Climate & Weather in Peru
Peru is one of the most climatically diverse countries on Earth. Choose your city, choose your weather.
Three Climate Zones
Costa (Coast) - Desert:
- Lima, Trujillo, Arequipa
- Arid desert climate, very little rain
- Lima: 60-80°F (15-27°C) year-round
- Famous "garua" - grey overcast skies May-November
- Sunny and pleasant December-April
Sierra (Highlands) - Mountain:
- Cusco, Huaraz, Puno
- Warm sunny days, cold nights
- Cusco: 40-70°F (5-21°C) depending on season
- Rainy season: November-March
- Dry season: April-October (best time to visit)
- Altitude significantly affects comfort
Selva (Jungle) - Tropical:
- Iquitos, Puerto Maldonado
- Hot and humid year-round: 75-95°F (24-35°C)
- Heavy rainfall, especially December-March
- Rich biodiversity but challenging living conditions
City Climate Details
Lima:
| Season | Months | Temperature | Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Dec-Apr | 70-80°F | Sunny, warm, pleasant |
| Winter | May-Nov | 58-66°F | Grey, overcast (garua), cool |
Lima's winter garua is its biggest drawback for many expats. Not rain exactly, but a persistent grey mist that blocks the sun for months. It affects mood for those sensitive to lack of sunlight.
Cusco:
| Season | Months | Day/Night Temp | Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dry | Apr-Oct | 65-70°F / 35-40°F | Sunny days, cold nights |
| Wet | Nov-Mar | 60-65°F / 45-50°F | Afternoon rain, warmer nights |
The dry season (April-October) is the best time, with brilliant blue skies and warm sunny days. Nights are always cold due to altitude (3,400m).
Arequipa:
Year-round sunshine, 300+ sunny days per year. Daytime 65-75°F, nights 45-55°F. Much less rain than Cusco. Often called the sunniest city in Peru.
Altitude Considerations
Critical for highland cities:
- Cusco (3,400m / 11,150ft): Most people adapt in 2-3 days
- Puno/Lake Titicaca (3,800m / 12,500ft): More challenging
- Symptoms: headache, shortness of breath, fatigue, nausea
- Traditional remedy: coca tea (mate de coca)
- Drink lots of water, avoid alcohol first 48 hours
- Plan light activities for first 2-3 days
Natural Phenomena
Earthquakes:
Peru is seismically active (Pacific Ring of Fire). Tremors are common, major quakes possible. Modern Lima buildings are earthquake-resistant.
El Nino:
Periodic weather pattern causing heavy rain on normally dry coast. Can cause flooding and disruptions. Major events roughly every 7-10 years.
No hurricanes:
South America doesn't experience hurricanes.
What to Pack
For Lima:
- Light layers (t-shirts, light sweaters)
- Light jacket for winter garua season
- Sunscreen for summer months
- No need for heavy winter clothing
For Cusco/Highlands:
- Warm layers (thermal base, fleece, jacket)
- Sun protection (strong UV at altitude)
- Rain jacket for wet season
- Good walking shoes
- Hat and sunglasses (essential at altitude)
For Amazon:
- Light, breathable, long-sleeved clothing
- Rain protection
- Insect repellent (essential)
- Waterproof bags for electronics
Pro Tips
- •Lima's "garua" season (May-Nov) is grey and gloomy - be prepared
- •Arequipa has Peru's best weather - 300+ sunny days per year
- •Take altitude seriously in Cusco - rest and hydrate on arrival
- •Cusco's dry season (Apr-Oct) has the best weather for living and travel
- •Pack layers - highland temperatures swing 30°F+ between day and night
Have questions about climate & weather in Peru?