Best Time to Visit Peru
Last updated: November 9, 2025
Peru is a country of breathtaking diversity — from the misty peaks of Machu Picchu and the ancient ruins of the Sacred Valley to the Amazon rainforest and the Pacific coastline. With its varied geography across mountains, jungle, and desert, the best time to visit depends on which region you plan to explore.
🌸 Dry Season (May – October): Clear Skies and Ideal for Sightseeing
The dry season is the best time to visit Peru, especially for hiking and exploring the Andes. The weather is clear and sunny, perfect for visiting Machu Picchu, Cusco, and the Sacred Valley. While it’s peak tourist season, the stunning scenery and comfortable conditions make it worthwhile.
Highlights:
- Pleasant temperatures (15–25 °C during the day, cooler at night)
- Best conditions for trekking the Inca Trail and visiting Machu Picchu
- Clear skies for photography in the Andes and Sacred Valley
- Ideal for Amazon visits with lower humidity
☀️ Wet Season (November – April): Lush Landscapes and Fewer Crowds
The wet season brings rain to the highlands and jungle, turning Peru’s landscapes a vibrant green. While heavy showers can occur, mornings are often clear, making travel still enjoyable. It’s also the best time for coastal visits and cultural experiences.
Highlights:
- Warm temperatures (18–28 °C)
- Lush scenery and dramatic waterfalls
- Fewer tourists and lower accommodation rates
- Great for exploring Lima and coastal areas like Paracas and Trujillo
🍂 Shoulder Months (April and November): Balanced Weather and Great Value
April and November are excellent months to visit Peru, combining the best of both seasons. The weather is generally mild and dry, crowds are smaller, and the countryside is still beautifully green after the rains.
Highlights:
- Comfortable temperatures (16–26 °C)
- Clear views of Machu Picchu and fewer visitors
- Great value for hotels and tours
- Ideal for both Andes trekking and Amazon exploration
❄️ Regional Climate Tips
Because of Peru’s varied geography, different regions experience different weather patterns:
- The Andes (Cusco, Machu Picchu, Sacred Valley): Best from May to October for dry, sunny days.
- The Amazon (Iquitos, Tambopata): Warm year-round; driest from June to September.
- The Coast (Lima, Paracas, Nazca): Best from December to April for sunshine and beach weather.
🇵🇪 In Summary
- Best for sightseeing and trekking: May – October
- Best for green scenery and fewer crowds: November – April
- Best for beaches and coastal escapes: December – March
- Best for budget travel: February – April and October – November
From the ancient wonder of Machu Picchu and the floating islands of Lake Titicaca to the vibrant streets of Cusco and the wildlife of the Amazon, Peru offers unforgettable experiences in every season. Whether you come for adventure, history, or natural beauty, there’s always a perfect time to explore this extraordinary country.
Top Travel Tips for Peru
- Visa: Visitors from many countries (including the US, UK, EU, Canada, and Australia) do not need a visa for tourist stays up to 90 days. Your passport must be valid for at least six months.
- Power Adapter: Peru uses Type A and Type C sockets (Type A has two flat parallel prongs, Type C has two round prongs). The standard voltage is 220V and 60Hz. Visitors from North America (110V) will need a voltage converter for single-voltage devices.
- Tipping: Tipping is appreciated but not always expected. In higher-end restaurants, a 10-15% tip is customary. For tour guides, a tip is a standard sign of appreciation. Tipping taxi drivers is not common.
- Transport: For long distances, domestic flights (e.g., to Cusco or Iquitos) and comfortable overnight buses are the most popular options. Driving is generally not recommended for tourists due to chaotic traffic and aggressive driving.
⚠️ IMPORTANT: Altitude Sickness (Soroche)
Many of Peru's top destinations, including Cusco (3,399m / 11,152ft), are at high altitude. Altitude sickness is common and can be serious. Plan to acclimatize for at least 2-3 days upon arrival. Take it easy, drink plenty of water, avoid heavy meals and alcohol, and drink coca tea (a local remedy). Speak to your doctor about altitude medication (like Diamox) before your trip.
⚠️ IMPORTANT: Currency (Peruvian Sol)
The official currency is the Peruvian Sol (PEN). Credit cards are accepted in major hotels and restaurants in cities like Lima and Cusco, but you will need cash (soles) for smaller restaurants, markets, taxis, and in rural areas. It's best to withdraw cash from bank ATMs (GlobalNet is common). US dollars are sometimes accepted in tourist hubs, but often at a poor exchange rate.
⚠️ IMPORTANT: Tap Water
It is not safe to drink tap water anywhere in Peru. Always use bottled water or a reliable water filter. Be cautious with ice in drinks and salads washed in tap water, especially outside of high-end hotels and restaurants. It's also recommended to use bottled water for brushing your teeth to avoid stomach issues.
Things to do in Peru
Walk through the legendary ruins of Machu Picchu, explore the historic streets of Cusco, fly over the mysterious Nazca Lines, or venture into the Amazon rainforest. Book your tours and activities easily via our trusted partners: