Palenque Weather by Month
Palenque, located in the tropical rainforest region of Chiapas, Mexico, has a warm and humid climate throughout the year. Temperatures remain relatively high in every season, with average daytime highs ranging from 82°F (28°C) in December and January to 95°F (35°C) in May. Nighttime temperatures are also warm, generally ranging from 64°F (18°C) to 72°F (22°C).
Rainfall varies considerably throughout the year. March and April are among the driest months, while June through October brings frequent heavy rain, with September typically being the wettest month. Daylight ranges from approximately 11 hours in winter to 13 hours in late spring and summer.
Palenque is an excellent destination for exploring ancient Mayan ruins, tropical rainforests, waterfalls, and natural landscapes. The most comfortable months for outdoor sightseeing are generally December through April, when rainfall is lower and temperatures are relatively pleasant.
Palenque Weather by Month
You can click the image below to view the full-size weather chart for Palenque.
January – Warm, Humid and Moderately Wet
- Average high: 82°F (28°C)
- Average low: 64°F (18°C)
- Rainfall: 6.39 inches (162.2 mm)
- Daylight: 11 hours
January is one of the coolest months in Palenque, but winter weather remains warm and tropical. Average daytime temperatures reach around 82°F (28°C), while nighttime temperatures fall to approximately 64°F (18°C). The comfortable afternoons are ideal for exploring the ancient Mayan ruins of Palenque and walking through the surrounding rainforest.
Rainfall averages about 6.39 inches (162.2 mm), so occasional wet days are possible. Although January is not completely dry, it generally offers more comfortable conditions for outdoor sightseeing than the summer rainy season. A light jacket may be useful during cooler mornings and evenings.
Best for:
- Exploring the Palenque archaeological zone
- Walking through tropical rainforest trails
- Visiting nearby waterfalls
- Enjoying comfortable outdoor sightseeing
February – Warm, Humid and Relatively Dry
- Average high: 86°F (30°C)
- Average low: 64°F (18°C)
- Rainfall: 4.08 inches (103.7 mm)
- Daylight: 11.5 hours
February brings slightly warmer weather to Palenque, with average daytime temperatures reaching 86°F (30°C) and nighttime temperatures remaining around 64°F (18°C). The combination of warm afternoons and relatively comfortable evenings makes this a pleasant month for exploring the region.
Rainfall decreases to approximately 4.08 inches (103.7 mm), making February one of the drier months of the year. The relatively limited rainfall creates good conditions for visiting archaeological sites, exploring rainforest trails, and taking excursions to nearby natural attractions. With 11.5 hours of daylight, visitors have plenty of time to enjoy outdoor activities.
Best for:
- Visiting the Palenque Mayan ruins
- Exploring rainforest walking trails
- Photographing ancient temples
- Enjoying waterfall excursions
March – Hot, Humid and Relatively Dry
- Average high: 90°F (32°C)
- Average low: 66°F (19°C)
- Rainfall: 3.27 inches (83 mm)
- Daylight: 12 hours
March marks the beginning of hotter weather in Palenque. Average daytime temperatures rise to approximately 90°F (32°C), while nighttime temperatures average 66°F (19°C). The warm conditions make early mornings particularly suitable for visiting the archaeological site before the strongest afternoon heat arrives.
Rainfall averages just 3.27 inches (83 mm), making March one of the driest months in Palenque. The relatively dry weather is ideal for exploring ancient temples, walking through the surrounding jungle, and enjoying outdoor excursions. Daylight increases to approximately 12 hours, giving visitors more time to explore the region.
Best for:
- Exploring archaeological sites early in the morning
- Visiting nearby waterfalls
- Taking rainforest photography tours
- Enjoying outdoor adventures in relatively dry weather
April – Hot, Humid and Relatively Dry
- Average high: 93°F (34°C)
- Average low: 70°F (21°C)
- Rainfall: 2.59 inches (65.7 mm)
- Daylight: 12.5 hours
April is one of the hottest and driest months in Palenque. Average daytime temperatures reach approximately 93°F (34°C), while nighttime temperatures average 70°F (21°C). The combination of high temperatures and tropical humidity can make afternoons feel particularly hot, so visitors should plan outdoor activities for the morning whenever possible.
Rainfall drops to approximately 2.59 inches (65.7 mm), making April the driest month of the year. These relatively dry conditions are excellent for exploring the archaeological ruins and surrounding natural attractions. With 12.5 hours of daylight, there is plenty of time for sightseeing and outdoor adventures.
