The Best Times to Visit Peru
Peru’s seasons vary across the country so whether you want to trek your way through the lush rainforest or browse local markets for colourful textiles to remind you of your trip, there’s something to enjoy year-round.
At Scott Dunn, our travel experts can help you plan a truly bespoke Peruvian holiday based on when you want to travel. From tips on avoiding peak tourist seasons to advice about local festivals and traditions, we’ll help you discover the best time to visit Peru.
Best Times of Year to Visit Peru
The best time to visit Peru depends on what kind of holiday you are planning.
Because of its proximity to the equator, Peru’s seasons are the opposite of those in the UK - while it’s summer in the UK, it’s winter in Peru and vice versa. So, if you want a relaxing coastal break or an adventurous hiking holiday in the sun, it’s best to travel during the Northern hemisphere’s autumn and winter months.
It’s also important to remember that Peru experiences wet and dry seasons, with Peru’s rainy season at its peak between December and March. However, there are still many ways to avoid the wet weather and enjoy this beautiful country if you’re travelling at this time.
Below are some of our favourite ways to enjoy Peru’s vibrant culture and stunning scenery, no matter the time of year.
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Spring in Peru
While springtime in the UK, March, April and May are Peru’s autumn months.
As Peru’s rainy season comes to an end, April and May are ideal times to visit Machu Picchu before the big crowds set in. Arrive in style on the luxurious Inca Rail train or hike the famous Inca Trail to experience the best of Peru’s varied landscapes, taking in rainforests, snow-covered mountains and beautiful lakes on your journey.
This is one of the best times to visit Peru to enjoy Lake Titicaca’s intriguing islands. As the skies clear, why not treat yourself to an evening of stargazing on the shore and learn about the ancient beliefs that governed Inca life?
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Summer in Peru
Between June and August Peru experiences its winter season, with temperatures ranging between 15 and 25℃ across the country.
Mild temperatures and dry weather make Peruvian winter the most popular time to visit major attractions - just be prepared to queue to enjoy these great conditions.
If you want to beat the crowds, why not explore the breathtaking Colca Canyon in Southern Peru? Take a drive out to the Cruz del Condor (Cross of the Condor) for a chance to catch a glimpse of these magnificent birds or embark on an exhilarating hike to fully take in the striking landscape.
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Autumn in Peru
Sunny skies and warm weather make Peruvian spring a good time to visit popular destinations without peak tourist numbers slowing you down.
If you’re planning on visiting Peru in October, we recommend travelling to Cusco and the Sacred Valley so you can enjoy these spectacular locations outside of their busiest times.
This is also the best time of year to visit Peru’s Amazon before the rainy season sets in. Its sub-tropical climate means the rainforest experiences high temperatures all year long, averaging 35℃ between September and November. From walking through the lush jungle while learning about the fascinating trees and plants to cruising along the river in search of wildlife, there are endless ways to enjoy the rainforest’s amazing biodiversity during Peru’s spring months.
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Winter in Peru
While temperatures cool down in the Northern Hemisphere between December and February, Peru’s summer season comes into full swing.
For those looking to enjoy some winter sun, a visit to Lima is a must. Soak up the warm weather as you explore the impressively preserved colonial centre or make the most of the Peruvian summer with a trip to one of the nearby beaches. The stunning city of Arequipa is another great destination to visit during these months, set against a striking volcanic landscape that’s perfect for outdoor activities like hiking and mountain biking.
- Spring in Peru
- Summer in Peru
- Autumn in Peru
- Winter in Peru