April 06, 2024

By Josh Dinner April 06, 2024

By Mike Wall April 06, 2024

By Monisha Ravisetti April 06, 2024

By Robert Lea April 06, 2024

By Elizabeth Howell April 06, 2024

By Meredith Garofalo April 05, 2024

By Robert Lea April 05, 2024

By Elizabeth Howell April 05, 2024

• 2 Coding the cosmos: Building an app for the total solar eclipse 2024 (op-ed)
• 3 SpaceX launching 11-satellite Bandwagon rideshare mission tonight (April 7)
• 4 My dogs and I watched the 2017 total solar eclipse, but we won't travel for this one
• 5 White House directs NASA to create a new time zone for the moon

Maps of the April 2024 Total Solar Eclipse

By Jonathan Corum

On April 8, the moon will slip between the Earth and the sun, casting a shadow across a swath of North America: a total solar eclipse.

By cosmic coincidence, the moon and the sun appear roughly the same size in the sky. When the moon blocks the glare of the sun, the sun’s outer atmosphere, or corona, will be briefly visible.

Below are several maps of the eclipse’s path as well as images of what you might experience during the event.

Where Can I See the Total Eclipse?

The eclipse will begin at sunrise over the Pacific Ocean, then cut through Mexico and cross the United States from Texas to Maine. Most of North America will see a partial eclipse, but viewers within the deepest shadow — a band sliding from Mazatlán, Mexico, to the Newfoundland coast near Gander, Canada — will experience a total solar eclipse.

Percentage of

the sun obscured

during the eclipse

Indianapolis

Little Rock

San Antonio

Viewers inside the path of the total eclipse may notice a drop in temperature , a lull or shift in the wind , the appearance of bright planets in the sky, and the quieting of birds and other wildlife.

Many cities lie inside the path of the total eclipse, as shown below, the width of which varies from 108 miles to 122 miles.

5:13 p.m. NDT

20% partial eclipse

NEWFOUNDLAND

SASKATCHEWAN

Fredericton

4:33 p.m. ADT

3:26 p.m. EDT

3:20 p.m. EDT

Minneapolis

3:18 p.m. EDT

3:13 p.m. EDT

San Francisco

90% partial eclipse

3:05 p.m. EDT

Los Angeles

1:51 p.m. CDT

1:40 p.m. CDT

1:33 p.m. CDT

12:16 p.m. CST

12:12 p.m. CST

11:07 a.m. MST

Mexico City

EL SALVADOR

12:23 p.m. CST

1:36 p.m. CDT

3:09 p.m. EDT

3:27 p.m. EDT

Explore our interactive cloud outlook for eclipse viewing times and average cloud data at your location.

What Will I See?

A composite image of the 2017 solar eclipse over Madras, Ore.

Aubrey Gemignani/NASA

If the sky is clear, viewers in the path of the total eclipse should see a “diamond ring” effect a few seconds before and after the total eclipse, as the edge of the sun slips in and out of view.

The “diamond ring” effect during the 2017 solar eclipse.

Rami Daud/NASA, Alcyon Technical Services

The sun’s outer atmosphere, or corona, is normally hidden by the sun’s glare. These tendrils and sheets of gas, heated to a million degrees Fahrenheit or more, are in constant motion and shaped by the sun’s swirling magnetic field.

The sun’s corona during the 2017 solar eclipse.

The sun is relatively active this year and is nearing the expected peak of its 11-year solar cycle . Researchers at Predictive Science are using data about the sun’s magnetic field to predict and model a dramatic corona for the April eclipse.

A prediction of how the sun’s corona might appear during the April 8 total eclipse.

Predictive Science

What Colors Should I Wear?

As the sky darkens, light-sensitive cells in human eyes become more sensitive to blue and green hues than to reds and oranges. This shift in color perception is known as the Purkinje effect , after a 19th-century Czech scientist, and is typically seen at twilight.

Watching the 2017 total eclipse at Southern Illinois University.

Andrea Morales for The New York Times

To take advantage of the Purkinje effect, Solar Eyeglasses suggests wearing green clothes or a contrasting combination of greens and reds. Blue-green colors (shorter wavelengths) will appear brighter, while red colors (longer wavelengths) will appear to recede into the darkness.

What If I Miss It?

The next two total solar eclipses in the United States won’t occur until 2044 and 2045 . But eclipse chasers might catch one in 2026 in Greenland, Iceland and Spain; 2027 along the coast of Northern Africa; 2028 in Australia and New Zealand; or 2030 across Southern Africa and Australia.

A Total Solar Eclipse Is Coming. Here’s What You Need to Know.

These are answers to common questions about the April 8 eclipse, and we’re offering you a place to pose more of them.

By Katrina Miller

What’s the Cloud Forecast for Eclipse Day? See if the Weather Is on Your Side.

April 8 could be your best opportunity to see a total solar eclipse for decades. But if clouds fill the sky, you may miss the spectacle.

By Josh Katz, K.K. Rebecca Lai and William B. Davis

• Share full article

Our Coverage of the Total Solar Eclipse

Dress for the Occasion:  What should you wear for the eclipse? Our fashion critic weighs the options , including an unexpected suggestion from scientists.

Free to View:  Six inmates in upstate New York prisons who sued the state won their lawsuit to view the eclipse , arguing it “is a religious event.” But a statewide prison lockdown during the eclipse will remain in place.

Hearing the Eclipse:  A device called LightSound is being distributed to help the blind and visually impaired experience what they can’t see .

Sky-High Hotel Prices: One Super 8 hotel in the eclipse’s path is charging $949 a night . Its normal rate is $95.

Animal Reactions : Researchers will watch if animals at zoos, homes and farms act strangely  when day quickly turns to night.

A Rare Return:  A total solar eclipse happens twice in the same place every 366 years on average. But people in certain areas will encounter April 8’s eclipse  about seven years after they were near the middle of the path of the “Great American Eclipse.”

 No Power Outages:  When the sky darkens during the eclipse, electricity production in some parts of the country will drop so sharply that it could theoretically leave tens of millions of homes in the dark. In practice, hardly anyone will notice  a sudden loss of energy.

Advertisement