Last updated: January 18, 2025
Cusco, located in the Andean region of Peru, exhibits a fascinating blend of climates classified under the Köppen-Geiger system, including Cfb (Oceanic), Aw (Tropical Savanna), Cfc (Marine West Coast), Am (Tropical Monsoon), and ET (Tundra). The city experiences a diverse temperature range, with minimums plunging to -14°C (7°F) in July and soaring to an impressive 39°C (102°F) in October. The average annual temperature hovers around 9°C (48°F), making Cusco a unique destination where varied climatic conditions shape its environment and cultural practices.
The temperature patterns in Cusco, Peru, reveal distinct seasonal trends characterized by significant fluctuations throughout the year. The warmest months, particularly January to March, experience maximum temperatures reaching up to 36°C (98°F), while nighttime lows remain relatively mild, rarely dropping below -6°C (22°F). As the rainy season transitions into the cooler winter months of April to July, temperatures decrease, with July marking the coldest period where minimums can plummet to -14°C (7°F) and average daily temperatures hover around 7°C (46°F). The climate begins to warm again in August, with a gradual increase in temperatures leading to the hottest month, October, where maximums peak at 39°C (102°F). This cyclical temperature pattern highlights the unique climatic conditions that define Cusco's high-altitude environment.
In Cusco, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -3°C (28°F) in August to a comfortable maximum of 21°C (70°F) in September, as detailed in the monthly temperatures in Cusco. Ollantaytambo experiences slightly warmer conditions, with a minimum of -2°C (28°F) in August and a maximum of 18°C (64°F) in January, according to the monthly temperatures in Ollantaytambo. Meanwhile, Machupicchu sees temperatures fluctuate from a low of -1°C (30°F) in July to a high of 18°C (65°F) in October, as noted in the monthly temperatures in Machupicchu.
Precipitation in Cusco follows a pronounced pattern, with the bulk of rainfall occurring during the rainy season from November to March. January and February are particularly wet, receiving 232 mm (9.1 in) and 293 mm (11.5 in), respectively, and showcasing the highest number of rainy days, as these months see approximately 24 to 27 days of rainfall. March remains substantial with 249 mm (9.8 in), as the rainy season begins to taper in April with a drop to 130 mm (5.1 in).
As the region transitions into the dry season from June to August, precipitation diminishes significantly, resulting in an average of only 34 mm (1.3 in) to 41 mm (1.6 in) per month and just a handful of rainy days—typically around 6 to 8 days. However, the cycle begins anew in September, where precipitation starts to increase again, culminating in a notable resurgence by December with 267 mm (10.5 in) of rainfall. This seasonal fluctuation underscores the intricate interplay of climate and geography that influences Cusco's weather patterns.
In Cusco, Peru, sunshine duration exhibits a clear seasonal trend, peaking during the dry season from May to August. With an impressive 339 hours of sunshine in August, this period marks the height of radiant weather, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and tourism. The gradual increase in sunshine hours begins in April, where 294 hours are recorded, and continues through the winter months, culminating in 326 hours in May. This steady upward trajectory highlights the region's transition from cooler, cloudier days to brighter, sunnier conditions.
As the dry season wanes, the duration of sunshine decreases, particularly noticeable in the months of November and December, with only 277 hours and 276 hours of sunlight, respectively. Despite this decline, the sunlight in early spring remains significant, maintaining a respectable average of 318 hours in October and 324 hours in September. Comparatively, the months of January to March see a slower start in sunshine duration, peaking at 288 hours in March before the summer sun fully emerges. Thus, Cusco's climate offers a dynamic interplay of sunshine across seasons, enhancing its allure year-round.
In Cusco, Peru, the UV Index remains consistently high throughout the year, reflecting the city's high altitude and proximity to the equator. From January to March, the UV Index peaks at an extreme level of 25, indicating a notably short burn time of just 10 minutes. This extreme intensity underscores the need for sun protection during these months, as the sun's rays can inflict damage rapidly. Even in April, the UV Index remains elevated at 19, illustrating the continuous threat of UV exposure, making awareness and precautions essential for residents and visitors alike.
As Cusco transitions into the dry season from May to October, the UV Index experiences a gradual decline but remains in the extreme category. Levels range from 14 in May to a moderate 15 in August, before climbing back to 19 in October. Notably, the UV Index spikes again in late spring with readings of 23 in both November and December, reemphasizing the need for extensive sun safety measures year-round. This persistent high UV Index serves as a reminder of the importance of sun protection, regardless of the season, given the potential for skin damage even on seemingly mild days.
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Cusco, Peru, offers a unique daylight duration pattern that reflects its proximity to the equator. Throughout the first three months of the year—January, February, and March—the city enjoys a consistent 12 hours of daylight daily, providing ample time for exploration and outdoor activities. This uniform daylight hour lends a sense of stability to the region's seasonal rhythms, enabling both residents and tourists to take full advantage of the bright, sunlit days.
