Mexico Weather in December

Late winter is the traditional tourist season in Mexico and in the big resorts like Acapulco and Cancún, the months from December through to April are the busiest. Mountain areas, though, can get very cold then; in fact, nights in the mountains can be extremely cold at any time of year. Between December and April, thousands of gray whales also come to mate in the lagoons of Guerrero Negro and San Ignacio. Keep reading so you know all about the weather in Mexico in December.

What is the weather like in Mexico in December?

The weather in Mexico in December is generally characterized by clear skies and minimal rainfall. It also marks the onset of the dry season in many parts of the country, making it an attractive time for travelers to visit and enjoy comfortable weather.

Coastal regions, such as Cancun, Puerto Vallarta, and Riviera Maya, typically offer warm and pleasant temperatures in December. Daytime averages range from 77°F to 86°F (25°C to 30°C). The evenings may bring cooler temperatures, making it enjoyable to take leisurely strolls along the shore or dine al fresco.

Inland cities, like Mexico City and Guadalajara, boast milder temperatures during December. Daytime averages range from 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C), creating a comfortable atmosphere for exploring historical sites and museums.

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

Is Mexico warm in December?

Yes, Mexico is generally warm in December, especially in the coastal and lowland regions.

Coastal destinations like Cancun, Puerto Vallarta, and Playa del Carmen typically experience daytime temperatures ranging from 77°F to 86°F (25°C to 30°C) in December. These regions offer a perfect escape for travelers seeking to soak up the sun on the beautiful beaches and enjoy water activities in the warm waters of the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean.

Even inland cities, such as Mexico City and Guadalajara, maintain relatively mild temperatures during December. Daytime averages range from 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C).

Adventure awaits you on our tailor-made trip to the Oaxacan coast, a place as spectacular as the activities you will do. From a boat trip to the beautiful bays of Huatulco to a warm horseback ride on the seashore in Puerto Escondido.

Decided to book a December break? For further inspiration, discover more of the best places to visit in December.

Is December a good time to visit Mexico?

The weather in Mexico in December is great, so this a popular time to visit Mexico. As well as December having comfortable and enjoyable weather, beach destinations like Cancun, Puerto Vallarta, and Riviera Maya draw in tourists with warm temperatures.

Inland cities like Mexico City and Guadalajara offer milder temperatures, perfect for exploring cultural attractions and historical landmarks without the intense summer heat.

December is also filled with vibrant celebrations Like Christmas and many cities and towns in Mexico adorn themselves with festive decorations throughout the month.

Be aware, though, that December is a busy time for tourism in Mexico. Prices for accommodation and flights are usually higher and popular strips of sand can be crowded.

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

Average rainfall in Mexico in December

In December, Mexico experiences a relatively dry season in many regions, which means that the average rainfall is generally lower compared to the rainy season. However, the amount of rainfall can still vary depending on the specific location within the country.

Coastal areas and beach destinations, such as Cancun, Puerto Vallarta, and Riviera Maya, tend to have lower rainfall in December. The average rainfall in these regions can range from 2 to 4 inches (50mm to 100mm) during the month. These coastal areas typically enjoy clear skies and pleasant weather, making them popular destinations for winter getaways.

Inland cities, like Mexico City and Guadalajara, also experience a decrease in rainfall during December. The average rainfall in these cities can range from 1 to 2 inches (25mm to 50mm). The drier weather creates a comfortable environment for exploring cultural attractions and enjoying outdoor activities.

On this tailor-made Los Cabos Self Drive trip, you will explore the beaches and islands of Cabo. Located in Baja California Sur, Los Cabos, Todos Santos, and Cabo San Lucas do not only have excellent beaches to offer for your exploration but also fascinating wildlife.

Festivals and events in Mexico in December

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

• Día de la Virgen de Guadalupe (Dec 12). Celebrations everywhere, and a huge day for pilgrims at the Basílica de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe in Mexico City, home of Mexico’s most important Virgin (a manifestation, that is, of the biblical Virgin Mary), who appeared on this day in 1551.
• Christmas (Dec 25). A major vacation, with loads of people on the move and transport, booked solid for weeks ahead. Gringo influence is heavy nowadays, with Santa Claus and Christmas trees, but the Mexican festival remains distinct in many ways, with a much stronger religious element (virtually every home has a Nativity crib). One of the more bizarre Christmas events takes place in Oaxaca, where there is a public display of Nativity cribs and other sculptures made of radishes.

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

Plan your trip with our Mexico itineraries

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

• Mexico itinerary 7 days: A week in Mexico lets you focus on one or two key regions. Perfect for a quick mix of culture, history, and a bit of beach relaxation.
• Mexico itinerary 10 days: Ten days allows you to see multiple regions, balancing city exploration and natural beauty. You’ll have time for iconic sites, local food, and some downtime.
• Mexico itinerary 14 days: Two weeks offers a deeper dive into Mexico’s diverse landscapes, from ancient ruins to scenic beaches.

Visit Mexico in other months

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