Cancun Weather in January

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How is Cancun Weather in January? - Complete Guide and Travel Tips

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Cancun in January: Weather Info & Travel Tips for 2023

What is the Best Time to Visit Cancun?

If you’re considering visiting Cancun, Mexico, in January and want to know what life here is like, then this article is for you! I live close by and will provide all the information about having a perfect vacation in Cancun in January. 

From weather conditions to fun activities – everything has been covered right here. Let’s get started with planning the best trip of your life!

Weather in Cancun in January?

Generally speaking, January brings sunny and warm days with slightly decreased humidity levels, thus making it one of the best months to visit Cancun. It’s rare to see temperatures exceed the mid-30 (*C) mark. 

Average Temperatures in Cancun in January

Average Temperature in Cancun
Average Temperature in Cancun (courtesy of WeatherAtlas.com)
  • Average high temp in January: 78°F (26°C)
  • Average low temp in January: 72°F (22.1°C)
  • Hottest months in Cancun Mexico: May-October
  • Coldest months in Cancun Mexico: December – March, the “winter months”

Visiting Cancun during January provides you the ideal climate for a perfect getaway: days that are warm, but not too hot at 71-75°F (22-24°C), and cooler evenings with temperatures averaging 68-72 °F (20-22 °C). Not to mention, humidity is also much lower in comparison to daytime.


Also check our guides on:

– Cancun in January                       – Cancun in July              

Cancun in February                     – Cancun in August

Cancun in March                          – Cancun in September

Cancun in April                             – Cancun in October

Cancun in May                              – Cancun in November

Cancun in June                             – Cancun in December


Read also our guide on What to Pack for Cancun?

Does it rain in Cancun in January?

Average Rainfall in Cancun
Average Rainfall in Cancun (courtesy of WeatherAtlas.com)
  • Average rainfall in January: 67 mm
  • How many days does it rain in January: 19.7 days

January is the sixth-most rainiest month of Cancun, Mexico. However, don’t let that dissuade you from visiting because it’s rare for rainfall to last more than an hour. So, you would be out and about in no time. 

Does it rain all day in Cancun in January?

Average Days of Rain in Cancun
Average Days of Rain in Cancun (courtesy of WeatherAtlas.com)

Tropical storms only generally last a few moments, so there’s no need to be concerned. In fact, most people find the brief showers quite enjoyable. After the storm, temperature levels and humidity become more bearable, making rain in Cancun unexpectedly pleasant.

Best Things to Do in Cancun When it Rains

When the Cancun rain starts falling, there are still a variety of indoor activities to choose from. La Isla Shopping Village is an ideal spot for shopping, with its movie theater and restaurants nearby. 

If you’re looking for musical fun, visit Forum By The Sea, where you can find the renowned Hard Rock Cafe. Those interested in learning about local culture should venture over to Museo Maya de Cancun – one of the best museums in Cancun! 

There’s also the Cancun Wax Museum, Ripleys Believe it Or Not!, and Cancun Vintage Car Museum.

Is it hot in Cancun in January?

Average Daylights and Sunshine in Cancun
Average Daylights and Sunshine in Cancun (courtesy of WeatherAtlas.com)

If you are about to embark on a journey to Cancun, you may be wondering if it’s hot or cold in January. The answer is unequivocally hot! 

Weather averages show that the climate of Cancun ranges from warm and balmy all year round, with some cooler days between December and March

Experience the unending sunshine of this Mexican paradise! To beat the heat, take a break indoors during peak hours (11 am – 2 pm) and enjoy some cool air conditioning. Or plan water activities like snorkeling at MUSA or swimming in the Cancun cenotes for an exciting way to stay refreshed.

Are you unsure if Cancun’s sweltering heat in January suits your travel plans? Although it all depends on an individual’s preference and tolerance to warm temperatures, there are certain advantages to visiting Cancun in January. 

Even though these months can be hot, they also offer clear skies, plenty of sunshine, and pleasant weather that balances the warmth. That being said, January and February remain some of the best times to visit due to their milder climate than other months throughout the year!

Average Humidity in Cancun in January

Average Humidity in Cancun
Average Humidity in Cancun (courtesy of WeatherAtlas.com)
  • Average humidity in Cancun in January: Between 70% and 80%

Since it’s located in the Caribbean, humidity is inevitable. That said, since dense forests surround the city, you could expect an ample amount of breeze to bring down the humidity levels. 

Which month has the worst weather in Cancun? 

Instead of asking when is the best time to visit Cancun, you should wonder when it’s least desirable. Thankfully, this isn’t January! 

