Peru, a land of amazing culture, ancient ruins, and beautiful landscapes, welcomes visitors all year round. From the high Andes Mountains to the Amazon rainforest and the mysterious Nazca Lines, Peru has something for everyone. Knowing about Peru’s weather will help you plan the perfect trip.
When to Go for Hiking and Exploring the Andes:
If you want to hike the famous Inca Trail or see Machu Picchu, the best time to visit is during the dry season (May to September). The weather is sunny and clear, perfect for exploring the mountains. Just remember, this is also the busiest time of year, so expect more tourists.
When to Go for the Amazon and Fewer Crowds:
For a different experience, visit the Amazon rainforest during the wetter months (November to March). The rainforest is lush and green, and there are fewer tourists. If you don’t mind a little rain, this is a great time to see a different side of Peru. You might also find better deals on flights and hotels.
A snapshot of the best time to visit Perú
Peru is super cool! It has old ruins, pretty places, and interesting people. You can go anytime! Big mountains, jungle, and weird ground drawings…Peru has it all. The best time to go depends on what you want to do.
Good time for mountain walks
Want to walk the Inca Trail or see Machu Picchu? Go when it’s dry (May to September). Sunny skies, easy to walk. Lots of other people will be there too.
Good time for jungle and less people:
Want something different? Go to the jungle when it’s rainy (November to March). The jungle is really green, and not so many people go then. If a little rain is okay, this is a good time to see a different Peru. Plane tickets and hotels might be cheaper too.
Best time to visit Perú for festivals
Peru is a land of culture and ancient traditions, best experienced through its colorful festivals. Knowing when these celebrations take place can help you plan the perfect Peruvian adventure.
Fiesta de la Candelaria (February)
Puno, on the shores of Lake Titicaca, comes alive with color and music during the Fiesta de la Candelaria. This two-week festival in early February honors the Virgin of Candelaria, featuring costumes, traditional dances, and infectious music. Expect large crowds and book accommodations well in advance. While February falls within the rainy season in the highlands, the exciting atmosphere makes it worthwhile.
Inti Raymi (June)
Witness the impressive Inti Raymi, the Festival of the Sun, in Cusco during the winter solstice in June. This ancient Inca ceremony, reenacted at Sacsayhuamán fortress, honors the sun god and offers a glimpse into Peru’s rich history. June falls in the dry season, making it ideal for exploring Cusco and surrounding areas.
Fiestas Patrias (July)
Peru’s Independence Day celebrations, Fiestas Patrias, occur at the end of July. Experience patriotic parades, traditional Peruvian cuisine, and festive celebrations throughout the country. July’s dry weather provides comfortable conditions for enjoying outdoor events.
Santuranticuy (December)
If you’re visiting Cusco in December, don’t miss Santuranticuy, a Christmas Eve market filled with handcrafted goods. This market offers unique souvenirs and gifts, showcasing Peruvian artistry. December marks the start of the rainy season in the highlands, so pack accordingly.
Planning Your Trip Around Festivals
While Peru offers festivals year-round, consider weather and crowds when planning your trip. The dry season (May-September) offers the best weather for exploring the Andes and the Amazon, but also attracts more tourists.
The rainy season (October-April) sees fewer crowds but can impact travel in certain regions. Choosing the right time depends on your priorities and the specific festival you wish to experience.
Avoiding the crowds in Perú, best time to travel
Peru offers incredible experiences year-round, but timing is key to avoiding the crowds. For a quieter adventure, consider these periods:
Shoulder Seasons (April-May & September-October): These months offer the best balance of pleasant weather and fewer tourists. Enjoy comfortable temperatures and shorter queues at popular sites like Machu Picchu.
Wet Season (November-March): While rain is more frequent, this season boasts lush landscapes and significantly fewer visitors. It’s an ideal time for exploring the Amazon rainforest or trekking less-traveled trails. Just be prepared for occasional downpours.
Tips for Avoiding Crowds: Book accommodations and tours in advance, especially during shoulder season. Consider visiting less-popular destinations and exploring early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
When is the hottest in Perú?
Peru’s diverse geography creates regional variations in its hottest temperatures. Along the coast, the hottest months are typically December through March.
In the Andes Mountains, the warmest days usually occur during the dry season (May to September), although nights can be quite cold. The Amazon rainforest region experiences hot and humid weather throughout the year, with temperatures slightly higher from June to August. Further research is needed to provide more specific temperature ranges for each region.
Visiting Perú in Octubre – Dicember
Events & festivals
