Last updated: April 14, 2025
Peru’s climate is as diverse as its geography, showcasing a wide range of temperatures, precipitation, and humidity levels. In the highlands, temperatures can plummet to a chilling -17°C (1°F) in August in Arequipa, while the lowland region of Madre de Dios experiences scorching highs of 40°C (104°F) in October. Precipitation varies dramatically, with Ica seeing as little as 1 mm (0.1 in) in August, contrasted by a staggering 395 mm (15.5 in) in December in Madre de Dios. Humidity also fluctuates significantly; it can drop to an average minimum of 36% in Huanuco during August but may soar to 93% in January in Cusco. This striking climate variability creates a unique tapestry of ecosystems and weather patterns across the country.
Peru boasts a diverse array of climate zones, shaped by its intricate topography and geography. In the lush Amazonas, you can find tropical climates (Cfb, Aw, Cwb) giving way to vibrant biodiversity. As you ascend to regions like Cusco and Huánuco, a mix of highland (Cfb, Aw, ET) and alpine (Am) climates emerges, ideal for the iconic Andean landscape. The coastal area, particularly Lima, experiences a dry desert climate (BWk), while regions like Arequipa and Ica feature arid inland (BWh) and semi-arid conditions (BWk). Moving toward the south, Puno exhibits a cooler highland climate (Af, Cfb) alongside endearing Andean culture. From the lush jungles of Loreto to the arid expanses of Tacna, each zone presents unique temperatures and precipitation patterns, making Peru a captivating country for climate enthusiasts and adventurers alike.
| Climate Zone | Description |
|---|---|
| Af | Tropical rainforest climate with no dry season and high temperatures year-round. |
| Am | Tropical monsoon climate with heavy rainfall and high temperatures. |
| Aw | Tropical savanna climate with a dry season occurring in winter. |
| BSh | Hot semi-arid climate with low rainfall and high temperatures. |
| BSk | Cold semi-arid climate with low rainfall and significant temperature variation. |
| BWh | Hot desert climate with extremely low rainfall and high temperatures. |
| BWk | Cold desert climate with low rainfall and cold temperatures. |
| Cfb | Oceanic climate with mild temperatures and moderate rainfall year-round. |
| Cfc | Subpolar oceanic climate with cool temperatures and consistent precipitation. |
| Cwb | Monsoon-influenced temperate climate with dry winters and mild summers. |
| ET | Tundra climate with short, cool summers and long, cold winters. |
Peru's temperature is a captivating tapestry of extremes, showcasing its diverse geography throughout the year. In January, temperatures range wildly from a chilly -8°C (17°F) in Huancavelica to a scorching 39°C (102°F) in Loreto. As the months progress, February and March maintain this trend, with minimums and maximums hovering close to -8°C (18°F) in Puno and up to 39°C (102°F) in Piura. A notable dip in temperatures occurs in April and May, particularly in Arequipa, where minimums reach -12°C (11°F), while the heat remains fierce in the north. The winter months of June and July reveal even colder spells, notably -14°C (6°F) recorded in Tacna, contrasting sharply with peaks of 36°C (97°F) in Madre de Dios. August sees its coldest minimum of -17°C (1°F) in Arequipa, while the maximum remains a steamy 39°C (103°F) in Madre de Dios. An upward trend returns in the latter months, hitting a peak of 40°C (104°F) in October, before the year ends with a gentle cooldown to -8°C (18°F) in Huancavelica. This striking variation in temperature across regions illustrates the unique climatic tapestry that defines Peru.
Peru exhibits a fascinating range of precipitation patterns that highlight the diversity of its climates. While Ica remains remarkably dry, experiencing as little as 1 mm of rain in August, Madre de Dios drenches its landscape with a staggering 395 mm of rainfall in December. This variation is not just in amount but also in duration; for example, Moquegua can go an entire month in June without a single drop of rain, whereas Huancavelica is drenched for up to 30 days in March. Such trends underline the dramatic contrasts across the country, reflecting both geographical diversity and varying climatic influences throughout the year.
Peru's humidity levels exhibit significant variation throughout the year and across different regions. For instance, August, a typically dry month, sees the minimum humidity fall to 36% in Huanuco, creating a refreshing atmosphere in the highlands. In stark contrast, January brings the highest humidity levels, peaking at 93% in Cusco, likely due to the rainy season that envelops the region. This shift not only highlights the diverse climatic conditions across the country but also reflects the unique interplay between altitude and seasonal changes, making Peru a fascinating destination for those intrigued by varying weather patterns.
