Last updated: August 27, 2025
May in Colca, Peru is characterized by a cool climate, with maximum temperatures reaching 15°C (60°F) and an average of 6°C (44°F). Nights can be particularly chilly, with minimum temperatures dipping to -4°C (26°F). The month sees considerable precipitation, accumulating to 70 mm (2.8 in), spread over 20 days, which contributes to the region's lush landscapes. With humidity levels averaging 83%, visitors can expect a damp atmosphere that enhances the area's vibrant natural beauty. Whether exploring ancient terraces or soaking in hot springs, May offers a unique experience, albeit with the necessity of preparing for occasional rain.
In May, temperatures in Colca, Peru continue to reflect the region's cool highland climate, with minimums dropping to -4°C (26°F) and an average temperature of 6°C (44°F). This slight decline in warmth marks a transition towards the colder months, as the maximum temperature hovers around 15°C (60°F), keeping it comfortably cool for outdoor adventures. Compared to preceding months, May maintains a steady temperature profile, although it does show a subtle dip in both average and maximum values when compared to the more temperate conditions of April. This makes May an ideal time for travelers seeking to explore the breathtaking landscapes of Colca without the chill of winter settling in just yet.
In May, the precipitation in Colca, Peru, significantly drops to 70 mm (2.8 in), following the wetter months of the year. This decline is accompanied by 20 days of rainfall, indicating a transition to drier conditions as the region approaches winter. The previous month, April, experienced a notably higher 103 mm (4.0 in), suggesting a shift in patterns as the rainy season begins to taper off. As the dry months of June and July are anticipated, May serves as a pivotal point in the yearly cycle, showcasing a distinct reduction in both precipitation and rainy days that marks the gradual onset of a more arid climate.
As May arrives in Colca, Peru, the humidity begins its gentle decline, resting at a comfortable 83% compared to the persistently high levels seen earlier in the year. Following a brief period of nearly consistent humidity above 89% from January to April, this reduction hints at the transition into the drier months ahead. With June's humidity dropping significantly to 69%, it's clear that the region is shifting toward a more arid climate, setting the stage for the crisp and refreshing conditions of winter. This seasonal shift not only influences the weather but also enhances the experience for visitors, allowing for improved visibility and comfort as they explore the stunning landscapes of Colca.
In May, Colca, Peru experiences a UV Index of 15, maintaining its status as an extreme exposure category with a consistent burn time of just 10 minutes. As the months progress from the peak levels seen in January through April, there is a noticeable decline, yet the intensity remains significant. This trend highlights the necessity for sun protection during this time, as even moderately lower indices still pose a risk. With June following closely behind at a UV Index of 12, the overall exposure levels reflect a gradual reduction but still warrant caution. For more detailed insights on sun safety and UV levels throughout the year, explore the Colca UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
May ushers in a remarkable surge of sunshine in Colca, Peru, boasting an impressive 316 hours of radiant daylight. This noticeable increase follows a steady climb from 289 hours in April, reflecting the region's transition into its sunniest months. The trend continues as June and July maintain high sunshine totals, peaking at 326 hours in July before slightly tapering off. This pattern illustrates a delightful shift as spring gives way to the vibrant warmth of early summer, making May an ideal time to soak in the dazzling sun and explore the breathtaking landscapes of Colca.
In the picturesque Colca Canyon, the chance of sunny weather in May significantly brightens the month, boasting a 34% likelihood of sunshine. This increase is particularly notable when compared to earlier months, where the sun shines through only 5% to 17% of the time from January to April. As the season transitions into June, the probability slightly dips to 32%, but it remains a favorable time for outdoor adventures. Overall, May stands out as a delightful bridge into the sunniest months of the year, paving the way for exploration amidst breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture.
In Colca, Peru, daylight duration showcases a fascinating rhythm throughout the year. From January to March, the region basks in a splendid 12 hours of daylight, presenting an ideal backdrop for exploration and adventure. As April arrives, however, the days begin to shorten, dipping to 11 hours—a trend that continues from May through August, offering a slight shift in the atmosphere as the seasons transition. Yet, come September, daylight joyfully resurges back to 12 hours, re-energizing the landscape. This cycle beautifully illustrates the area's climatic patterns, where natural light ebbs and flows, mirroring the stunning beauty of the Colca Canyon throughout the year.
In May, Colca, Peru, experiences a subtle yet notable shift in wind patterns, with an average speed of 1.3 m/s (3 mph). This marginal increase marks it as one of the more breezy months following a series of stable winds from January to April. While the overall wind speeds in Colca are relatively gentle, the elevation in May hints at the approach of winter in the Southern Hemisphere, setting the stage for a cool, refreshing breeze in the valleys. As we head into the later months, wind speeds remain consistently at 1.4 m/s (3 mph) from July through October, suggesting a transition to a slightly more vigorous atmosphere as the region braces for seasonal changes. The gentle consistency of the winds throughout the year contributes to Colca's serene landscapes, making it an ideal backdrop for those seeking adventure or tranquility alike.
