Mexico State Travel Guide

Geographical position and Climate of Mexico State

Mexico State (Estado de México) is centrally located in the heart of Mexico. It borders the states of Querétaro and Hidalgo to the north, Tlaxcala and Puebla to the east, Morelos and Guerrero to the south, and Michoacán to the west. Additionally, it encircles the country’s capital, Mexico City.

The state has a diverse landscape that includes mountains from the Trans-Mexican Volcanic Belt, valleys, and lakes. The Nevado de Toluca volcano, which has one of the highest peaks in Mexico, is a prominent feature of the state’s geography.

Rainfall patterns can vary significantly within the state, with some areas receiving ample precipitation, while others have much drier conditions. Overall, the climate is influenced by altitude, with temperature generally decreasing and precipitation increasing at higher elevations.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit the State largely depends on what you’re looking to do and the climate preferences you have. Here’s a general guide:

Dry Season (November to April)

  • Cooler Temperatures: This period offers cooler temperatures, especially in higher elevations like Toluca, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking.
  • Fewer Rainfalls: With less rain, this is a great time for sightseeing and exploring the various attractions without interruption.
  • Cultural Events: The dry season includes several cultural events and holidays, including the Day of the Dead (Día de Muertos) in early November and Holy Week (Semana Santa) around March or April.

Rainy Season (May to October)

  • Warmer Weather: The warmer months are perfect if you prefer milder temperatures, but be prepared for afternoon showers.
  • Lush Landscapes: The rainy season brings out the lushness of natural areas, which can be particularly beautiful for photography and nature walks.
  • Lower Tourist Crowds: You might find fewer tourists during this time, which could mean less crowded attractions and potentially lower prices.

Specific Interests

  • Nature and Adventure: If you’re interested in nature and adventure activities, the dry season might be more suitable due to better trail conditions and less chance of rain.
  • Cultural Festivals: For cultural experiences, plan your visit around specific festivals or holidays that interest you, regardless of the season.

Ultimately, the best time to visit the State is when it aligns with the activities you’re most interested in and when you’ll enjoy the weather conditions the most. Always check the local weather and event schedules before planning your trip.

Travel to Mexico State

Getting to the State is relatively straightforward due to its central location and well-developed transportation infrastructure. Here are the main ways to reach Mexico State:

By Air

  • Mexico City International Airport (Aeropuerto Internacional Benito Juárez): Although located in Mexico City, this major international airport is the primary gateway for international travelers coming to Mexico State. From the airport, you can take a taxi, bus, or rental car to reach various destinations within the state.

By Bus

  • Bus Services: Mexico State is well-connected by an extensive network of bus routes. Numerous bus companies operate from Mexico City’s various bus terminals to different parts of Mexico State. The main bus terminals in Mexico City are Terminal Norte, Terminal Sur (also known as Terminal Taxqueña), Terminal Oriente (also known as TAPO), and Terminal Poniente (also known as Observatorio).

By Car

  • Rental Cars: Renting a car from Mexico City or directly from the airport gives you the flexibility to explore Mexico State at your own pace. Major highways and roads connect the state to the capital and surrounding regions.

By Train

  • Passenger Trains: While passenger trains are not as common in Mexico, there is a suburban rail service (Tren Suburbano) that connects Mexico City with some municipalities in the State, such as Cuautitlán, Tlalnepantla, and Tultitlán.

Local Transportation

Once in Mexico State, you can use local buses, colectivos (shared minibuses), taxis, and ride-sharing services to get around. If you’re traveling to more remote areas, it may be beneficial to have a private vehicle.

When planning your trip, consider the specific destinations you wish to visit within the State, as travel times and transportation options may vary greatly depending on your itinerary.

Places to visit

Mexico State, Mexico map
Mexico State, Mexico map

Important Information

Capital – Toluca

Largest City – Ecatepec de Morelos

Territory – 22,351 km2

Population – 16,992,418

Time Zone – UTC-6 (CST)

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