The question of how many seasons Mexico has reveals the country’s vast geographic and climatic complexity. Due to its proximity to the equator, Mexico primarily operates on a two-season system defined by precipitation. This distinction between the wet and dry periods governs the rhythm of life and weather across much of the nation. The traditional four-season model is largely irrelevant for describing the year-round climate.
The Primary Seasonal Distinction
The annual climate cycle is categorized by the presence or absence of rain, creating a pronounced Dry Season and a Wet Season. The Dry Season typically runs from November to April, characterized by significantly lower humidity and clear, sunny skies across the central and southern regions. This period is often considered the most comfortable time to visit.
The Wet Season generally extends from May to October. Rainfall rarely consists of all-day soaking events; instead, precipitation often manifests as heavy, intense thunderstorms that release in the late afternoon or early evening, usually lasting only a few hours. This pattern allows for plenty of sunshine, even in coastal resort areas, though humidity levels rise noticeably in the tropical lowlands.
Geographic Climate Zones
Mexico’s dramatic variation in altitude and proximity to the coast complicates the two-season model, creating several distinct climate zones.
Tierra Caliente (Coastal Lowlands)
The coastal and tropical lowlands, known as tierra caliente, maintain high temperatures and high humidity year-round. Temperatures in these regions, such as the Yucatán Peninsula, often range from 25°C to 30°C. The wet season here means more frequent and heavier rainfall, along with an increased risk of tropical storms between June and November.
Tierra Templada (Highlands)
In contrast, the highlands and central plateau, home to cities like Mexico City and Guadalajara, experience a more temperate climate due to their higher elevation. This tierra templada zone sees a clearer difference between warmer and cooler months, even though the precipitation still follows the wet/dry seasonal schedule. Daytime temperatures are mild, but nights can become quite cool, especially during the dry, winter months.
Northern Regions
Mexico’s northern regions, including the desert and semi-arid zones, receive minimal precipitation throughout the year, making the wet/dry distinction less meaningful. While daytime temperatures can be extremely hot in the summer, the dry climate allows for significant temperature drops at night. Higher altitude areas can experience cold winter temperatures. This geographic diversity means that the experience of “seasons” is entirely dependent on which part of the country a person is in.
Understanding Temperature Cycles
Temperature variation is more subtle than the distinct thermal shifts seen in temperate climates, focusing on a “hot season” versus a “less hot season.” The hottest time often occurs just before the rainy season begins, typically in April and May, when temperatures peak and humidity is still relatively low. This represents the maximum thermal output before the cooling effect of the summer rains takes hold.
The “winter” months, running from December through February, are characterized by slightly lower daytime temperatures and significantly cooler nights, particularly in the elevated regions. In the central plateau, nighttime temperatures can drop sharply, creating a noticeable thermal change. This modest fluctuation is what a visitor might perceive as a mild winter, even though the overall climate remains warm or temperate year-round. The dry season, with its clear skies, allows for greater solar heat during the day and greater heat loss at night.