As the year progresses into April, daylight begins to shrink slightly to 11 hours and maintains this duration through the following months of May, June, July, and August. However, this reduced daylight does not significantly diminish the vibrancy of life in Cusco. By September, daylight returns to 12 hours, holding steady through October, November, and December. This recurring cycle of daylight duration underscores the region's appealing climate, making it a favorable destination throughout the year, regardless of seasonal fluctuations.
Andahuaylillas, Peru experiences a distinctive climate characterized by cool temperatures and varying precipitation throughout the year. January and February are the wettest months, with rainfall peaking at 217 mm (8.5 in) in February, while temperatures range from a minimum of 2°C (37°F) to a maximum of 20°C (68°F). The dry season, spanning from May to August, sees lower temperatures, often dropping to -5°C (23°F) at night, and minimal rainfall, averaging around 25 mm (1.0 in). Sunshine is abundant, particularly in August, when residents enjoy up to 341 hours of sunlight. For more details, visit Andahuaylillas climate.
Chinchero, Peru, experiences a diverse climate characterized by cool temperatures and seasonal rainfall. January to March sees mild temperatures averaging around 9°C (49°F), with significant rainfall peaking in February at 230 mm (9.1 in). The dry season spans May to September, marked by cooler nights, especially in June and July, with nighttime lows dropping to -3°C (28°F). Sunlight hours are abundant, reaching up to 340 hours in August, making it a sunny location despite the variable weather. For more details, visit the Chinchero climate.
Cusco, Peru, experiences a varied climate characterized by mild temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. Temperatures range from a minimum of -3°C (28°F) in August to a maximum of 21°C (70°F) in September and November, with average temperatures hovering around 9-10°C (48-51°F). The wet season peaks from January to March, with February receiving the most rainfall (230 mm or 9.1 in), while May through June remains relatively dry, featuring only 15-30 mm (0.6-1.2 in) of precipitation. Despite rainfall, Cusco enjoys substantial sunshine, especially in the dry months, with July and August boasting over 330 hours of sunshine. For more detailed information, visit Cusco climate.
Huayllabamba, Peru experiences a cool and humid climate characterized by substantial rainfall, particularly from January to March, where precipitation peaks at over 200 mm per month. Temperatures remain relatively low year-round, averaging between 6°C (44°F) and 9°C (48°F), with maximums reaching up to 19°C (66°F) in December. The dry season occurs from May to August, marked by sunny days and low precipitation. As a result, Huayllabamba offers a unique climate experience with distinct wet and dry periods. For more detailed information, visit Huayllabamba climate.
Lares, Peru experiences a temperate climate with marked seasonal variations. The temperature ranges from a low of -2°C (29°F) in August to a high of 20°C (68°F) in February, with average monthly temperatures generally around 7-9°C (45-48°F). The region receives significant rainfall, particularly from January to March, with January seeing up to 293 mm (11.5 in) of precipitation. Sunshine hours peak in August with 326 hours, providing ample light despite the rainy season. For more detailed information, visit Lares climate.
The climate in Limatambo, Peru, features cool temperatures with an annual average ranging from 3°C (37°F) in the winter months to a maximum of 20°C (69°F) in October. The region experiences significant rainfall, particularly from January to March, with January receiving the most precipitation at 227 mm (8.9 in). Conversely, the dry season from May to July sees significantly lower rainfall, with June experiencing only 29 mm (1.1 in). Sunshine is abundant, especially in the winter months, with July and August boasting over 330 hours of sunlight. For more details, visit Limatambo climate.
Machupicchu, Peru experiences a varied climate with distinctive wet and dry seasons. Temperatures range from a minimum of -1°C (30°F) in July to a maximum of 18°C (64°F) in January and October, with average monthly temperatures consistently around 9-10°C (48-50°F). The rainy season peaks from January to March, accumulating significant precipitation—up to 292 mm (11.5 in) in February—while the driest months are May and June, with less than 70 mm (2.7 in). Despite the rainfall, sunshine hours are plentiful, particularly from May to August, with up to 338 hours in August, making it a popular time for visitors. For more detailed information, visit Machupicchu climate.
Maras, Peru, experiences a cool and moderately wet climate, characterized by mild temperatures and significant rainfall, especially during the summer months. January through March sees temperatures ranging from 2°C (35°F) to 18°C (64°F) with high precipitation, peaking in February at 280 mm (11.0 in). The colder months of June to September average around 7°C (45°F) and receive less rainfall, with July recording only 38 mm (1.5 in). Despite the rain, the area enjoys considerable sunshine, especially from May to August, accumulating up to 338 hours in August. For more detailed information, visit Maras climate.
