Weather

Ultimate Guide To Peru Weather: Seasons & Averages

Planning a trip to Peru but unsure about the weather? —Peru’s weather can be tricky and unpredictable. It feels like Peru can have all four seasons in one day! In this guide, you’ll get everything you need to know about Peru’s climate and choose the best time for your visit.

Key Takeaways

  • Peru has three main climate zones: the dry coast, cool mountains, and warm, wet rainforest.
  • The dry season (May to October) is best for hiking in the Andes with clear skies and mild temperatures.
  • The wet season (November to April) brings heavy rains to the Andes and Amazon, making travel tricky in the Andes, but a good advantage for cruise travelers in the Amazon as there are high waters.
  • Lima’s unique coastal weather has mild temps from 13˚C to 26˚C with little rain but frequent fog or garúa.
  • The Amazon stays hot year-round with high humidity; it gets the most rain between December and March.

Overview of Peru's Climate Zones 

Peru has a mix of climates because it's so big and diverse. The coast is dry, the mountains are cool, and the rainforest is warm and wet...

Peru Weather by Season

Peru's weather changes a lot with the seasons. The dry season can bring clear skies, while the wet season will average rainy days.

Dry Season (May to October)

The dry season in Peru runs from May to October. During these months, the skies are clear and sunny. It is the best time for hiking in the Andes, especially from May to September.

Daytime temperatures in the mountains range between 68°F and 77°F (20°C-25°C). Nights can be quite chilly though—so bring a jacket! The Peruvian jungle sees highs reaching up to 90°F (32°C) or more.

Coastal areas like Lima experience milder weather with high humidity but little rain.

'In Peru’s dry season, every day feels like an adventure waiting to happen.'

These months offer ideal conditions for visiting Machu Picchu. You will avoid heavy rains and muddy trails. April, May, September, and October stand out as top months for travel since they mark transitions between seasons—no extreme heat or cold.

Wet Season (November to April)

The wet season runs from November to April. During this period, the Andes face heavy rain, especially in January and February (The Inca trail usually closes for maintenance). Daytime temperatures here hover between 64°F to 68°F (18°C-20°C).

Hiking in places like Rainbow Mountain becomes tricky due to rain and possible snow.

In the Amazon, rainfall increases from December to March. It stays hot and humid year-round with daytime temperatures around 85-90°F (30-32°C). Coastal regions see clearer skies but higher temps from January to March.

Travel might need changes as some roads get muddy or washed out by downpours.

Average Temperature and Precipitation

In Peru, you can experience different climates depending on where you are. Each region has its own average temperatures and rainfall patterns... which can surprise you!

Coastal Regions - Coastal (la Costa) – Lima

The coastal regions of Peru offer a fascinating blend of weather patterns and temperatures.

Region/City

Characteristics

Lima

Mild, humid winters (May-October)
Frequent fog (Garua)
Average temperature: 23°C, feels like 22°C.
Mostly cloudy.

General Coastal Climate

Generally dry, hot year-round.
Summer (December-April): Temperatures up to 45°C (110°F).
Annual rainfall: 150 mm.
Temperature range: 13˚C to 26˚C.

 

The coast is something else — hot, arid, and often misty. You wouldn't think fog in a desert, right? That's Garua for you. And Lima? Expect overcast skies. The temperature is quite bearable, though: 23°C on average. Feels like 22°C, but the clouds make it seem cooler.

The summer, from December to April, cranks up the heat. It can reach a sizzling 45°C. That's right, 110 degrees Fahrenheit! But don’t worry; it’s a dry heat.

From May to October, winter takes hold. It's milder but humid. The fog rolls in. Garua — ever-present, like a ghostly shroud. The annual rainfall? A mere 150 millimeters. Enough to keep the dust down, not much - more. Temperatures along the coast usually range between 13˚C and 26˚C.

Enjoy the ever-shifting coastal weather!

