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?
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 79°F/81°F.
MONTH | AVERAGE HIGH | AVERAGE LOW |
March to May | 77°F | 66°F |
June to August | 68°F | 61°F |
September to November | 70°F | 61°F |
December to February | 75°F | 66°F |
What is the weather like in Cusco?
Similar to other regions in Peru, temperatures in Cusco hardly differ during the year with the average high being around 70°F or 72°F 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 34°F 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 | 70°F | 43°F |
June to August | 70°F | 36°F |
September to November | 72°F | 45°F |
December to February | 68°F | 46°F |
What is the weather like in Arequipa?
Located on the western slope of the Andes, Arequipa enjoys relatively dry conditions, only seeing around 3.7 inches 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 48°F from June to September, so remember to bring a coat or jacket with you if you're traveling during these months.
MONTH | AVERAGE HIGH | AVERAGE LOW |
March to May | 72°F | 50°F |
June to August | 72°F | 46°F |
September to November | 72°F | 48°F |
December to February | 70°F | 50°F |
What is the weather like in Iquitos?
Expect a lot of rain if you're traveling to Iquitos, located in the country's mountainous region to the north. Iquitos experiences around 112 inches 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 6 inches.
But just because it's rainy doesn't mean it's cold. The average high temperature in Iquitos is a sweltering 88°F, while the average low temperature doesn't dip below 70°F throughout the year.
MONTH | AVERAGE HIGH | AVERAGE LOW |
March to May | 90°F | 72°F |
June to August | 90°F | 70°F |
September to November | 91°F | 70°F |
December to February | 90°F | 70°F |
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