Peru's timing depends almost entirely on which region you're visiting and what you plan to do. The Andean highlands — including Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu — are best visited during the dry season (May–October), when trekking conditions are ideal and mountain views are clear. The Amazon is actually more accessible and rewarding during parts of the wet season when water levels rise and wildlife concentrates.
Peak Season (May–October)
The dry season is Peru's peak tourist season and for very good reason. June, July, and August are the busiest and most popular months — skies over Machu Picchu are reliably clear, the Inca Trail and other treks offer the best conditions, and highland temperatures are pleasant despite cold nights. The famous Inti Raymi festival (Festival of the Sun) on June 24th at Cusco's Sacsayhuamán ruins is one of South America's most spectacular cultural events, drawing thousands of visitors — book accommodation months in advance. May and September–October are shoulder months within the dry season — still excellent conditions with slightly fewer crowds and marginally lower prices than the July–August peak.
Shoulder Season (April and November)
April and November are transitional months that can offer excellent conditions for those with flexibility. April sees the tail end of the wet season — some rain is possible but vegetation is lush and vivid green, Machu Picchu is uncrowded, and prices are lower. The famous Easter celebrations in Cusco are elaborate and worth timing a visit around. November marks the start of the wet season — again, fewer tourists and lower prices, with morning hours at Machu Picchu often beautifully clear before afternoon clouds and rain develop. Both months offer a compelling alternative for travelers who accept some weather uncertainty in exchange for significantly reduced crowds.
Low Season (December–March)
The wet season in the Andes (December–March) brings daily rain, muddy trails, and the complete closure of the Inca Trail in February. However, it is not without appeal. Machu Picchu stays open year-round (except for occasional closures in February) and is dramatically less crowded — shrouded in mist, the ruins take on an almost mystical atmosphere. The Amazon is actually excellent in the wet season — higher water levels allow boats to reach areas inaccessible in dry season, wildlife is active, and vegetation is at its most spectacular. The Lima coast receives virtually no rain year-round — Lima is always accessible. Prices drop significantly during the wet season, making it attractive for budget travelers willing to accept less predictable mountain weather.
Weather Overview by Region
Cusco and the highlands (3,400m): dry season May–October has warm sunny days (18–22°C / 64–72°F) and cold nights (near freezing); wet season November–April brings daily rain and warmer nights. Machu Picchu (2,430m): warmer and more humid than Cusco; frequently cloudy and misty, especially mornings. Lima and the coast: overcast and mild year-round (15–25°C / 59–77°F) — the "Garúa" sea mist makes Lima grey from June to November, while December–May brings warmer, clearer days. Amazon (Iquitos, Puerto Maldonado): hot and humid year-round (28–35°C / 82–95°F), high rainfall especially December–April. Lake Titicaca (3,812m): cold at night year-round, dry season May–October offers the clearest skies and calmest lake conditions.
Key Events
- February: Inca Trail closure for maintenance; Carnival celebrations in Cusco and Puno
- March/April: Easter (Semana Santa) — elaborate Cusco processions, one of Peru's most atmospheric religious events
- June 24: Inti Raymi (Festival of the Sun) in Cusco — spectacular Inca recreation ceremony at Sacsayhuamán
- July 28–29: Peruvian Independence Day — national holidays with celebrations nationwide
- August: Peak tourist season — Machu Picchu at maximum crowds; book everything well ahead
- November 1–2: Día de los Muertos — elaborate cemetery celebrations throughout the highlands
- November: Puno Jubilee Week — massive festivities celebrating the founding of Puno with Lake Titicaca cultural dances
- December 24–25: Santurantikuy craft market in Cusco — one of South America's most traditional Christmas markets