Best time to visit Peru
The dry season (May–September) is best for the Andes and Machu Picchu. Lima’s coast is warm December–March. The Amazon is accessible year-round.
Month-by-month overview
| Month | High / Low | Rainfall | Crowds | Prices | Verdict | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 21° / 5°C | 155mm | Low | $Low | Okay | Wet season in Andes |
| Feb | 20° / 5°C | 140mm | Low | $Low | Avoid | Inca Trail closed |
| Mar | 20° / 5°C | 110mm | Low | $Low | Okay | — |
| Apr | 21° / 3°C | 40mm | Medium | $$Mid | Good | Dry season starts |
| May | 20° / 0°C | 10mm | Medium | $$Mid | Great | — |
| Jun | 20° / -2°C | 3mm | High | $$$Peak | Great | Inti Raymi festival |
| Jul | 19° / -3°C | 3mm | High | $$$Peak | Great | Clear skies; cold nights |
| Aug | 20° / -1°C | 5mm | High | $$$Peak | Great | — |
| Sep | 21° / 2°C | 20mm | Medium | $$Mid | Great | — |
| Oct | 22° / 4°C | 45mm | Medium | $$Mid | Good | — |
| Nov | 22° / 4°C | 75mm | Low | $Low | Okay | — |
| Dec | 21° / 5°C | 110mm | Medium | $$Mid | Okay | — |
Month-by-month deep dives
Peru ranks #9 in The Overtourism Risk Index 2026
Machu Picchu, Peru — Americas · Peru. Site is physically fragile and visitor caps (5,600/day since 2019) are still pushing the site toward UNESCO downgrade-risk status.
Read the full ranking →Festivals & events
Inti Raymi
JunInca Festival of the Sun re-enacted at Sacsayhuamán fortress in Cusco.
Mistura
SepLatin America’s largest food festival celebrating Peru’s acclaimed cuisine.
Qoyllur Rit’i
May–JunPilgrimage to a glacier near Cusco blending Catholic and Andean traditions.
Peruweather & timing FAQ
When is the best time to visit Peru?
May–September is the sweet spot. The dry season (May–September) is best for the Andes and Machu Picchu. Lima’s coast is warm December–March. The Amazon is accessible year-round.
When is peak tourist season in Peru?
Peak season runs through June–August. Expect higher prices, busier sites, and the need to book accommodation and major experiences several weeks ahead.
What's the cheapest time to visit Peru?
January typically combines the lowest accommodation rates with the smallest crowds — a workable shoulder window on weather and conditions. Wet season in Andes.
What's the weather like in Peru in October?
October averages a high of about 22°C (72°F) with lows around 4°C. Expect roughly 45mm of rainfall across the month.
What festivals or events happen in Peru?
Standout dates include Inti Raymi (Jun), Mistura (Sep), Qoyllur Rit’i (May–Jun). Inti Raymi: Inca Festival of the Sun re-enacted at Sacsayhuamán fortress in Cusco.
What should I pack for Peru?
Peru stays cool to cold for much of the year — coldest lows around -3°C. Pack insulated layers, waterproof outerwear, and grippy footwear for icy or wet pavements.
Are there months to avoid in Peru?
Skip February if you can — these months score lowest across weather, crowd, and price in our calendar. Common issues: Inca Trail closed.
How crowded does Peru get?
Crowds peak in February, June, July, and August — book accommodation 6–8 weeks ahead and expect queues at flagship sights. Outside those windows, even popular cities feel noticeably calmer.
Book your Peru trip for May–September
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