The primary season for visiting El Potrero Chico (especially for rock climbing) is fall and winter, running roughly from October through March.

Summary Table

SeasonMonthsTypical Weather ConditionsRecommendation
PeakDec – FebCool, dry, clear skies; pleasant daytime temps (15°C–25°C [~60–75°F])Excellent for climbing (expect crowds)
ShoulderOct – Nov, MarGood conditions, less crowded than peak; spring can be more variableGreat alternatives to peak season
Off-SeasonApr – SepVery hot (often >35°C [95°F]), higher humidity, and heavier rainNot recommended

Peak Season: November - March

Weather

  • Core season: October through March
  • Peak (best for most climbers): December–February
  • Temperatures: typically 15°C–25°C [~60–75°F] in the day (cooler at night)
  • Conditions: Dry and often sunny — ideal friction for long days on limestone
  • Rain: Usually rare in winter, but storms can happen
  • Wind: Can pick up in the afternoon

Pros

  • Best weather conditions
  • Warmest temps during the “cold” months up north
  • Consistent climbing days
  • Full moon climbs are magical

Cons

  • Most crowded (especially December-January)
  • Popular routes can have lines
  • Higher accommodation prices
  • Campgrounds busiest

What to Expect

This is prime time. You’ll share the canyon with climbers from around the world. Expect a lively scene at the campgrounds, with nightly gatherings around fires. Book accommodation in advance if you want a private room.

Best For: First-time visitors, long trips, sending projects

Shoulder Season: October–November & March

Weather

  • October–November: Transitioning into prime conditions; can still feel warm early in the season
  • March: Often still great, but spring weather can be more variable
  • Conditions: Generally good, with more “pick your wall/aspect” days
  • Rain: More likely than mid-winter (still often very climbable)

Pros

  • Fewer crowds
  • Lower prices
  • More route availability
  • Pleasant if you don’t mind heat

Cons

  • October can be too hot for hard routes
  • April heats up quickly
  • Some facilities may have reduced services

What to Expect

A quieter experience. Great for those who prefer solitude or want easier access to popular routes without the wait.

Best For: Experienced climbers who handle heat well, those seeking solitude

Off-Season: April - September

Weather

  • Temperatures: Often >35°C [95°F] in summer
  • Conditions: Too hot for most climbers, especially on sunny walls
  • Rain: Heavier rain/storms in summer (roughly July–September)
  • Humidity: Higher than winter

Why Visit?

Most climbers don’t - and for good reason:

  • Brutally hot for climbing
  • Routes in the sun are unbearable
  • Flash storms possible
  • Many facilities close or reduce hours
  • Locals take a break from climbing
  • Locals often use the canyon’s water park instead

Could You Still Climb?

Technically yes, but:

  • Only shaded routes are bearable
  • Early morning (6am-9am) is the window
  • Multi-pitch routes are miserable
  • High risk of heat exhaustion

Best For: Only the most masochistic climbers or those with very specific trip constraints

Planning Your Trip

For Best Weather

  • Go: December - February
  • Avoid: June - August

For Fewer Crowds

  • Go: November, March, April
  • Avoid: December - January

For Best Value

  • Go: October, April (lower prices, fewer people)
  • Avoid: December - January (peak pricing)

For Big Wall Missions

  • Go: December - February (most stable weather, longest days)
  • Avoid: May - September (heat)

Packing by Season

Peak Season (Nov-March)

Layers:

  • Warm layers for early mornings
  • Light shirts for midday
  • Fleece/puffy for evenings
  • Long pants for approaches
  • Light rain jacket (just in case)

Shoulder Season (Oct, Apr)

Sun Protection:

  • Light-colored clothing
  • Sun hat essential
  • Sunscreen
  • More water than you think
  • Minimal warm layers needed

Local Events

Christmas/New Year

The canyon fills with climbers celebrating holidays on the wall. Festive atmosphere at campgrounds with potlucks and parties.

Easter (Semana Santa)

Mexican holiday week - some Mexican climbers visit, but still relatively quiet compared to winter peak.

Bottom Line

Best time for most climbers: December - February Best value/fewer crowds: November or March Only if you love heat: April or October Skip entirely: May - September

Plan your trip for the winter months and you’ll experience El Potrero at its finest - perfect weather, world-class routes, and a vibrant climbing community.

Month-by-Month Breakdown

October

Weather: ~24–29°C [75–85°F] Crowds: Low

Shoulder season starting. Can be warm but doable. Good for moderate routes and shorter days.

November

Weather: ~18–24°C [65–75°F] Crowds: Building

Season begins in earnest. Excellent conditions, crowds increasing but manageable.

December

Weather: ~15–21°C [60–70°F] Crowds: High

Peak season starts. Perfect temps, but holidays bring more climbers. Book ahead.

January

Weather: ~13–21°C [55–70°F] Crowds: Highest

The busiest month. Best conditions but most crowded. Popular routes may have queues.

February

Weather: ~15–24°C [60–75°F] Crowds: High

Still prime season. Slightly warmer than January. Conditions remain excellent.

March

Weather: ~18–27°C [65–80°F] Crowds: Moderate-High

End of peak season. Warming up but still very climbable. Crowds start to thin.

April

Weather: ~21–29°C [70–85°F] Crowds: Low

Start of the off-season ramp. Getting warm fast — shade/early starts become essential.

May-September

Weather: ~29–38°C+ [85–100°F+] Crowds: Nearly none

Off-season. Too hot for comfortable climbing. Most facilities closed.