Last updated: January 18, 2025
Arequipa, Peru, showcases a dynamic climate characterized by diverse Köppen-Geiger classes, including BSk (semi-arid), BWh (hot semi-arid), ET (tundra), and BWk (cold desert). The region experiences a remarkable temperature range, with minimum values dipping to -17°C (1°F) in August, reflecting its high-altitude environment. On average, temperatures around 11°C (52°F) create a mild climate, while peak summer days in October can soar to 30°C (86°F), highlighting the variability and uniqueness of Arequipa's climatic conditions.
Temperature patterns in Arequipa, Peru, reveal distinct seasonal trends over the year. The region experiences cold minimum temperatures in winter, particularly in August when it drops to -17°C (1°F), while consistently maintaining an average of 10°C to 12°C (50°F to 54°F) from May to December. In contrast, the summer months of January through March showcase warmer maxima, reaching up to 30°C (86°F), with minimum temperatures gradually increasing from -8°C (19°F) in March to -5°C (22°F) in February. Notably, October and September emerge as relatively warm months, with highs of 30°C (86°F), emphasizing a mild transition into the cooler months. Overall, this temperature variability highlights the unique climatic conditions of Arequipa, influenced by its high-altitude location.
In Arequipa, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of 3°C (38°F) in August to a warm maximum of 25°C (77°F) in September monthly temperatures in Arequipa. In the nearby village of Maca, the temperature can drop as low as -9°C (16°F) in July, while reaching a high of 19°C (67°F) in December monthly temperatures in Maca. Similarly, Chivay experiences a frigid minimum temperature of -11°C (13°F) in July, with a maximum of 19°C (67°F) in December monthly temperatures in Chivay.
Arequipa, Peru, exhibits a distinct seasonal pattern of precipitation, characterized by a pronounced wet season from January to March. During these months, the region receives substantial rainfall, peaking at 169 mm (6.7 in) in January, typically falling over 20 to 22 days. This consistent rainfall contributes to a lush landscape, as the average precipitation remains high at 168 mm (6.6 in) for both February and March. As the year transitions into the dry season, there is a significant drop in rainfall, dropping to just 64 mm (2.5 in) in April and continuing to decline through the following months.
The late dry season from May to August experiences minimal rainfall, with June and July recording only 10 mm (0.4 in) each, and August sees a mere 8 mm (0.3 in). As the year progresses toward October and November, precipitation begins to increase again, with October bringing 36 mm (1.4 in) and November 38 mm (1.5 in). This variability in precipitation patterns emphasizes the region's semi-arid climate, marked by a striking contrast between the rainy and dry months, ultimately shaping the local ecology and water resources.
In Arequipa, Peru, sunshine duration exhibits a remarkable seasonal trend, characterized by an increase in hours from winter to summer. Beginning in January with 247 hours of sunshine, the months gradually brighten, peaking in March at 303 hours. April and May continue this upward trajectory, with sunshine hours reaching their zenith in May at 331 hours. The sunny conditions persist into the dry winter months, maintaining impressive totals, notably 343 hours in August and 355 hours in October, signaling a consistently radiant atmosphere that enhances the region's arid landscape.
As the year progresses into late autumn and early winter, sunshine levels remain high but begin to slightly dip. While November records 344 hours and December maintains 341 hours, these figures showcase the gradual transition rather than a stark decline in sunlight. The relatively large number of sunshine hours throughout the year emphasizes Arequipa's favorable climate, making it an ideal destination for solar energy and outdoor activities, particularly during the peak sunshine months of May through October. This pattern of consistent sunlight not only contributes to the region's agriculture but also plays a vital role in its vibrant cultural activities and tourism.
In Arequipa, Peru, the UV Index reflects a consistently high level of sun exposure throughout the year, with extreme ratings dominating the landscape. The UV Index reaches its peak in February at 25, signaling a critical need for sun protection, particularly as the recommended burn time remains as little as 10 minutes for all months listed. This extreme exposure continues in January and March, where the index sits at 24, showcasing the intensity of sunlight that residents and visitors experience. Such elevated UV levels highlight the necessity for proper sun safety measures, especially during the southern summer months.
As the year progresses into the cooler months, the UV Index remains high but begins to decline slightly, although still categorized as extreme. For instance, values like 14 in May and 12 in June indicate that, despite the decrease, caution is still warranted for outdoor activities. Interestingly, by November and December, the index again spikes to 20 and 25, respectively, suggesting that year-end outdoor events and activities must prioritize sun safety. Overall, Arequipa's UV index trends illustrate the importance of consistent sun protection measures throughout the year, given the extreme exposure levels that can lead to skin damage in just a short amount of time.
