May Weather in Arequipa, Peru

Last updated: August 27, 2025

In May, Arequipa, Peru experiences mild weather characterized by a maximum temperature of 23°C (74°F) and an average temperature of 13°C (56°F), with chilly nights dipping to a minimum of 5°C (41°F). This time of year is relatively dry, with only 6 mm (0.2 in) of precipitation falling over an average of just 2 days. Humidity levels are notably high at 88%, adding a touch of warmth to the crisp air. Overall, May is a pleasant month in Arequipa, ideal for exploring the city’s stunning landscapes and rich culture.

May Temperature in Arequipa

In May, the temperatures in Arequipa, Peru, continue to offer a delightful experience as the city transitions deeper into the autumn season. With a minimum temperature of 5°C (41°F) and a maximum reaching up to 23°C (74°F), the days are pleasantly warm and the nights remain cool. The average temperature stabilizes at 13°C (56°F), mirroring the consistent weather patterns identified from previous months. This mild climate invites visitors to explore the city's rich culture and stunning landscapes while enjoying comfortably warm days and crisp evenings. As the month progresses, the climate hints at the cooler winter temperatures to come, yet May remains a sweet spot for those seeking to experience Arequipa's charm without the extreme cold.

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

The chart illustrates May 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, May 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.
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The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

May Precipitation in Arequipa

In May, Arequipa experiences a notable transition in its precipitation patterns, with rainfall dropping significantly to a mere 6 mm (0.2 in) over just 2 days. This decrease marks a stark contrast to the heavy rains of the earlier months, such as January's 242 mm and February's 235 mm, which saw frequent downpours on nearly every day. By the time May arrives, the once-dominant rainy season is waning, leading into the stark dryness of winter. With precipitation dwindling further to just 1 mm in both June and July, the city shifts into a period characterized by clear skies and minimal rainfall, highlighting an evident trend toward aridity as the year progresses.

May Precipitation Trends in Arequipa

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

In May, Arequipa experiences a slight dip in humidity, averaging 88%, which marks a subtle decrease from the peak levels seen in the preceding months. Following the high humidity of April at 91%, May sets the stage for the transition into the drier months ahead. This reduction hints at the approaching cooler, less humid conditions of winter, evident in the significant drop to 76% in June. Overall, May serves as a bridge between the humid summer season and the crisp autonomy of winter, making it a transitional period marked by slightly more comfortable atmospheric conditions.

May Average Humidity in Arequipa

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Arequipa, with May’s data highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the fluctuation in humidity throughout the year, helping you understand how conditions vary by season. In May, 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 May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

May UV Index in Arequipa

In May, Arequipa experiences a UV Index of 12, categorizing it as extreme with a rapid burn time of just 10 minutes. This marks a slight decline from the peak UV levels seen in the early months of the year, where indices reached as high as 18 in January and November, reflecting a consistent trend of intense sun exposure. While May offers slightly lower UV levels than previous months, caution remains essential for anyone enjoying outdoor activities. For more insights on sun safety throughout the year, visit Arequipa UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Arequipa for May

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Arequipa in May, 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 May, the maximum UV index in Arequipa typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec181717151210111315171817
Data source: Arequipa May 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.

May Sunshine in Arequipa

As May arrives in Arequipa, Peru, residents and visitors alike bask in the radiant glow of sunshine, enjoying an impressive 334 hours of daylight. This month stands out as a peak in a trend of increasing sunshine, following a steady rise from the 250 hours seen in January. April marks the transition into this sunny paradise, with a significant leap to 316 hours, paving the way for May’s vibrant days. The delightful progression continues through the winter months, as June and July maintain a strong showing of sunshine, ensuring that Arequipa remains a picturesque destination. With each passing month leading up to October, the city embraces an abundance of light, offering a captivating backdrop for exploration and relaxation.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Arequipa: May Highlighted

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

Chance of Sun in Arequipa During May

In Arequipa, Peru, the likelihood of sunny weather rises significantly in May, reaching an impressive 61%. This marks a notable increase from the earlier months of the year, where sunny days were rare, with chances as low as 10% in March and 15% in February. Following April's steady 53%, May sets the stage for a transition into the sun-drenched winter months; by June, the probability escalates even further to 67%. This trend of increasing sunlit days continues, peaking dramatically in the heart of winter, with July boasting a remarkable 94% chance. Thus, May serves as a pivotal month, bridging the shift from the sporadic sunshine of summer to the abundant brightness typical of Arequipa's winter.

