May is one of the ideal months to visit Peru, especially if you are planning to explore iconic destinations such as Cusco, the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Rainbow Mountain, Humantay Lake and whay not, the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. But how good is the weather in Peru in May? In this article, we tell you everything you need to know about the weather in this month, what is the weather like in may in other regions in Peru?, and how to prepare to enjoy your trip to the fullest.
What is the Weather Like in Peru in May?
The weather in Peru in May is quite variable depending on the region you visit. This month marks the beginning of the dry season in the highlands and jungle, while on the coast, the temperature is more temperate. Here is a breakdown of the average weather in the main tourist destinations in Peru:
- The weather in Cusco: The temperature in Cusco during May varies between 4°C and 20°C (39°F to 68°F). Mornings and evenings are generally cool, but afternoons are enjoyable. You may expect to encounter some light rains, but the rainy season is over, making May one of the best months to explore the region.
- The weather in Lima: In Lima, the climate is more temperate with temperatures ranging from 12°C to 20°C (54°F to 68°F). Rainfall is infrequent, and humidity is moderate. The Peruvian coast is pleasant for those seeking to escape the intense heat.
- The weather in the Amazone (Puerto Maldonado): In the Peruvian jungle, temperatures remain warm year-round, hovering around 24°C to 30°C (75°F to 86°F). Although May is a transitional month, rainfall is becoming less frequent than in the summer months, making it a good time to visit this fcinating region in Peru.
Is May the Best Month to Visit Peru?
Yes! May is one of the best months to travel to Peru. The rainy season is over in most regions, and the weather becomes more favorable for outdoor activities, such as hiking, archaeological explorations, visiting Paracas, the Nazca lines and, of course, hiking the famous Inca Trail in Cusco.
When traveling to Peru, it’s important to understand that the climate can vary significantly from one region to another, and you shouldn’t assume that the weather in one area reflects the weather in the other regions in the country. Each region’s climate is heavily influenced by its elevation. For example, while it may be summer in Cusco, it doesn’t mean that the same applies to Lima, which is located on the coast at a much lower elevation. In fact, coastal regions like Lima have a mild, desert-like climate, whereas the Andean highlands experience cooler temperatures, even during the summer months. Always check the specific weather forecast for the areas you plan to visit
Pros and Cons of Traveling to Peru in May
Pros:
- Pleasant weather: Temperatures are mild and the probability of rain is low, allowing you to enjoy outdoor activities specially in the highland area of Peru.
- Fewer tourists: Although May is a popular month, it is not yet high season, so there are fewer crowds at the main tourist destinations, and prices remain the same.
- Spectacular scenery: The Andean mountains and valleys are very green, offering a breathtaking view and a unique photographic experience.
Cons:
- Cold at night: If you visit high altitude areas such as Cusco or Puno, nights can be quite cold, especially in the early morning hours.
- Possible light rains: Although May marks the end of the rainy season, there may still be some passing showers, especially in the higher altitude areas.
- Altitude risk: If you are not used to high altitudes, the cold weather and altitude can make you feel a bit dizzy or fatigued, especially in Cusco, which is more than 3,000 meters above sea level.
What to Bring for a Trip to Peru in May?
Depending on the regions you will visit, it is essential to bring proper clothing to cope with the temperature changes. Here are some recommendations:
- Light clothing: If you visit the coast or the jungle, wear comfortable and light clothing, such as T-shirts, shorts and sunglasses.
- Warm clothing: If your destination is Cusco or the highlands of the Andes, you will need warmer clothing, such as a coat or sweater for the evening, as well as layers for the cold mornings.
- Comfortable shoes: If you plan to hike or explore, bring waterproof and comfortable walking shoes.
- Sun protection: Although rainfall is less frequent, the sun in the mountains can be strong, so it is important to wear sunscreen.
What to Expect in May in Peru?
In May, Peru experiences variable weather depending on the region, which makes it an ideal month for travel. It is a month of transition to the dry season, especially in the highland regions, which means you can enjoy green landscapes and pleasant temperatures. In places like Cusco, the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu have cool temperatures, with lows of around 4°C and highs of up to 20°C, making it perfect for hiking and exploring without the worry of constant rain.
On the coast, especially in Lima, temperatures are more temperate, hovering around 12°C to 20°C, and although there may be some fog or cloudy skies, the weather is ideal for exploring the city without the scorching heat of the summer months. In the jungle, on the other hand, temperatures remain warm, between 24°C and 30°C, but rainfall is becoming less frequent, making visits to the Peruvian jungle region equally attractive in this month. The important thing to keep in mind is that the weather can vary greatly depending on the altitude, so it is always advisable to check the specific forecasts for each region before your trip.
Conclusion
In summary, the weather in Peru in May is ideal for exploring the country, most of the regions in Cusco offer a pleasant climate for traveling and exploring, especially if you want to enjoy Cusco and the highlands. The combination of pleasant temperatures and little rainfall will allow you to make the most of your adventures without having to deal with extreme weather. Just be sure to bring the right clothing to deal with the temperature differences and get ready for an unforgettable experience in one of the most fascinating destinations in the world.