Best for:
- Visiting the Palenque archaeological zone early
- Exploring nearby waterfalls and rainforest trails
- Enjoying relatively dry weather
- Taking guided jungle excursions
May – Very Hot, Humid and Increasingly Wet
- Average high: 95°F (35°C)
- Average low: 72°F (22°C)
- Rainfall: 4.46 inches (113.4 mm)
- Daylight: 13 hours
May is typically the hottest month in Palenque, with average daytime temperatures reaching around 95°F (35°C). Nighttime temperatures remain warm at approximately 72°F (22°C), making evenings feel tropical and humid. The intense afternoon heat can make extended outdoor activities challenging, so early morning visits are recommended.
Rainfall increases to approximately 4.46 inches (113.4 mm), signaling the transition toward the wetter summer season. Although May is not yet as rainy as the following months, occasional afternoon showers are possible. With approximately 13 hours of daylight, visitors have plenty of time to explore the archaeological ruins and surrounding rainforest.
Best for:
- Exploring archaeological ruins in the morning
- Visiting rainforest attractions
- Enjoying long daylight hours
- Taking nature photography tours
June – Hot, Humid and Very Wet
- Average high: 93°F (34°C)
- Average low: 72°F (22°C)
- Rainfall: 13.11 inches (333.1 mm)
- Daylight: 13 hours
June remains hot in Palenque, with average daytime temperatures reaching approximately 93°F (34°C) and nighttime temperatures around 72°F (22°C). High humidity combined with warm temperatures can make the weather feel particularly uncomfortable during the afternoon.
Rainfall increases dramatically to approximately 13.11 inches (333.1 mm), making June one of the wettest months of the year. Heavy showers and thunderstorms are common, particularly later in the day. The surrounding rainforest becomes especially lush and green during this period. Despite frequent rain, approximately 13 hours of daylight provide opportunities for sightseeing between showers.
Best for:
- Exploring lush tropical rainforest landscapes
- Photographing tropical vegetation
- Visiting archaeological sites during dry periods
- Experiencing the region’s rainy-season scenery
July – Warm, Humid and Very Wet
- Average high: 91°F (33°C)
- Average low: 70°F (21°C)
- Rainfall: 7.37 inches (187.2 mm)
- Daylight: 13 hours
July brings slightly cooler daytime temperatures compared with May and June, although the weather remains hot and humid. Average highs reach approximately 91°F (33°C), while nighttime temperatures fall to around 70°F (21°C). The tropical rainforest remains particularly green during this period.
Rainfall averages approximately 7.37 inches (187.2 mm), meaning frequent showers are still expected. Visitors should bring waterproof clothing and plan outdoor activities flexibly. With approximately 13 hours of daylight, there are still good opportunities to explore the archaeological ruins and surrounding natural attractions when the weather cooperates.
Best for:
- Exploring the lush tropical rainforest
- Photographing waterfalls and jungle scenery
- Visiting archaeological attractions between showers
- Enjoying warm tropical weather
August – Warm, Humid and Very Wet
- Average high: 91°F (33°C)
- Average low: 70°F (21°C)
- Rainfall: 10.08 inches (256 mm)
- Daylight: 12.5 hours
August remains warm and humid in Palenque, with average daytime temperatures around 91°F (33°C) and nighttime temperatures near 70°F (21°C). The tropical climate creates excellent conditions for lush vegetation, although the combination of heat and humidity can make outdoor exploration tiring.
Rainfall increases to approximately 10.08 inches (256 mm), so visitors should prepare for frequent showers and potentially heavy rainfall. The surrounding jungle is vibrant and green, creating beautiful scenery for nature photography. Daylight averages approximately 12.5 hours, providing reasonable opportunities for sightseeing when the weather cooperates.
Best for:
- Exploring tropical rainforest scenery
- Photographing waterfalls and vegetation
- Visiting the archaeological zone early
- Experiencing Palenque’s lush rainy-season landscapes
September – Hot, Humid and Extremely Wet
- Average high: 91°F (33°C)
- Average low: 70°F (21°C)
- Rainfall: 15.80 inches (401.4 mm)
- Daylight: 12.5 hours
September is the wettest month in Palenque, with approximately 15.80 inches (401.4 mm) of rainfall. Average daytime temperatures remain around 91°F (33°C), while nighttime temperatures average 70°F (21°C). High humidity and frequent rain make the weather feel warm and tropical throughout the month.
