2026 Climate Averages

Weather: Oaxaca — May

Conditions are pleasant for sightseeing, though you might encounter occasional showers.

👍 Climate Overview

May is a good time to visit Oaxaca. Hot conditions with temperatures reaching 31°C—stay hydrated and seek shade. Temperatures vary significantly between day and night—layering is recommended. Being off-peak, you'll find better deals and fewer crowds.

8.2
GoTripzi Score Great

Based on weather comfort, crowds, prices, and activity options

Avg High

31°C

Avg Low

16°C

Rainy days

7days

Daylight

12.9h

Feels like 33°C / 17°C — humidity makes it feel warmer

Rainfall

49mm

Sunshine

11.2h/day

Humidity

61%

Moderate
Sun Strength

9.8

Very High
Wind

12 km/h (gusts 33)

Is May a good time to visit Oaxaca?

Conditions are pleasant for sightseeing, though you might encounter occasional showers.

Now

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Feels like --
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Local time —

Air Quality

Travel Context

  • Crowds
    Quiet
  • Travel Costs Value Rates

Daylight

Sunrise

05:57

Sunset

18:52

12.9h daylight

Visiting Oaxaca in May: Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Abundant sunshine for beach and outdoor fun
  • Fewer crowds and better hotel deals

Cons

  • Very high UV — sunscreen and shade essential

Things to Do in May

Recommended for This Weather

🌅 Early morning sightseeing (before the heat)
🥾 Hiking & nature trails
🍜 Food tours & culinary experiences
🎭 Cultural tours & local experiences

Oaxaca Weather by Month

Month Avg High Avg Low Rain Sunshine Humidity UV Index Crowds Condition
Jan 27°C 12°C 1d (5mm) 10.2h
63% Moderate
7.5 Very High
Excellent
Feb 29°C 12°C 1d (3mm) 10.6h
58% Moderate
8.8 Very High
Excellent
Mar 31°C 14°C 2d (6mm) 11h
56% Moderate
10.2 Extreme
Excellent
Apr 32°C 15°C 2d (9mm) 11.4h
55% Moderate
10.4 Extreme
Good
May Current 31°C 16°C 7d (49mm) 11.2h
61% Moderate
9.8 Very High
Good
Jun 28°C 17°C 17d (205mm) 9.1h
73% Humid
7.9 Very High
Wet
Jul 27°C 16°C 14d (100mm) 10.3h
74% Humid
8.6 Very High
Wet
Aug 28°C 16°C 16d (132mm) 9.6h
74% Humid
8 Very High
Wet
Sep 27°C 16°C 20d (201mm) 8.7h
77% Humid
7.1 Very High
Wet
Oct 27°C 15°C 8d (61mm) 9.5h
71% Humid
7.3 Very High
Excellent
Nov 28°C 14°C 1d (9mm) 10.1h
64% Moderate
7.4 Very High
Excellent
Dec 27°C 12°C 0d (1mm) 10h
62% Moderate
7 High
Excellent

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Your Best MonthJulScore: 9
1.Jul
92.Jun
8.53.Aug
8.54.May
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86.Apr
7.47.Jan
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5.610.Oct
5.611.Nov
5.612.Dec
5.6

Where to Stay

See hotels, apartments & rentals around Oaxaca – live prices from Booking.com, Expedia, Vrbo and more

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Oaxaca

Mezcal with Zócalo square and Monte Albán ruins, mole, Monte Albán ruins, and vibrant indigenous markets.

View Full Destination Guide

What to Pack for May

Light, breathable fabrics like cotton and linen are essential. Opt for loose-fitting clothing in light colors to stay cool. Temperatures drop significantly at night, so pack layers you can add or remove throughout the day. Pack a compact umbrella or light rain jacket for occasional showers. Don't forget a wide-brimmed hat and high-SPF sunscreen — the sun is strong.

Warm Quiet

🎒Personalized Packing List

Tell us about your trip and we'll create a custom packing list based on the weather.

Your Packing List

📋Essentials
👕Clothing
👟Footwear
🎒Accessories
🧴Toiletries & Health

Planning a trip to Oaxaca?

💰 Off-peak — great deals available now

Frequently Asked Questions

Is May a good time to visit Oaxaca?
May is typically good for visiting Oaxaca, with average highs of 31°C and around 7 rainy days. Plan your activities accordingly—outdoor sightseeing is best on dry days, while rainy days are perfect for museums and indoor attractions.
Does it get cold at night in Oaxaca in May?
Evenings in Oaxaca during May are mild at 16°C. A light cardigan or long sleeves for evenings is usually enough. Outdoor dining remains comfortable, making it a great time to enjoy rooftop bars and terrace restaurants.
What should I pack for Oaxaca in May?
With highs of 31°C and lows of 16°C in May, we recommend: Compact umbrella, Lightweight breathable clothes, Sunscreen SPF 30+, Sun hat. Layering is key as temperatures can vary between air-conditioned interiors and outdoors. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for cobblestone streets.
Does it rain a lot in Oaxaca in May?
Oaxaca typically sees around 7 rainy days in May. Rain is usually in the form of brief showers rather than all-day downpours, so a compact umbrella is sufficient. Mornings tend to be drier, making them ideal for outdoor sightseeing.
How many hours of daylight are there in Oaxaca in May?
In May, Oaxaca gets approximately 12.9 hours of daylight per day. This affects how much sightseeing you can fit in—longer days mean more time for outdoor activities, while shorter days are perfect for cozy museum visits and early dinners.
Is May peak season in Oaxaca?
No, May is not peak season in Oaxaca. Expect better value on accommodation, shorter queues at attractions, and fewer tourists at popular spots. This is an excellent time to experience the city like a local and enjoy a more authentic atmosphere.

Weather Data: Based on 2020–2025 historical climate data from Open-Meteo

Solar calculations: SunCalc (timezone: America/Mexico_City)

Last Updated: February 2026

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