Peru (Lima)
Peru · South America
Peru (Lima) – What you should know
Lima on the Peruvian Pacific coast has a surprisingly mild desert climate dominated by an ocean current — the Humboldt Current. This cold stream from the Antarctic keeps temperatures below 27°C year-round (summer typically 23–27°C, winter 15–20°C) and creates frequent coastal fog, locally called "Garúa". It practically never rains in Lima — precipitation is under 10 mm per year.
The highlands and Machu Picchu follow a completely different climate pattern: there is a dry season (May to October) and a rainy season (November to April). The dry season is the best time for hikes on the Inca Trail and visits to the ruins of Machu Picchu — clear skies, dry paths and optimal long-distance views.
The Amazon jungle in eastern Peru has a tropical rainforest climate year-round. The "drier" season from June to October still brings daily showers, but is the best time for wildlife observation as river levels fall and animals can be seen at the banks. Those who want to make the most of Peru's climate should combine coast, highlands and jungle.
Climate Overview
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
MAXMax Temp | 27° | 28° | 27° | 25° | 22° | 20° | 20° | 19° | 19° | 20° | 22° | 24° |
MINMin Temp | 21° | 22° | 21° | 19° | 18° | 17° | 17° | 16° | 16° | 16° | 18° | 19° |
☀️Sunshine | 8h | 7h | 8h | 8h | 8h | 8h | 8h | 8h | 8h | 8h | 8h | 7h |
🌊Water Temp | 21° | 21° | 21° | 19° | 18° | 18° | 17° | 17° | 17° | 17° | 18° | 19° |
🌧Rain Days | 3d22mm | 5d32mm | 5d31mm | 1d8mm | 0d4mm | 0d5mm | 0d5mm | 0d4mm | 0d4mm | 0d5mm | 0d5mm | 1d9mm |
Best travel time
The best time to visit Peru (Lima) is January, February, March, April, and December. In summer, temperatures rise to 27°C; in winter they can drop to 16°C. Rainfall is very low during the best travel period (22 mm), making Peru (Lima) an ideal destination.
Travel Tips
May offers great weather in Peru (Lima) with fewer tourists and lower prices — ideal for those who want to avoid the peak season crowds.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When is the best time to visit Peru (Lima)?
- The best time to visit Peru (Lima) is January, February, March, April, and December. These months offer the most favourable combination of sunshine, temperatures, and low rainfall.
- How warm does it get in Peru (Lima)?
- In summer, temperatures in Peru (Lima) can reach up to 27°C. In winter, they may drop to 16°C.
- How much rain does Peru (Lima) get?
- Peru (Lima) has a relatively even rainfall pattern with an average of 1 rain days per month. The driest months are January, February, March, April, and December.
- How warm is the water in Peru (Lima)?
- Water temperature in Peru (Lima) ranges from 16°C (September) to 21°C (February). During the best travel months (January, February, March, April, and December), the water is most pleasant for swimming.
Best Travel Time by Vacation Type
🏖️
Beach Holiday
Warm, sunny, little rain
JanFebMar
🏙️
City Trip
Pleasantly mild, not too hot
MayNovDec