The heavy rainfall can affect outdoor activities, particularly excursions to waterfalls and remote rainforest locations. Visitors should check local weather conditions before planning longer hikes or outdoor adventures. With approximately 12.5 hours of daylight, there is still time for sightseeing during favorable weather conditions.
Best for:
- Experiencing the rainforest at its greenest
- Photographing tropical landscapes
- Exploring cultural and archaeological attractions
- Enjoying quieter sightseeing opportunities
October – Warm, Humid and Extremely Wet
- Average high: 88°F (31°C)
- Average low: 70°F (21°C)
- Rainfall: 13.78 inches (350 mm)
- Daylight: 12 hours
October brings slightly cooler temperatures to Palenque, with average daytime highs around 88°F (31°C) and nighttime lows near 70°F (21°C). Although temperatures become more comfortable than during the hottest months, humidity remains high and the weather continues to feel tropical.
Rainfall averages approximately 13.78 inches (350 mm), making October another particularly wet month. Heavy showers can occur throughout the month, potentially affecting visits to waterfalls and outdoor attractions. Visitors should bring rain gear and allow flexibility in their itineraries. Daylight decreases to approximately 12 hours.
Best for:
- Exploring archaeological and cultural attractions
- Photographing rainforest scenery
- Enjoying warm tropical temperatures
- Taking outdoor excursions when rainfall permits
November – Warm, Humid and Moderately Wet
- Average high: 84°F (29°C)
- Average low: 68°F (20°C)
- Rainfall: 7.81 inches (198.5 mm)
- Daylight: 11.5 hours
November marks a gradual transition toward drier weather in Palenque. Average daytime temperatures reach approximately 84°F (29°C), while nighttime temperatures fall to around 68°F (20°C). The slightly cooler conditions make outdoor exploration more comfortable than during the hottest months.
Rainfall decreases to approximately 7.81 inches (198.5 mm), although occasional heavy showers remain possible. The surrounding rainforest continues to look lush after the rainy season, making this an attractive period for nature photography and sightseeing. With approximately 11.5 hours of daylight, visitors can enjoy archaeological sightseeing, rainforest walks, and waterfall excursions when weather conditions allow.
Best for:
- Exploring the Palenque archaeological ruins
- Enjoying comfortable outdoor temperatures
- Visiting nearby natural attractions
- Photographing the rainforest after rainfall
December – Warm, Humid and Moderately Wet
- Average high: 82°F (28°C)
- Average low: 66°F (19°C)
- Rainfall: 6.42 inches (163 mm)
- Daylight: 11 hours
December is one of the coolest months in Palenque, although the weather remains warm compared with many other destinations. Average daytime temperatures reach approximately 82°F (28°C), while nighttime temperatures fall to around 66°F (19°C). The comfortable daytime conditions make December a pleasant time to explore the ancient Mayan ruins and surrounding rainforest.
Rainfall averages approximately 6.42 inches (163 mm), so occasional showers should be expected. However, conditions are generally more favorable for outdoor sightseeing than during the peak rainy season. With approximately 11 hours of daylight, visitors have enough time to enjoy archaeological sites, nature walks, and other outdoor activities.
Best for:
- Exploring the Palenque archaeological zone
- Visiting nearby waterfalls and rainforest trails
- Enjoying comfortable tropical temperatures
- Taking rainforest and wildlife excursions
Palenque Weather by Month
| Month | Avg High °F (°C) | Avg Low °F (°C) | Rainfall (inches) | Daylight (hours) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 82°F (28°C) | 64°F (18°C) | 6.39 | 11 |
| February | 86°F (30°C) | 64°F (18°C) | 4.08 | 11.5 |
| March | 90°F (32°C) | 66°F (19°C) | 3.27 | 12 |
| April | 93°F (34°C) | 70°F (21°C) | 2.59 | 12.5 |
| May | 95°F (35°C) | 72°F (22°C) | 4.46 | 13 |
| June | 93°F (34°C) | 72°F (22°C) | 13.11 | 13 |
| July | 91°F (33°C) | 70°F (21°C) | 7.37 | 13 |
| August | 91°F (33°C) | 70°F (21°C) | 10.08 | 12.5 |
| September | 91°F (33°C) | 70°F (21°C) | 15.80 | 12.5 |
| October | 88°F (31°C) | 70°F (21°C) | 13.78 | 12 |
| November | 84°F (29°C) | 68°F (20°C) | 7.81 | 11.5 |
| December | 82°F (28°C) | 66°F (19°C) | 6.42 | 11 |
20 FAQs About Palenque Weather
1. What is the weather like in Palenque, Mexico?
Palenque has a tropical rainforest climate characterized by hot temperatures, high humidity, and abundant rainfall. Daytime temperatures generally range from 82°F to 95°F (28°C to 35°C), while nighttime temperatures usually stay between 64°F and 72°F (18°C to 22°C).