In Peru, UV Index trends reveal a striking seasonal variation across regions. Notably, Arequipa experiences an exceptionally high average daily maximum UVI of 25 in February, suggesting a peak in UV radiation during the summer months. In contrast, Callao records a lower yet significant average daily max UVI of 14 in March, indicating that while UV exposure remains high, it tapers slightly as the day length begins to decrease transitioning into autumn. These patterns underscore the need for effective sun protection, especially in areas with elevated UV levels.
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In Peru, sunshine duration varies significantly across regions and seasons, presenting a captivating glimpse into the climate diversity of the country. For instance, in January, Junin offers a modest 200 hours of sunlight, while the coastal city of Callao basks in a more generous 270 hours. As the year progresses into August, Loreto shines bright with an impressive 304 hours, illustrating how the Amazon basin benefits from increased sunlight during the dry season. Remarkably, Tacna takes the lead in October with an astonishing 366 hours, showcasing the peak of sunshine availability. This trend highlights the unique climatic nuances of Peru, where both coastal and highland areas experience distinct sunlight patterns throughout the year.
When considering the likelihood of sunny weather in Peru, striking contrasts emerge between regions and seasons. In Cusco, the sun graces the skies a mere 5% of the time in November, making it a month where overcast days dominate. In contrast, Moquegua shines brightly in July, boasting an impressive 85% chance of sunny weather. This stark difference underscores the diverse climates across Peru, suggesting that those seeking sunshine should plan their travels around regional peaks, especially favoring the dry, sunny days of winter in the south.
In Peru, particularly in Tacna, daylight hours exhibit a notable variation throughout the year. During the winter month of June, residents enjoy about 11 hours of daylight, casting a cozy, muted glow over the landscape. However, as summer arrives in December, this duration extends to a vibrant 13 hours, providing ample sunlight that energizes both the city and its surrounding nature. This seasonal shift not only brightens the days but also enhances outdoor activities, showcasing the dynamic interplay of light and life in this picturesque region.
Nestled in the heart of Peru, the climate of Amazonas is a captivating blend of warm days and refreshing nights. With temperatures ranging from a mild 1°C (34°F) in the cooler months to a sweltering 37°C (98°F) in December, visitors can experience a diverse range of weather throughout the year. Rainfall peaks from March to April, with March receiving an impressive 314 mm (12.4 in), while humidity fluctuates significantly, dropping to a comfortable 40% in August. Whether exploring lush landscapes or enjoying cooler evenings, the unique weather patterns make Amazonas a truly dynamic destination. For a detailed overview, check out the full Amazonas climate.
The climate in Ancash, Peru is characterized by a striking contrast between mild temperatures and significant rainfall. From January to March, temperatures can leap from chilly -6°C (22°F) at night to a warm 32°C (89°F) during the day, but the region also experiences its peak rainfall, particularly in March with 268 mm (10.6 in) of precipitation. As the year progresses, temperatures gradually cool, reaching their lowest in July and August, when highs hover around 24°C (76°F), accompanied by drier conditions. The months from June to August see the least rainfall, making them ideal for outdoor exploration under the sunny, yet refreshing skies. For a more detailed look at the weather patterns, check out the complete Ancash climate.
Nestled in the heart of Peru, Apurímac boasts a unique climate characterized by its wide temperature variations throughout the year. Residents can expect chilly nights, with lows often plunging below freezing, while daytime highs hover around a comfortable 20°C (68°F) during the warmer months. The region experiences the most rainfall from January to March, with precipitation peaking in February at 258 mm (10.2 in), creating a lush landscape amid the Andean backdrop. Interestingly, humidity levels remain high, particularly in the wet season, contributing to a vibrant ecosystem. For more detailed information about the climate in this captivating region, visit Apurímac climate.
Arequipa, Peru, boasts a unique climate characterized by cool temperatures and notable seasonal variations. From January to March, the weather is warmer, with highs reaching up to 30°C (86°F), contrasting sharply with the coldest months of June to August, where temperatures often dip to -17°C (1°F) at night. Rainfall is concentrated in the summer months, especially in January and February, bringing around 169 mm (6.7 in) of precipitation, while the dry season from June to August sees minimal rain, with only 8 mm (0.3 in) recorded in August. Interestingly, humidity remains high during the wet season, averaging around 90%, but drops to about 55% in the driest months. Discover more about the captivating weather patterns of this region at Arequipa climate.
