Mexico Weather in March

March marks the beginning of spring in Mexico, offering favorable weather conditions for both locals and travelers alike. As the country spans a variety of climates—from coastal tropical weather to cooler highland temperatures—the weather during March is diverse. While temperatures rise as the month progresses, March is generally one of the best times to visit Mexico due to its moderate climate, lower humidity, and reduced chances of rain.

Average Temperatures in March

Daytime Temperatures

March in Mexico offers pleasant temperatures, especially in the early part of the month. Most regions experience warm to hot temperatures during the day, though coastal and highland areas differ significantly.

  • Coastal Areas (Cancún, Playa del Carmen, Puerto Vallarta): Mexico’s coastal regions enjoy warm to hot temperatures in March. In places like Cancún and Playa del Carmen on the Yucatán Peninsula, daytime highs range from 28°C to 32°C (82°F to 90°F). The Pacific coast, including Puerto Vallarta, sees similar temperatures, but the humidity tends to be higher, making it feel a bit warmer.
  • Inland Regions (Mexico City, Guadalajara, Oaxaca): Central Mexico, including cities like Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Oaxaca, enjoys mild to warm temperatures in March. Daytime temperatures in these areas generally range from 22°C to 27°C (72°F to 81°F). Due to their higher elevation, these cities experience cooler evenings and mornings.
  • Highland Areas (Chihuahua, San Cristóbal de las Casas): The highland areas of Mexico, such as Chihuahua and San Cristóbal de las Casas, have cooler temperatures. During the day, highs can reach 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), but nighttime temperatures can drop significantly to 10°C or lower (50°F).

Nighttime Temperatures

Nights in Mexico during March vary significantly depending on the region. Coastal areas are warmer at night, while highland and inland areas can experience cooler temperatures.

  • Coastal Areas: Temperatures in coastal regions such as Cancún and Puerto Vallarta drop to around 20°C to 24°C (68°F to 75°F) during the night. While this is warm, the breeze from the ocean often helps cool things down.
  • Inland Areas: In cities like Mexico City and Guadalajara, nighttime temperatures can dip to 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F), providing a cool break from the daytime warmth. It’s advisable to bring a light jacket or sweater if visiting inland areas in the evenings.

Average Temperature Table

Year Cancún (Coastal) Mexico City (Inland) Guadalajara (Inland) Puerto Vallarta (Coastal)
2015 30°C / 22°C 26°C / 12°C 27°C / 14°C 30°C / 22°C
2016 31°C / 23°C 27°C / 13°C 28°C / 15°C 31°C / 23°C
2017 29°C / 21°C 25°C / 11°C 26°C / 14°C 29°C / 21°C
2018 30°C / 22°C 26°C / 12°C 27°C / 14°C 30°C / 23°C
2019 32°C / 24°C 28°C / 14°C 29°C / 15°C 32°C / 24°C
2020 31°C / 23°C 27°C / 13°C 28°C / 15°C 31°C / 23°C
2021 30°C / 22°C 26°C / 12°C 27°C / 14°C 30°C / 22°C
2022 29°C / 21°C 25°C / 11°C 26°C / 14°C 29°C / 21°C
2023 30°C / 22°C 27°C / 13°C 28°C / 15°C 30°C / 23°C
2024 31°C / 23°C 28°C / 14°C 29°C / 15°C 31°C / 23°C

Precipitation in March

Rainfall Patterns

March is generally a dry month in Mexico, as it falls outside of the rainy season, which typically starts in June and lasts through September. However, the amount of rainfall varies significantly by region.

  • Coastal Areas: Coastal regions like Cancún, Puerto Vallarta, and Playa del Carmen are relatively dry during March. Cancún receives around 30mm to 50mm of rain during the month, with occasional light showers. Puerto Vallarta may receive slightly more, ranging from 50mm to 70mm.
  • Inland Areas: Central Mexico, including cities like Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Oaxaca, experiences very little rainfall during March. Rainfall levels are typically under 10mm to 20mm, with most days being dry and sunny.
  • Highland Areas: The highland regions of Mexico experience even less rain in March. Cities like San Cristóbal de las Casas and Chihuahua generally receive minimal rainfall, with totals rarely exceeding 10mm for the month.

Snowfall

Snow is extremely rare in most parts of Mexico, but it can occur in the highland regions, particularly in areas such as the Sierra Madre Occidental and Sierra Madre Oriental. In higher-altitude towns like Chihuahua and the volcanic peaks of Popocatépetl and Iztaccíhuatl, there may be occasional snowfalls in early March, particularly if the weather is colder than usual.

Wind Patterns in March

March is a relatively windy month in some areas of Mexico, particularly in the northern and coastal regions. Winds are generally mild to moderate, but the potential for gusty conditions increases, especially in the late afternoon and evening.

  • Coastal Areas: Coastal areas, including Cancún and Puerto Vallarta, can experience moderate to strong winds, especially along the Caribbean coast and Pacific coast. Wind speeds typically range from 15 km/h to 30 km/h (9 mph to 19 mph). These winds help moderate the heat, but can also bring occasional dust or sandstorms in drier areas.
  • Inland Areas: Winds in Mexico’s inland regions are generally lighter, with speeds between 10 km/h to 20 km/h (6 mph to 12 mph). These areas tend to have calmer conditions compared to the coastal regions, though gusty winds can occur during transitions in weather.

