March Weather in Arequipa, Peru

Last updated: August 27, 2025

Experience the unique climate of Arequipa, Peru in March, where the average temperature hovers around 13°C (55°F). This month brings a maximum of 20°C (68°F) and a cool minimum of 7°C (44°F), perfect for outdoor exploration. However, prepare for a wet month with precipitation totaling 231 mm (9.1 in) over 29 rainy days, resulting in a high humidity level of 90%. This combination of cool temperatures and frequent showers creates a lush, vibrant atmosphere, making March an intriguing time to experience the rich culture and stunning landscapes of this historic city.

March Temperature in Arequipa

In March, Arequipa, Peru, embraces a comfortable transition into autumn with temperatures remaining relatively stable. With a minimum of 7°C (44°F) and a maximum of 20°C (68°F), the month showcases a mild climate that encourages outdoor exploration. The average temperature hovers around 13°C (55°F), typical for this time of year, indicating a consistency in Arequipa's weather patterns as it moves from the warmer summer months of January and February. This gentle cooling trend sets the stage for the cooler evenings ahead, making March an ideal time for visitors to enjoy the city's stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage without the extremes of heat.

March Weather in Arequipa: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates March temperature patterns in Arequipa, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Arequipa, March typically has an average temperature of {2}°C ({3}°F), with highs reaching up to {4}°C ({5}°F) and lows dropping to around {6}°C ({7}°F).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec555555565655555658595858
Data source: Temperature data for Arequipa generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred temperature unit
The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

March Precipitation in Arequipa

March in Arequipa, Peru, sees a notable decline in precipitation as the month records 231 mm (9.1 in) of rain, the third highest volume this rainy season. This amount is slightly lower than February’s 235 mm but reflects an increasing trend in precipitation days, reaching 29 days of rain, the highest for the month. As the region transitions towards drier months, the persistent rainfall in March underscores a critical period for local agriculture, leveraging the abundant moisture before the anticipated sharp drop-off in April, where precipitation plunges to just 57 mm (2.3 in). The gradual shift towards drier conditions sets the stage for Arequipa’s unique climate cycle as it heads into the drier months ahead.

March Precipitation Trends in Arequipa

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Arequipa, with values for each month alongside March’s data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the amount of precipitation, providing insights into how March’s conditions compare to those of other months. In Arequipa, March typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2422352315761101121765
Data source: Precipitation data for March generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

March Humidity in Arequipa

In March, Arequipa, Peru experiences a steady humidity level of 90%, maintaining the high moisture trend set in the preceding months of January and February. As the summer draws to a close, humidity levels remain elevated, reflecting the region's tropical influence. However, this marks the beginning of a gradual increase towards the highest humidity in April, which reaches 91%. Following this peak, the trend shifts towards a noticeable decline, with humidity levels dropping significantly during the winter months from June to August. The transition from the moist summer season to the drier winter is evident, illustrating the dynamic climatic shifts that define Arequipa’s unique weather patterns.

March Average Humidity in Arequipa

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Arequipa, with March’s data highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the fluctuation in humidity throughout the year, helping you understand how conditions vary by season. In March, average humidity in Arequipa is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec89%90%90%91%88%76%61%57%59%75%84%84%
Data source: Humidity data for March generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

March UV Index in Arequipa

In March, Arequipa experiences a UV Index of 17, maintaining its status in the extreme exposure category, with a quick burn time of just 10 minutes. This month continues the trend observed from January through February, where the UV levels remain exceptionally high. As the city transitions to April, a slight decrease to an index of 15 is noted, yet the burn time stays consistently short. This pattern highlights Arequipa's persistent high UV exposure, particularly in the early months of the year, necessitating vigilance for sun protection. For more detailed information on UV levels throughout the year, check out the Arequipa UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Arequipa for March

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Arequipa in March, representing the highest UV radiation level. The UVI measures the intensity of ultraviolet radiation from the sun, indicating the potential risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues. In March, the maximum UV index in Arequipa typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec181717151210111315171817
Data source: Arequipa March UVI data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

March Sunshine in Arequipa

March in Arequipa, Peru, is a sun-drenched delight, boasting 305 hours of radiant sunshine. This marks a significant leap from January's 250 hours, showcasing a clear upward trend as the days lengthen and warm up. Following March, the sunshine hours continue to climb, peaking at 346 hours in August, illustrating the region's transition into more luminous and vibrant months. Each progressive month not only welcomes longer days but also invites both locals and visitors to bask in the beauty of Arequipa’s stunning landscapes, making this charming city a true haven for sun-seekers.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Arequipa: March Highlighted

The March sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Arequipa experiences direct sunlight during the month of March, excluding cloudy or obstructed periods. This chart compares the sunshine duration of March with the other months of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec250h273h305h316h334h322h335h346h342h361h353h351h
Data source: Arequipa March Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Arequipa During March

In Arequipa, Peru, the likelihood of sunny weather in March stands at a modest 10%, marking a slight dip from the preceding months. This decrease is part of a broader trend, as the sunny outlook begins to wane after the high percentages seen in January and February, where chances of sun reach 11% and 15% respectively. However, as the year progresses, sunlight makes a striking comeback, peaking dramatically at 94% in July. This trend highlights Arequipa's unique climate, where the earlier part of the year offers limited sunny days, while the later months promise a much brighter picture, making late winter and early spring an ideal time for sun-seekers.

