Last updated: August 27, 2025
Experience the enchanting December weather in Machupicchu, Peru, where temperatures fluctuate between a maximum of 18°C (64°F) and a chilly minimum of 4°C (40°F). With an average temperature hovering around 10°C (50°F), the climate is inviting yet brisk. December sees significant rainfall, with a total precipitation of 273 mm (10.7 in) across all 31 days, contributing to the region's lush scenery. The high humidity at 89% can add a mystical fog to the ancient ruins, creating a captivating backdrop for your exploration.
In December, Machu Picchu experiences a mild and pleasant climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 4°C (40°F) to a comfortable maximum of 18°C (64°F). This is a slight uptick compared to the preceding months, showcasing a gradual warming trend as the region transitions into its wet season. The average temperature settles at around 10°C (50°F), making it one of the more inviting months for visitors. Travelers can enjoy mostly moderate weather, ideal for exploring the breathtaking ruins and lush landscapes, although it's always wise to be prepared for occasional rain. As the year draws to a close, December provides a delightful balance of coolness and warmth, perfect for experiencing the wonders of this historic site.
In December, Machupicchu experiences a significant increase in precipitation, with 273 mm (10.7 in) of rain falling over the course of the month. This surge is consistent with the wet season, as December typically registers precipitation on all 31 days, showcasing the region's lush and vibrant landscape. Following a pattern established over the previous months, December's rainfall is higher than the preceding November's 228 mm (9.0 in), further solidifying its position as one of the wettest months of the year. As travelers navigate the ancient ruins surrounded by abundant greenery, the ever-present moisture brings a refreshing, yet challenging, adventure—encouraging visitors to embrace the seasonal glory of this breathtaking destination.
In December, Machupicchu experiences a significant uptick in humidity, reaching 89%, as the wet season gradually takes hold. This surge continues a trend observed from the previous month, where humidity levels hovered at 81% in November, indicating a consistent pattern of increasing moisture as the year draws to a close. Prior to this rise, the region saw a steady decline from a peak in January at 93%, followed by a slow descent through the drier months of June and August. As the humidity begins to climb again in December, visitors can expect lush green landscapes and vibrant flora, typical of this time of year in the Andean region.
In December, Machupicchu experiences a UV Index of 18, maintaining an extreme exposure category that has been consistent throughout the year, with only slight variations. This indicates a continued risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure, where a mere 10 minutes can lead to skin damage. The UV Index typically peaks in the earlier months with values reaching up to 19 in both January and February, then gradually decreasing through the spring and early winter months before showing a slight uptick again in October and December. As the dry season approaches, visitors should remain vigilant and take appropriate sun protection measures to enjoy the breathtaking views without compromising their skin's safety. For detailed insights into UV levels throughout the year, check out Machupicchu UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
December in Machu Picchu greets visitors with a gentle embrace of sunshine, offering 251 hours of daylight while the year comes to a close. This month stands as a subtle transition, with daylight hours tapering off from the peak brightness experienced in the preceding months of May and August, which boasted 325 and 338 hours respectively. As the rainy season begins its dance with the landscape, December's sunshine reveals a tapestry of lush greenery and vibrant flora, inviting exploration amidst a backdrop of captivating clouds. While the sunlight is slightly reduced compared to earlier months, the charm of Machu Picchu remains undiminished, making it an enchanting destination for those seeking a blend of tranquility and natural beauty in the heart of the Andes.
When considering the likelihood of sunny weather in December at Machupicchu, it’s essential to note a general trend of increasing sunshine potential as the year progresses. December typically sees only a 6% chance of sun, aligning it with the lower percentages observed in January, February, and November, which all hover around 4% or so. As the rainy season peaks, travelers can expect more clouds than clear skies. In contrast, the months of May through July present a much brighter picture, showcasing significantly higher probabilities of sunshine that attract adventure seekers to the region. Therefore, while December may not be ideal for sun worshippers, the spirit of exploration in the lush surroundings remains undeniably enchanting.