2. What is the best month to visit Palenque?
February, March, and April are among the best months to visit Palenque because they have relatively low rainfall and warm temperatures. These months are particularly suitable for exploring archaeological ruins, hiking, and visiting nearby waterfalls.
3. What is the hottest month in Palenque?
May is typically the hottest month in Palenque, with an average high temperature of approximately 95°F (35°C) and an average low of 72°F (22°C).
4. What is the coldest month in Palenque?
January and December are generally the coolest months. Average daytime highs are around 82°F (28°C), while nighttime temperatures can drop to approximately 64°F–66°F (18°C–19°C).
5. What is the rainiest month in Palenque?
September is typically the rainiest month, receiving approximately 15.80 inches (401.4 mm) of rainfall. June and October are also particularly wet months.
6. What is the driest month in Palenque?
April is the driest month, with approximately 2.59 inches (65.7 mm) of rainfall. March is another relatively dry month, receiving around 3.27 inches (83 mm).
7. Does it rain a lot in Palenque?
Yes. Palenque receives substantial rainfall because of its tropical rainforest climate. Rain is particularly frequent from June through October, while February through April generally offers drier conditions.
8. When is the rainy season in Palenque?
The rainy season generally runs from May through October, with the heaviest rainfall occurring between June and October. September is usually the wettest month.
9. When is the dry season in Palenque?
The relatively dry season typically occurs from February through April. Rainfall is lower during these months, making them popular for outdoor sightseeing and exploring the surrounding rainforest.
10. Is Palenque hot throughout the year?
Yes. Palenque stays warm throughout the year. Average daytime temperatures range from approximately 82°F (28°C) in winter to 95°F (35°C) in May. Even during the coolest months, temperatures remain comfortable for outdoor activities.
11. Is Palenque humid?
Yes. Palenque is generally very humid throughout the year because it is surrounded by tropical rainforest. Humidity combined with high temperatures can make afternoons feel hotter than the actual temperature.
12. Does Palenque get cold at night?
Palenque rarely gets genuinely cold at night. Temperatures generally range from 64°F to 72°F (18°C to 22°C). January and February tend to have cooler nights, so a light jacket may be useful.
13. How many hours of daylight does Palenque get?
Palenque receives approximately 11 to 13 hours of daylight throughout the year. May, June, and July have the longest days, with around 13 hours of daylight, while December and January have approximately 11 hours.
14. Is January a good time to visit Palenque?
Yes. January offers warm temperatures, relatively comfortable evenings, and fewer rainy days than the summer months. It is a good time to explore the Palenque archaeological zone and enjoy rainforest excursions.
15. Is February a good time to visit Palenque?
Yes. February is one of the better months for visiting Palenque. Temperatures are warm, rainfall is relatively low, and conditions are generally favorable for exploring ancient Mayan ruins and nearby natural attractions.
16. Is March a good time to visit Palenque?
Yes. March offers hot temperatures and relatively little rainfall. With approximately 12 hours of daylight and average rainfall of just 3.27 inches (83 mm), it is an excellent month for outdoor sightseeing.
17. Is April too hot to visit Palenque?
April can be very hot, with average daytime temperatures reaching 93°F (34°C). However, it is also the driest month of the year. Visitors can enjoy excellent sightseeing conditions by planning activities early in the morning and avoiding strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day.
18. Is September a good time to visit Palenque?
September is generally not the best month for outdoor sightseeing because it receives approximately 15.80 inches (401.4 mm) of rainfall. However, the rainforest is exceptionally lush and green, making it attractive for visitors interested in tropical scenery and photography.
19. What should I pack for a trip to Palenque?
Pack lightweight, breathable clothing, comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, and a reusable water bottle. During the rainy season, bring a waterproof jacket, rain protection for your belongings, and shoes suitable for muddy trails.
20. What is the best time of year to explore the Palenque ruins?
February through April is generally the best period for exploring the Palenque archaeological ruins. These months have relatively low rainfall and warm temperatures. Visiting early in the morning is recommended to avoid the strongest afternoon heat and enjoy more comfortable sightseeing conditions.
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