Peru Travel Weather

January - April

The summer months are hot and also the rainiest of the year. Heavy rains can make travel difficult in mountainous areas (Sierra) and the Amazon (Montania). As a result of local flooding, many trails and roads are impassable.

The best weather is on the coasts (Lima, Máncora), with sunny and hot days for beach and sea bathing.

The western slopes of the Andes, including the cities (e.g. Nazca) also enjoy good weather during these months, it is dry and hot there.

On January 6, you can take part in the Epiphany celebrations, which are especially celebrated during the "Bajada de los Reyes" at Ollantaytambo in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. The fun is accompanied by joyous street processions.

In February, the city of Puno lavishly celebrates the Fiesta de la Candelaria, where a series of carnival events with dancing and costumes continue for two weeks.

The end of March and beginning of April is also the time of Holy Week ("Semana Santa") bringing religious processions, street parties, and artistic performances (especially notable in Cuzco).

May - September

The dry season, the best time to visit most regions in Peru. Rainless and sunny days encourage travel. This is the ideal time to trek the "Inca Trail," see the magnificent Machu Picchu, climb in the Andes and explore the Amazon regions.

Pacific beach parties can be arranged all year round, but between July and September, air and water temperatures are lower (18°C - 19°C).

The central and southern coasts are virtually rain-free, but from late May to early October there is damp drizzle and fog ("garua") at altitudes up to 800 meters above sea level.

July, August and September are the vacation season for Peruvians, thus the most popular tourist spots can be crowded. It's worth trying to book accommodations in advance then.

In June, you can attend Inti Raymi, the colorful Incan Festival of the Sun, held in Sacsayhuamán, Cuzco.

At the end of August, Lima hosts processions related to the feast of the city's patron saint, St. Rose.

October - December

Gradually, the dry season comes to an end, the number of rainy days increases. Air and water temperatures are rising. These are good conditions for relaxation on the country's coasts. Without much concern about the aura, one can beach and engage in water sports. At this time the richness of nature flourishes, vegetation awakens to life, creating beautiful sights.

On the other hand, it should be borne in mind that increased precipitation makes travel to higher elevations and some areas of the Amazon difficult.

During the Christmas season, an interesting experience is to see the "Santurantikuy Market" in Cuzco. This is one of the largest arts and crafts markets in Peru.