Best time to visit Peru

Understanding Peru’s Two Main Seasons

To understand Peru’s climate, it is helpful to first look at its two primary seasons. These descriptions apply most directly to the Andean highlands, the region many travelers focus on. The coastal and Amazon regions operate on different patterns, which we will explore in detail below.

Dry Season (April – October)

• Also known as: “Andean Summer”
• General Conditions: Expect clear blue skies and brilliant sunshine during the day. Nights, however, become cold and crisp, particularly at higher altitudes where temperatures can drop significantly.
• Best for: This is the ideal period for hiking and trekking activities, such as the Inca Trail. The clear weather ensures magnificent views of Machu Picchu and the surrounding mountain landscapes.
• Heads-up: This period coincides with the peak tourist season. You should anticipate larger crowds at popular sites and higher prices for accommodation and tours, especially from June through August.

Wet Season (November – March)

• Also known as: “Andean Winter” or “Green Season”
• General Conditions: This season is characterized by frequent rain showers, which typically occur in the afternoon. Temperatures are generally warmer than in the dry season, and the landscape is transformed into a vibrant, lush green.
• Best for: Travelers visiting during these months will benefit from fewer crowds and more competitive pricing. It is a wonderful time to witness the Andean scenery at its most verdant and alive.
• Heads-up: Trekking can be more demanding due to muddy trails, and overcast skies are common. Please note that the Inca Trail is closed for maintenance for the entire month of February.

Best Time to Visit by Region

Peru’s immense geographical diversity means it is not a one-size-fits-all destination. The “best time” to travel truly depends on which parts of the country your itinerary covers. Below is a guide to help you understand the climate patterns for each major region.

The Andes (Cusco, Machu Picchu, Sacred Valley, Huaraz)

Peak/Dry Season (April – October)

• Pros: The weather is stable and dry, creating ideal conditions for trekking. Visibility is excellent for photography, and daytime temperatures are pleasant and mild.
• Cons: Nights can be very cold, often dropping below freezing. This is the busiest time of year, so it is essential to book accommodations and key tours, like the train to Machu Picchu, well in advance.

Shoulder Months (April, May, September, October)

• Why we recommend them: These months offer an excellent balance. You will experience much of the fine weather of the dry season but with noticeably fewer crowds than in June, July, and August. The landscape is also still beautifully green from the recent rains.

Wet Season (November – March)

• Pros: The scenery is incredibly lush and at its most vibrant. You will find a significant reduction in crowds at major sites and often better value on flights and hotels.
• Cons: Rain can disrupt travel plans and trail conditions. Machu Picchu may be shrouded in mist, which can be atmospheric but also obscure views. Remember, the Inca Trail is closed during February for annual maintenance.

The Amazon Rainforest (Iquitos, Puerto Maldonado)

The Amazon is consistently hot and humid throughout the year. The primary seasonal difference is not temperature but rather the water level of the rivers, which dramatically changes the environment and the types of activities available.

Low-Water Season (June – November)

• What it means: As river levels recede, jungle trails that were previously flooded become accessible.
• Best for: This is the prime time for jungle hiking. With more exposed riverbanks, there are increased opportunities to see land mammals like capybaras and sunbathing caimans.

High-Water Season (December – May)

• What it means: The rivers swell, flooding large areas of the forest floor and creating a vast, navigable network of waterways.
• Best for: Exploring deep into the jungle by boat or canoe is the highlight of this season. Being closer to the treetops makes it an excellent period for birdwatching. Be prepared for more mosquitos.

The Coast (Lima, Paracas, Máncora)

It is important to note that the coastal seasons are essentially the reverse of those in the Andes. While the mountains are in their dry season, the coast, particularly Lima, is in its cooler “winter.”

Summer (December – April)

• General Conditions: Days are typically hot, sunny, and humid, creating the classic beach atmosphere.
• Best for: This is the perfect time for swimming, surfing, and enjoying Lima’s vibrant seaside districts like Miraflores and Barranco. The clear skies also provide the best conditions for viewing the Nazca Lines from the air.

Winter (May – November)

• General Conditions: Temperatures are mild, but the sky is often overcast with a persistent coastal mist known as garúa, especially in Lima.
• Best for: The cooler weather is ideal for exploring Lima’s world-class museums and culinary scene without the intensity of the summer sun. Further north, beaches like Máncora remain sunnier and warmer year-round compared to the central and southern coast.

Timing Your Trip Around Key Activities & Events

For Trekkers & Hikers

• Inca Trail: The best and most popular months are from May to September. CRITICAL: Please be reminded that the trail is completely closed for the entire month of February for maintenance.
• Other Andean Treks (e.g., Salkantay, Ausangate): The period from April to October offers the safest and most enjoyable conditions with stable weather and dry paths.

For Wildlife Enthusiasts

• Amazon: Your timing should align with your interest. Choose June-November for land-based hiking and mammal spotting, or December-May for boat-based exploration and birding.
• Ballestas Islands (Paracas): While accessible year-round, the seas are generally calmest during the coastal summer (December to April), making for a more pleasant boat journey.
• Humpback Whale Watching (Northern Coast): For the best chance to witness these magnificent creatures, plan to be on the northern coast between August and October.

For Cultural Festivals

Your visit may coincide with one of Peru’s vibrant festivals. Here are a few highlights to be aware of:

• February: Carnaval is celebrated nationwide with parades and traditional water fights. The festivities are particularly lively in Cajamarca and Andean towns.
• June: Inti Raymi (Festival of the Sun) is a spectacular Inca celebration