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What is the best time of the year to visit Peru?

Tourist enjoying one of the best seasons in Peru. Source: CuscoPeru.com
Tourist enjoying one of the best seasons in Peru.
Tourist enjoying one of the best seasons in Peru. Source: CuscoPeru.com
Tourist enjoying one of the best seasons in Peru.

Peru is a tourist destination that you can visit all year round, but we recommend visiting between May and September when there is little rain, the days are sunny, and the weather is perfect for visiting highlights like Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley of the Incas, the Nazca Lines, and other natural wonders in Peru.

It is also an excellent season to enjoy important festivities such as the Inti Raymi, the Feast of the Lord of Qoyllur Rit'i, and the Virgin of Carmen, among others. 

The weather can be unpredictable; however, good planning, considering the climate and festivities during your visit, will make your experience even more memorable.

Visit Peru According to the Tourist Season

The tourist season in Peru is determined by the influx of tourists, influenced by the climate or festivities occurring throughout the year, which are:

High Season

During this season, which runs from June to August, visits increase because the main destinations, such as Cusco and Machu Picchu, are in a period with minimal rainfall.

They are also popular due to the Cusco festivals and festivities in Paucartambo, perfect for enjoying sunny days with clear blue skies in the Andean region.

Keep in mind that as it is the best time to travel, the prices for accommodation, tours, and flights tend to increase due to the high demand from visitors. Additionally, it is the coldest season to visit.

Mid-Season

March and April, as well as September to October, are transitional months because it is likely to rain little or be sunny on some days, which is why the number of visitors decreases, and travel prices drop.

Low Season

This is the rainiest season, between December and March, which reduces the number of visitors. However, you can take advantage of sunny days to enjoy the colorful carnivals in Cusco, Cajamarca, and the Feast of the Virgin of Candelaria. To learn more about the festivities you want to experience, visit the Peru festivities calendar.

It is important to note that in February the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is closed due to constant rains.

During this season, visiting the Huacachina lagoon and other attractions in northern Peru is perfect for those who enjoy summer and warm, sunny weather.

The Huacachina oasis is a perfect destination to enjoy the sun and warm weather. Source: CuscoPeru.com
The Huacachina oasis is a perfect destination to enjoy the sun and warm weather.
The Huacachina oasis is a perfect destination to enjoy the sun and warm weather. Source: CuscoPeru.com
The Huacachina oasis is a perfect destination to enjoy the sun and warm weather.

Weather and Temperature in Peru

Peru has a great diversity of climates influenced by the Andes mountain range and the Humboldt current, generating different climates in the Coast, Highlands, and Jungle.

If you love warm and sunny climates, you can visit Ica, Paracas, and other coastal destinations in Peru all year round, as rainfall is scarce. If you prefer to enjoy a temperate and cold climate and visit the grand mountains of the highlands and their remarkable sites, keep in mind the rainy and dry seasons.

The Peruvian Amazon is perfect for enjoying various destinations with warm, humid weather and great biodiversity. Additionally, other activities you can do in Peru will depend on your preferences, tastes, and planning according to the seasons in Peru.

Best Time of the Year to Visit Cusco

The best time to visit Cusco is from May to October, during the dry season, as the weather is more stable and there is little rain.

These months offer clear skies and pleasant temperatures, ideal for exploring Machu Picchu and engaging in outdoor activities such as the Inca Trail, visiting archaeological sites, or enjoying adventure tourism in Cusco.

Likewise, the best month to visit Cusco is June, when the vibrant and colorful Cusco Festivals are celebrated.

Weather and Temperature in Cusco

Cusco is highly visited due to the wonder of the world, Machu Picchu, and other destinations that make it beloved. It has an average temperature between 3.7°C and 12.6°C, with temperatures that can drop to -0.3°C and rise to 20.3°C.

The rainy season, with February being the rainiest month, offers green landscapes and temperate weather. In the dry season, you can enjoy blue skies and sunny days; both seasons in Cusco are ideal for different climatic preferences.

Keep in mind that it is almost always cold in Cusco, regardless of the season, and due to the unpredictable weather, it may rain unexpectedly, so it is always good to be prepared.

Best Time of the Year to Visit Machu Picchu

The best time to visit Machu Picchu is from May to October.

Machu Picchu is open year-round, even during the rainy season. It is important to remember that in February the Inca Trail is closed due to increased rains, but you can explore the citadel through other equally fascinating routes.

Weather and Temperature in Machu Picchu

The climate of Machu Picchu is subtropical with two well-defined seasons, rainy and dry. If you love the rainy season, you will enjoy cool weather, although the fog will not allow you to clearly see the citadel, but sometimes it clears up.

In the dry season, sunny days will allow you to see the citadel better and take incredible photos. You can take the opportunity to have a great experience on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

The average temperature in Machu Picchu throughout the year is 17°C.

The impressive view of Machu Picchu on a sunny day. Source: CuscoPeru.com
The impressive view of Machu Picchu on a sunny day.
The impressive view of Machu Picchu on a sunny day. Source: CuscoPeru.com
The impressive view of Machu Picchu on a sunny day.

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