When to Visit Albuquerque
Year-round climate guide & best times to travel
Best Time to Visit by Travel Style
Beach & Relaxation
May-June and September-October offer warm, sunny days with minimal crowds and comfortable pool weather. Avoid the intense summer heat and monsoon storms of July-August.
Cultural Exploration
September-November and March-May provide ideal weather for exploring Old Town, museums, and cultural sites. October is particularly excellent with the famous Balloon Fiesta and perfect autumn weather.
Adventure & Hiking
April-May and September-November offer the best hiking conditions with moderate temperatures and clear skies. Avoid summer heat and winter snow in higher elevations of the nearby Sandia Mountains.
Budget Travel
January-February and July-August offer the lowest accommodation rates, though winter can be cold and summer brings intense heat and afternoon storms. Mid-week stays provide additional savings.
Month-by-Month Climate Guide
January
January brings Albuquerque's coldest weather with crisp, sunny days and freezing nights. Snow is possible but usually light and melts quickly. Clear, dry air and bright sunshine make daytime outdoor activities pleasant with proper layering.
February
February remains cold but begins showing signs of spring with slightly warmer days. Occasional snow showers are possible, particularly in higher elevations. The dry air and intense sun make midday temperatures feel warmer than the thermometer indicates.
March
March marks the transition to spring with warming temperatures and increasing daylight. Windy conditions are common, sometimes creating dust storms. Weather can be variable with occasional late-season snow followed by warm, pleasant days.
April
April offers some of Albuquerque's most pleasant weather with warm days, cool nights, and abundant sunshine. Wind remains a factor, but temperatures are ideal for outdoor activities. This is one of the driest months of the year.
May
May brings warm, dry weather perfect for hiking and sightseeing. Days are consistently pleasant with low humidity and minimal rainfall. Nights remain cool, making this an ideal month for outdoor dining and evening activities.
June
June begins the hot season with very warm days and low humidity. This is typically the driest month before the monsoon season arrives. Early morning and evening hours are most comfortable for outdoor activities as midday heat intensifies.
July
July marks the beginning of monsoon season with hot days giving way to dramatic afternoon thunderstorms. These storms provide welcome relief from the heat and spectacular lightning displays. Humidity increases slightly but remains relatively low.
August
August continues the monsoon pattern with hot mornings, building clouds, and frequent afternoon thunderstorms. These storms can be intense but brief, often followed by cooler evenings and spectacular sunsets. Flash flooding is possible in arroyos.
September
September offers excellent weather as monsoon storms decrease and temperatures become more moderate. Days are warm and pleasant while nights turn noticeably cooler. This marks the beginning of one of Albuquerque's best weather periods.
October
October is widely considered Albuquerque's finest month, featuring perfect autumn weather with warm days, cool nights, and crystal-clear skies. The famous Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta takes place during ideal conditions with minimal wind and excellent visibility.
November
November continues the excellent autumn weather with comfortable days and crisp nights. Skies remain clear and sunny, though temperatures begin their winter decline. This is an ideal time for hiking and outdoor exploration before winter arrives.
December
December brings the return of winter with cold nights and mild, sunny days. Snow is possible, particularly around Christmas, creating picturesque scenes in Old Town. Despite cold temperatures, the abundant sunshine makes daytime outdoor activities enjoyable with proper clothing.