Mexico in May: Weather, Things To Do And Travel Tips

May is another ideal month to visit Mexico, as the top attractions get fewer tourists. Since May is typically one of Mexico’s least busy months, travelers may expect to find affordable flights and lodging options. In general, costs drop by half during this time, making it the best time to go if you want a more relaxed holiday.

With fewer people around and fewer tourists, it’s a quieter season overall. It’s possible to avoid the throngs that plague other popular tourist destinations while experiencing places like Chichen Itza.

For these reasons, May is a great month for a family vacation or other sightseeing trip. May is also the time to go scuba diving in the cenotes, and the most cost-effective month for a trip to resort towns.

Mexico in May: Weather, Things To Do And Travel Tips

Weather in May in Mexico

The Mexican monsoon season officially begins in May. This month is also one of the driest, it does not receive as much precipitation as other months. Depending on where you go in Mexico, the weather at this time of year can range from mild to hot and sunny.

The temperature in Mexico in May

Mexico experiences a range of temperatures in May, from a low of 55 °F to a high of 78 °F.

Rain in Mexico in May

With an average of 66 mm, May’s precipitation is about average (2.6in). On the whole, you may expect 13 days of rain per month.

Wind in Mexico in May

During May, the average hourly wind speed in Mexico is 0.2 miles per hour.

Things To Do in Mexico in May

May is a wonderful month for leisurely trips and exciting excursions in Mexico. Since it’s one of the least busy months, you can take your time doing whatever you want without having to worry about crowds. Weather-wise, most of Mexico is still in its dry season, making it an excellent time to visit and giving you more options for activities and experiences.

When the weather is nice, you can’t go wrong exploring Mexico’s many attractions. Check out our top picks of the best things to do in Mexico in May listed below.

1. Discover Islas Marietas

The Marieta Islands are a cluster of deserted, small islands located in the Pacific Ocean off the coast of Mexico. Since the island is home to such a rich variety of marine life, it is a favorite destination for people who enjoy snorkeling and scuba diving.

The United States government utilized these islands for military testing in the past, which resulted in the construction of some incredible caves and rock formations. One of these caverns is referred to as the “secret beach” or the “beach love” and is frequently highlighted in tourism publications and considered one of the best beaches in Mexico.

Since the islands are now part of a national park, only a select few tour operators are authorized to carry visitors to and around the islands.

To book this tour click here.

2. Hike Sumidero Canyon

Chiapas, Mexico is home to the deep and narrow canyon known as Sumidero Canyon. It is a popular destination for Mexican tourists who come to the canyon to go mountain biking, swimming, hiking, camping, and having picnics.

One of the best ways to take in the breathtaking canyon landscape is on a boat ride down the Grijalva River. Extreme sports enthusiasts use the Sumidero Canyon to go rock climbing, caving, and/or mountain biking.

Located in the southern Mexican state of Chiapas, Sumidero Canyon is an exciting destination to visit in May. Chicoasén Dam covers the canyon with a reservoir fed by the Grijalva River. Chiapa de Corzo, a colonial village, is the starting point for boat tours of the canyon. Miradores, or lookout places, dot the canyon’s lofty cliff faces.

To book this tour click here.

3. Stroll the streets of Mérida

May is a wonderful time to visit Merida, Yucatán‘s capital and one of Mexico’s finest colonial capitals. It also serves as a good base from which to visit the state’s numerous impressive Mayan ruins, such as Chichén Itzá and Tulum. It’s a popular destination for both day trips and overnight stays from the Mayan Riviera’s hotels.

In 1542, the Spanish founded the city of Mérida, which is planned out in a grid design that makes it easy to explore the many beautiful parks and historic landmarks that can be found there.

There are many examples of French architecture from the city’s colonial era that attest to the widespread European influence. Its residents take pride in wearing all white, which has earned Ciudad Blanca (the “white city”) its moniker as a result of the city’s cleanliness.

