Geography of Peru

Peru’s Three Dramatic Regions: Coast, Highlands, and Jungle

Peru’s geography is a study in contrasts, defined by three distinct longitudinal zones. This dramatic topography means that in a single journey, you can experience the stark beauty of a coastal desert, the awe-inspiring heights of snow-capped Andean peaks, and the vibrant, living world of the Amazon rainforest. Each region offers a vastly different landscape, climate, and cultural experience.

The Coast (La Costa)

Key Characteristics

A narrow strip of desert plain runs the entire length of the country, pressed between the Pacific Ocean and the Andes. This region is characterized by arid landscapes, massive sand dunes, fertile river valleys that cut through the desert like green ribbons, and dramatic coastal cliffs. Many travelers are surprised to learn that this is one of the driest deserts in the world, receiving very little rainfall.

Climate and What It Means for You

• Central/Southern Coast (Lima, Paracas, Nazca): This area has a mild, arid climate year-round. From April to November, expect overcast skies and a persistent, damp coastal mist known as garúa, which keeps temperatures cool despite the lack of rain.
• Northern Coast (Mancora, Trujillo): The north is warmer and sunnier throughout the year, with a more traditional tropical-desert climate ideal for beach destinations.

Practical Impact: You will need layers for Lima’s cool, damp evenings, but primarily beachwear for the sun-drenched north. The near-total lack of rain is a defining feature of your coastal experience.

Major Sites in this Region

• Lima (the capital city)
• Paracas National Reserve (desert meets ocean)
• The Nazca Lines (etched into the desert floor)
• Chan Chan (ancient adobe city near Trujillo)

The Highlands (La Sierra)

Key Characteristics

The towering Andes Mountains form the rugged spine of the country. This is a dramatic and awe-inspiring landscape of snow-capped peaks reaching over 6,000 meters, vast high-altitude plateaus known as the altiplano, and deep, fertile valleys. The most famous of these is the Sacred Valley, which was the heartland of the Inca Empire.

Altitude: The Most Important Factor

Most of this region is at a high altitude. Cusco sits at 3,400m (11,152ft) and Lake Titicaca at 3,812m (12,507ft). The air at these elevations is significantly thinner, meaning your body gets less oxygen with each breath. This can affect anyone, regardless of age or physical fitness level.

Practical Impact: Acclimatization is not optional. You must plan to take it easy, avoid strenuous activity, and eat light meals for your first 24-48 hours at altitude. Drinking plenty of water and the local coca tea (mate de coca) is highly recommended. For more detailed information, please see our Health & Safety section.

Climate and What It Means for You

The highlands have two distinct seasons: a dry season (April-October) characterized by clear, sunny days and cold, crisp nights, and a wet season (November-March) with warmer temperatures and frequent afternoon showers.

Key Feature: The most notable aspect of the highland climate is the extreme temperature swing that can occur in a single day. A sunny afternoon can feel pleasantly warm, but temperatures plummet as soon as the sun sets behind the mountains.

Practical Impact: Packing in layers is essential for your comfort and health. A warm fleece, a waterproof/windproof jacket, a hat, gloves, and sunscreen are non-negotiable items for any trip to the Andes.

Major Sites in this Region

• Cusco and the Sacred Valley
• Machu Picchu
• The Inca Trail
• Arequipa and the Colca Canyon
• Lake Titicaca

The Jungle (La Selva)

Key Characteristics

Covering nearly 60% of Peru’s territory, this region is part of the vast Amazon Basin. It is broadly divided into two zones: the High Jungle (Selva Alta), a region of cloud forests on the eastern slopes of the Andes, and the Low Jungle (Selva Baja), the flat, expansive tropical rainforest that most people picture when they think of the Amazon. It is a world of incredible biodiversity, home to countless species of plants, insects, birds, and mammals.

Climate and What It Means for You

The Amazon is hot, humid, and rainy throughout the year. There is a “lower water” season, roughly from June to October, which corresponds with the highland dry season. During these months, there are fewer extended downpours, but you should still expect rain and consistently high humidity.

Practical Impact: It is important to understand that the “dry season” in the jungle does not mean it will not rain. Pack lightweight, breathable, and quick-drying long-sleeved shirts and trousers to protect against both sun and insects. A reliable rain poncho and a strong insect repellent are mandatory items.

Major Sites in this Region

• Puerto Maldonado (gateway to Tambopata National Reserve)
• Iquitos (the world’s largest city inaccessible by road)
• Manu National Park (a UNESCO World Heritage Site)