Weather in Оахака: What to Expect by Season

Оахака enjoys a mild, subtropical highland climate with distinct dry and rainy seasons. From November to April, the weather in Оахаке is dry and sunny, making it the most comfortable time to explore the city and its surroundings. Daytime temperatures hover around +28...+33 °C, while nights can cool down to +10...+15 °C, especially in December and January.

The rainy season in Оахаке begins in May and lasts through September, with the heaviest downpours in June, July, and August. While mornings often start clear, afternoon showers are common, sometimes accompanied by brief thunderstorms. Despite the rain, temperatures remain warm, averaging +21...+23 °C at night and +28...+30 °C during the day.

Temperatures in Оахаке are pleasant year-round, with only slight variations between seasons. The warmest months are March, April, and May, when daytime highs can reach +32...+34 °C, though nights stay mild at +12...+16 °C. By contrast, December and January bring cooler evenings, sometimes dropping to +9.5 °C, while daytime temperatures remain comfortable at +28...+29 °C.

The transition months of October and November offer a balance, with daytime highs around +28...+29 °C and cooler nights near +11...+14 °C. Even during the rainy season, Оахака rarely feels oppressive, as the altitude keeps humidity in check and temperatures from soaring too high.

Оахака experiences a clear divide between its dry and wet seasons. From November to April, rainfall is minimal, with January and February seeing almost no precipitation at all—just 1.7 to 4.6 mm per month. This makes the dry season ideal for outdoor activities, hiking, and exploring the region’s archaeological sites without weather disruptions.

Rainfall increases sharply in May, peaking in June, July, and August with monthly totals between 150 and 195 mm. Showers are typically short but intense, often occurring in the late afternoon or evening. By October, the rains taper off, returning Оахаку to its dry, sunny state. Travelers visiting during the wet season should pack a light rain jacket and plan indoor activities for the afternoons.

For a trip to Оахака in the dry season, lightweight, breathable clothing is essential, along with a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings, especially in December and January. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the city’s cobblestone streets and nearby ruins, while sunglasses and a hat will help shield you from the strong midday sun.

If visiting Оахаку during the rainy season, pack a compact umbrella or a waterproof jacket to stay dry during afternoon showers. Quick-drying clothing and waterproof footwear are also useful, though mornings often remain sunny. Regardless of the season, sunscreen is a must—Оахака’s high altitude means UV exposure is stronger than at lower elevations.