Are you dreaming of a trip to Guadalajara, Mexico? From its gorgeous landscapes to the rich culture and history that this city has to offer, it’s understandable why many people want to visit.
However, if you’re planning your trip for the wrong time of year you could be in for an unpleasant experience – from extreme temperatures and humidity levels to increased safety risks due danger of flash flooding.
Understandably, getting good advice on when NOT to visit is as important as when. In this article I’ll cover all the details on what’s deemed ‘the worst’ times of year for visits so that you can pick up tips and advice about avoiding them in order to have a happy and fulfilling adventure.
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The worst time to visit Guadalajara
If you’re planning a trip to Guadalajara, you might want to avoid visiting during the rainy season.
While the city is usually warm and welcoming, the rainy season can make it feel downright miserable.
From June to September, the streets can become flooded and the humidity can be unbearable. It’s not uncommon for locals and tourists alike to be caught in downpours that last for hours.
Not only can this put a damper on your sightseeing plans, but it can also make it difficult to get around the city.
How can I avoid the worst time to visit Guadalajara?
The rainy season can pose problems for travelers who are not prepared, so it’s crucial to plan your visit to Guadalajara during the perfect time that avoids the worst of the rainy season. Here’s how.
Check the weather forecast in Guadalajara before your trip:
The best way to avoid the worst of the rainy season when visiting Guadalajara is by checking the weather forecast before you begin packing for your trip.
Several apps and websites can provide you with accurate weather information.
Checking the weather can help you make informed decisions about the right time to visit Guadalajara.
Plan your activities around indoor spaces:
During the rainy season, the weather can be unpredictable.
Therefore, it’s a good idea to plan your activities around indoor spaces such as museums, cafes, and restaurants.
Some of the best tourist activities during the rainy season include visiting the Tequila distilleries or watching a Mariachi band perform at a restaurant.
Pack smart:
Since the weather can be unpredictable, it’s essential to pack smart. Bring clothing that is suitable for both hot and rainy weather.
Some of the essentials include waterproof shoes, raincoats, and an umbrella.
To avoid getting your belongings wet, it’s best to invest in a good quality waterproof bag.
Book your accommodations wisely:
It’s essential to choose accommodations in Guadalajara that have facilities to make your stay more comfortable during the rainy season.
Look for hotels with indoor pools, gyms, or spa facilities that you can enjoy even if the weather is terrible outside.
Keep a flexible schedule:
During the rainy season, it’s crucial to have a flexible schedule.
It’s essential to have a back-up plan in case your activities get canceled due to inclement weather. You may need to rearrange your activities around the estimated daily showers in Guadalajara.
So, keep calm and remain flexible when planning your activities during the rainy season.
Best & fun things to do in Guadalajara during the rainy season
However, during the rainy season, which typically lasts from June to October, visitors might find themselves stuck indoors, or in search of fun things to do that don’t involve getting drenched. Fear not, check the list of best and fun things to do in Guadalajara during the rainy season:
Visit the Museo Regional de Guadalajara – the museum is a fantastic place to explore the rich history and culture of the city and the surrounding region.
Indulge in some traditional Mexican cuisine – Guadalajara is famous for its food and drink, so head to a local restaurant and try some of the city’s signature dishes.
Take a cooking class – if you’d like to learn how to cook these foods yourself, there are several places in Guadalajara where you can attend classes and learn the secrets of traditional Mexican cooking.
Visit the Teatro Degollado – the city’s iconic theater is a must-see during your stay in Guadalajara, and there are usually several events taking place throughout the rainy season.
Explore the historic district – take a walk through the cobbled streets of the historic center, and marvel at the beautiful architecture of the city’s colonial-era buildings.
Enjoy some live music – Guadalajara is known for its lively music scene, and there are plenty of venues around the city where you can catch a live performance.
Take a day trip to Lake Chapala – despite being the largest lake in Mexico, Lake Chapala is often overlooked by tourists, making it a perfect peaceful getaway during the rainy season.
Discover the local art scene – Guadalajara is home to many talented artists, and there are plenty of galleries around the city where you can admire their work.
Get a massage – the rainy season can be stressful, but there are plenty of spas in Guadalajara where you can indulge in a relaxing massage, soak in a hot tub, or take a yoga class.
Shop for souvenirs – Guadalajara is famous for its crafts, and there are several markets around the city where you can shop for souvenirs that range from handcrafted pottery and woven baskets to unique pieces of jewelry and other luxury items.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are definitely some times that you should try and avoid if you plan to visit Guadalajara.
June through September is when the weather is at its hottest, leading to high levels of humidity and intense rainfall.
Even then, visitors to the city may find ways of enjoying their stay, provided they are willing to prepare accordingly.
With a wealth of cultural attractions as well as natural beauty around the area, there’s no shortage of activities for sightseeing and entertainment. There’s also a wide array of lodging options for those seeking comfort in the heat.
However, we suggest avoiding June through September if you want to make sure your stay in Guadalajara is as enjoyable as possible.
FAQs
Does it rain a lot in Guadalajara?
Yes, the rainy season (June through September) can often be quite intense. Heavy downpours are not uncommon during this time of year.
Is it safe to go out at night in Guadalajara?
Yes, although it is advisable to exercise caution and stay in well-lit areas. It’s also a good idea to avoid going out alone at night, especially when the weather is bad.
