When To Visit Peru
Peru’s geography creates striking contrasts in climate, with desert coastlines, high-altitude Andes, and dense rainforest all shaping when and where to travel. Knowing how seasons affect each region helps determine the best time to experience the country’s highlights.
| JAN | FEB | MAR | APR | MAY | JUN | JUL | AUG | SEP | OCT | NOV | DEC | |
| CUSCO | ||||||||||||
| SACRED VALLEY | ||||||||||||
| MACHU PICCHU | ||||||||||||
| INCA TRAIL | ||||||||||||
| LIMA | ||||||||||||
| AMAZON | ||||||||||||
| LAKE TITICACA | ||||||||||||
| AREQUIPA | ||||||||||||
| NAZCA LINES |
When To Visit Peru
Peru’s geography creates striking contrasts in climate, with desert coastlines, high-altitude Andes, and dense rainforest all shaping when and where to travel. Knowing how seasons affect each region helps determine the best time to experience the country’s highlights.
- CUSCO: March to November
- SACRED VALLEY: March to November
- MACHU PICCHU: March to November
- INCA TRAIL: April to October
- LIMA: April to November
- AMAZON: May to November
- LAKE TITICACA: March to November
- AREQUIPA: March to November
- NAZCA LINES: March to November
LIMA
Lima’s coastal desert climate keeps temperatures moderate year-round, though sunshine and visibility vary significantly by season.
January: Warm and sunny, ideal for relaxing on the beach, coastal walks, and outdoor dining.
February: Peak summer weather with higher humidity and lively evenings.
March: Still warm, but crowds thin and evenings cool slightly.
April: Transitions into fall with pleasant temperatures and clearer skies.
May: Cooler and drier as Lima’s gray season begins.
June: Overcast skies and mild temperatures dominate.
July: Cool and cloudy, with festive energy during Independence Day celebrations.
August: One of the cloudiest months, but comfortable for city exploration.
September: Spring approaches and sunlight slowly increases.
October: Warmer days return, with improving visibility.
November: Pleasant temperatures and more sunshine.
December: Summer begins, bringing brighter days and holiday energy.
Lima Average Temperatures
| ° F HIGHS | ° F LOWS | PRECIP (IN) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| JAN | 77 | 68 | 0.8 |
| FEB | 77 | 72 | 1.2 |
| MAR | 77 | 70 | 0.9 |
| APR | 73 | 66 | 0.4 |
| MAY | 72 | 64 | 0.4 |
| JUN | 70 | 61 | 0.7 |
| JUL | 68 | 61 | 0.7 |
| AUG | 66 | 59 | 0.7 |
| SEP | 68 | 61 | 0.6 |
| OCT | 68 | 61 | 0.5 |
| NOV | 70 | 63 | 0.4 |
| DEC | 73 | 64 | 0.4 |
CUSCO
Cusco’s high-altitude climate is defined by a dry and rainy season, with the dry months of April through October offering reliable conditions for outdoor exploration and cultural immersion.
January: Rainy season brings fewer crowds but frequent showers.
February: As the wettest month, there are limited opportunities for outdoor activities.
March: Rain tapers off, leaving behind lush green landscapes.
April: Start of the dry season with mild days and cool nights.
May: One of the best months for exploration, with clear skies and excellent visibility.
June: Peak travel season with dry, sunny days and cold nights.
July: Continued dry conditions and crisp winter air.
August: Busy but rewarding, with stable weather.
September: Warmer temperatures and fewer visitors.
October: Shoulder season with occasional rains returning.
November: Increasing rainfall and quieter streets.
December: Rainy season resumes, with festive holiday atmosphere
Cusco Average Temperatures
| ° F HIGHS | ° F LOWS | PRECIP (IN) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| JAN | 61 | 43 | 9.5 |
| FEB | 59 | 43 | 9.7 |
| MAR | 61 | 43 | 7.2 |
| APR | 61 | 41 | 3.6 |
| MAY | 61 | 39 | 1.3 |
| JUN | 59 | 36 | 0.7 |
| JUL | 59 | 36 | 0.7 |
| AUG | 61 | 36 | 1.1 |
| SEP | 63 | 39 | 2.0 |
| OCT | 63 | 43 | 3.9 |
| NOV | 63 | 43 | 5.0 |
| DEC | 61 | 43 | 8.2 |
SACRED VALLEY
Peru’s Sacred Valley can be enjoyed year-round thanks to its slightly milder climate. However, March through October are the best months to visit to enjoy the region’s vast outdoor activities.
January: Warm weather and green landscapes, though afternoon rain is common.
February: Rainy but peaceful, with vibrant lush landscapes.
March: Improved weather conditions with fewer rains yet still less visitors.
April: Excellent weather for outdoor discovery, with blooming scenery.
May: Dry, sunny days ideal for active adventures and outdoor exploration.
