Peru at a Glance: Best Time to Visit
Recommended time to visit: May - October form the dry season, when there is significantly less rainfall.
Less popular time to visit: Generally the wet season from November - April is less popular. But this means fewer crowds and lower prices.
Exciting times to visit: The Inti Raymi Inca festival takes place every year on the 24 June.
Best time to visit the Amazon: The rainforest is slightly drier from May - October, meaning fewer mosquitos.
Best time for trekking: May - September are cooler and drier, perfect for trekking. Note that the Inca Trail is closed every February.
Climate | Cusco
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Temp Min °C | 7 | 7 | 7 | 4 | 2 | 1 | -1 | 1 | 4 | 6 | 6 | 7 |
Temp Max °C | 20 | 21 | 21 | 22 | 21 | 21 | 21 | 21 | 22 | 22 | 23 | 22 |
Rainfall (mm) | 163 | 150 | 109 | 51 | 15 | 5 | 5 | 10 | 25 | 66 | 76 | 137 |
Climate | The Amazon
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Temp Min °C | 22 | 21 | 21 | 21 | 19 | 17 | 16 | 17 | 19 | 19 | 21 | 22 |
Temp Max °C | 31 | 31 | 31 | 31 | 31 | 30 | 30 | 33 | 33 | 32 | 32 | 31 |
Rainfall (mm) | 283 | 249 | 228 | 170 | 84 | 50 | 46 | 38 | 93 | 192 | 209 | 264 |
Festivals and Events
With an ancient history that encompasses Inca traditions, indigenous beliefs and Spanish influences, there is a colourful variety of festivals and events held in Peru each year.
What is Corpus Christi?
During Corpus Christi processions of icons of fifteen saints and virgins are carried from local churches to main cathedrals to 'greet' the body of Christ, sixty days after Easter. The festival is celebrated throughout the country but particularly impressive in Cusco.
What is Inti Raymi (The Inca Festival of the Sun)?
Dating back to the Inca period, Inti Raymi marks the winter solstice and honours the Sun God with music, colourful costumes and the sharing of food. Since 1944 a reconstruction of the Inca festival is held at the ancient ruins of the Sacsayhuamán citadel outside of Cusco with replica chariots, speeches delivered in the Incan language of Queachua and processions.
What is Puno Week?
Held in the first week of November each year, Puno Week celebrates the founding of the Inca Empire and specifically Manco Cápac who is believed to have risen from the waters of Lake Titicaca and established the Inca civilization. A large procession journeys from the shores of the lake to the city's stadium with lively dances and music and the city enjoying plenty of alcoholic beverages.
When is Fiestas Patrias (Independence Day)?
On the 28th July 1824 Peru won its independence from Spain and every year the date is celebrated with national patriotism, official parades, folk and indigenous music and the flag displayed on buildings throughout the country. Some of the best celebrations can be found in the capital of Lima.
Tourist Site Closures
Popular sightseeing spots in Peru may be closed at certain times during the year. Please plan your visit accordingly.
The official Inca Trail is closed for the entire month of February to allow conservation work to take place.
Churches and cathedrals in Cusco and Lima are closed during the religious holidays, specifically Christmas and Holy Week.
Recommended tours
See Also
For more help planning your holiday to Peru check out our Travel Guide resources:
Best Places to Visit - where to go in Peru and famous sights to see
Tourist Visas - what you need to know to enter Peru
Top Travel Tips - useful info on money and health
Visiting Machu Picchu - a guide to the Inca citadel and ways to get there