Mexico City in January: Weather, Activities, & What to Pack

Wondering if Mexico City in January is the perfect time for a visit?

From mild weather to fewer crowds, January offers a unique charm that makes it a great time to explore this incredible city. 

While the holiday festivities may have passed, January brings its own magic, like the chance to witness the monarch butterfly migration just a few hours outside the city.

I’ll share everything you need to know about visiting Mexico City in January, from the weather and what to wear to unique seasonal activities. 

Having lived here full-time since 2018, I’ve experienced my fair share of Januarys and know exactly what to expect. 

I’ll help you plan your trip and make the most of this peaceful time of year in one of the world’s largest cities.

Weather in Mexico City in January

January is considered winter in Mexico City, and while it does get chilly, for those of you visiting from farther North, it’s likely a balmy escape. 

Nights and mornings can get surprisingly cold, but in the afternoons, it’s pleasantly warm.

There’s no shortage of sunshine in January either, but the weather does vary year to year. 

For example, last winter was actually pretty warm for January. I didnt’ find myself getting chilled at night like I did the year before. 

Overall, the weather in Mexico City in January is perfect for exploring because it’s not too hot (like in the spring), it gets a little cold at night but you won’t need more than a sweater and a jacket, and there is little to no rain like you would get in July and August.

Average Temperatures in Mexico City in January

Mexico City is a high-elevation city surrounded by mountains – 7,349ft high, to be exact (2,240m).

That means the temperatures drastically change between night and day, especially during colder months like January. 

Nighttime and early morning, expect temperatures in the low 40’s Fahrenheit (4ºC). But during the day it usually warms up to 72ºF (22ºC) with plenty of sunshine.

Since temperatures are literally night and day, dressing in layers is crucial for staying comfortable and keeping up with the fluctuating temperatures. 

Average High: 72ºF (22ºC) Average Low: 41ºF (5ºC)

Average Rainfall in Mexico City in January

The weather in January is often a bit of an anomaly. 

Winter is the dry season in Mexico City, and since January is smack-dab in the middle of winter, you wouldn’t expect to see any rain. 

However, there is a well-known phenomenon during the first two weeks of January that Mexicans call Las Cabañuelas. 

Usually, it rains at least once during the first couple weeks of the year and Las Cabañuelas says that whatever day it rains will be the month the rainy season starts. 

So for example, if it rains on the 5th of January, the rainy season will begin in May that year.

This past January was exceptional and we saw several rainy afternoons and nights. 

We got rain as late as the 15th of January (which goes beyond Las Cabañuelas‘ predictive powers) but the rain is welcomed all the same during this dry time of year. 

Even though it might rain in an afternoon or two, it’s nothing compared to the rainy season months.

Don’t bother packing an umbrella or a raincoat. The showers usually aren’t very heavy or last very long.

Average Sunshine in Mexico City in January

January is one of the sunniest months in Mexico City. If you’re looking to escape a grey winter and get some Vitamin D, you’re in the right place.

Even though it’s winter, the sun can still be pretty strong so bring a hat and sunglasses if you don’t want to be squinting all day. 

Pollution in Mexico City in January

Pollution starts to pick up in the winter and reaches an all-time high in the spring before rainy season starts.

New Year’s Day has some of the worst air quality of the year because of all the fireworks and bonfires from the New Year’s Eve celebrations the night before. 

Pair that with Mexico City’s low-lying position surrounded by mountains and very little wind, and the smog stays trapped in the city. 

This was the case last year. When I left my apartment in Roma Norte to walk Colima, the streets were visibly hazy and the air smelled like smoke. 

But then that same January, a week after New Year’s, we got several days of rain, lots of wind, and had some of the best air quality in a long time, it just depends on the day and what the weather is up to.

Those few days, the air was so clean that we could see the mountains surrounding Mexico City, including spectacular views of the snow-capped Iztaccihuatl mountain and Popocatéptl volcano.

I could not get over how beautiful, clear, and close they appeared! It’s a shame that we can only get glimpses of them a few times a year. 

What to Wear in Mexico City in January

January has some of the lowest temperatures of the year, but they don’t drop until after dark.

During the day, you’ll be comfortable in short sleeves and jeans or even shorts, dresses, or a skirt.

But for late nights and early mornings, you’ll need a different wardrobe like sweaters, long pants, and a jacket. 

It also depends on the year how cold it gets, but regardless, bring at least a sweater or two and a jacket for bar hopping in Roma Norte or early morning excursions like flying in a hot air balloon over Teotihuacán. 

The key to dressing comfortably in Mexico City is to wear layers.

When choosing outfits, the more modest, the better. I wouldn’t wear super short shorts, dresses, or skirts unless you wear stockings underneath. 