In Machupicchu, Peru, the daylight duration maintains a remarkable consistency throughout the year. December stands out with 12 hours of daylight, mirroring the months of January, February, and several others, creating a balanced exposure to sunlight that enhances the region's enchanting landscapes. As we transition into the latter part of the year, daylight gradually begins to decrease, peaking at 11 hours during the winter months of April through August. Interestingly, September to November sees a return to 12 hours, reinforcing the notion that Machupicchu enjoys a unique rhythm of light, perfect for those eager to explore its ancient wonders in optimal conditions.
As the year draws to a close, December in Machu Picchu brings a gentle breeze with an average wind speed of 1.0 m/s (2 mph). This slight uptick from November, which saw the calmest winds at 0.9 m/s, reflects a subtle increase in air movement as the region transitions into the warmer, wetter months of summer. Throughout the year, wind speeds have remained consistently low, with most months hovering around 1.0 m/s. Interestingly, July and August experience a momentary surge to 1.1 m/s, introducing a brief breeze during the dry season. Overall, as December settles in, it maintains this serene pace, offering a tranquil atmosphere perfect for exploring the ancient ruins against the backdrop of Peru's majestic mountains.
Weather in Machupicchu varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares December’s weather to other months in Machupicchu, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
In December, temperatures range from a minimum of 4°C (40°F) to a maximum of 18°C (64°F), with an average of 10°C (50°F). The month is characterized by significant precipitation, totaling 273 mm (10.7 in) over 31 days, accompanied by a high humidity level of 89%. In contrast, January sees slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 3°C (38°F), an average of 9°C (49°F), and a similar maximum of 18°C (64°F). Precipitation is a bit lower at 257 mm (10.1 in), occurring over 26 days, while humidity increases to 93%. For a detailed look at January weather in Machu Picchu, you can visit Machupicchu weather in January.
In comparing the weather between December and February, both months experience similar minimum temperatures, averaging around 4°C (39°F to 40°F). However, December tends to be slightly warmer overall, with an average temperature of 10°C (50°F) compared to February’s 9°C (49°F). Precipitation levels are notably high in both months, with December receiving 273 mm (10.7 in) spread over 31 days, while February sees an increase to 292 mm (11.5 in) over 28 days. Humidity is also higher in February at 92%, compared to December’s 89%, making February feel a bit more damp. For more detailed information, you can check out the Machupicchu weather in February.
In December, temperatures typically range from a minimum of 4°C (40°F) to a maximum of 18°C (64°F), with an average of 10°C (50°F). The month experiences substantial precipitation, totaling 273 mm (10.7 in) across 31 days, and the humidity remains high at 89%. In contrast, March boasts slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 3°C (38°F) and a maximum of 17°C (63°F), averaging 9°C (49°F). While precipitation in March is marginally higher at 286 mm (11.3 in), it also spans 31 days, and the humidity increases slightly to 92%. For more detailed insights into the specific weather conditions during this time, you can refer to Machupicchu weather in March.
In December, the weather tends to be milder, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 4°C (40°F) to a maximum of 18°C (64°F), while April sees slightly cooler temperatures, averaging between 2°C (36°F) and 17°C (63°F). Although December experiences more precipitation, with 273 mm (10.7 in) spread over 31 days, April boasts a more manageable 160 mm (6.3 in) across just 29 days. Both months are characterized by high humidity, hovering around 89% in December and 90% in April, making the air feel quite damp. For those who are interested, you can learn more about the specific conditions to expect by checking the Machupicchu weather in April.
When comparing the weather in December and May, December tends to be milder overall, with average temperatures ranging from 4°C (40°F) to a maximum of 18°C (64°F). In contrast, May experiences slightly cooler temperatures, averaging between 1°C (34°F) and 16°C (62°F). Precipitation levels in December are notably higher, with 273 mm (10.7 in) spread over 31 days, while May sees just 69 mm (2.7 in) across 22 days. Humidity remains fairly high in both months, at 89% in December and 85% in May. For a detailed look at May weather, you can visit Machupicchu weather in May.
