If you are thinking of traveling to Peru in July and wondering if July is a good month to visit Peru, the answer depends on what you are looking for. July marks the middle of the year and offers ideal weather conditions for certain destinations in the country. In this article we tell you what the weather is like, what activities you can do, what to pack and which are the most touristic places in Peru in July, so you can make the best decision.
Is July a Good Month to Visit Peru?
Yes, July is one of the best months to visit Peru, especially if you plan to tour the highlands or the Amazon. It is dry season in much of the country, which means clear skies, good weather for outdoor activities and beautiful landscapes.
Temperatures in July (in degrees Celsius and Fahrenheit)
Temperatures in July in Peru vary considerably depending on the region of the country you visit. The weather at this time can surprise many travelers. Peruvian geography, with coast, highlands and jungle, creates unique microclimates that directly influence the travel experience. Therefore, understanding how temperatures behave in July is key to planning your trip properly, packing the right clothes and making the most of each destination without climatic complications.
Average Temperatures in Peru in July
- Lima (Coast): Temperatures range from 15°C to 19°C (59°F to 66°F). The coastal climate is cool and humid, with frequent morning fog.
- Cusco (Highlands): Ranges from 0°C in the early morning to 19°C during the day (32°F to 66°F). Expect sunny days and cold nights, especially at higher areas.
- Arequipa (Highlands): Between 7°C and 21°C (45°F to 70°F). Typically dry and sunny, with pleasant daytime weather.
- Iquitos (Amazon Rainforest): Warm and humid, with temperatures from 22°C to 32°C (72°F to 90°F). July is part of the drier season, making it good for exploration.
- Puno (Altiplano): Very cold nights and chilly days, ranging from -4°C to 17°C (25°F to 62°F). It’s important to be prepared for freezing temperatures, especially in the nights.
Pros and cons of visiting Peru in July
Pros:
- Dry weather ideal for hiking and outdoor activities.
- Perfect for visiting Machu Picchu and other ancient ruins.
- Unique national celebrations and cultural festivities.
Cons:
- High tourist season (more visitors, higher prices).
- Some places require advance reservations.
- Most tourist attractionsare super crowded.
What to bring to visit Peru in July?
When deciding what to wear to visit Peru in July, it is important to understand that, although it is officially winter in the country, weather conditions vary greatly depending on the region. While in Lima and the central coast it is winter with gray skies, humidity and cool temperatures, in the Andean highlands – as in Cusco or Arequipa – it can be sunny and mild, with cold nights. Curiously, in some high altitude areas, such as Cusco, July is considered a kind of “dry summer”, ideal for outdoor activities. On the other hand, in the Amazon jungle, as in Iquitos, the climate remains hot and humid, even in July.
Tip: For this reason, there is no standard list of clothes for the different parts of the country. It is best to clearly define the destinations you will visit and prepare your suitcase strategically for each area.
- Thermal underwear (especially useful in the sierra and highlands)
- Short and long sleeve t-shirts (to combine in layers)
- Comfortable pants (a waterproof one if you will be hiking or trekking)
- Waterproof jacket or windbreaker
- Sweater, fleece or light coat
- Thick coat or feather coat (essential in cold areas like Cusco or Puno)
- Scarf, hat and gloves (for cold nights at high altitude)
- Light and cool clothes (if you visit the jungle or warm northern areas)
- Comfortable shoes for walking long distances
- Waterproof boots or shoes (ideal for trekking or variable weather)
- Sandals or cool footwear (optional for hot areas or rest)
- Cap or wide-brimmed hat (sun protection)
- Sunglasses with UV filter
- Sunscreen (minimum SPF 30)
- Lip balm with sunscreen
- Insect repellent (especially for the Amazon)
- Rain poncho or waterproof cape (useful in humid areas)
- Daypack for short excursions or hikes
- Reusable water bottle
- Quick drying towel
- Personal medication and pills for altitude sickness (soroche)
- Plug adapter (type A/B or C, depending on your country of origin)
Festivities in July in Peru
- July 28 and 29: Fiestas Patrias – Celebration of Peru’s independence with parades, concerts, dances and gastronomic fairs.
- Virgen del Carmen (July 16) – Especially in Paucartambo (Cusco), with colorful dances and traditional masks.
What to Do in Peru in July? Recommended Activities
July is one of the best months to explore Peru, as it is dry season in many regions, allowing you to enjoy outdoor activities.
Whether you prefer to hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, explore the Amazon rainforest, or immerse yourself in Lima’s vibrant gastronomic scene, this month is ideal for making the most of all that the country has to offer.
- Visit Machu Picchu: Clear skies and excellent visibility.
- Trekking to the Sacred Valley and Inca Trail.
- Explore the Amazon: Warm weather but less rainy.
- Visit the northern beaches (although cooler on the central coast).
- Gastronomic tourism in cities like Lima, Arequipa and Cusco.
- Sailing on Lake Titicaca or visiting the floating islands.
Weather in Peru’s Key Tourist Regions in July
Lima (coast)
Cool and humid weather, with a lot of fog (“la garúa”).
Temperature: 15 – 19°C (59 – 66°F).
Cusco and Machu Picchu (southern highlands)
- Dry, sunny days and cold nights.
- Temperature: 0 – 19°C (32 – 66°F).
- Ideal for hiking and archeological tourism.
Arequipa
- Clear skies and mild weather.
- Temperature: 7 – 21°C (45 – 70°F).
- Perfect for visiting the Colca Canyon.
Iquitos (Amazon rainforest)
- Warm and humid, less rain than other months.
- Temperature: 22 – 32°C (72 – 90°F).
- Good time for jungle tours.
Puno and Lake Titicaca
- Very cold at night, dry during the day.
- Temperature: -4 – 17°C (25 – 62°F).
- Thermal clothing is recommended.
Conclusion
Visiting Peru in July is an excellent option if you are looking for good weather, outdoor activities and breathtaking scenery. Although it is high tourist season, the experience is totally worth it, the possibility of exploring without rain and the wide variety of activities available. Just remember to plan ahead and pack accordingly to make the most of your Peruvian adventure.