Mountainous Regions - Andes Region (la Sierra) - Arequipa, Cusco, Machu Picchu, Puno

Andes weather can be tricky. In Arequipa, Cusco, and Machu Picchu, the temperatures change with altitude. 

Location

Temperature (Wet Season): daytime/nighttime

Temperature (Dry Season): daytime/nighttime

Rainfall (Wet Season)

Shoulder Seasons

Arequipa

64°F to 68°F (18°C-20°C) / 59°F (15°C)

68°F to 70°F (20°C-21°C) / 50°F to 55°F (10°C-13°C)

Moderate

March-May, September-November

Cusco

64°F to 68°F (18°C-20°C) / 41°F to 45°F (5°C-7°C)

68°F to 70°F (20°C-21°C) / 30°F to 35°F (-1°C to 2°C)

Heavy in Jan-Feb

March-May, September-November

Machu Picchu

64°F to 68°F (18°C-20°C) / 50°F to 55°F (10°C-13°C)

68°F to 72°F (20°C-22°C) / 41°F to 45°F (5°C-7°C)

Heavy in Jan-Feb

March-May, September-November

Puno

64°F to 68°F (18°C-20°C) / 30°F to 35°F (-1°C to 2°C)

65°F to 67°F (18°C-19°C) / 25°F to 32°F (0°C-4°C)

Heavy in Jan-Feb

March-May, September-November

 

 The Andes offer varied climates due to altitude. Daytime temperatures during the wet season hover from 64°F to 68°F. Nights get chilly, around 59°F. For the best hiking experience, such as the Rainbow Mountain trek or the Inca Trail, aim for the dry season from June to September.

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Jungle Regions - Amazon Rainforest (la Selva) - Iquitos, Tambopata, Manu

The lowlands on the eastern flanks of the Andes offer access to the lush, humid expanse of Peru's rainforest regions. The Amazon jungle, a place of sweltering heat and incredible biodiversity, is a place like no other.

Rainforest Regions

Climate

Tropical, high humidity year-round

Daytime Temperatures

30°C to 32°C (85°F to 90°F)

Nighttime Temperatures

~20°C (68°F)

Annual Rainfall

6 feet (1.8 meters) to 30 feet (9 meters)

Dry Season

Reduced rainfall, never truly dry

Northern Amazon

High water season: December to May
Low water season: June to November

Southern Amazon

Hotter, high rainfall: December to March

 

Traveling through this verdant expanse can be overwhelming. The northern Amazon sees rivers swell from December to May (ideal for river cruising), while they shrink between June and November. The south, meanwhile, experiences its own rhythm. Hotter, but equally rainy from December to March. A place where humidity envelops you like a blanket. Rain pours, drenching the forest floor, then tapers off to give moments of calm.

This jungle does not have a true dry season. Even during its driest months, rain remains a constant companion. It’s the epitome of untamed nature – wild, beautiful, and wet.

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Peru's weather can be wild and unpredictable, but it's part of the adventure. Whether you’re in Lima’s coastal fog, Cusco’s Andean peaks, or the steamy Amazon... there’s always something unique to experience.

Plan well and pack smart. Enjoy Peru's stunning landscapes across its diverse climate zones!

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the rainiest time of year in Peru?

The rainiest period tends to be from December to March. This varies by region; for instance, Cusco gets heavy rains while coastal areas like Trujillo might see less.

How does Cusco's weather differ from Lima's?

Cusco sits on the Andean plateau and experiences a temperate climate with cool nights. It sees more rain compared to Lima, especially during the rainy season.

What is the weather like in Lima, Peru?

Lima has a humid climate with coastal fog. The air quality can vary, especially during the wetter season.

What are some notable features of Peru's weather by month?

Peru’s weather changes dramatically depending on location and time of year. For example, January is often wet in high-altitude regions like the Altiplano but milder along the coast.

Ready to embark on your Peruvian adventure? Contact us now to start planning your unforgettable journey through Peru’s breathtaking landscapes and vibrant cultures!
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