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What's the weather like in Peru?

The weather in Peru differs from region to region with coastal areas experiencing a subtropical desert climate, a tropical climate in the Amazon rainforest and a temperate climate in the Andes (places like Cusco and Arequipa). While varying climates can mean the best time to visit Peru changes depending on the region you're visiting; generally, May to October sees consistently dry and sunny days perfect for enjoying the vibrant cities and beautiful landscapes of this South American country.

What is the weather like in Lima?

The coastal cliffs of Lima, Peru

Lima's location on the coast of Peru makes it a popular spot for those who want to vege out, relax on the beach and swim in the Pacific Ocean. The fact that it almost never rains in Lima has also helped make this sunny spot a must-visit when visiting Peru. 

While it might not experience heavy rainfall, Lima does see cold temperatures and high humidity levels from June to September with an average of 1 hour of sunlight per day in each winter month. Summer (December to March) brings with it sunny conditions and average high temperatures of 26°C-27°C. 

MONTH

 AVERAGE HIGH 

 AVERAGE LOW 

 March to May 

25°C

19°C

 June to August 

20°C

16°C

 September to November 

21°C

16°C

 December to February 

24°C

19°C

What is the weather like in Cusco?

Travellers in the main square of Cusco Peru

Similar to other regions in Peru, temperatures in Cusco hardly differ during the year with the average high being around 21°C-22°C for every month regardless of season. If you're looking for the warmest time to visit Cusco, try traveling in the spring months of March, April and May before the rainy season starts. 

While summers are pleasant in Cusco, winters can get bitterly cold with low average temperatures of 1°C expected in July. You won't need to bring an umbrella but you'll need to pack thermal clothing, scarves, gloves and beanies if you want to keep warm, especially at nighttime. 

MONTH

 AVERAGE HIGH 

 AVERAGE LOW 

 March to May 

21°C

6°C

 June to August 

21°C

2°C

 September to November 

22°C

7°C

 December to February 

20°C

8°C

What is the weather like in Arequipa? 

Aerial view of Arequipa and the Misti Volcano, Peru

Located on the western slope of the Andes, Arequipa enjoys relatively dry conditions, only seeing around 95 mm of rain each year on average. January and February experience the most rain, while there are plenty of months that see no rainfall at all (May, June, July and October). 

Despite the city experiencing dry conditions, it rarely gets super hot, instead enjoying relatively mild temperatures throughout the year. However, temperatures can drop to a chilly 9°C from June to September so remember to bring a coat or jacket with you if you're travelling during these months. 

MONTH

 AVERAGE HIGH 

 AVERAGE LOW 

 March to May 

22°C

10°C

 June to August 

22°C

8°C

 September to November 

22°C

9°C

 December to February 

21°C

10°C

What is the weather like in Iquitos? 

Accomodation in the Peruvian Amazon, Peru

Expect a lot of rain if you're travelling to Iquitos, located in the country's mountainous region to the north. Iquitos experiences around 2,850 mm of rain a year with March and April being the months with the most rainfall. If you're looking to escape the rain, you can't. Even the least rainiest month (August) still experiences 155 mm. 

But, just because it's rainy doesn't mean it's cold. The average high temperature in Iquitos is a sweltering 32°C, while the average low temperature doesn't dip below 21°C throughout the year.

MONTH

 AVERAGE HIGH 

 AVERAGE LOW 

 March to May 

32°C

22°C

 June to August 

32°C

22°C

 September to November 

33°C

22°C

 December to February 

32°C

22°C

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