The scorching months in Cancun are May through September, notoriously heating up, with May being the warmest on Yucatan Peninsula. Even those who live in Cancun look to these days with dread. 

Are there hurricanes in Cancun in January?

Average Wind Speed Cancun
Average Wind Speed Cancun (courtesy of WeatherAtlas.com)
  • Average wind speed in Cancun in January: 10.9 mph (17.6 km/h)
  • Windiest month in Cancun, Mexico: March

The Atlantic Hurricane Season ends on November 30, so you can relax during the month of January. Plus, hurricanes are rare in this area – there have been only two over the past thirty years! 

These include Hurricane Gilbert (September 5, 1988) and Hurricane Wilma (October 21, 2005). So, while rain storms or cloud cover may occur year-round while visiting Cancun, it’s not likely to be a hurricane.

When is Hurricane Season in Cancun?

The Atlantic Hurricane Season occurs between June 1 and November 30. That said, historical data and trends indicate that the August-October months have the highest probability of seeing storms. 

When is Mexico’s hurricane season? 

From June 1 to November 30, the same forecast holds for all countries and cities—meaning there is no designated Cancun Hurricane Season.

Is Cancun safe during hurricane season?

Generally, Cancun is unlikely to experience catastrophic destruction due to a hurricane. Storms of this magnitude are vast and rarely make landfall directly on the city. Typically, only areas close to its core—known as the eye—are subject to serious devastation; given Cancun’s distance from these regions, there’s less need for alarm.

How warm is the water in Cancun in January?

Average Sea Temperature in Cancun
Average Sea Temperature in Cancun (courtesy of WeatherAtlas.com)
  • Average water temperature in Cancun in January: 78°F (25.6°C)

Ready to dive into the warm waters of Cancun in January? With temperatures consistently ranging from 77°F (25°C) to 84°F (29°C), you can swim, snorkel and go scuba diving with ease. 

Best Tours in Cancun in January

If those warm water temperatures sound enticing, you’ll want to book some Cancun tours to take advantage of everything this Mexico beach town has to offer. 

Make sure to book the below-mentioned tours in Cancun ASAP: 

Things Do to in Cancun in January

Cancun Weather in January - Chichen Itza Mayan Pyramid in Mexico
Cancun Weather in January – Chichen Itza Mayan Pyramid in Mexico

Visit Chichen Itza Mayan Ruins

Despite being located 2.5 hours away from Cancun (one way), many travelers gladly trade their day off to witness this timeless landmark in all its glory. And who can blame them – nobody would want to miss out on the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity of seeing one of the Seven Wonders of the World. 

You can explore Chichen Itza from Cancun by: 

  • Rental car
  • Guided tour
  • ADO bus

Though the ADO bus is by far the most economical option, be aware that it will add another two to three hours round-trip to your travel time. 

I highly recommend booking a knowledgeable guide; having one ensures you’ll get the insight and perspective needed in order to truly comprehend what this magnificent place has to offer!

Bets Cancun to Chichen Itza Tours

If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience in Cancun, book this incredible guided tour ! 

Additionally, if you desire luxury or private tours for your journey, there are options available too. Don’t miss out on this rare opportunity!

Best Cancun to Mayan Ruins Tour

If you’re looking for a Mayan experience but don’t have the time or energy to devote an entire day, why not visit one of Cancun’s other ancient ruins instead? 

While they may not be as awe-inspiring as Chichen Itza, El Rey Ruins, Yamil Lu’um Ruins, El Meco Ruins, and San Miguelito at the Cancun Museum are all located much closer than their more famous counterpart.

Cancun Weather in January - Cancun Beaches
Cancun Weather in January – Cancun Beaches

Unwind on Cancun Beaches

Set among some of the most amazing resorts, including the Hard Rock Hotel Cancun, is Playa Delfines Beach – one of Mexico’s best beaches. 

Unbeatable by any other beach in Cancun, visitors from all over can’t help but marvel at its beauty while soaking up that bright blue Caribbean Sea

Don’t miss out on these stunning visitor favorites: Playa Delfines, Playa Mujeres, Playa Chacmool, Playa Langosta, Playa Marlín, and Play Punta Nizuc, which boast incredible views given their proximity to each other!

Cancun Weather in January - Isla Mujeres - El Garrafon Park
Isla Mujeres – El Garrafon Park

Cancun to Isla Mujeres Day Trip

Escape to paradise with a quick ferry ride from Cancun to Isla Mujeres, Mexico – an oasis in the Mexican Caribbean. Are you passionate about islands? You should also explore Isla Contoy –a world-renowned Mexico National Park!

