Travel advice for Mexico
From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for visiting Mexico
- Central America & the Caribbean
- Mexico
From the arid landscapes of the Baja Peninsula to the subtropical allure of the Yucatan Peninsula, the weather in Mexico in February showcases some intriguing contrasts. There are pleasant temperatures in central regions like Mexico City, while beach enthusiasts flock to Cancun and the Riviera Maya to indulge in the balmy embrace of the Caribbean. February, is one of the best months to visit Mexico!
Travel ideas for Mexico
Created by local experts
What is the weather like in Mexico in February?
The weather in Mexico in February is pleasant. In fact, this is one of the best times to visit Mexico. This is when winter recedes in Mexico and spring approaches, so some parts of the country, like Mexico City, receive little rain and mild temperatures which can be excellent for sightseeing.
Popular Yucatan Peninsula destinations, like Cancun and the Riviera Maya, have pleasant temperatures in February, enticing sun-seekers for the US and Europe to bask in some early-year sunshine.
Meanwhile, in the northern desert regions like Baja California, the arid landscapes experience comfortable temperatures for outdoor activities such as searching for sharks and giant manta rays around the Guadalupe islands.
Rough Guides tip: do you want to get the best out of your trip? Check our Mexico itineraries and find out how to get to Mexico.
Copper Canyon, Mexico ©Shutterstock
Is Mexico warm in February?
Yes, Mexico is warm in February. In the Yucatan Peninsula, including Cancun and the Riviera Maya, the Caribbean gives visitors balmy days, boasting average temperatures around 77°F (25°C), perfect for beach time.
In the capital, Mexico City, the mountainous setting ushers in milder days, with daytime temperatures hovering at around 70°F (21°C).
Coastal havens, like Puerto Vallarta, bask in approximately eight hours of sunshine daily, while the northern Baja California coast boasts comfortable temperatures of around 72°F (22°C).
Mexico City seems to have it all - over 50 museums, a beautiful historic city center, an extensive city park with a majestic castle, upscale neighborhoods and mouth-watering cuisine. This tailor-made trip to authentic and unique Mexico City shows you the best of this mega city.
Looking for even more options for your winter getaway? Explore our guide to the best places for a February vacation.
Is February a good time to visit Mexico?
The weather in Mexico in February offers mild temperatures and minimal rainfall in many regions. It can be an excellent time to explore Mexico. Coastal gems like Cancun and the Riviera Maya offer warm and inviting days, perfect for beach enthusiasts seeking sun-soaked bliss.
Meanwhile, the cultural treasures of Mexico City beckon travelers with pleasant sightseeing conditions.
However, it's essential to note that February is a busy tourist month, which can impact travel deals and accommodations. Book ahead to secure the best hotels and restaurants.
Rough Guides tip: make sure to read all about the best time to visit Mexico.
Church of Santo Domingo de Guzman in Oaxaca, Mexico © Shutterstock
Average rainfall in Mexico in February
In the northern parts of Mexico, such as Baja California and the Sonoran Desert, the average rainfall is generally quite low, typically ranging from 0 to 1 inch (0 to 25 mm) for the month.
The central regions, including Mexico City, experience relatively dry conditions with an average rainfall of around 0.2 to 0.6 inches (5 to 15 mm).
On the eastern coast, the Yucatan Peninsula and areas like Cancun and the Riviera Maya may receive more rainfall, with averages ranging from 2 to 4 inches (50 to 100 mm) due to their proximity to the Caribbean Sea.
The southern states, like Chiapas and Oaxaca, can experience higher rainfall amounts with averages of around 100 to 200 mm (4 to 8 inches) in February.
With our tailor-made trip to Mexico's Highlands and Coast, you will discover Mexico City's historic highlights and the wonders of sites like Teotihuacan, Campeche and Palenque before you jet off to the Central Highlands.
Rough Guides tip: Find tons of ideas for your Mexican adventure in our guide to the best vacation spots in Mexico.
Festivals and events in Mexico in February
There are several festivals and events that take place in Mexico during the month of February. This is the biggest:
- Carnaval (Feb/Mar). The last week of taking one’s pleasures before the forty-day abstinence of Lent, is celebrated throughout the Roman Catholic world but is at its most exuberant in Latin America. Like Easter, its date is not fixed, but generally falls in February or early March, celebrated with costumes, parades, eating and dancing, most spectacularly in Veracruz and Mazatlán, working its way up to a climax on the last day, Mardi Gras (Shrove Tues). Carnaval is celebrated most vigorously in the coastal cities, including Veracruz and San Miguel on Cozumel. The city of Mazatlán claims to have the world’s third-largest Mardi Gras party, after Rio and New Orleans.
For more practical guidance that will help you make the most of your Mexico 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.