To book this tour click here.

4. See the Colorful Lake Bacalar, Quintana Roo

Bacalar Lagoon’s many nicknames include “the Maldives of Mexico” and “the Lagoon of Seven Colors,” both of which refer to the lagoon’s resemblance to the crystalline seas of the Maldives. About 4.5 hours from Cancun and 30 minutes from the Belize-Mexico border is the town of Bacalar on the Yucatan Peninsula.

With a length of 26 miles, Lake Bacalar is the country’s second-longest body of fresh water (42 km). Bacalar tours in the lagoon are the best way to see the Canal de los Piratas (Pirates’ Channel), Cenote la Bruja (Witch’s Cenote), and Isla de los Pajaros (Jaguar Island) (Bird Island). Meanwhile, an old fort with cannons that were formerly used to defend against pirates stands in the heart of Bacalar’s modern-day downtown.

To book this tour click here.

5. Visit the Ancient Fortress of Tulum

Tulum, a historic city on the Yucatán Peninsula, is a popular tourist destination. Since it is the only Mayan coastal settlement with fortifications, it has gained a lot of attention. The site’s well-preserved remains can be seen for kilometers around thanks to its placement on top of 12-meter-high cliffs overlooking the lovely Caribbean Sea in the Mayan Riviera.

Tulum is well-known for its towering walls, which give the area the appearance of a fortress and hint at the site’s possible military as well as religious significance.

The town was occupied until the arrival of the Spanish in 1544, and it is home to many significant archaeological sites, such as the Temple of the Frescoes (Templo de los Frescoes) and its sculptures and reliefs. There’s also the Castillo, the largest building at the site, which is known for its precarious perch on the edge of a cliff.

6. Get to know Tequila, Jalisco

Tequila, Mexico has been producing its world-famous tequila for generations, making it one of the most well-known Pueblos Magicos in Mexico. It takes around four hours to travel there from Puerto Vallarta, which is in the neighboring state of Puerto Vallarta.

There are a handful of museums in the area that can tell you all about the origins and production of tequila. The National Museum of Tequila and Museo Los Abuelos are the two most well-known. Tours and tastings can also be had at distilleries including Casa Sauza, Disteleria la Alborada, and Casa Orendain.

Tequila’s Plaza Principal is one of the best sites in town to take pictures. A gazebo, artwork, sculpture, and colorful letters spelling out “Tequila” may be found there.

Immediately adjacent to the square is Parroquia Santiago Apóstol, the town’s primary church which dates back to the 18th century. Several eateries and souvenir shops may be found in the immediate area.

To book this tour click here.

7. Try regional Mexican dishes

In addition to the country’s well-known mainstays like tacos, burritos, and guacamole, Mexico also has wonderful regional cuisines in places like Oaxaca, Puebla, and the Yucatán. If you are visiting in May, a food tour in various parts of Mexico should be on your itinerary.

If you want to understand more about Mexican food, you should be aware of seven distinct locations. These are Northern Mexico, Baja California, Oaxaca, Chiapas, Jalisco, Veracruz, and Yucatán.

Since every region has its unique history and topography, its cuisine is as diverse as the staple crops grown there and the spices employed in its cooking. Knowing more about the regional cuisines of Mexico might give you a more complete picture of Mexican food and encourage you to try new things.

Travel Tips for Mexico in May

● During the shoulder season from April to the end of May, prices tend to be lower. Booking a hotel room in advance at this time will earn you a far better rate than booking at any other time of the year.

● The best way to get to know a city is to eat where the locals dine. If you’re hungry in Mexico, the best value for money can be found at local establishments like taquerias.

● Knowing even a little amount of Spanish can be quite useful.
The further you travel away from the main tourist areas, the less likely it is that you will encounter somebody who speaks English. Learn a few basic phrases to make it easier to interact with locals as well as truly enjoy your visit.

Travel Tips And Resources

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.

Reading Resources: Check out our best reading resources here.