Percentage of Sunny Days in May in Arequipa

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Arequipa throughout the year, with May 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 May chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Arequipa in May

In Arequipa, Peru, the trend of daylight duration reveals the region's unique climatic rhythm throughout the year. From January to March, residents enjoy a generous 12 hours of daylight, embracing the sun-drenched days of summer. As April arrives, there’s a subtle transition, with daylight slightly tapering to 11 hours, marking the onset of autumn. This pattern persists through May to August, where the days remain consistently shorter, nestled within a cozy 11-hour window. However, a delightful shift occurs in September, as daylight springs back to 12 hours, signaling the approach of spring and the promise of longer days ahead. By December, daylight peaks at an impressive 13 hours, offering the longest and sunniest days to bask in. This cyclical dance of daylight not only defines seasonal changes but also shapes the lifestyle and rhythm of life in this vibrant city.

Average Daylight Hours in Arequipa for May

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Arequipa throughout the year, with May 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.

May Winds in Arequipa

In May, the winds in Arequipa, Peru begin to pick up slightly, with an average speed of 1.8 m/s (4 mph). This modest increase marks the start of a trend where wind speeds gradually rise as the year progresses, peaking in the July and August months at 1.9 m/s (4 mph). Following this brief gusty peak, the speeds settle back into the 1.8 m/s range towards the end of the year. Overall, May's wind patterns signal a transition into a breezier season, hinting at the vibrant and dynamic atmosphere that characterizes Arequipa's unique climate.

Average May Wind Speed in Arequipa

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Arequipa, with values for each month shown alongside May's data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It illustrates the average wind speed, offering insights into how May's wind conditions compare to the rest of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec1.61.61.51.71.8 m/s1.81.91.91.81.91.81.8
Data source: Arequipa May wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How May 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 May’s weather to other months in Arequipa, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.

In May, the weather is generally mild with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 5°C (41°F) to a maximum of 23°C (74°F), and an average of 13°C (56°F). Precipitation is minimal, with only about 6 mm (0.2 in) falling over approximately 2 days, leading to relatively lower humidity at 88%. In contrast, January experiences significantly higher precipitation, totaling 242 mm (9.5 in) over around 25 days, which contributes to a slight increase in humidity at 89%. Despite similar average temperatures, the wet conditions in January make it feel quite different compared to the drier May. For more specific details on January weather, check out Arequipa weather in January.

When comparing the weather in May and February, notable differences emerge. May typically experiences milder temperatures, with a minimum of 5°C (41°F), an average of 13°C (56°F), and a maximum of 23°C (74°F). In contrast, February's temperatures range slightly higher, with a minimum of 7°C (44°F), an average of 13°C (55°F), and a maximum of 20°C (69°F). However, February is significantly wetter, receiving 235 mm (9.3 inches) of precipitation over 27 days, compared to May's relatively dry conditions with just 6 mm (0.2 inches) of rain over 2 days. Humidity levels are similar, with February at 90% and May at 88%. For more details about February weather, you can visit Arequipa weather in February.

When comparing the weather in March and May, it's evident that May offers milder conditions with a maximum temperature reaching 23°C (74°F), while March's peak temperature is slightly lower at 20°C (68°F). March experiences significantly higher precipitation, averaging 231 mm (9.1 in) over 29 days, compared to May's minimal 6 mm (0.2 in) across just 2 days. Additionally, humidity levels remain quite similar, with May at 88% and March at 90%. For a more detailed look at March weather, you can check out Arequipa weather in March.

In comparing the weather of May and April, we see some notable differences. May tends to be slightly warmer on average, with maximum temperatures reaching up to 23°C (74°F), compared to April's 21°C (71°F). While both months share the same minimum temperature of 5°C (41°F) and an average temperature of 13°C (56°F), May is characterized by significantly less precipitation, receiving only 6 mm (0.2 in) over just 2 days, while April experiences much more rainfall, totaling 57 mm (2.3 in) over 12 days. Additionally, May has a slightly lower humidity level at 88%, compared to April's 91%. For more detailed insights, check out Arequipa weather in April.