Percentage of Sunny Days in March in Arequipa

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Arequipa throughout the year, with March highlighted. It highlights the variation in sunshine across each month and provides an overview of the typical frequency of sunny days, offering insights into how often Arequipa experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec11%15%10%53%61%67%94%88%68%64%24%13%
Data source: Arequipa March chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Arequipa in March

In Arequipa, Peru, the daylight duration remains remarkably consistent throughout much of the year, with 12 hours of daylight in both January, February, and March. As the seasons shift into the cooler months, this duration gradually decreases to 11 hours by April and persists through the mid-year, creating a stable rhythm of day and night. Interestingly, as spring approaches in September, the daylight once again extends to 12 hours, before reaching its peak with 13 hours in December. This trend beautifully illustrates Arequipa's unique climatic cycle, balancing longer summer days with equally bright but short winter ones, captivating both locals and visitors alike.

Average Daylight Hours in Arequipa for March

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Arequipa throughout the year, with March highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec12h 58m12h 36m12h 9m11h 41m11h 19m11h 8m11h 14m11h 34m12h12h 27m12h 52m13h 4m
Data source: Arequipa daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

March Winds in Arequipa

As March unfolds in Arequipa, Peru, it brings with it a gentle whisper of wind, with average speeds reaching 1.5 m/s (3 mph). This slight dip from the steadier winds of January and February, both at 1.6 m/s (4 mph), hints at the transition into the slightly breezier months ahead. As the year progresses, wind speeds gradually rise, peaking at 1.9 m/s (4 mph) from July to October, suggesting an approaching rhythm of nature that dancers with the seasons. This fluctuation not only enhances the charm of Arequipa's landscapes but also invites locals and visitors alike to bask in the evolving dynamics of the wind throughout the year.

Average March Wind Speed in Arequipa

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Arequipa, with values for each month shown alongside March's data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It illustrates the average wind speed, offering insights into how March's wind conditions compare to the rest of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec1.61.61.5 m/s1.71.81.81.91.91.81.91.81.8
Data source: Arequipa March wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How March Weather in Arequipa Compares to Other Months

Weather in Arequipa varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares March’s weather to other months in Arequipa, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.

When comparing the weather in March and January, we see some notable similarities and differences. Both months have a similar average temperature of 13°C (55°F), with January experiencing slightly warmer maximum temperatures reaching up to 23°C (73°F), compared to a maximum of 20°C (68°F) in March. Precipitation levels are also comparable, with January recording 242 mm (9.5 in) over 25 days, while March has 231 mm (9.1 in) spread across 29 days. Interestingly, the humidity levels are quite close, with March having a humidity of 90% and January at 89%. For a more detailed overview of January weather, you can check Arequipa weather in January.

When comparing the weather in March to that of February, we see that both months exhibit similar temperature patterns, with minimums around 7°C (44°F), averages of 13°C (55°F), and maximums reaching 20°C (68°F in March and 69°F in February). However, February has slightly more precipitation at 235 mm (9.3 in) compared to March's 231 mm (9.1 in), and February also experiences slightly fewer rainy days, with 27 days of precipitation to March's 29 days. Humidity remains consistent at 90% for both months. For more details, you can check out Arequipa weather in February.

March and April exhibit distinct weather patterns, with April generally being drier and slightly warmer. In March, temperatures range from a minimum of 7°C (44°F) to a maximum of 20°C (68°F), accompanied by significant rainfall of 231 mm (9.1 in) over 29 days, resulting in high humidity levels of 90%. In contrast, April sees a slight decrease in the minimum temperature at 5°C (41°F), while the maximum temperature rises to 21°C (71°F). The month is characterized by much lower precipitation, with only 57 mm (2.3 in) over just 12 days, and the humidity remains slightly higher at 91%. For more detailed information on the weather in April, you can check Arequipa weather in April.

March and May present notably different weather patterns. In March, temperatures range from a minimum of 7°C (44°F) to a maximum of 20°C (68°F) with an average around 13°C (55°F). This month experiences significant rainfall, totaling 231 mm (9.1 in) over 29 days, and is accompanied by high humidity at 90%. In contrast, May sees slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 5°C (41°F) and a maximum of 23°C (74°F), while maintaining a similar average of 13°C (56°F). What stands out is the dramatic reduction in precipitation to just 6 mm (0.2 in) over only 2 days and a marginally lower humidity level of 88%. For more details, you can check Arequipa weather in May.

