Peru is a fascinating destination all year round, but knowing when to visit can make all the difference in your experience. You should know that each region of the country has its own unique climate and particularities. The locals, with their deep knowledge of the land, are the best guides to know the perfect time to explore every corner of this wonderful country. In this article, we provide the best tips on the best times to travel to Peru, recommended by locals.
Best Time to Visit Peru
One of the biggest countries in South America, Peru encompasses a wide variety of destinations with different climates. Since Peru is located in the southern hemisphere, its seasons are the opposite of those in the north, such as the United States or Europe. The warmest month of the year is February, but this depends on the region you want to visit in Peru.
the best time to visit Peru in terms of climate is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. If you prefer to avoid the large influx of tourists, you can travel in mid or low season, although you should consider the disadvantages of doing so during the rainy season if you plan to do some hiking activities in Peru.
Peru has a great climatic diversity due to its geography, which means that the best time to visit depends on the region you want to explore. The tourist seasons are divided into three:
High Season (May to August)
Climate: Dry and cool, ideal for trekking and visiting Machu Picchu. Temperatures in the Andes range between 18°C and 22°C (64°F and 72°F).
Advantages: Clear skies and pleasant weather, but higher tourist crowds and higher prices.
Intermediate Season (March, April, September, October)
Climate: Changeable, with some rainfall. Temperatures from 12°C to 20°C (54°F to 68°F) in the Andes.
Advantages: Fewer tourists and lower prices, although rains may affect some tourist activities.
Low Season (November to February)
Climate: Regular rainfall in the Andes, temperatures between 16°C and 22°C (61°F and 72°F).
Advantages: Fewer tourists and with lower prices.
Disadvantages: Rains can make some excursions difficult.
Best Times to Visit Peru with Less Crowds
By 2022 Peru received more than 2 million tourists. It is clear that the most popular destinations such as Cusco, Machu Picchu, Arequipa and Puno are very crowded during Peru’s high tourism season, which runs from May to August. For travelers who prefer to avoid the crowds, it is recommended to visit these destinations during the intermediate seasons: late April and May, or September and October, these dates are before and after the rainy season, which gives you a better chance of enjoying excellent weather and fewer tourists. Thus, you will be able to enjoy a quieter and more personalized experience.
Best Times to Visit Peru with the Best Weather
If you are looking for the best weather when visting Peru, the ideal time to travel to Peru is between May and September, when weather conditions are dry and cool. However, keep in mind that during these months the number of tourists will be higher. If you prefer a warmer climate but still wish to avoid rain, the intermediate seasons are an excellent option.
Peru is a vast country and its climate vary considerably depending on the region. The summer season on the coast, near the ocean, runs from early December to late February. That is the perfect climate for this area. But from June and July, the coastal areas start to become cold and foggy. Compared to the climate in the highlands. From mid-December to March is the rainy season. Therefore, travelers should decide on their destination and the type activity they want to have.
Best Times to Visit Peru at Lower Prices
If you plan to visit Machu Picchu at a lower price, the rainy season is your best option. During the months of January and February, which are the rainiest months of the year in Cusco region. If you don’t mind getting a little wet and come well prepared, you can find excellent deals. You can get good discounts during these months due to low demand in the tourism industry. Although rain can be an inconvenience, traveling during the low season has its benefits. Crowds are smaller in popular destinations such as Machu Picchu, Cusco or the Sacred Valley, allowing you to enjoy a more personalized experience.
If you choose to visit Peru during this time it is also advisable to have flexibility in your itinerary, as some activities or roads may be affected by the rains. In summary, the rainy season not only offers lower prices, but also a more intimate and unique experience of Peru
TRAVEL TIP: It is advisable to plan your activities in the morning, as afternoon rains are quite common.
Worst Time to Visit Peru
Actually there is no worst time to visit Peru, since the weather as we already explained varies according to the region you are interested in visiting and the activities you want to do. The worst time to visit Peru is based on what season of the year you visit Peru since the rainy season is from November to March in Machu Picchu but in Lima it is summer.
If you are looking sunny days during your visit to Peru and plan to explore the coastal attractions, the worst time to do so is during the winter in Lima (June through September). During these months, Lima experiences cloudy and cold weather, with gray skies and high humidity. Temperatures usually range from 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F), which is not ideal for enjoying the beaches of the city.
If your goal is to enjoy the sun and heat, it is best to avoid this period and plan your trip to the coast during the summer season, when temperatures are warmer.
Additional Considerations for Your Trip to Peru
Riots and Protests:
It is important to be aware of possible riots and protests in Peru, especially in the capital city of Lima. Political changes can lead to blockades, airport closures, and cancellation of tourist activities. As happened in December 2022, Peru experienced a series of protests following the impeachment of President Pedro Castillo, which seriously affected tourism in the country. If you are traveling to Peru, it is advisable to follow local news to stay informed about possible disruptions to your travel itinerary.
Conclusion:
The best time to visit Peru depends on your preferences and priorities. If you are looking for good weather, the months of May to October are perfect, especially if you plan to visit the highlands or do the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. If you prefer lower prices and don’t mind much about the rains, the rainy season is your chance to save. To avoid the crowds, the in-between months such as March, April, September and October are best.
No matter what time of year you choose to visit Peru, Peru will always have something great to offer. The key is to plan according to the seasons and the activities you are most interested in to enjoy all that this wonderful country has to offer.
