Looking for information on what the weather in Mexico in January is like?
In this article, I will share with you my top tips on traveling to this country during the month of January, plus share some of the top destinations in Mexico that are worth visiting during this month.
You see, the Adventure in You team has spent time both traveling AND living in Mexico so we have a ton of insider tips to share with you.
The weather in Mexico in January is better in some places and less favorable in others. No matter where you are though, January does provide you with a variety of activities to enjoy.
Whether you’re a sun chaser or a thrill seeker, January in Mexico has something for you!
View Contents
- Weather in Mexico Month on Month Guide
- Weather in Mexico: January
- Why Visit Mexico in January?
- Popular Places to Visit in Mexico in January
- 1. Cancun in January
- 2. Mexico City in January
- 3. Tulum in January
- 4. Playa del Carmen in January
- 5. Merida in January
- 6. Cabo San Lucas in January
- 7. Isla Holbox
- 8. Isla Mujeres in January
- 9. Oaxaca in January
- 10. Puerto Vallarta in January
- 11. Bacalar in January
- Events in Mexico in January
- FAQ on Spending January in Mexico
Weather in Mexico Month on Month Guide
Want to find out what the weather in Mexico is like month on month? Check out our other articles for an in-depth guide on planning your trip.
- Weather in Mexico in February
- Weather in Mexico in March
- Weather in Mexico in April
- Weather in Mexico in May
- Weather in Mexico in June
- Weather in Mexico in July
- Weather in Mexico in August
- Weather in Mexico in September
- Weather in Mexico in October
- Weather in Mexico in November
- Weather in Mexico in December
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Weather in Mexico: January
If you’re planning a trip to Mexico in January, the weather is as good as it gets! In fact, January is one of the best times to visit Mexico as the temperatures are not too hot and humid.
When is Rainy season in Mexico?
If you’re planning to visit Mexico in January, you’re in luck as you will be avoiding the rainy season. Rainy season in Mexico runs from May to November (depending on region).
January is one of the best months to visit Mexico due to it being part of the dry season and there being barely any rain! I love traveling during the dry seasons as I get to escape the never ending downpour in the UK!
The temperature varies slightly throughout the country with the inner cities being cooler and the coastal areas are lovely and warm.
Although January is part of the dry season I can’t guarantee no rainfall (I’m a writer and not a weather god after all), on average there is only 240 mm of rain throughout the month. However, from experience, January is relatively a safe bet when planning a trip to Mexico.
Average Temperatures for Mexico in January
The average temperature in Mexico will depend on where you’re visiting due to the size of the country.
January in Cancun will see temperatures between 77-82°F and the Pacific Coast will reach up to 90°F, humidity tends to be higher in both locations too in January.
To give you an example, temperatures in Mexico for cities in central Mexico, such as Mexico City will be as warm as 75°F but cities Yucatan and Ixtapa can reach up to 90°F.
Why Visit Mexico in January?
Mexico in January has some fantastic opportunities for you, from whale watching, swimming, water based activities and fun festivals.
January in Mexico is not as busy as in December and February so you can sit back and relax on the white sand beaches.
You’ve probably guessed that this wonderful weather means it’ll be busier, which can be true, it can be a bit more expensive in January and throughout the peak seasons but if you can plan a little ahead, you can find a few deals.
Tourist hot spots like Tulum and Cancun tend to book out in advance, especially during the New Year holidays.
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Popular Places to Visit in Mexico in January
If you’re planning on spending January in Mexico, here’s a list of places that I recommend you visit to help you make the most out of your time in Mexico.
1. Cancun in January
January is one of the coolest months in Cancun with temperatures around 82°F but rarely dropping below 76°F. It’s one of the dry months so there’s little chance of rain, but if it does rain it usually only lasts an hour.
January is also outside the hurricane season for Cancun (between June and November) so it’s unlikely you will experience a storm either.
January is the perfect time to take advantage of the many beautiful beaches that Cancun has to offer. With the humidity level around 75%, a dip in the sea will be a welcomed cool down too!
January is a little quieter in Cancun too, so the perfect time to visit if you’re looking to escape big crowds. If you want to see when the best time to go to Cancun is, check out our full article.
Recommended Things to Do in Cancun
When you’re there, don’t forget to check out these highly rated tours; Chichen Itza + Cenote Tours, Tulum Ruins, Reef Snorkeling, and finally a catamaran tour to Isla Mujeres!
- Authentic Downtown Food Tour– Eat your way around Cancun and discover the best street eats with this local tour.
- Learn to Cook a Mexican Meal– They say the best way to discover a place is through the food. Attend this local cooking class teaching you how to cook a few staples in Mexican cuisine.
- Cancun Kayak Adventure– Kayak your way through mangroves in the stunning Nichupte Lagoon where you can spot wildlife and learn about the tropical biodiversity in Cancun.
Weather in Cancun in January
2. Mexico City in January
The winters in Mexico City are a little cold, so it might be best to wait until March if you’re looking for a warmer getaway. However, with that being said, Mexico City is still a great option if you don’t mind colder evenings.