In comparing the weather between May and June, we find that both months enjoy similar average temperatures, hovering around 13°C (56°F) with daytime highs peaking at 23°C (74°F). However, May experiences slightly cooler minimum temperatures, starting at 5°C (41°F), while June begins at 4°C (39°F). Notably, June is drier with only 1 mm of precipitation over zero days, compared to May's 6 mm over two days. Additionally, June exhibits lower humidity levels at 76%, in contrast to May’s 88% humidity. For a closer look at June weather specifics, check out Arequipa weather in June.

In May, the weather is characterized by a mild temperature range, with a minimum of 5°C (41°F) and a maximum of 23°C (74°F), while the humidity is notably high at 88%. This month experiences an average temperature of 13°C (56°F) and sees light rain, with approximately 6 mm of precipitation over two days. In contrast, July offers a similar temperature profile, with a minimum of 4°C (39°F) and an average of 13°C (55°F), but the maximum is slightly cooler at 23°C (73°F). However, July boasts much drier conditions, with only 1 mm of precipitation over zero rainy days and significantly lower humidity at 61%. For more detailed information, you can check Arequipa weather in July.

In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of 5°C (41°F) to a comfortable maximum of 23°C (74°F), with an average of 13°C (56°F). The month experiences light precipitation, averaging 6 mm (0.2 in) over just 2 days, accompanied by high humidity levels at 88%. In contrast, August sees slightly cooler nighttime temperatures with a minimum of 3°C (38°F), yet maintains the same comfortable maximum of 23°C (74°F) and average of 13°C (56°F). Notably, August is much drier, with zero precipitation and lower humidity at 57%, making it a more stable month for outdoor activities. For more details, check out Arequipa weather in August.

May and September exhibit distinct differences in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 5°C (41°F) to a maximum of 23°C (74°F), with an average temperature of 13°C (56°F). This month also experiences higher humidity at 88% and a bit of precipitation, totaling about 6 mm (0.2 in) over two days. In contrast, September features slightly warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 6°C (43°F) and a maximum of 25°C (77°F), averaging 15°C (59°F). Additionally, September is much drier, with only 1 mm (0.0 in) of precipitation across no days and significantly lower humidity at 58%. For more details on weather conditions, check Arequipa weather in September.

In comparing the weather between May and October, we find some notable differences. May typically experiences a minimum temperature of around 5°C (41°F) and an average of 13°C (56°F), reaching a maximum of 23°C (74°F). The month is characterized by high humidity at 88% and minimal precipitation, averaging just 6 mm over 2 days. In contrast, October boasts slightly warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 6°C (43°F), an average of 15°C (59°F), and a maximum of 24°C (76°F). However, October sees increased rainfall, accumulating about 12 mm over 3 days, alongside a drop in humidity to 75%. For more detailed insights, visit Arequipa weather in October.

In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 5°C (41°F) to a maximum of 23°C (74°F), with an average of 13°C (56°F). The month sees relatively low precipitation, averaging just 6 mm (0.2 in) over only 2 days, alongside a high humidity level of 88%. In contrast, November experiences slightly warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 7°C (44°F) and a maximum of 24°C (75°F), achieving an average of 15°C (59°F). However, November also brings increased precipitation, totaling 17 mm (0.7 in) over 5 days, and slightly lower humidity at 83%. For more details on the weather specifics in November, refer to Arequipa weather in November.

In May, the weather features a range of temperatures with a minimum of 5°C (41°F) and a maximum of 23°C (74°F), culminating in a pleasant average of 13°C (56°F). The month sees minimal precipitation, totaling just 6 mm (0.2 in) over about 2 rainy days, accompanied by relatively high humidity at 88%. In contrast, December experiences slightly milder temperatures, with a low of 7°C (45°F) and a high of 24°C (75°F), resulting in an average of 14°C (58°F). However, this month is significantly wetter, with precipitation reaching 65 mm (2.5 in) spread over 12 days, and humidity remains lower at 84%. For more detailed information, check out Arequipa weather in December.

Compare Arequipa's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From May Weather in Arequipa

In May, Arequipa experiences a delightful transition with mild temperatures and relatively low precipitation, setting it apart from the wetter months that precede it. With an average temperature around 13°C, residents and visitors can enjoy the pleasant climate while the humidity remains high at 88%. The city typically sees only a couple of rainy days, making this month ideal for outdoor activities and exploration. As you revel in the stunning landscapes and vibrant culture, don't forget to check detailed insights on the local weather patterns at Arequipa Climate.