Last updated: August 27, 2025
In Cusco, Peru, January unveils a captivating weather tapestry marked by a maximum temperature of 19°C (66°F), an average of 9°C (49°F), and a minimum of 2°C (35°F). This month is characterized by considerable precipitation, accumulating to 170 mm (6.7 in) over 23 rainy days, creating a lush, vibrant atmosphere. With humidity levels soaring to 94%, visitors should be prepared for a moist and refreshing experience as they explore the rich history and breathtaking landscapes of this Andean gem.
In January, Cusco experiences a mild climate, with temperatures ranging from a chilly 2°C (35°F) at night to a comfortable 19°C (66°F) during the day, averaging around 9°C (49°F). This trend of warm daytime temperatures continues into February, where highs remain steady at 19°C (67°F), but nighttime lows rise slightly to 3°C (37°F). As the months progress towards March and April, nighttime temperatures dip further, with lows reaching 1°C (35°F) in April, while daytime highs begin to decrease subtly. The transition into the cooler months of May and June brings noticeably lower nighttime temperatures, dropping to around -2°C (28°F), though daily highs hover around 17-19°C (63-66°F). This trend continues through to August, with maximums occasionally touching 20°C (68°F) but nighttime temperatures often sinking below freezing. However, as fall approaches in September and October, Cusco starts to warm slightly again, with an upward shift in overnight lows, culminating in a more pleasant climate by December, where temperatures stabilize around 2°C (36°F) at night and 19°C (67°F) during the day, maintaining an inviting atmosphere for travelers year-round.
In January, Cusco experiences a significant amount of rainfall, with 170 mm (6.7 in) of precipitation spread across 23 days. This sets the stage for the peak rainy season, characterized by frequent downpours, which continue to escalate into February, where precipitation rises to 230 mm (9.1 in) and the number of rainy days increases to 27. As the season progresses, March shows a slight decline in rainfall to 180 mm (7.1 in) but maintains the high frequency of 27 rainy days. The pattern of heavy precipitation continues for the following months, with notable peaks in contrasting seasons, particularly in December with 214 mm (8.4 in). This cyclical trend underscores Cusco’s position within a dynamic climate, where the wet months are crucial for replenishing the lush landscapes that enchant visitors to this historical region.
In January, Cusco experiences a remarkable humidity level of 94%, making it one of the wettest months of the year. This high humidity reflects the region's lush vegetation and vibrant ecosystems as the summer season unfolds. Following January, humidity levels gradually decrease, with February and March maintaining a damp 92%, before slipping to 90% in April. As the cooler months approach, humidity continues to decline, reaching a comfortable 55% by July, and even dipping to 44% in August. This trend highlights Cusco's transition from the rainy season to the cooler, drier months. By the time November rolls around, humidity levels rise again to 84%, heralding the end of the dry season and a return to the lush, moist climate that characterizes the region.
In January, Cusco experiences a striking UV Index of 19, placing it in the extreme exposure category. With a burn time of just 10 minutes, it's crucial for visitors and locals alike to take sun safety seriously. This extreme UV intensity is a trend that persists through February, signaling a peak in sun exposure during the summer months in this vibrant city. As the year progresses into March with a slightly lower index of 18, and into April at 17, the extreme categorization remains, emphasizing the need for protective measures. Notably, even as the UV Index decreases to 14 by May, the recommendations for sun protection are still paramount. As the months transition, the trend continues, with November and December showcasing UV levels that fluctuate but often remain in the extreme category, culminating in a shocking 22 by the end of the year. For anyone planning their visit, understanding these levels is essential, and further details can be found at Cusco UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
In January, Cusco basks in a generous 225 hours of sunshine, setting the stage for a vibrant start to the year. As the months progress, this radiant trend continues to climb, culminating in the peak of 340 hours of sunshine by August. This sunny ascent is complemented by a steady increase in daylight, with March and April also enjoying impressive totals of 285 and 290 hours, respectively. The bright days gradually wane as the year approaches its end, dipping to 276 hours in November and 273 hours in December. This natural ebb and flow of sunshine not only enhances the beauty of the Andean landscape but also beckons travelers to explore the rich cultural tapestry of this historic region throughout the year.