Nestled in the Andean mountains, Ayacucho, Peru, experiences a unique climate characterized by striking temperature variations throughout the year. While summer months like January and February can see daytime highs reaching up to 27°C (80°F), the nighttime lows often dip to a chilly -8°C (19°F), delivering a distinct contrast. Rainfall peaks during the early months, with March averaging 253 mm (10.0 in), and gradually decreases through the dry winter season, bringing a refreshing change to the air. Despite the heavy rains, humidity remains high, particularly in the warm months, creating a vibrant and lush landscape. For more detailed information, explore the Ayacucho climate.
Cajamarca, Peru, boasts a varied climate that reflects its unique geography, with temperatures ranging from a chilly 1°C (34°F) in winter months to a toasty 37°C (98°F) in December. The average temperature hovers comfortably around 16°C (61°F), providing a pleasant backdrop for outdoor adventures. While the rainy season peaks in March, bringing 311 mm of precipitation, the drier months of June and July offer reprieve with humidity levels dropping to as low as 39%. This combination of cool evenings and warm, sunny days makes Cajamarca an inviting destination year-round. For more insights into the weather patterns, visit Cajamarca climate.
Callao, Peru, boasts a mild climate characterized by consistent temperatures throughout the year, ranging from a low of 14°C (57°F) in mid-winter to a warm 28°C (82°F) in February. The coastal city experiences its highest precipitation from January to March, with January soaking up 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while the dry months of June to September see minimal rainfall, around 10 mm (0.4 in). Humidity levels fluctuate, peaking at a sticky 90% in March, but drop to a more comfortable 50% by August. For those planning a visit, Callao's refreshing climate combined with its vibrant culture makes it a year-round destination; learn more about the area's weather at Callao climate.
The climate in Cusco, Peru, is a striking blend of extremes, with temperatures fluctuating dramatically throughout the year. During the wet season from January to March, daytime highs can soar to nearly 36°C (98°F), but the nights can plunge to chilly lows around -6°C (22°F), creating a unique highland experience. Conversely, the dry months of June through August offer cooler days, averaging around 7-8°C (46-47°F) and much lower humidity levels, making for crisp, refreshing air. Despite the dramatic temperature variations, Cusco's scenery shines, especially after the rains, with vibrant flora and clear skies emerging from April onward. For those curious about this fascinating climate, more detailed information can be found at Cusco climate.
Nestled in the Andean highlands, Huancavelica, Peru, experiences a climate characterized by wide temperature variations throughout the year. With January's daytime highs reaching up to 21°C (70°F) and nighttime lows dipping as low as -8°C (17°F), the region feels the distinct chill of winter from June to August, where temperatures can plummet to -12°C (11°F). Rainfall peaks in the early months, with January and February delivering over 200 mm of precipitation, while the dry season from June to August sees significantly less, around 34 mm to 50 mm. The high humidity, often exceeding 90% during the wet season, gradually declines, making for crisp and refreshing air in the dry months. For more detailed insights, explore the full Huancavelica climate.
Nestled in the Andes, Huánuco, Peru experiences a unique climate that showcases dramatic temperature fluctuations and diverse weather patterns. With January and December boasting temperatures ranging from crisp -6°C (22°F) to a scorching 36°C (97°F), the region balances cool mountain breezes with intense tropical warmth. Rainfall is notably high from January to March, with precipitation peaking in March at 244 mm (9.6 in), while the dry season from June to August sees significantly reduced moisture, creating a refreshing contrast. Humidity levels can also vary widely, dipping as low as 36% during the dry months, which can feel quite pleasant amid the typically high humidity earlier in the year. For a deeper dive into the climate specifics of this vibrant region, visit the link: Huanuco climate.
Ica, Peru, boasts a mild desert climate with temperatures that range from a cool 4°C (40°F) in the depths of winter to a warm 33°C (92°F) during the summer months. The dry season from May to September sees minimal rainfall—just a few millimeters—while the wet season from January to March can bring heavier downpours, contributing to a humidity level that hovers around 87% for much of the year. This unique climate supports a rich agricultural landscape, making Ica a hub for vineyards and diverse crops. For more details on Ica’s climate, visit the Ica climate page.
Junin, Peru, boasts a remarkably diverse climate throughout the year, with temperatures ranging from a chilly -7°C (21°F) in the winter months to a warm 36°C (98°F) in October. The region experiences a mix of heavy rainfall, particularly from January to March, where precipitation can exceed 280 mm (11.0 in), while the dry months from June to August see a significant drop, with just 42 mm (1.6 in) in July. Despite its altitude, humidity levels decline notably in the middle of the year, dipping to around 43% in August, making the warmer months quite enjoyable. For a deeper dive into the nuances of Junin's weather patterns, check out the detailed Junin climate.
