The Riviera Maya is known worldwide for its paradisiacal landscapes of white sand and turquoise waters, natural wells, archaeological zones and tropical vegetation. This town, located in the south of the Mexican state of Quintana Roo, has become one of the most visited destinations by tourists from all over the world.

Regardless of the time of year you travel, you will live a wonderful experience and have access to multiple activities, luxury hotels, and internationally renowned restaurants. However, there are times better than others to enjoy this tropical destination to the fullest.

Here are two key factors to consider when traveling to the Riviera Maya, so you can choose the season with the best weather and most of the traditional Mexican festivities to enjoy.

Be aware of the rainy season!

If you want to enjoy the radiant sun of the Mexican Caribbean and its warm temperature of maximum 93 °F, you have to make your trip from December to April, since the rainy season takes place from May to November. The last thing you want is that on your beach vacation you find yourself locked in the room because of the rain or even hurricanes!

You will also want to travel in this time if you want to practice extreme sports such as climbing or hiking, or if your plan is to visit the famous archaeological ruins of the Riviera Maya. You will have the perfect weather to do all these activities and trips!

Celebrating as a native Mexican

Mexico is a country known worldwide for its colourful traditions, gastronomy, and joy of its people. Most of the cultural celebrations take place in the last quarter of the year, and you can enjoy them if you travel from December to April. Some of them are:

• Procession of the Virgin of the Immaculate Conception (December 7 and 8)

Live the Mexican tradition of honouring the patron saint of Isla Mujeres. Be part of the joyful maritime procession that honours their virgin to the rhythm of the music, which is joined by countless boats of all kinds and represents a colourful celebration of this state.

• Day of the Virgin of Guadalupe (December 12th)

If you want to immerse yourself in Mexican culture, this is an experience that you must live. This festival is very important in Mexico as it honours the Virgin of Guadalupe to the rhythm of the mariachis, who come to the temples to sing her “Las mañanitas”, leaving lots of colourful and tasty offerings.

• Christmas Eve (December 24th)

This celebration is more intimate and activities and traditions vary from family to family. However, spending Christmas Eve in the Riviera Maya is something that you have to live. The hotels offer their guests a very warm Christmas dinner, to make them feel at home.

• New Year’s Eve (December 31st)

Celebrate the arrival of the New Year to the rhythm of the music of bars and restaurants of the 5th Avenue, corner of Playa del Carmen that has become famous for offering the public an open party, where anyone can attend. The only requirement is that you go with the spirit of celebration to the fullest. In this multicultural party, you can meet people from all over the world.

If you want a more VIP celebration and want to skip the overcrowded bars and clubs; you can always bring in the New Year in the privacy and comfort of a luxury villa. There are many homes to choose from the exclusive area of Playacar, so you can celebrate in style and enjoy the company of your family and friends in a comfortable and relaxing space.

• Three Kings Day or Three wise men – (January 6th)

This holiday is one of the most important in Mexico. There are processions throughout the country where Melchor, Gaspar, and Baltazar are honored. The children write letters to the Three Wise Men, asking for toys and treats, just as in other countries they write to Santa Claus. This day you have to try the delicious “Rosca de Reyes”!