In Cusco, Peru, January presents a modest 7% chance of sunny weather, making it one of the cloudier months. This trend continues into February with a slightly lower 6%, before slowly improving in March at 8%. However, as the seasons transition, the likelihood of sunshine increases significantly, peaking in July with an impressive 72% chance of clear skies. This upward trajectory makes April (24%) and May (46%) notable turning points, as the region shifts from the comparatively overcast start of the year to much brighter and sunnier conditions that last through the winter months. By August, the sun still dominates with a robust 62%, ensuring that, while January may be weak on sunshine, clearer days are just around the corner.
In January, Cusco enjoys a generous 12 hours of daylight, setting the tone for a summer filled with vibrant exploration. This consistent daylight length persists into February and March, allowing visitors ample time to soak in the remarkable sights and rich cultural heritage. As the seasons begin to shift in April, daylight gradually decreases to 11 hours, a trend that continues through the middle of the year, creating a more subdued atmosphere during this period. However, as September rolls around, daylight begins to bounce back to 12 hours, revitalizing the city as it transitions into spring. This pattern of daylight duration highlights Cusco's unique position in the Southern Hemisphere, where the variations are subtle yet impactful, making each month a beautiful opportunity to experience the stunning landscapes and historical wonders of this enchanting destination.
In January, Cusco experiences a gentle breeze with an average wind speed of 1.1 m/s (3 mph), setting a tranquil tone for the start of the year. This steady, unhurried pace of the wind continues into February and March, maintaining the same moderate speed, ideal for outdoor exploration and cultural immersions. As the months progress, there's a slight dip in wind intensity during April and May, both averaging 1.0 m/s (2 mph), bringing a calmness that enhances the city's vibrant atmosphere. However, the winds pick up again in mid-year, particularly in August and September, where they reach 1.3 m/s (3 mph), providing a refreshing change as the landscape starts to shift. The consistency of the wind speeds throughout the year, rarely straying far from 1.1 m/s, reflects Cusco's stable and inviting climate, making it a delightful destination for visitors seeking both adventure and serenity.
Weather in Cusco varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares January’s weather to other months in Cusco, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
January and February exhibit similar temperature ranges, with January experiencing slightly cooler conditions, having a minimum of 2°C (35°F) and an average of 9°C (49°F). In contrast, February sees a min of 3°C (37°F) and an average of 10°C (49°F), making the month marginally warmer overall. However, February is characterized by increased precipitation, totaling 230 mm (9.1 in) over 27 days, compared to January’s 170 mm (6.7 in) across 23 days. The humidity remains relatively high in both months, with January at 94% and February slightly lower at 92%. For more insights on February weather, you can check Cusco weather in February.
January and March in Cusco exhibit relatively similar temperature ranges, with January showing a minimum of 2°C (35°F) and a maximum of 19°C (66°F), while March has a slightly higher minimum of 3°C (38°F). Both months have an average temperature of 9°C (49°F). However, March experiences slightly more precipitation at 180 mm (7.1 in) compared to January's 170 mm (6.7 in), and it also sees more rainy days, with 27 days in March versus 23 in January. Humidity levels are comparable, though January is a touch more humid at 94% compared to March's 92%. For more information on the March weather, you can check Cusco weather in March.
In January, the weather typically sees a minimum temperature of 2°C (35°F) and can rise to a maximum of 19°C (66°F), with an average temperature of 9°C (49°F). This month is characterized by significant rainfall, accumulating to around 170 mm (6.7 in) over 23 days, making it quite humid at 94%.
In contrast, April experiences slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 1°C (34°F) and a maximum of 18°C (64°F), while maintaining the same average of 9°C (49°F). Precipitation in April is reduced to about 90 mm (3.5 in) over 20 days, resulting in a lower humidity level of 90%. For more details on this month’s weather, you can visit Cusco weather in April.
January and May present distinct weather profiles, reflecting the transition from mid-summer to the early winter in Cusco. In January, temperatures range from a minimum of 2°C (35°F) to a maximum of 19°C (66°F), with an average of 9°C (49°F). The month is characterized by significant precipitation, totaling 170 mm (6.7 in) over 23 days, and high humidity levels at 94%. In contrast, May sees cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -2°C (28°F) and a maximum of 17°C (63°F), while maintaining a similar average of 9°C (48°F). Notably, precipitation drops to just 30 mm (1.2 in) and occurs over 10 days, accompanied by a slightly lower humidity of 88%. For a more detailed look at Cusco's weather during this month, check out Cusco weather in May.