June: Cool mornings and clear skies.
July: Dry and crisp, perfect for hiking and ruins.
August: Stable weather with high demand.
September: Warmer days and fewer travelers.
October: Pleasant shoulder season conditions.
November: Rain increases, but crowds remain low.
December: Lush scenery returns with seasonal showers.
Sacred Valley Average Temperatures
| ° F HIGHS | ° F LOWS | PRECIP (IN) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| JAN | 57 | 41 | 10.0 |
| FEB | 57 | 41 | 10.3 |
| MAR | 57 | 41 | 8.1 |
| ARP | 57 | 39 | 1.4 |
| MAY | 57 | 37 | 2.0 |
| JUN | 57 | 36 | 1.2 |
| JUL | 55 | 34 | 1.1 |
| AUG | 57 | 36 | 1.8 |
| SEP | 59 | 37 | 3.1 |
| OCT | 59 | 41 | 5.2 |
| NOV | 59 | 41 | 6.4 |
| DEC | 57 | 41 | 9.1 |
MACHU PICCHU
Machu Picchu is accessible year-round, but visibility and walking conditions vary seasonally. Visit from April through October for clearer views of the UNESCO site and fewer disruptions.
January: Rainy conditions with misty views of Machu Picchu, attracting fewer visitors.
February: Heaviest rainfall, and while access remains open, there are some limited routes.
March: Rain eases and conditions for exploring improve.
April: One of the best months for clear views and comfortable temperatures.
May: Dry and sunny with excellent visibility.
June: Peak season with ideal weather for exploring.
July: Cool mornings and busy trails.
August: Continued dry conditions and a high number of visitors.
September: Slightly warmer weather with fewer crowds.
October: Occasional rains and shoulder-month crowds.
November: Increasing humidity and rainfall.
December: Rainy season returns, bringing lush surroundings.
Machu Picchu Average Temperatures
| ° F HIGHS | ° F LOWS | PRECIP (IN) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| JAN | 61 | 46 | 11.0 |
| FEB | 61 | 46 | 11.3 |
| MAR | 61 | 45 | 10.0 |
| ARP | 61 | 45 | 10.0 |
| MAY | 61 | 43 | 2.8 |
| JUN | 59 | 45 | 6.7 |
| JUL | 59 | 37 | 2.1 |
| AUG | 59 | 39 | 2.9 |
| SEP | 59 | 41 | 4.2 |
| OCT | 61 | 45 | 6.5 |
| NOV | 61 | 45 | 7.9 |
| DEC | 61 | 46 | 10.2 |
INCA TRAIL
The Inca Trail is highly seasonal and weather-dependent. April to October offer the most stable trekking conditions compared to the wet-season months. The Inca Trail always closes in February.
January: Wet conditions from rainy season makes trekking challenging.
February: The Inca Trail is closed annually for maintenance.
March: Trail reopens as rain decreases.
April: Excellent trekking conditions begin.
May: Peak season for hiking with clear skies and pleasant temperatures.
June: Dry and cool, ideal for hiking.
July: Continued strong conditions with high demand.
August: One of the busiest months on the trail due to dry hiking conditions.
September: Fewer crowds and stable weather.
October: Shoulder season with mild conditions.
November: Rain becomes more frequent.
December: Wet season returns, with slippery trails.
Inca Trail Average Temperatures
| ° F HIGHS | ° F LOWS | PRECIP (IN) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| JAN | 61 | 46 | 11.0 |
| FEB | 61 | 46 | 11.3 |
| MAR | 61 | 45 | 10.0 |
| ARP | 61 | 45 | 10.0 |
| MAY | 61 | 43 | 2.8 |
| JUN | 61 | 45 | 6.7 |
| JUL | 59 | 37 | 2.9 |
| AUG | 59 | 39 | 2.9 |
| SEP | 59 | 41 | 4.7 |
| OCT | 61 | 45 | 6.5 |
| NOV | 61 | 45 | 7.9 |
| DEC | 61 | 46 | 10.2 |
PERUVIAN AMAZON
While the Peruvian Amazon Rainforest is always warm, the water levels change throughout the year. The drier months from May to October are favored for easier trail access and wildlife viewing.
January: High rainfall and flooded forests.
February: Continued rain but excellent canoe access.
March: Rain begins to lessen.
April: Transition period from wet to dry season, with rich wildlife activity.
May: Drier conditions and improved trails.
June: Dry season begins; excellent wildlife viewing.
July: Cooler evenings and clear forest paths.
August: Dry and comfortable.
September: Gradual return of rain.
October: Increasing humidity and rain levels.
November: Frequent showers return.
December: Rainy season intensifies, bringing lush vegetation.