Xcaret Park

Whether you want to soar across the jungle canopy at Xcaret Park, witness the renowned nighttime dance show, or partake in water sports, XCARET Water Park has you covered.  

Rather than relying on swimming pools as a source of entertainment, this water park uses its exquisite natural environment to provide an unforgettable experience.

Best things to do in Cancun : Cenote Suytun
Best things to do in Cancun : Cenote Suytun

Swim in a Cenotes near Cancun

If you’re looking for the ultimate vacation experience, Xcaret Waterpark in Cancun is the place to be! Whether it’s splashing around in a river or diving into an ancient sinkhole – known as cenotes – there are plenty of activities available. 

With 6,000 cenotes located beneath the Yucatan Peninsula and some of them being outside Cancun itself, visitors can explore what Sac Actun (the longest underground river on Earth) has to offer. 

Experience swimming in one-of-a-kind freshwater sceneries that will make your trip unforgettable! Located just a short drive from Puerto Morelos on Highway 307 lies the stunning Route de Cenotes: home to 4 awe-inspiring cenotes; Sol y Luna, Verde Lucero, Zapote, and La Noria.

Laguna Nichupte, Cancun Lagoon

While the Mexican beach town of Cancun is well-known, there’s more than meets the eye. Across from its beaches lies Nichupte Lagoon, a lush natural area boasting 7,400 acres and seven tranquil lakes. This makes it ideal for aquatic activities such as snorkeling, swimming, and water sports. 

Plus, if you’re looking to swim with whale sharks in Cancun – the perfect time for this experience falls between May 17 and September 17!

Best Day Trips from Cancun

With a rented car, you’ll have many choices for Cancun day trips. Drive only 60 minutes south and experience the beauty of Playa del Carmen with Riviera Maya as your backdrop. Venture another hour further, and you’ll end up at Tulum. 

Don’t forget about Valladolid and Izamal, too—their pueblos magicos are worth seeing too. 

Holidays & Festivals in Cancun in January

On New Year’s Day, Cancun beachfront tends to be especially tranquil in the early morning hours.

Fireworks New years's Eve at Cancun

New Year’s in Cancun

After New Year’s Eve celebrations, Cancun is generally tranquil on January 1. While certain places like banks and public offices will be closed for the day, eateries and stores will stay open.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to ring in the New Year with a bang at some of Cancun’s hottest clubs! Get your tickets ahead for Coco Bongo, Mandala Cancún, The City Nightclub Cancun, and La Vaquita Cancun. All these clubs will provide you with unforgettable beachfront fireworks shows followed by all-night dance parties. 

Mayan Village Show at Xcaret Park

Don’t miss the incredible Mayan Village Show held at Xcaret Waterpark in January! This is one of Cancun’s greatest events celebrating and honoring Mayan culture and heritage. 

During this remarkable show, you will witness a retelling of the discovery of fire within an authentic jungle village setting – making it perfect for families with kids or adults who are passionate about history. 

You won’t find another opportunity like this to be fully immersed in both ancient Mayan civilization as well as Mexican culture. Make sure not to miss out on such an amazing experience!

Dia De Los Reyes Magos (Three Kings Day) 

On January 6, Epiphany – also referred to as Día de Reyes (Three Kings Day) or Día de los Tres Reyes Magos (Day of the Three Wise Men) – is celebrated in Mexico. 

This noteworthy Catholic holiday commemorates the journey of the Three Wise Men who traveled from afar and arrived at Bethlehem with precious gifts for Baby Jesus. 

To honor this gesture, Mexican children do not open their presents on Christmas day but wait until they receive them, as Jesus did over 2 millennia ago. 

Cancun in January: FAQs

Is Cancun safe to travel to?

Generally speaking, Cancun is a safe place to visit if you are just taking in the sights and sounds. That said, it’s important to remember that, as with any tourist destination, there can be issues related to petty theft or other crimes. 

For those traveling alone, we highly recommend checking out our article Is Cancun Safe Now – Guide? which offers additional tips on how best to plan your trip for an enjoyable and safe experience.

Where is Cancun, Mexico?

If you’re wondering, “What state is Cancun in?” be aware that it lies within the boundaries of Quintana Roo State. This Mexican region, along with Yucatan and Campeche States, comprises the Yucatan Peninsula. 

Out of these three states, Quintana Roo sees the most tourism activity. Long and narrow in shape like a strip across Mexico’s Caribbean coastlines, this portion of Yucatan is sometimes called the ‘Mexican Caribbean’ – home to many renowned beach destinations such as Cancun.