Mexico, officially known as the United Mexican States, is a country in North America. If you look at a map, it’s got the United States to the north and the Pacific Ocean to the west. On the other side, it’s got Guatemala, Belize, and the Caribbean Sea to the southeast and the Gulf of Mexico to the east. It’s a big place, covering about 1.97 million square kilometers, which makes it the 13th largest country in the world.
Every part of Mexico has its special things that make it super unique. And when it comes to climate, Mexico is a bit like having different outfits for different occasions—it changes depending on where you are. Does it snow in Mexico? In terms of snow in Mexico, the answer isn’t a simple yes or no because the country is so large. But don’t worry; we’ll dive into that topic in this article!
Does it snow in Mexico?
Yes, it does snow in certain parts of Mexico! Since it’s a large country with different climates, some high-up areas can get chilly and even snowy! But here’s the thing: Mexican snow is usually lighter than you might see in colder spots like the US or Canada. It’s like a lighter version of snow and doesn’t cover the whole country.
When does it snow in Mexico? December-February
Snowfall in Mexico typically occurs in winter, particularly between December and February. This is when colder temperatures prevail in the country’s higher-altitude regions. While snow isn’t a common occurrence across the country, these months mark when certain areas experience snowfall due to the colder weather conditions. In January 2023, Mexico’s northern and northwestern parts got some snow.
Where does it snow in Mexico?
While not all of Mexico gets snow, some specific areas, mostly in the northern regions, experience snowfall yearly.
Let’s explore some of these places in Mexico where you can find snow.
| Place Name | Location | Best Time to Visit | Activities & Highlights | Average Snowfall |
| Mexiquillo | Durango, northeast of Mexico City | Dec – Feb | Stunning forest with waterfalls, great for hiking and families. Low temperatures in winter. | Few inches |
| Sombrerete | Zacatecas, Northwestern Mexico | Dec – Feb | Historic town with snow-covered streets, colonial architecture, and Sierra de Organos Park. Safe for tourists. | Varies |
| Arteaga | Coahuila, Mexico | Dec – Jan | Scenic town between snowy peaks, skiing, snow tubing, good dining options, and hotels. | 0.3 inches |
| Copper Canyon | Chihuahua, northern Mexico | Last months of the year | Enormous snowy canyons, activities like horseback riding, biking, and home to Rarámuri people. | Few inches |
| Nevado de Toluca | State of Mexico | Winter | An extinct volcano with mountain biking, rappelling, and hiking. High altitude—acclimatization advised. | Varies |
| Iztaccihuatl | Izta-Popo Zoquiapan National Park | Dec – Feb | A dormant volcano, intermediate level climb, guided tours recommended, acclimatization needed. | Varies |
| Pico de Orizaba | Highest mountain in Mexico | Winter | The highest volcanic summit, various activities like hiking and mountaineering need safety-guided tours. | Varies |
| La Malinche | Tlaxcala and Puebla states | Cool winters | The sixth highest peak, climb preparation for higher peaks, tour operator-guided due to safety concerns. | Varies |
| Popocatépetl | Near Mexico City | Winter | An active volcano, a wide crater, check the weather and volcanic activity before visiting, guided tours are recommended for safety. | Varies |
| Real de Catorce | San Luis Potosi | Winter months | Ghost town at altitude, heavy snowfall, winter sports like skiing and snowboarding. | Varies |
| Valle de Bravo | Pine forest town | Winter | Regular snowfall is ideal for winter sports like skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating. | Varies |
| Sierra Madre Mtns | Stretching across Mexico | Winter months | Various ski resorts, Pico de Orizaba, activities like hiking, skiing, and snowboarding. | Varies |
Winter in Mexico
Mexico’s pretty cool because we get all four seasons, but sometimes fall and spring are like the in-between times, hanging between high and low weather vibes. When it’s winter in Mexico, it happens at the same time everywhere—from December to February.
But the temperatures and climates vary depending on where you are. The average daily high temperature remains below 40°F (4°C) during this time. The coldest month in Mexico is January. In January, you can expect an average low temperature of 17°F (-8°C) and a high temperature of 31°F (-1°C). In some spots, you might even catch a glimpse of snow! But not every place gets it—just certain spots where it gets chilly enough for those snowflakes to appear.
Why Does it snow in Mexico?
Snow in Mexico happens in certain places because those places are high up and get cold. Like some parts in the north or the mountains, these areas have temperatures just right for snow to form. It’s like when you mix really cold air with a bit of moisture in the air, and that’s when snowflakes start falling. So, it’s not all over Mexico, just in specific places that are up high and chilly, especially during winter.
Ski Resorts in Mexico
In Mexico, skiing is popular, especially in the central and northern parts of the country. Two famous places offer skiing, and they’re both high, at 2,722 meters.
At Bosques de Monterreal, you can stay in these cozy cabins that look like they’re from Switzerland—they even have hot tubs for that extra cozy vibe. The Toluca Volcano is another spot where folks hike and ski on its snowy slopes for thrilling fun. Then there’s Pico de Orizaba, Mexico’s tallest mountain, where you’ll find tough ski slopes for adventurers looking for a challenge.
Conclusion
Mexico is a country of incredible contrasts. From its stunning beaches and warm climates to high peaks and snowy mountains, it offers a little bit of everything. Whether seeking sunny relaxation or thrilling snowy adventures, Mexico has surprises waiting at every turn. Its diverse landscapes, vibrant culture, and variety of experiences make it a remarkable destination for anyone looking for an unforgettable and diverse travel experience.