Jacket – A jacket is a must for January. It’s up to you to decide how warm of a jacket you need depending on how warm/cold-natured you are. Most nights I’m ok with a fleece but there are some occasions when it’s exceptionally cold or we’re out late or up really early (like for the hot air balloons) that I need my warmer puffer jacket.

Sweaters/ Long-Sleeves – Winter in Mexico City is definitely sweater weather once the sun goes down. Some nights all I need is a sweater and can go without a jacket, but it just depends on how late we’re out. Pack at least a couple of sweaters and long-sleeves though. 

Jeans/Pants – I basically live in jeans 90% of the time in Mexico City. You could get by in shorts during the day, but at night you’ll want long pants to keep you warm. 
Short-Sleeve Tops – While you’ll need sweaters and long-sleeves at night, short-sleeve tops are more comfortable during the day since it’s almost always plenty warm when the sun is out. 

Warm Loungewear – Because the temperatures drop drastically at night and most apartments and small B&Bs don’t have central heating or air, bring cozy loungewear to stay warm in your accommodation. It depends on the building, but if your building is anything like ours, it might not get much direct sunlight during the day so it’ll be chilly inside. Our apartment is usually around 67ºF during winter, which is perfect for sleeping but a little cold for lounging around. 

Dresses/Skirts – You would be totally fine not wearing dresses or skirts in January, but if you are a dress-lover you would also be comfortable wearing them this time of year. During the day it’s warm enough, but at night you need to pair them with stockings to keep your legs warm. 

Hats & Sunglasses – January is one of the sunniest months. Whenever I walk my dog at midday and forget to bring a hat or sunglasses I squint the whole time so bring sun protection. 

Mexican Holidays in January

New Year’s Day

People have the day off and are at home nursing a hangover from the night before. Most restaurants are closed on New Year’s Day but you can still find a few options like taquerías. 

Last year, I met some friends at one of our favorite taco spots in Roma Norte for dinner on New Year’s Day. Almost every taquería I passed on my way to Tacos Atarantados had a small line since most other restaurants were closed.   

Regular tourist attractions like Teotihuacán and museums are mostly open on January 1st so you shouldn’t struggle to find things to do. 

Día de los Reyes Magos – January 7th

For many Mexican children, Día de los Reyes Magos (Three Kings Day) is even more exciting than Christmas. 

It varies from family to family, but for many, this is the holiday children receive holiday gifts instead of (or in addition to) Christmas.

This is also the day where families eat a sweet bread called La Rosca de Reyes. Hidden inside is a small plastic baby. Whoever gets a slice with a baby Jesus has to host a party and make tamales on February 2nd. 

By January 7th, most places have returned to their normal hours, and this holiday officially marks the end of the Christmas season in Mexico City.

What to do in January in Mexico City

Unlike December, you won’t need to worry about holiday closures if visiting Mexico City in January.

Restaurants, shops, and tourist sites will be operating as normal starting January 2nd.

The weather is comfortable during the day to be outside exploring without worrying about potential downpours, but nights can get chilly so indoor activities are better saved for later in the day. 

1. Experience the Monarch Migration

January is peak monarch season in Mexico. 

Although you’ll have to venture a couple of hours outside of Mexico City to see the butterflies, it’s 100% worth it!

My mom and I did this trip back in 2018 and it was one of the coolest adventures of my life!

We drove to one of the lesser-visited sanctuaries in Macheros, Michoacan, and rode horseback up the mountain until we reached an open field with thousands of butterflies flying about.

2. Watch a Lucha Libre Fight

If you want to escape the chilly nights sitting outside at a bar but still want to have a fun night out then check out a Lucha Libre fight. 

The fights are way more fun to watch in a group so if you’re traveling solo or with a partner, I’d recommend joining a tour. 

You’ll get to meet people from around the world, share a few drinks with them before or after the fight, and have a local guide to show you around, get your tickets, and give you a local’s perspective of this super-Mexican sport. 

3. Take a Market Tour & Cooking Class

If you love Mexican food, there is no better way to immerse yourself in Mexican cuisine than exploring the local markets and cooking Mexican specialties from scratch. 

It’s one of the most immersive experiences you can have in the city. 

Join a small group of fellow foodies and follow your local cook/guide as you hand-pick fresh ingredients from the market to cook Mexican favorites in their kitchen. 

Final Thoughts: Why January is a Great Time to Visit Mexico City

Mexico City in January offers a unique blend of mild weather and unforgettable experiences that make it a perfect winter escape, without the usual tourist crowds. 

Whether you’re soaking up the sunshine, exploring the history of the city, or venturing out to see the awe-inspiring monarch butterfly migration, this time of year is definitely worth a visit.