La Libertad, Peru, experiences a diverse climate, with temperatures ranging from -4°C (25°F) in August to a warm 32°C (89°F) in January and February. The wettest months are typically March and January, boasting over 180 mm (7.1 in) of rainfall, while the driest months, July and August, see less than 30 mm (1.2 in). Humidity levels fluctuate throughout the year, peaking at 89% in March and dropping to a comfortable 44% in August. This combination of temperature and precipitation creates a unique atmosphere, making La Libertad a fascinating region to explore year-round. For more detailed insights, visit La Libertad climate.
The climate in Lambayeque, Peru offers a vibrant mix of warm temperatures and seasonal rainfall that defines its unique character. From January to March, you'll experience the hottest months, with daytime highs reaching up to 37°C (98°F), while the cooler months from June to August hover around 19°C (66°F), providing a refreshing contrast. Notably, March is the wettest month, with precipitation totaling 198 mm (7.8 in), creating a lush landscape amid the arid surroundings. The humidity is typically high at the start of the year, peaking in March at 87%, before tapering off to drier conditions by August. For a deeper dive into the region's weather patterns, visit Lambayeque climate.
Lima, Peru, is renowned for its mild climate that offers an inviting escape throughout the year. Temperatures usually hover between 14°C (57°F) and 28°C (82°F), with the warmest months falling between January and March. While rain is scarce, particularly from May to October, January and February can see the most precipitation, with around 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain. The city's humidity tends to be high, especially at the start of the year, creating a lush atmosphere before it tapers off in the cooler months. For more details about the weather and patterns in this vibrant city, check out Lima climate.
The Lima region of Peru offers a unique climate marked by mild temperatures and notable humidity throughout the year. With average temperatures ranging from a chilly 12°C (55°F) in July and August to a warm 15°C (59°F) in January and February, it provides a comfortable respite for visitors. Precipitation varies, peaking in the early months with March receiving the most rainfall at 209 mm (8.2 in), while winter months tend to be much drier. Despite the humidity reaching up to 90% in the wet season, the coastal beauty remains captivating, making it a fascinating climate to explore. For a detailed look at the weather patterns year-round, check out the Lima region climate.
Nestled in the heart of the Amazon, Loreto, Peru experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and significant rainfall. From January to April, the region sees daytime highs reaching up to 39°C (102°F), accompanied by high humidity levels, peaking in May at 89%. The wettest months are March and April, with precipitation soaring to over 300 mm (11.8 in), while the drier months of July and August offer a reprieve with temperatures comfortably around 25-26°C (78-79°F) and lower humidity. As the year progresses into the vibrant months of October and November, lush greenery flourishes against the backdrop of mild temperatures, making Loreto a year-round haven for nature enthusiasts. For more details on the intricate patterns of rainfall and temperature, explore the full Loreto climate profile.
The climate in Madre de Dios, Peru is characterized by a tropical ambiance, with temperatures ranging from a mild 9°C (48°F) in July to a sizzling 40°C (104°F) in October. The region experiences a pronounced wet season, particularly from January to March, where precipitation can exceed 300 mm (12 inches) monthly, leading to lush, vibrant ecosystems. Humidity levels are notably high during the wet months, hovering around 90%, but drop significantly in the dry season, creating a stark contrast in the region's atmosphere. Visitors can anticipate a unique blend of warmth and humidity that accentuates the rich biodiversity of this enchanting rainforest area. For more detailed insights, check out Madre de Dios climate.
Nestled in the scenic landscapes of Peru, Moquegua experiences a unique climate characterized by a significant temperature range throughout the year. With summer highs reaching up to 27°C (81°F) and winter lows plunging to as low as -11°C (13°F), the region offers a diverse climate experience. January and February are the wettest months, bringing heavy rains, while June and July see minimal precipitation, contributing to lower humidity levels. Despite these fluctuations, the air remains relatively humid, particularly in the warmer months, with levels peaking at 90%. For more detailed insights, check out the Moquegua climate.
Nestled in the highlands of Peru, Pasco experiences a unique climate characterized by dramatic temperature fluctuations and significant rainfall throughout the year. January to March brings warm days with highs reaching up to 39°C (102°F), but temperatures can dip to chilling lows of -7°C (19°F) during the cooler months of mid-year. With humidity levels soaring above 90% in the rainy season, the region witnesses heavy precipitation, particularly in January, February, and March when the averages exceed 250 mm. As the months progress, rainfall decreases, resulting in a drier and more pleasant atmosphere from June to August. For a deeper dive into Pasco's climate, visit Pasco climate.
