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Best Time to Visit Peru: Weather & Seasons Guide 2025

Complete guide to the best time to visit Peru. Learn about weather, seasons, dry season, wet season, and when to visit Machu Picchu, Cusco, Lima, and other destinations.

Peru has diverse climates and weather patterns that vary by region and altitude. Understanding Peru's seasons will help you plan the best trip for your interests. This guide tells you about weather patterns, the best times to visit different regions, and what to expect during each season.

Peru's Seasons: Dry Season vs Wet Season

Dry Season (May to September)

The dry season is the most popular time to visit Peru, especially for the Andes and Machu Picchu. This period has the best weather with clear skies, less rain, and perfect conditions for hiking and outdoor activities.

Best weather: Clear skies, sunny days
Less rain: Especially in the Andes
Best for hiking: Perfect trail conditions
Busiest time: More tourists, higher prices
Peak months: June, July, August
Book ahead: Accommodation and tours fill up

Wet Season (October to April)

The wet season has more rain, especially in the Andes, but it is also less crowded and often cheaper. Many destinations are still accessible, and the rain usually comes in short bursts rather than all day.

More rain: Especially December to March
Less crowded: Fewer tourists
Lower prices: Accommodation and tours cheaper
Still accessible: Most places still open
Greener landscapes: Beautiful scenery
Rain patterns: Usually afternoon showers

Best Time to Visit by Destination

Machu Picchu and Cusco

The best time to visit Machu Picchu and Cusco is during the dry season (May to September), especially June, July, and August. These months have the clearest skies and best weather for hiking and exploring.

Best months: June, July, August
Weather: Clear skies, sunny, cool temperatures
Hiking: Perfect trail conditions
Book ahead: Tickets and accommodation sell out
Shoulder season: May and September are also good
Wet season: Still accessible, but more rain

Lima (Coast)

Lima has a mild, dry climate year-round. The best time to visit is during the summer months (December to March) when it is warmer and sunnier, though Lima is rarely very hot.

Year-round: Mild climate, rarely extreme
Summer: December to March (warmer, sunnier)
Winter: June to September (cooler, more fog)
Always accessible: No seasonal closures
Coastal fog: Common in winter months

Amazon Rainforest

The Amazon can be visited year-round, but the dry season (May to October) has better hiking conditions and better chances of seeing wildlife. The wet season (November to April) has higher water levels, making boat travel easier.

Dry season: Better hiking, better wildlife viewing
Wet season: Higher water levels, easier boat travel
Year-round: Hot and humid
Wildlife: Can be seen all year
Best months: May to October for hiking

Arequipa and Colca Canyon

The best time to visit Arequipa and Colca Canyon is during the dry season (May to September) for the best weather and clearest views. Condor viewing is possible year-round but best in dry season.

Best months: May to September
Weather: Clear skies, best visibility
Condor viewing: Year-round, best in dry season
Hiking: Better conditions in dry season

Huaraz and Cordillera Blanca

The best time for trekking in Huaraz is during the dry season (May to September), especially June, July, and August. The wet season has more rain and can make trails difficult.

Best months: June, July, August
Weather: Clear skies, best for trekking
Trail conditions: Best in dry season
Wet season: More rain, trails can be difficult
High altitude: Weather can change quickly

Lake Titicaca

Lake Titicaca can be visited year-round, but the dry season (May to September) has better weather with clearer skies and less rain. The wet season is still accessible but has more rain.

Best months: May to September
Weather: Clear skies, less rain
Year-round: Always accessible
High altitude: Can be cold, especially at night

Monthly Weather Guide

May to July (Peak Dry Season)

Best weather overall
Clear skies, sunny
Busiest and most expensive
Book everything well ahead

August to September (Late Dry Season)

Still good weather
Slightly less crowded
Good balance of weather and crowds

October to November (Shoulder Season)

Transition period
Some rain possible
Less crowded, lower prices
Still good for most activities

December to March (Wet Season Peak)

Most rain in Andes
Least crowded
Lowest prices
Still accessible

April (Late Wet Season)

Rain decreasing
Transition to dry season
Good balance

Tips for Choosing When to Visit

Consider Your Priorities

Best weather: Dry season (May to September), especially June to August
Fewer crowds: Wet season (October to April), especially December to March
Lower prices: Wet season and shoulder months (April, May, October, November)
Hiking and trekking: Dry season for best trail conditions
Budget travel: Wet season for lower prices
Flexible dates: Shoulder seasons offer good balance

Plan Your Peru Adventure

Book accommodation, tours, and experiences. Choose the best time for your interests.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to visit Peru?

The best time to visit Peru depends on where you want to go. The dry season (May to September) is generally best for most destinations, especially the Andes and Machu Picchu. This period has less rain, clearer skies, and better hiking conditions. However, it is also the busiest and most expensive time.

What is the weather like in Peru?

Peru has three main climate zones: the coast (dry and mild), the Andes (cooler, with dry and wet seasons), and the Amazon (hot and humid year-round). Weather varies greatly by region and altitude. The coast is generally mild, the Andes have distinct dry and wet seasons, and the Amazon is hot and humid with more rain in the wet season.

When is the dry season in Peru?

The dry season in Peru runs from May to September, with June, July, and August being the driest months. This is the best time for visiting the Andes, Machu Picchu, Cusco, and high-altitude destinations. The weather is generally clear, sunny, and perfect for hiking and outdoor activities.

When is the wet season in Peru?

The wet season in Peru runs from October to April, with December to March being the wettest months in the Andes. During this time, there is more rain, especially in the mountains, but it is also less crowded and often cheaper. The Amazon has its own wet season with higher water levels.

What is the best time to visit Machu Picchu?

The best time to visit Machu Picchu is during the dry season (May to September), especially June, July, and August. These months have the best weather with clear skies and less rain. However, this is also the busiest time, so book tickets and accommodation well in advance.