Atmospheric Pressure

During March, atmospheric pressure in Mexico remains relatively stable, with high-pressure systems dominating the country. These high-pressure systems generally result in dry, sunny conditions. However, occasional shifts in pressure can bring brief periods of rain or cooler temperatures, particularly as weather systems move in from the north or the Pacific Ocean.

What to Consider When Traveling to Mexico in March

Travel Preparation

  1. Clothing: While March offers warm weather, it’s important to pack layers. Light, breathable clothing for daytime activities is ideal, but a light jacket or sweater may be needed for cooler evenings, particularly in inland or highland regions. A swimsuit is essential for coastal areas, while more comfortable hiking attire will be needed for outdoor activities in the highlands.
  2. Footwear: Comfortable footwear is a must, whether you’re exploring cities or venturing into nature. Waterproof shoes or sandals are useful for coastal regions in case of sudden rainfall, while sturdy walking shoes are ideal for exploring highland towns or archaeological sites.
  3. Sun Protection: March in Mexico can bring strong sunshine, particularly in coastal and lower-altitude areas. Be sure to pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats to protect yourself from the sun, especially if you plan on spending a lot of time outdoors.

Health and Safety

  1. Hydration: Mexico’s warm temperatures and dry conditions in March can lead to dehydration, so it’s crucial to drink plenty of water. Bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day.
  2. Mosquito Protection: In tropical areas such as Cancún or Puerto Vallarta, mosquitoes can be common, especially around water bodies. Bring insect repellent to prevent bites and protect yourself from mosquito-borne diseases.
  3. Altitude Considerations: If traveling to higher-altitude areas such as Mexico City or San Cristóbal de las Casas, be aware of the potential effects of altitude on your body. Drink plenty of water, take things slowly, and avoid strenuous physical activity for the first few days.

Best Regions to Visit in March

  • Cancún and the Riviera Maya: March is one of the best times to visit Mexico’s Caribbean coast, with warm temperatures and sunny days. The beaches, water activities, and nearby Mayan ruins make this region an excellent choice for a spring getaway.
  • Mexico City and Central Mexico: Mexico City is an ideal destination for cultural exploration, and March’s mild temperatures make it perfect for sightseeing. You can visit museums, historical sites, and enjoy the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
  • Puerto Vallarta: The Pacific coast town of Puerto Vallarta is a top destination in March due to its pleasant weather, beautiful beaches, and outdoor activities such as whale watching, snorkeling, and hiking.
  • Oaxaca and the Highlands: Oaxaca is known for its rich culture, delicious cuisine, and stunning colonial architecture. March is a great time to visit the city before the summer heat kicks in.

Things to Do in Mexico in March

Outdoor Activities

  1. Beach Activities: With warm temperatures in coastal areas, March is ideal for beach lovers. Whether it’s lounging by the ocean in Cancún, snorkeling in Cozumel, or enjoying water sports in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico offers plenty of beachside activities.
  2. Hiking and Nature Exploration: Mexico’s diverse geography offers fantastic hiking opportunities. In regions like Oaxaca, Chiapas, and the Sierra Madre, travelers can enjoy hiking through lush landscapes, visiting waterfalls, and exploring volcanic peaks.
  3. Whale Watching: March is the tail end of the whale-watching season on Mexico’s Pacific coast. In places like Puerto Vallarta and Baja California, travelers can enjoy sightings of humpback whales as they migrate.

Cultural and Historical Exploration

  1. Visit Mayan Ruins: Mexico is home to numerous ancient ruins, including the famous Chichen Itzá, Tulum, and Palenque. March’s pleasant weather makes it ideal for exploring these historical sites without the extreme heat of summer.
  2. Explore Colonial Cities: Cities like Oaxaca, Puebla, and San Miguel de Allende offer a glimpse into Mexico’s colonial past. Stroll through cobblestone streets, visit historical landmarks, and enjoy the vibrant arts scene in these charming cities.
  3. Cultural Festivals: March is an excellent time to experience cultural events in Mexico, such as the Festival Internacional de Jazz in Mazatlán or Semana Santa (Holy Week) celebrations, which feature parades, music, and traditional ceremonies.

Adventure Activities

  1. Ziplining and Adventure Parks: For adrenaline junkies, Mexico has many adventure parks, especially in regions like the Riviera Maya. Enjoy activities like ziplining, off-road biking, and cenote swimming in eco-parks like Xplor and Xcaret.
  2. Cave Exploration and Cenotes: The Yucatán Peninsula is home to numerous cenotes, natural sinkholes formed from collapsed cave systems. These crystal-clear swimming holes are a great way to cool off and explore underground limestone caves.
  3. Exploring the Copper Canyon: Located in the Sierra Madre Occidental, the Copper Canyon is a network of six canyons, larger and deeper than the Grand Canyon. March’s mild weather is perfect for hiking, horseback riding, or taking the scenic train ride through the canyon.
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