In January, the weather is characterized by relatively mild temperatures, with lows around 2°C (35°F) and highs reaching up to 19°C (66°F). However, it experiences significant precipitation, accumulating around 170 mm (6.7 in) over 23 days, along with high humidity levels of 94%. In contrast, June offers cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -1°C (30°F) and an average of 9°C (48°F), while the maximum temperature is slightly lower at 18°C (65°F). It also sees much less rain, with only about 15 mm (0.6 in) over just 3 days and a drop in humidity to 77%. For more detailed information on June weather, you can check Cusco weather in June.
In January, the weather is considerably warmer and wetter than in July, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 2°C (35°F) to a maximum of 19°C (66°F) and a substantial precipitation of 170 mm (6.7 in) over approximately 23 days, accompanied by high humidity at 94%. In contrast, July experiences cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -2°C (29°F) and an average of 8°C (47°F), while precipitation drops significantly to just 19 mm (0.7 in) spread over 4 days, resulting in a much drier climate with only 55% humidity. For more information on Cusco's weather during this month, you can visit Cusco weather in July.
In January, the weather is relatively mild, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 2°C (35°F) to a maximum of 19°C (66°F), and an average of 9°C (49°F). This month experiences significant precipitation, with around 170 mm (6.7 in) falling over 23 days, leading to high humidity levels of 94%. In contrast, August sees cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -3°C (28°F) and a maximum of 20°C (68°F), maintaining a similar average of 9°C (48°F). However, August is much drier, with only 21 mm (0.8 in) of rain over just 7 days and lower humidity at 44%. For a more detailed look at August weather in Cusco, you can visit Cusco weather in August.
In January, the weather in Cusco is characterized by relatively mild temperatures, with averages around 9°C (49°F) and maximums reaching up to 19°C (66°F). However, this month also sees significant precipitation, with 170 mm (6.7 in) of rain over 23 days, coupled with high humidity at 94%. In contrast, September features cooler temperatures, with an average of 10°C (49°F) and maximums of 21°C (70°F), but substantially less rain, only 34 mm (1.3 in) over 11 days, resulting in a much drier atmosphere and a humidity level of 51%. For more detailed insights, you can check Cusco weather in September.
In comparing the weather between January and October, we see some notable differences. January experiences slightly higher average temperatures, ranging from a minimum of 2°C (35°F) to a maximum of 19°C (66°F), while October's temperatures are just a touch cooler with a minimum of 1°C (34°F) and a maximum of 21°C (69°F). October sees significantly less precipitation, with 86 mm (3.4 in) over 18 days compared to January's 170 mm (6.7 in) across 23 days, resulting in a drier and less humid atmosphere in October, where humidity averages 64% compared to January's 94%. For more detailed insights on October weather, you can check Cusco weather in October.
In comparing the weather between January and November, January tends to be slightly cooler, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 2°C (35°F) to a maximum of 19°C (66°F), while November enjoys slightly warmer averages, with temperatures ranging from 3°C (38°F) to a maximum of 21°C (70°F). Precipitation is higher in January, totaling 170 mm (6.7 in) over 23 days, as compared to November's 128 mm (5.0 in) over 24 days. Additionally, January features a higher humidity level of 94%, contrasting with November's more comfortable 84%. For a deeper insight into the conditions of November, you can check out Cusco weather in November.
In comparison to December, January experiences slightly warmer average temperatures, with minimums around 2°C (35°F) and maximums reaching 19°C (66°F) compared to December's minimum of 2°C (36°F) and maximum of 19°C (67°F). However, January sees less precipitation, totaling 170 mm (6.7 in) over 23 days, whereas December receives 214 mm (8.4 in) over 27 days. Both months maintain high humidity levels, with January at 94% and December at 93%. For more detailed insights on December weather, check out Cusco weather in December.
In January, Cusco experiences a vibrant yet damp climate, setting it apart from the drier winter months. The combination of maximum temperatures hovering around a mild 19°C (66°F) and a notable 94% humidity creates a unique atmosphere that enhances the lush greenery of the surrounding landscapes. However, travelers should prepare for frequent rainfall, with 23 days of precipitation contributing to a substantial total of 170 mm (6.7 in) for the month. This distinctive weather pattern not only adds a refreshing charm to the city but also makes January an interesting time to explore the rich cultural heritage of Cusco. For more insights into the weather trends throughout the year, check out Cusco Climate.