Destination
Oaxaca combines markets, mezcal, Zapotec ruins and some of Mexico's best food. The dry season from November to April is the easiest time to visit, July brings the Guelaguetza festival, and Día de Muertos at the start of November is the city's biggest celebration. The wet season is green but rainy. Here is how all twelve months compare for weather, crowds, prices and events.
By Daan · Last reviewed October 2026
My recommendation
February
February is dry, sunny and comfortable, before the heat of April and the rains from May. It is ideal for markets, day trips to the ruins and long days outside.
Best weather
November–March
Dry, sunny and comfortable.
Best for culture
November & July
Día de Muertos and the Guelaguetza.
Least crowded
May–June & September
Rainy season, fewer visitors.
Best value
September
The wettest month, with the lowest prices.
February scores
Plan around
31 October–2 November
July
23 December
Oaxaca travel tip
The historic centre is walkable, but plan day trips to Monte Albán, Hierve el Agua and the surrounding villages in the morning. Book accommodation months ahead for Día de Muertos and the Guelaguetza.
Founder note
“Make time for Monte Albán early in the morning. The ancient terraces overlook the valley, and the light and the quiet are what make Oaxaca feel unlike anywhere else.”
Experience Oaxaca
Travel around
The historic centre is compact and walkable. Taxis and shared colectivos reach nearby villages, while organised tours cover Monte Albán, Hierve el Agua and the mezcal towns.
Best period
November–March
Agree taxi prices before you go and book tours for Muertos far ahead.
CFV founder tip
Reach Monte Albán when it opens. You get cooler air, softer light and the terraces to yourself before the first tour buses arrive.
Month by month
Tap any month for full scores, temperatures and planning notes.
Pack a layer for cool mornings and evenings in the valley.
Visit archaeological sites in the morning before the afternoon heat.
Check the Easter date; Holy Week brings processions and domestic visitors.
Plan outdoor sightseeing for early morning and keep afternoons for museums and markets.
Plan outdoor activities for the morning; afternoons can bring storms.
Do day trips in the morning and keep rain plans for the afternoon.
Book accommodation months ahead and secure festival tickets early.
Keep an umbrella and schedule outdoor visits for the morning.
Plan flexible days and check road conditions for village trips.
Book accommodation months ahead if you want to be here for 31 October to 2 November.
Book accommodation and tours as far ahead as possible for the Muertos days; the rest of November is much calmer.
Reserve restaurants and accommodation for the Christmas–New Year period.
Climate
| Month | High | Low | Precipitation | Wet days |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 29°C / 84°F | 10°C / 50°F | 2 mm | 1 |
| February | 31°C / 88°F | 12°C / 54°F | 5 mm | 1 |
| March | 33°C / 91°F | 14°C / 57°F | 18 mm | 2 |
| April | 35°C / 95°F | 16°C / 61°F | 47 mm | 6 |
| May | 34°C / 93°F | 17°C / 63°F | 98 mm | 11 |
| June | 31°C / 88°F | 17°C / 63°F | 188 mm | 17 |
| July | 30°C / 86°F | 16°C / 61°F | 119 mm | 17 |
| August | 30°C / 86°F | 16°C / 61°F | 132 mm | 17 |
| September | 29°C / 84°F | 16°C / 61°F | 164 mm | 17 |
| October | 29°C / 84°F | 15°C / 59°F | 63 mm | 8 |
| November | 29°C / 84°F | 12°C / 54°F | 9 mm | 2 |
| December | 29°C / 84°F | 11°C / 52°F | 9 mm | 1 |
Climate data: Servicio Meteorológico Nacional. Temperatures are averages of daily highs and lows.
Keep exploring
Other places I’d time carefully — and when I’d go.
If you want…
…the biggest celebration
Go for Día de Muertos and book far ahead.
…dry weather
Go between November and March.
…fewer people and green hills
Go in June or September, with an umbrella.
FAQ
February is a strong choice, with dry weather and comfortable days.
From 31 October to 2 November; book far ahead.
Roughly May to October, with the heaviest rain from June to September.