The highest temperature in Mexico City in January will be around 70°F but can go as low as 44°F. For Mexico City, the weather in January is in the middle of the dry season (November to April) so you are unlikely to see any rain during your January visit.
With that being said, it might be best to take some layers and a jacket with you. This cooler weather does give you the opportunity to explore the cities and museums without getting too hot and bothered, and with over 100 museums to choose from in Mexico City you won’t be short on choices!
If you are looking for something a bit different to do, you could enjoy an Air Balloon Flight & Breakfast.
When booking accommodations in Mexico City, it is important to note that most places might not have central heating so its best to take this into consideration if you tend to get cold in the evenings.
There are literally tons of things to do in Mexico City, regardless of the weather! For more tips, check out our 4-day Mexico City Itinerary.
Weather in Mexico City in January
3. Tulum in January
You can expect temperatures around 82°F in Tulum in January, making it one of the hotter weathers in Mexico in January.
If you’re planning on traveling to Mexico in January, I recommend planning in advance.
Tulum has risen in popularity over the last few years (and in cost), and as January is part of its busy season I would suggest booking your trip ASAP. Many people flock here to celebrate the New Year, making it a very popular destination in Mexico in January.
January is part of the dry season for Tulum but as it’s on the coast, it’s never guaranteed there won’t be a little shower.
If you don’t mind a few parties and crowds, January is one of the best times to go to Tulum. Regardless if you’re there to enjoy the beach clubs in Tulum or take a dip in the numerous Tulum cenotes, you’re bound to have a great time.
Weather in Tulum in January
4. Playa del Carmen in January
January is one of the best times to visit Playa Del Carmen as it’s when the weather here is more settled. Playa del Carmen, or “Playa” as it’s referred to by locals is also known as a mini-Cancun, but it’s much more of a small town feel in Playa.
You can expect warmer days in Playa in January with temperatures around 82°F and falling to around 65°F in the evenings.
The weather in January is the perfect time for swimming and water activities in Playa with sea temperatures around 79°F, allowing you to spend all day splashing about if you wanted to!
Historically, Playa in January gets around 8 days of rain. Luckily even the downpours only last around an hour. With that being said, there are plenty of Playa del Carmen cenotes nearby which you can easily visit, rain or shine.
There is some humidity in Playa, but you can avoid this by planning water activities in the afternoon.
Similarly if you are planning to visit the Mayan Ruins nearby, I would suggest you do this in the morning to avoid the crowds and the humidity of the afternoon. PDC is one of the most popular destinations in the Riviera Maya in the month of January.
Weather in Playa del Carmen in January
5. Merida in January
Visiting Merida in January is a great option as the best months to visit this place is from November to March when the weather is slightly cooler.
Although I think Merida is one of the nicest places in the Yucatán Peninsula, from May to September, I do not recommend visiting as the heat can get oppressive! Our team spent some time living in Merida and recommend against visiting during those months.
In January, Merida’s temperature is around 80°F Day and 70°F Night. There is no expected rainfall during this month. If you’re looking for things to do in Merida, you can wander around the city or you can also spend your days visiting the many Merida cenotes.
While you’re there, take a trip to Chichén Itzá and Cenote Tour, Izamal (the yellow city) or Ria Celestun Biosphere Reserve Tour.
Weather in Merida in January
6. Cabo San Lucas in January
With its relaxed vibe, Cabo San Lucas is the more popular out of the two Cabos, (San Jose del Cabo).
Cabo gets an amazing 300 days of sunshine a year so you could visit any time of the year. The rainy season here is only for 2 months from August to September and the rest of the time is blue skies and sunshine so you can expect to have great weather for your trip in January.
The temperature in January is around 80°F so it’s still nice and warm, and you can take advantage of this by taking a refreshing swim in the ocean or pool.
January is an incredible time for divers and snorkelers to spot some wildlife, the sea temperature attracts plenty of plankton which in turn attracts the whales.
Whale watching season runs from November to March and during this time, you can see humpback whales as well as other marine species. We recommend booking this tour with a local oceanologist to increase your chances of seeing these magnificent creatures!
Weather in Cabo San Lucas in January
7. Isla Holbox
January is an enjoyable time to visit Holbox as the weather is comfortable and warm with average temperature around 84°F.
You will see some rain in Holbox at this time of year with an average of 1-2 mm of rain over an average of 9 days. January is the end of the rainy season for Holbox which runs from September to January.
Despite the many things to do in Holbox, the laid back pace of the island will give you the perfect opportunity to relax during your visit. Do nothing, enjoy your surroundings! You can also take a stroll, or rent a golf buggy, and view the street art and murals.
Check out our articles on the best Holbox tours and Holbox restaurants.
Weather in Isla Holbox in January
8. Isla Mujeres in January
Isla Mujeres’s weather is fantastic in January, not only is this during the dry period but the average temperature is 81°F. It’s the perfect time for swimming in the sea with the average water temperature of 79°F.
