Seasons in Peru: Weather by Month & Best Time to Visit

Peru has 2 main seasons: dry season (April–October) and wet season (November–March). Lima averages 18°C year-round under persistent coastal fog (garua), while Cusco at 3,400 meters ranges from 5°C to 20°C. The best time to visit is May to September for Machu Picchu and Andes trekking.

Introduction

Peru's three ecological zones — coastal desert, Andean highlands, and Amazon jungle — each have distinct weather patterns. What's dry in the mountains may be wet in the jungle, and Lima's coast has its own microclimate entirely.

Dry Season (April–October)

• Temperature: 5–20°C in Cusco, 15–18°C in Lima
• Rainfall: Minimal in the Andes
• Key Event: Peak trekking season, Inti Raymi (June 24)

The dry season is Peru's prime tourist period for Andean destinations. Clear blue skies over Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley, and Cusco make May through September ideal for trekking and sightseeing. The Inca Trail fills up months in advance during this period.

Inti Raymi, the Inca Festival of the Sun celebrated on June 24 at Sacsayhuaman fortress above Cusco, is Peru's most spectacular cultural event. Nights at altitude are cold (dropping to 0°C or below), but days are sunny and pleasant.

Wet Season (November–March)

• Temperature: 8–18°C in Cusco, higher humidity
• Rainfall: Heavy in Andes and Amazon, 100–200 mm/month
• Key Event: Green landscapes, fewer tourists, Carnival (Feb)

The wet season brings daily afternoon rains to the Andes and Amazon, though mornings are often clear. Trekking is still possible but trails are muddier and views less reliable. The Inca Trail closes every February for maintenance. However, this is the best time for Amazon wildlife as high water allows deeper canoe exploration.

Fewer tourists mean lower prices and a more authentic experience in Cusco and the Sacred Valley. Carnival celebrations in February are colorful and festive throughout the highlands.

Lima's Unique Climate

• Temperature: 15–27°C year-round
• Garua Season: May–November (coastal fog and overcast skies)
• Lima Summer: December–March (warm and sunny, 27°C)

Lima defies Peru's general pattern. The coast experiences garua — a persistent fog and drizzle — from May to November, making Lima grey and cool despite being in a desert. Lima's "summer" (December–March) brings warm, sunny weather perfect for beaches in Miraflores and Barranco. Ironically, Lima's best weather coincides with the Andes' wet season.

Best Time to Visit

• Machu Picchu: May–September (dry season)
• Amazon: Year-round, high water Jan–May, low water Jun–Nov
• Lima: December–March (sunny)
• Budget Travel: November–March (wet season)

For Machu Picchu and highland trekking, May to September is optimal. For the Amazon, both seasons offer different experiences — high water for canoe exploration, low water for walking trails and wildlife concentration. Lima is sunny December to March. The shoulder months of April and October offer good weather with fewer crowds.

What to Pack

Highlands: Warm layers for cold mornings and evenings, waterproof jacket (essential even in dry season), comfortable trekking boots, sun protection (UV is intense at altitude), and altitude sickness medication (consult your doctor). Lima: Light layers, a jacket for garua season. Amazon: Light long-sleeved clothing, waterproof boots, insect repellent with DEET, and a waterproof bag for electronics.

Key Facts

• Cusco at 3,400 m gets intense UV — sunburn is a risk even on cool days.
• The Inca Trail closes every February for annual maintenance.
• Lima is one of the driest capital cities in the world despite its persistent fog.
• The Amazon basin receives over 3,000 mm of rain annually.
• Inti Raymi on June 24 is Peru's most important cultural festival.

Fun Facts

• Lima's garua fog is so persistent that the city receives less than 10 mm of measurable rain per year despite being overcast for months.
• Altitude sickness can affect anyone above 2,500 m — Cusco at 3,400 m causes symptoms in roughly 25% of visitors.
• Peru's coastal desert is the driest place in South America, receiving less rainfall than the Sahara in some areas.

Final Thoughts

Peru's three ecological zones create a complex weather puzzle. The dry season is king for highland trekking, but the Amazon's high water and Lima's sunshine peak during the wet season — making multi-region trips a matter of compromise and good planning.