December and June present contrasting weather conditions. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of 4°C (40°F) to a maximum of 18°C (64°F), with an average of 10°C (50°F). The month is marked by high humidity at 89% and substantial rainfall, totaling 273 mm (10.7 in) over 31 days. In contrast, June experiences cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 0°C (32°F) and a maximum of 16°C (61°F), averaging 8°C (46°F). Precipitation is significantly lower, with only 44 mm (1.7 in) over 14 days and humidity at a more moderate 70%. For more details on weather during this month, check out Machupicchu weather in June.
December and July present distinctly different weather patterns. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of 4°C (40°F) to a maximum of 18°C (64°F), with an average of 10°C (50°F). This month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 273 mm (10.7 in) over 31 days, and high humidity at 89%. In contrast, July features cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -1°C (30°F) and a maximum of 17°C (64°F), averaging at 7°C (46°F). There is much less rain in July, with only 43 mm (1.7 in) recorded over just 12 days and lower humidity at 54%. For more detailed insights, you can check the Machupicchu weather in July.
In comparing the weather between December and August, December is notably milder, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 4°C (40°F) to a maximum of 18°C (64°F). In contrast, August temperatures are cooler, with a minimum of -1°C (31°F) and a maximum of 16°C (62°F). December experiences significantly higher precipitation, totaling 273 mm (10.7 in) over 31 days, while August sees lesser rainfall of 62 mm (2.5 in) across just 18 days. Additionally, December's humidity is much higher at 89%, compared to August's more comfortable 44%. For more detailed information on weather conditions during this time, you can visit Machupicchu weather in August.
December and September exhibit notable differences in weather conditions. December tends to be warmer with average highs around 18°C (64°F) and lows of 4°C (40°F), while September's temperatures are slightly cooler, averaging a maximum of 17°C (62°F) and a minimum of 0°C (33°F). Additionally, December experiences significantly more precipitation, with 273 mm (10.7 in) over 31 days, compared to September's 102 mm (4.0 in) spread across 28 days. The humidity also varies greatly, peaking at 89% in December compared to a more comfortable 52% in September. For more detailed weather insights, you can check Machupicchu weather in September.
When comparing the weather in December and October, it's evident that December tends to be slightly warmer but significantly wetter. The average temperature in December is 10°C (50°F), with a minimum of 4°C (40°F) and a maximum of 18°C (64°F), while in October, the average temperature is a bit cooler at 9°C (48°F), with a minimum of 2°C (36°F) and a maximum of 18°C (65°F). Precipitation in December is nearly double that of October, measuring 273 mm (10.7 in) over 31 days compared to October's 174 mm (6.9 in) over 30 days. Furthermore, December also experiences higher humidity levels at 89%, compared to October's 65%. For those planning a trip, it's interesting to note Machupicchu weather in October to better prepare for the conditions.
In comparing the weather of December and November, both months display similar temperature averages, with December slightly warmer, featuring a maximum of 18°C (64°F) compared to November's 17°C (64°F). Both months have a minimum temperature of 4°C (39°F to 40°F), and average temperatures remain constant at 10°C (50°F). However, December experiences increased precipitation, with 273 mm (10.7 in) over 31 days, compared to November's 228 mm (9.0 in) over 30 days. Additionally, December is more humid at 89% compared to November's 81%. For more detailed insights on November weather, you can visit Machupicchu weather in November.
In December, Machupicchu's weather presents a unique experience as it transitions into the rainy season, distinguishing it significantly from other months. While temperatures remain mild, with averages hovering around 10°C (50°F), the region sees a substantial increase in precipitation, with rain gracing nearly every day of the month. This elevated humidity level of 89% adds to the lushness of the landscape, making it a vibrant yet wet time to explore the ancient site. Visitors should prepare for frequent showers, but those who embrace the rains will be rewarded with fewer crowds and the breathtaking serenity of Machupicchu. For a more in-depth look at seasonal variations, check out Machupicchu Climate.