Peruvian Amazon Average Temperatures
| ° F HIGHS | ° F LOWS | PRECIP (IN) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| JAN | 88 | 75 | 10.2 |
| FEB | 88 | 75 | 10.4 |
| MAR | 88 | 75 | 12.2 |
| APR | 88 | 73 | 12.3 |
| MAY | 88 | 73 | 11.0 |
| JUN | 86 | 73 | 9.2 |
| JUL | 88 | 72 | 6.8 |
| AUG | 90 | 73 | 6.3 |
| SEP | 90 | 73 | 7.6 |
| OCT | 90 | 73 | 8.1 |
| NOV | 90 | 75 | 9.5 |
| DEC | 88 | 75 | 10.7 |
LAKE TITICACA
Lake Titicaca’s high altitude brings cool temperatures year-round, with seasonal rainfall affecting visibility and lake conditions. April through November is best for island visits and boating.
January: Rainy season is in full swing and often accompanied by dramatic skies.
February: Continued rain and fewer visitors.
March: Rain decreases and conditions improve.
April: Clear days and calm waters.
May: Cool, dry weather and excellent visibility.
June: Cold nights and sunny days.
July: Coldest month, but bright and dry.
August: Dry and crisp conditions continue.
September: Gradual warming and fewer crowds.
October: Mild and pleasant weather conditions for the shoulder season.
November: Rainfall increases slightly.
December: Rainy season returns with greener landscapes.
Lake Titicaca Average Temperatures
| ° F HIGHS | ° F LOWS | PRECIP (IN) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| JAN | 57 | 46 | 9.2 |
| FEB | 57 | 46 | 8.8 |
| MAR | 57 | 46 | 6.9 |
| APR | 57 | 45 | 3.8 |
| MAY | 57 | 45 | 1.2 |
| JUN | 55 | 43 | 0.6 |
| JUL | 55 | 43 | 0.6 |
| AUG | 55 | 43 | 0.8 |
| SEP | 57 | 43 | 1.8 |
| OCT | 59 | 45 | 3.1 |
| NOV | 59 | 46 | 3.6 |
| DEC | 59 | 46 | 7.0 |
AREQUIPA
Arequipa boasts one of Peru’s driest climates, but seasonal rains can still affect travel. Visit April to November for comfortable conditions for city exploration and hiking in the Colca Canyon.
January: Warm temperatures with occasional afternoon showers.
February: Rainfall peaks but has low impact on the region.
March: Rain starts to fade and sunshine increases.
April: Excellent weather for city exploration and outdoor activities.
May: Mild days and cool nights.
June: Dry, sunny, and comfortable.
July: Cool evenings and clear skies.
August: Continued dry season conditions, ideal for hiking.
September: Gradual warming begins.
October: Pleasant shoulder season conditions with warm temperatures.
November: Slight increase in cloud cover and lower visibility.
December: Warmer temperatures and occasional rain.
Arequipa Average Temperatures
| ° F HIGHS | ° F LOWS | PRECIP (IN) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| JAN | 63 | 48 | 0.9 |
| FEB | 61 | 48 | 1.0 |
| MAR | 61 | 46 | 0.7 |
| APR | 64 | 46 | 0.3 |
| MAY | 66 | 43 | 0.0 |
| JUN | 66 | 41 | 0.0 |
| JUL | 66 | 41 | 0.0 |
| AUG | 66 | 43 | 0.0 |
| SEP | 68 | 45 | 0.0 |
| OCT | 68 | 46 | 0.1 |
| NOV | 68 | 48 | 0.3 |
| DEC | 64 | 48 | 0.6 |
NAZCA LINES
Nazca’s desert climate allows flights for much of the year, but wind and visibility vary seasonally. April through November offers reliable flying conditions and clearer views of the geoglyphs.
January: Warm weather with occasional coastal humidity.
February: Continued summer heat.
March: Temperatures start to cool and the region welcomes clearer skies.
April: Excellent visibility and comfortable temperatures for exploration/
May: Ideal conditions for scenic flights.
June: Cool mornings and clear skies.
July: Dry and crisp desert weather.
August: Stable and cool conditions ideal for aerial tours.
September: Gradual warming begins.
October: Pleasant and dry weather conditions.
November: Warmer days return.
December: Heat increases heading into summer
Nazca Lines Average Temperatures
| ° F HIGHS | ° F LOWS | PRECIP (IN) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| JAN | 84 | 67 | 0.3 |
| FEB | 85 | 67 | 0.3 |
| MAR | 86 | 67 | 0.2 |
| APR | 84 | 65 | 0.1 |
| MAY | 82 | 62 | 0.1 |
| JUN | 79 | 60 | 0.0 |
| JUL | 77 | 59 | 0.0 |
| AUG | 78 | 60 | 0.0 |
| SEP | 79 | 61 | 0.1 |
| OCT | 80 | 62 | 0.1 |
| NOV | 82 | 63 | 0.2 |
| DEC | 83 | 65 | 0.3 |