Discover the Perfect Time to Experience the Magic of Tulum

Tulum is a captivating destination that conjures up images of dazzling Mayan ruins, stylish eco-bungalows, and sun-drenched white sand beaches. It's also the ideal starting point for a thrilling excursion into the vast Reserva de la Biosfera Sian Ka'an to explore the hidden underworld of cenotes or discover Voladores (flying men), who perform there.

It's no surprise that year-round visitors flock to this part of Mexico, but unfortunately, Tulum has turned into one of the more expensive vacation spots in Mexico. During peak season, when the weather is always perfect, prices can be exorbitant, but you can still manage to find deals during the off-season, though you might run into some sporadic rain showers, the sun will eventually shine through.

Learn about the best time to visit Tulum with our guide to seasons and events.

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High season (December to April) is warm, sunny, and beautiful, inviting vacationers to Tulum for beach time, yoga getaways, and multi-day music festivals. Temperate weather also makes it optimal for sightseeing. Kite surfers are drawn to the otherwise tranquil waters by occasional nortes (winds blowing northerly). Expect crowds and peak hotel prices that spike around the holidays and spring break.

Shoulder season is from July to August, it's hot and humid, summer vacation season in this part of the globe sees Mexicans and international travel enthusiasts flocking to Tulum to catch some rays. Rain showers are likely but barely last, the sun still making an appearance. Warm and balmy nights lead to moonlit beach parties and downtown bar-hopping excitement. Hotel prices rise, and Tulum comes alive again.

Low season (May, June, and September to November) is ideal for budget travelers. The heat and rain thin out the crowds. Stormy weather can be negative for those into ocean diving or snorkeling, leading to poor visibility. Nonetheless, you can still investigate the area and chill out in cenotes regardless of the weather. Expect substantial discounts on hotels, even though some might close during the low season. During the fall months, check the weather forecast and pay attention to hurricane warnings. November can bring about the best of both worlds with ideal weather on the horizon, and prices remaining reasonably low.

Check out our monthly guide below to see what you can expect all year in Tulum (events subject to change).

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January Bustling with Festivities

The start of January breathes in life into Tulum, with an array of activities lining up for visitors to participate in. From late-night parties to music festivals and the vibrant LGBTIQ festival, visitors can expect warm sunny days and cool nights. Be prepared for large crowds and high prices with the last of Christmas festivities, Dia de los Reyes Magos, Zamna Festival, and Arena Festival, all taking place throughout the month.

Carnaval Takes Over in February

Expect a month of glorious weather as Tulum settles into a state of calmness. However, the city comes alive during Carnaval, with parades, live music, and colorful over-the-top costumes taking over the streets. Visitors can join in the lively celebrations and take part in the Key Event of the month- Carnaval.

March Brings a Spring Break Crowd

As the thermometer rises, the beaches of Tulum welcome the spring breakers, and the merriment of the Maya celebrations marks the start of spring. Tulum offers visitors a refreshing experience of traditions blended with modern-day revelry. Expect a massive crowd as the beaches get packed with people coming for the Key Events- Spring Break, Alborada Maya Festival, and Tres Cruces.

April-Joyful but Expensive

Semana Santa, or Easter Week, brings with it a hike in prices as the hot weather of early April cools off with a flock of Mexican tourists. Visitors can expect to pack an umbrella as they join in the joyful celebrations. The Key Events of the month include Easter and Semana Santa.

May- Deals on Hotels and Beaches

May spells the start of the turtle nesting season, and Tulum's beaches welcome these serene creatures. Despite the muggy weather, the crowd slows down during this month, creating a perfect opportunity for those seeking a quiet holiday. Visitors can enjoy great hotel deals and discounts during the Key Event of the month, Cinco de Mayo.

June- Low Prices and Sunny Days

As hurricane season officially begins, the sunny days come with short rain showers. The number of tourists remains low, creating a perfect chance for visitors to enjoy a peaceful holiday at lower prices.

July- Vacation Season in Mexico

July brings humid weather and busy beaches as Mexicans join in the summer vacation. Visitors can enjoy warm weather, lively nightlife, and high prices alongside Mexicans.

August- Hot Days and Turtle Activity

August is one of the hottest months of the year, creating perfect conditions for the turtle hatchlings to start their journey to the sea. The month marks the start of turtle activity, with mating and nesting taking place near Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve. The short rainfall continues, and so does the holiday season.

September- Hurricane, Rain, and Revelry

Tulum experiences more rain during September, making it the height of hurricane season. However, the sun manages to peek out most days, creating a perfect opportunity for visitors to join in the general revelry during Mexican Independence Day. Visitors can celebrate alongside the Mexicans during the Key Event of the month- Independence Day.

October- Good Time to Explore Tulum

October brings glorious weather with Tulum's beaches being gloriously empty. Visitors can finally snap pictures of Tulum's Mayan ruins without hustling the crowds. As some businesses limit their hours or close, those that stay open offer major deals for visitors. Visitors can enjoy the Key Event of the month, Sea Turtle Festival, as the sea turtle season winds down.

November- Festival Season Begins

The temperatures finally drop as the rainy season begins to sputter out. Festival season starts again, kicked off with the vibrant celebrations of Dia de Muertos in the central plaza. Visitors can immerse themselves in the festivities and take part in the Key Events of the month- Dia de Muertos, Dia de los Inocentes, Art with Me, and Festival de Cultura del Caribe.

Optimal Weather and Premium Prices in December

With hurricane season safely behind us, the weather has blossomed into a picturesque and agreeable climate, occasionally only interrupted by norte winds. This time of year also marks the peak of international tourism. As a result, hotels are fully booked, celebrating various holidays that add to the festivities and extravagance of the season, which unfortunately also contribute to prohibitive costs. Some notable events during this time include Día de Virgen de Guadalupe, Christmas, and New Year's Eve.

Please note that this article was initially published in August 2021 and then updated in November 2022.