In March, the weather is characterized by a wider temperature range, with minimums around 7°C (44°F) and maximums reaching up to 20°C (68°F), averaging 13°C (55°F). This month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 231 mm (9.1 in) over 29 days, coupled with high humidity levels of 90%. In contrast, June sees a slightly lower temperature range, with minimums around 4°C (39°F) and maximums peaking at 23°C (74°F), maintaining the same average of 13°C (55°F). Drier conditions dominate in June, with almost negligible precipitation of just 1 mm (0.0 in) and no rainy days, leading to a more comfortable humidity level of 76%. For more details, check out the Arequipa weather in June.

In March, the weather features a broader temperature range with a minimum of 7°C (44°F) and a maximum of 20°C (68°F), resulting in an average of 13°C (55°F). This month also experiences significant rainfall, with 231 mm (9.1 in) of precipitation over 29 days and high humidity at 90%. In contrast, July offers milder temperatures, with a minimum of 4°C (39°F) and a maximum of 23°C (73°F), and the average remains the same at 13°C (55°F). Notably, July is characterized by extremely low precipitation, with just 1 mm (0.0 in) and no rainy days, leading to a lower humidity level of 61%. For more details, you can visit Arequipa weather in July.

March and August present contrasting weather patterns. In March, temperatures range from a minimum of 7°C (44°F) to a maximum of 20°C (68°F), with an average of 13°C (55°F). The month is characterized by significant rainfall, with a total precipitation of 231 mm (9.1 in) spread over 29 days, contributing to a high humidity level of 90%. In stark contrast, August experiences cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 3°C (38°F) and a maximum of 23°C (74°F), although the average remains similar at 13°C (56°F). Importantly, August is exceedingly dry, recording no precipitation at all and a lower humidity level of 57%. For more specifics, you can visit Arequipa weather in August.

In March, the weather is marked by relatively low temperatures, with average highs around 20°C (68°F) and consistent precipitation, totaling 231 mm (9.1 in) over 29 days. This leads to a high humidity level of 90%, giving the month a damp feel. In contrast, September brings milder conditions with average temperatures rising to 15°C (59°F) and comfortable highs peaking at 25°C (77°F). Remarkably, September experiences almost no precipitation, recording just 1 mm, and features zero rainy days, resulting in a much drier atmosphere with lower humidity at 58%. For more detailed information, you can check Arequipa weather in September.

When comparing the weather in March and October, notable differences emerge. March typically sees a wider range of temperatures, with a minimum of 7°C (44°F) and maximum reaching 20°C (68°F), alongside significant rainfall of 231 mm (9.1 in) spread over 29 days and high humidity at 90%. In contrast, October boasts slightly lower minimum temperatures of 6°C (43°F) but higher maximums at 24°C (76°F), accompanied by minimal precipitation of only 12 mm (0.5 in) over just three days. The humidity in October also drops to a more comfortable 75%. For a deeper look into October's climate, you can check out Arequipa weather in October.

March and November exhibit notable differences in weather patterns. March, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 7°C (44°F) to a maximum of 20°C (68°F), is characterized by high precipitation, averaging 231 mm (9.1 in) over 29 days, and a humidity level of 90%. In contrast, November experiences a milder temperature range, from 7°C (44°F) to 24°C (75°F), much lower precipitation at only 17 mm (0.7 in) over just 5 days, and slightly lower humidity at 83%. For more detailed insights, you can check out Arequipa weather in November.

In comparing the weather between March and December, we see notable differences in both temperature and precipitation patterns. March typically features cooler temperatures, with an average high of 20°C (68°F) and significant rainfall accumulating to 231 mm (9.1 in) over 29 days, resulting in high humidity levels at 90%. In contrast, December offers slightly warmer conditions with an average high of 24°C (75°F) but considerably less rainfall, totaling just 65 mm (2.5 in) over 12 days, and a lower humidity level of 84%. For a more detailed insight into December weather conditions, check out Arequipa weather in December.

Compare Arequipa's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From March Weather in Arequipa

As March arrives in Arequipa, the weather shifts noticeably, welcoming a more humid atmosphere and increased precipitation compared to other months. While daily temperatures hover around a comfortable average, the consistent rain—spanning nearly the entire month—creates a lush backdrop for the city’s stunning landscapes. Visitors can expect a vibrant environment, albeit with some challenges posed by the high humidity and frequent showers. As the month transitions into the drier seasons, March serves as a reminder of the unique climate dynamics of Arequipa. For a deeper dive into how the weather shapes this charming city throughout the year, check out our detailed overview of Arequipa Climate.