As Isla Mujeres is a year round diving destination, you could spend all day looking at the wonderful sea life, or go fishing. The snorkeling in Isla Mujeres is particularly impressive!
If you do love nature, you could also watch a wonderful experience of baby turtles being released into the sea which takes place throughout January. This is done by trained volunteers who are working to protect the turtles.
Isla Mujeres is one of our favorite spots in Mexico! Check out the best Isla Mujeres restaurants and Isla Mujeres tours if you’re heading that way.
Weather in Isla Mujeres in January
9. Oaxaca in January
January is one of the cooler and dry months for Oaxaca. The average temperature is around 78°F and the dry season runs from May to September.
The cool January weather is ideal if you are looking to explore the city. You can visit one of the many museums in the city, or wander through one of the many busting markets and colorful streets.
This paint Your Own Alebrije Workshop is a fun activity! I also recommend this popular tour of Hierve el Agua.
Although January is one of the chillier months, it’s still quite warm for some so you could also visit one of the many brilliant beaches Oaxaca has to offer.
Weather in Oaxaca in January
10. Puerto Vallarta in January
Puerto Vallarta is a wonderful city in the Riviera Nayarit that is not only one of the safest places to visit but is also welcoming to all sorts of travelers (solo, couples, lgbtq and families).
You can expect hotter and more humid weather in Puerto Vallarta in January with the average temperature being around 78°F. January is in the dry season for Puerto Vallarta so you won’t see much rain!
January will be the perfect time for swimming with the average water temperature around 77°F. Snorkeling and whale watching from Bahia Banderas (Bay of Banderas) in the Pacific Coast are very popular with tourists in January.
During this month, make sure your whale watching tour in advance as it is a very popular activity!
Weather in Puerto Vallarta in January
11. Bacalar in January
The temperature ranges from 83°F to 69°F in January, although this is the coldest month for Bacalar, it is still pleasantly warm. Bacalar’s wet season runs from May to November so it should also be mainly dry.
Laguna Bacalar is a laid back destination for relaxing and January is perfect for swimming in January with the water temperature reaching 77°F.
Make sure to visit the famous Bacalar Lagoon with its seven glorious colors, and you’ll be grateful to take a dip in the waters as humidity can reach up to 79%!! While in Bacalar, we recommend visiting Cenote Azul as well as checking out these Bacalar hotels and Bacalar tours.
Weather in Bacalar in January
Events in Mexico in January
Three Kings Day (also called Epiphany), 6th January – this celebration is one of the most significant events in Mexico. It represents the Three Wise Men.
Fiesta de Enero (January Festival) in Chiapas, January 8-23. – this folk and religious festival reflects the history and culture of Mexico. You will see some vibrant outfits and masks as dancers and processions wave throughout the Chiapa de Corzo State. The Dance of the Parachicos is part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.
New Year – although not celebrated like other countries with big parties and firework displays, new year is still celebrated by Mexicans with family in low-key celebrations at their home. In main tourist towns like Playa del Carmen, Tulum, and Cancun, you can expect to see large New Year’s Eve parties!
Whale watching – January to March is the best time to watch the whales as they migrate to Mexico’s coast. In Cabo San Lucas, the grey whales arrive from California, making it an ideal place to watch these magnificent creatures.
Punta Mita near Puerto Vallarta also offers whale watching tours during the month of January.
Butterfly migration – another wondrous sight for nature lovers, millions of monarch butterflies start their journeys to Canada from the central areas in Mexico. If you head to the state of Michoacán, January is the peak viewing season for the monarch butterflies.
Click here do a tour to see the migrating Monarch butterflies. These magnificent creatures travel to Mexico from Canada from November to March.
FAQ on Spending January in Mexico
Yes, January is a great time to visit Mexico, most of the country is still within the dry season so you can expect dry, sunny and cooler days. Perfect if you don’t like extreme temperatures. Some parts of Mexico like Mexico City get cold in January so plan your visit accordingly.
This will depend on what part of Mexico you visit, but the average temperature for the beaches is 80°F. The temperatures are around 75°F in the central and city areas.
The temperature will depend on where you go, but the average temperatures across Mexico are between 75°F – 85°F.
Although January is still the coldest month in Mexico, you can still find warm destinations, especially if you go to the coast. Places like Mexico City can go as low as 44°F during the evenings which is perfect if you like the cold.
The warmest place in Mexico in January is Hermosillo, Sonoro. A desert city located in North Mexico. January is considered a great month to visit the many beaches in Mexico as well as its coastal areas.
The best beaches to visit in January will be on the east coast and the Pacific Coast. Check out beaches like Riviera Maya, Cancun, Playa Del Carmen, and the islands off the Yucatan Coast.
Hopefully, this in-depth guide has given you an idea on what the month of January is like in various parts of Mexico. If you’re looking for a full travel guide to Mexico, check out our article for more destination advice and tips.
Regardless where you end up going in Mexico, January is a great month to travel around this beautiful country.
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