Best Time to Visit

Peru is a country of infinite contrasts, offering something extraordinary in every season. From sunlit highland treks to misty rainforest mornings, the country’s varied landscapes mean your experience will change depending on when you visit. 

Summer brings lively festivals and coastal escapes, spring offers wildflowers and fresh trekking routes, autumn showcases harvest celebrations, and winter reveals a calmer, more intimate side of the Andes. 

Speak to a Destination Specialist today to match your visit with the experiences that inspire you most.

Planning Travel Around Peru’s Seasons

In spring (September to November), the Andes are dotted with seas of wildflowers, and trekking conditions are excellent with fewer crowds than in peak season. It’s a beautiful time to explore Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu.

During summer (December to February), the coast is at its sunniest, ideal for beach time in Paracas or Mancora. In the highlands, summer is also the rainy season, but this brings lush scenery and vibrant festivals like Carnaval.

In the fall (March to May), the harvest season offers mild weather and spectacular landscapes in the Sacred Valley. It’s a great time for photography and cultural immersion.

Winter (June to August) offers clear skies and cool temperatures, making this peak trekking season in the Andes. While Machu Picchu is busier, the crisp air and panoramic views are unforgettable.

The Best Times to Visit Peru According to Your Interests

The best season for your Peru vacation depends on your focus. For Andes trekking, including the Inca Trail and alternative routes, May to October offers the most reliable weather, with sunny days and cool nights. 

If you’re drawn to history and culture, April to June and September to November balance pleasant conditions with smaller crowds, making it easier to linger at landmarks and markets. 

Food and wine lovers will appreciate the Sacred Valley during the autumn harvest, when local produce, vineyards, and Andean culinary traditions are at their most vibrant.

Regional Highlights to Plan Your Peru Trip Around

Peru’s regions have distinct climates, so timing matters. Lima enjoys year-round appeal, with a refreshing coastal breeze that makes its streets, markets, and world-renowned dining scene inviting in every season. Food lovers in particular will find Lima a constant feast, whether sampling fresh ceviche or indulging in a Michelin-starred restaurant experience.

Cusco shines from April to October, when dry days make it perfect for wandering cobblestone streets, exploring vibrant plazas, and discovering Inca ruins in the surrounding hills. Machu Picchu is at its most breathtaking in the dry season from May to October, when clear skies frame the terraces and dramatic peaks. The Sacred Valley also flourishes in this period, offering colourful markets and accessible trails. 

To compare climates across the country and plan your journey with confidence, explore our Peru travel guide.

Let the Seasons Shape Your Peruvian Journey

Planning your route around the climate ensures every stop is at its best. In the dry season, you can combine Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu with highland hikes or Lake Titicaca. 

In the rainy months, focus on Lima’s coastal beauty, Arequipa’s colonial charm, and the lush Amazon. “The Peruvian Amazon is perfect for naturalists,” Destination Specialist Osvaldo Gonzalez says. “From high-end cruises in Iquitos to science-based experiences in the southern Amazon, it’s as immersive as it gets.”

Our essential Peru travel tips can help fine-tune your itinerary so you enjoy the right mix of scenery, culture, and comfort.

FAQs 

What is the hottest month in Peru?

February is typically the hottest month, especially along the coast, with warm, humid days in Lima and other seaside destinations.

What is the busiest month in Peru?

June and July are considered peak months for travel. The Inti Raymi Festival, which takes place annually on June 24th in Cusco draws in big crowds, whilst the weather makes it ideal dry-season trekking conditions.

What is the off-season in Peru?

January to March is considered off-season, with higher rainfall in the Andes but quieter attractions and lush landscapes.

What is the coldest month in Machu Picchu?

June tends to be the coldest, with chilly mornings and evenings, though days are often sunny and clear.

What are the rainy months in Peru?

The rainy season runs from November to March, heaviest in January and February in the Andes.

What is the best month to visit Cusco?

May is a favourite, offering clear skies, fewer crowds than peak season, and vibrant greenery after the rains.

When should you not go to Peru?

If avoiding heavy rain and possible trail closures is important, skip January and February in the Andes.