Monterrico, Peru, experiences a warm climate with average temperatures ranging from 16°C (61°F) in July to 19°C (66°F) in November. The region sees significant rainfall, peaking in February with 292 mm (11.5 in) and gradually decreasing towards the dry months of May and June, which receive around 80 mm (3.1 in) of precipitation. Sunshine hours are abundant, especially in the peak dry months of July and August, boasting over 320 hours of sun. This combination of warmth and rainfall creates a diverse ecosystem, making Monterrico a unique destination for nature lovers. For more details, visit Monterrico climate.
Mosoc Llacta, Peru, experiences a cool and wet climate characterized by a wide range of temperatures throughout the year. January marks the warmest month, with average temperatures around 8°C (46°F), while July typically sees the coldest temperatures, averaging 5°C (41°F). Precipitation is highest from January to March, with February receiving up to 260 mm (10.2 in), and it significantly decreases in the dry season from May to July. Sunshine is abundant, peaking in August with about 343 hours of sunlight. For more detailed information, visit Mosoc Llacta climate.
The climate in Ollantaytambo, Peru, features a distinct seasonal pattern with warm days and cool nights. Temperatures range from a minimum of -2°C (28°F) in the winter months to a maximum of 18°C (64°F) in January. The region experiences significant rainfall from January to March, peaking in February with 280 mm (11.0 in), while drier conditions persist from May to June. Sunshine hours are abundant, particularly from May to August, averaging over 300 hours per month. For more detailed information, visit Ollantaytambo climate.
Paccaritambo, Peru experiences a diverse climate characterized by cool temperatures and significant rainfall, particularly in the summer months. January and February are the wettest months, with precipitation peaking at 234 mm in February, while temperatures range from a chilly 3°C to a pleasant 20°C. The dry season spans from May to July, where rainfall drops to as low as 11 mm, and temperatures remain consistently low, averaging around 9°C. Sunshine hours are abundant from May to August, reaching up to 340 hours in August, making it an excellent time for outdoor activities. For more information, visit Paccaritambo climate.
Paucartambo, Peru experiences a cool, temperate climate with significant rainfall throughout the year, peaking in February with 664 mm (26.1 in). Temperatures range from a minimum of -2°C (28°F) in August to a maximum of 20°C (68°F) in December, typically averaging around 10°C (50°F). The region enjoys ample sunshine, particularly in August, which boasts 335 hours of sunlight. Despite the cooler months, Paucartambo remains an attractive destination for its lush environment and breathtaking landscapes. For more details, visit Paucartambo climate.
The climate in Pisac, Peru, features cool temperatures throughout the year, with monthly averages ranging from 7°C (45°F) to 10°C (49°F). The warmest months are February and October, with maximum temperatures reaching 20°C (68°F). Precipitation is highest between January and February, with January recording 189 mm (7.5 in) and February 266 mm (10.5 in), while the driest months are June to August. Notably, sunshine hours peak in August at 341 hours, revealing a bright, albeit wet, environment. For more details, visit Pisac climate.
Sicuani, Peru experiences a cool, temperate climate characterized by significant temperature variability throughout the year. The coldest months are June and July, with average temperatures around 4°C (39°F) and minimums dropping to -11°C (13°F). Rainfall is concentrated in the summer months, peaking in February with 256 mm (10.1 in) and tapering off to drier conditions from May to July. Abundant sunshine is common, especially in the winter months, with July enjoying around 340 hours of sunshine. For more detailed information, visit Sicuani climate.
Urubamba, Peru experiences a mild climate characterized by cool temperatures and significant rainfall, particularly from January to March, when precipitation peaks at over 200 mm monthly. The temperature ranges from a minimum of -3°C (27°F) in August to a maximum of 19°C (66°F) in December, with average temperatures hovering around 7-9°C (44-48°F). Sunshine is plentiful, especially from May to August, with over 300 hours of sunlight in those months. Notably, the rainy season sees a gradual decrease in rainfall as the year progresses. For more details, visit Urubamba climate.
Yucay, Peru experiences a unique climate characterized by cool temperatures and significant seasonal rainfall. January to March sees average temperatures around 8°C (46°F), with high precipitation peaking in February at 265 mm (10.5 in). The cooler months from May to August average between 6°C (44°F) and 7°C (45°F), while sunlight is abundant, peaking in August with 335 hours. The rainy season tapers off towards the end of the year, and December enjoys 249 sunshine hours alongside average temperatures rising to 8°C (47°F). For more detailed information, visit Yucay climate.
In conclusion, Cusco, Peru, exemplifies a captivating climate and ecological diversity influenced by its altitude and geographic position. The city's distinct seasonal patterns in temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, and UV Index highlight the dynamic interplay between various climatic factors. With extreme UV levels persisting throughout the year and notable variation in daylight hours, awareness and adaptation to these elements are crucial for both residents and visitors. Whether basking in the radiant sun of the high Andean summer or navigating the rainy season, Cusco's unique climate remarkably enhances its appeal as a vibrant cultural and natural destination, inviting exploration and appreciation year-round.