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In Arequipa, Peru, daylight duration exhibits a remarkable consistency throughout much of the year, with the region enjoying approximately 12 hours of daylight from January through March. This steady exposure to sunlight fosters a vibrant and lively atmosphere, ideal for various outdoor activities and cultural events. As the calendar transitions into April, daylight slightly decreases to 11 hours, a trend that continues through the colder months of May to September. This relatively stable pattern of daylight hours underscores Arequipa's equatorial proximity, resulting in minimal variation in day length.
However, as spring approaches, Arequipa experiences a gradual increase in daylight hours again, culminating in 12 hours in October and November. The year wraps up with 13 hours of daylight in December, providing ample opportunity for residents and visitors to enjoy the rich landscapes and activities that the region has to offer. This cyclic pattern of daylight not only contributes to the region's agricultural productivity but also enhances the overall quality of life, reinforcing Arequipa's reputation as a desirable destination year-round.
Arequipa, Peru experiences a semi-arid climate characterized by moderate temperatures and significant seasonal variation in rainfall. The warmest months are from October to March, with average daily temperatures ranging from 13°C (55°F) to 25°C (77°F), while cooler months, such as June and August, maintain averages around 13°C (55°F). Precipitation is concentrated from January to April, peaking in January at 242 mm (9.5 in), and drastically declines to almost negligible levels in the dry months of June to August. Despite the rainfall, Arequipa enjoys abundant sunshine, with October offering the most hours at 361. For more detailed information, visit Arequipa climate.
Ayahuasi, Peru experiences a predominantly cool climate with significant variations in temperature and precipitation throughout the year. Winter months, particularly from May to August, see average temperatures drop to around 2°C (36°F) and minimal rainfall, while January to March are the wettest months with precipitation peaking at 253 mm (10.0 in). Sunshine is abundant, especially from May to August, with July typically enjoying the most hours at 334. Despite monthly fluctuations, the area retains a relatively stable temperature range. For more detailed information, visit Ayahuasi climate.
Cabanaconde, Peru experiences a temperate climate with significant variations in temperature throughout the year. The coldest months are from April to June, where average temperatures hover around 4-5°C (40-41°F) and nighttime lows can drop to -8°C (18°F). Precipitation is highest from January to March, with January seeing around 204 mm (8.0 in), while the dry season occurs from June to August, with minimal rainfall. Sunshine is abundant, especially in the winter months, peaking at 345 hours in August. For more detailed information, visit Cabanaconde climate.
Chivay, Peru, experiences a diverse climate characterized by cold temperatures and significant precipitation, particularly in the warmer months. Temperatures range from a minimum of -11°C (13°F) in July to a maximum of 19°C (67°F) in December. The region sees substantial rainfall from January to March, with January having the highest at 199 mm (7.8 in). Despite the high precipitation during these months, Chivay enjoys ample sunshine, peaking at 359 hours in October. For more information, visit Chivay climate.
Maca, Peru experiences a diverse climate, characterized by chilly temperatures and significant seasonal precipitation. Throughout the year, temperatures range from a low of -9°C (16°F) in July to a highest average of 7°C (44°F) in November. The wettest months are typically January to March, with January receiving the most rainfall at 212 mm (8.4 in), while May to August sees markedly less precipitation, with less than 10 mm (0.4 in) each month. Despite the rainfall, Maca benefits from ample sunshine, peaking in October with 359 hours of sunlight. For more details, visit Maca climate.
Sabandia, Peru experiences a mild climate characterized by cool temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. Average temperatures fluctuate between 13°C (55°F) and 15°C (59°F), with maximums ranging from 20°C (68°F) in the rainy season to 25°C (77°F) in September. Significant rainfall occurs from January to March, with January seeing the highest precipitation at 242 mm (9.5 in), while the dry months from June to August receive almost no rain. The region enjoys ample sunshine, especially in the latter half of the year, reaching up to 361 hours in October. For more details, visit Sabandia climate.
In conclusion, Arequipa, Peru, presents a unique climate characterized by its diverse temperature ranges, seasonal precipitation patterns, abundant sunshine, and high UV index levels. The city's distinct wet and dry seasons contribute significantly to its ecological diversity and agricultural potential, while the extended periods of sunshine, particularly from May to October, underscore its appeal for outdoor activities and tourism. With a consistently high UV index throughout the year, the importance of sun protection cannot be overstated. Ultimately, Arequipa's climate not only influences its natural environment but also plays a crucial role in shaping the lifestyle and experiences of those who visit and inhabit this vibrant region.