Oaxaca Weather in September

September weather in Oaxaca

September is warm but often gloomy, with highs around 25°C and nights near 16°C. Rain falls on 25 days on average, and the high humidity can make afternoons feel sticky. Expect frequent showers, thick cloud and limited sunshine, rather than clear skies all day.

You can still explore Oaxaca's historic centre, browse the covered stalls at Mercado Benito Juárez, or spend a rainy spell inside the Museo de las Culturas. Monte Albán is worth a visit, but wet paths and low cloud can spoil the views. Keep outdoor plans flexible; September is wetter than August, while October brings much less rain.

September events and crowds

Mexico's Independence celebrations bring colour to the city. On the evenings of September 15 and 16, you'll find festivities around the Zócalo, including the traditional cry for independence, known as the Grito. The central streets can be busy during celebrations, even though September is generally quieter than Oaxaca's popular dry-season months.

Outside the holiday, visitor numbers tend to be lower than from November to February, and accommodation can offer better value. For budget travellers, the quieter weeks can be appealing, but rain may limit long day trips.

Making September work

Build indoor stops into your day, especially if you're exploring Santo Domingo or the historic centre. For Monte Albán, go when the forecast looks clearest; fog and rain can make the hilltop ruins less rewarding. In town, wet paving can also make the steep streets around the Xochimilco neighbourhood slippery.

A handy local move: duck into the covered Mercado Benito Juárez when a shower hits, then try a tlayuda, Oaxaca's large, crisp tortilla topped with beans and other fillings. It's an easy pause that keeps you close to the centre.