Nestled in northern Peru, Piura boasts a tropical desert climate characterized by warm temperatures year-round. Average highs soar to around 38°C (101°F) in the scorching months of January and February, while the coolest period—July and August—sees temperatures dip to a more refreshing 20°C (68°F). Rainfall is most abundant from January to March, bringing about 311 mm (12.2 in) in March alone, but the city transforms into a dry haven from June to August, experiencing as little as 8 mm (0.3 in). Humidity levels remain relatively high, particularly in the wetter months, hovering around 87% in January, before tapering to a comfortable 66% in July. For those curious about the nuances of Piura's climate, you can delve deeper into the details at Piura climate.
Nestled high in the Andes, Puno, Peru experiences a unique climate characterized by dramatic temperature fluctuations and notable humidity. January and February are the wettest months, with precipitation peaking at 274 mm (10.8 in), while temperatures can soar up to 27°C (81°F), offering warmth amid the rain. As the year progresses, temperatures drop, especially during the cold months of June and July, when the nights can plunge to -14°C (7°F). Conversely, August brings slightly milder weather with max temperatures around 25°C (77°F) and lower rainfall. With its blend of sun-drenched days and chilly nights, Puno's climate is as captivating as its rich cultural heritage. For more details, check out the comprehensive Puno climate.
Nestled in the lush landscapes of Peru, San Martín experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and seasonal rainfall. From January to March, daytime highs often reach a sweltering 36°C (97°F), while the rainy season sees heavy precipitation, peaking at 303 mm (11.9 in) in March. As the year progresses, humidity levels fluctuate, dipping to a low of 38% in August before rising again towards December, where it can soar to 88%. With this diversity in climate, visitors can enjoy both the vibrant greenery and the warmth that defines this captivating region. For more information, check out the detailed San Martín climate.
Nestled in southern Peru, Tacna experiences a unique climate characterized by moderate temperatures and distinct seasonal changes. During the summer months of January to March, daytime highs can reach up to 29°C (84°F), but nights can be significantly cooler, dipping to around -6°C (22°F). Rainfall is most prevalent at this time, with January and February seeing over 120 mm of precipitation. By the time winter rolls in, particularly from June to August, temperatures drop to around 12°C (54°F), with refreshing breezes and much lower humidity levels. For a comprehensive look at Tacna's climate, visit Tacna climate.
Nestled in the coastal region of Peru, Tumbes boasts a warm tropical climate that enchants year-round visitors. Temperatures typically range from a gentle 17°C (63°F) in July to a sizzling 36°C (96°F) in February, with consistently high humidity peaking at 88% in January. While the wet season stretches from January to March, bringing heavy rainfall—most notably March's 289 mm (11.4 in)—the dry months of June through August offer refreshing relief with minimal precipitation. With its unique climate, Tumbes is a captivating destination for sunseekers and nature enthusiasts alike. For a detailed overview, check out Tumbes climate.
Ucayali, Peru, boasts a warm tropical climate characterized by high temperatures throughout the year, with averages hovering around 26°C (78°F), and maximums often reaching up to 39°C (102°F) during the hottest months. The wet season stretches from January to March, bringing significant rainfall peaking at 361 mm (14.2 in) in March, while the humidity can reach a muggy 88%. As the year progresses into the cooler months of June and July, temperatures dip slightly, accompanied by lower humidity levels that can fall to 40%. Visitors can expect a vivid contrast between the lush, rain-soaked landscape and the drier, sunnier period towards the end of the year, making Ucayali a unique destination for those who appreciate the interplay of heat and moisture. For more detailed information, check out the Ucayali climate.
Peru's climate is as diverse as its landscapes, showcasing a remarkable range of temperatures and precipitation levels throughout the year. In August, temperatures dip to a chilly -17°C (1°F) in Arequipa, while October can soar to a blistering 40°C (104°F) in Madre de Dios. Precipitation patterns reveal contrasting extremes, with Ica experiencing a mere 1 mm (0.1 in) in August, starkly juxtaposed against Madre de Dios, which can receive a staggering 395 mm (15.5 in) in December. Humidity levels also fluctuate significantly, peaking at an impressive 93% in January in Cusco and dropping to a dry 36% in Huanuco during the same month. This dynamic interplay of temperature, precipitation, and humidity not only shapes the local ecosystems but also influences the lifestyles of those who call Peru home, highlighting the intricate relationship between climate and culture in this vibrant country.