Weather in Colca varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares May’s weather to other months in Colca, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
When comparing the weather in May and January, some notable differences emerge. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of -4°C (26°F) to a maximum of 15°C (60°F), with an average temperature of 6°C (44°F). This month experiences 70 mm (2.8 in) of precipitation over approximately 20 days, with a humidity level of 83%. In contrast, January is slightly warmer, with temperatures ranging from -4°C (25°F) to a maximum of 17°C (63°F) and an average of 7°C (46°F). However, January is significantly wetter, receiving 212 mm (8.3 in) of precipitation over about 25 days and a higher humidity of 89%. Overall, while May offers cooler temperatures and less rainfall, January is characterized by milder weather and increased precipitation. For more detailed weather patterns specific to January, refer to Colca weather in January.
When comparing the weather in May and February, we see some notable differences. May typically experiences a wider temperature range, with minimums around -4°C (26°F) and maximums reaching up to 15°C (60°F), while February has slightly milder temperatures, ranging from -1°C (30°F) to a high of 17°C (62°F). However, February is much wetter, with significant precipitation averaging 260 mm (10.2 in) over 27 days, compared to May’s 70 mm (2.8 in) over 20 days. Additionally, February's humidity is slightly higher at 89%, while May's humidity sits around 83%. For more specific insights, you can check Colca weather in February.
When comparing the weather in March and May, we see some notable differences. March tends to be slightly warmer overall, with an average temperature of 7°C (45°F) compared to May's average of 6°C (44°F). Although both months have similar maximum temperatures of around 15°C (59°F to 60°F), March experiences more precipitation, with 235 mm (9.3 in) over 30 days, which is significantly higher than May's 70 mm (2.8 in) spread across 20 days. Additionally, May has a lower humidity level at 83% compared to March's 90%, indicating that March may feel more damp. For a detailed look at March weather, you can visit Colca weather in March.
In comparing the weather between April and May, we observe a slight decrease in average temperatures, with May averaging around 6°C (44°F) compared to April's 7°C (45°F). Although both months experience similar minimum temperatures, with May dropping to -4°C (26°F) and April at -3°C (26°F), the maximum temperatures in both months are closely matched, with May peaking at 15°C (60°F) and April reaching 16°C (61°F). While May sees a reduction in precipitation to 70 mm (2.8 in) over 20 days, April is notably wetter with 103 mm (4.0 in) across 24 days. Humidity also slightly decreases in May to 83% from April's 89%, indicating a marginally drier environment as spring progresses. For more specifics on April's weather in the region, you can refer to Colca weather in April.
May and June exhibit similar temperature ranges, with both months experiencing minimums around -4°C (26°F) and maximums peaking at 15°C (60°F) in May and slightly lower at 15°C (58°F) in June. However, June tends to be drier, receiving only 27 mm (1.1 in) of precipitation over 8 days compared to May's 70 mm (2.8 in) spread across 20 days. Additionally, June boasts lower humidity levels at 69%, making it feel less damp compared to the 83% humidity in May. For more detailed insights, check out Colca weather in June.
In comparing the weather of May and July, one can observe notable differences. May experiences a slightly warmer temperature range with averages reaching up to 6°C (44°F) and a maximum of 15°C (60°F), whereas July sees a marginally lower average temperature of 5°C (42°F) and equal maximums. Precipitation levels also contrast significantly; May has a higher total of 70 mm (2.8 in) spread over 20 days, making it a much wetter month compared to July’s mere 23 mm (0.9 in) over just 7 days. Additionally, the humidity in May stands at a high 83%, while July displays a much drier atmosphere with 56%. For more specific information on July weather, visit Colca weather in July.
In comparing the weather between May and August, we see some notable differences. May experiences a slightly wider temperature range, with average temperatures around 6°C (44°F) and a maximum of 15°C (60°F). In contrast, August has a nearly identical average temperature but reaches a marginally higher maximum of 16°C (61°F). Precipitation levels also differ significantly; May sees 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain over 20 days, while August has a drier climate, with only 42 mm (1.6 in) over just 12 days. Additionally, humidity levels are considerably higher in May at 83%, compared to August's lower humidity of 50%. For more detailed weather insights specific to August, you can visit Colca weather in August.
In May, temperatures range from a minimum of -4°C (26°F) to a maximum of 15°C (60°F), with an average of 6°C (44°F). The weather is quite damp, with about 70 mm (2.8 in) of precipitation spread over 20 days and high humidity at 83%. In contrast, September features slightly warmer weather, with temperatures varying from -3°C (27°F) to the same maximum of 15°C (60°F) and an unchanged average of 6°C (44°F). However, September has more precipitation at 85 mm (3.4 in) over 21 days, accompanied by significantly lower humidity of 53%. For more insights on September weather, you can check out Colca weather in September.
May and October exhibit noticeable differences in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of -4°C (26°F) to a maximum of 15°C (60°F), with an average of around 6°C (44°F). The month sees about 70 mm (2.8 in) of precipitation over 20 days, contributing to a high humidity level of 83%. In contrast, October experiences slightly milder conditions with temperatures ranging from -3°C (27°F) to 17°C (63°F), averaging 7°C (45°F). However, it is considerably wetter, receiving 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain over 24 days and featuring lower humidity at 68%. For more insights into October weather, check out Colca weather in October.
May and November present interesting contrasts in weather, despite having similar maximum temperatures. May experiences a cooler average temperature of 6°C (44°F) with nighttime lows dropping to -4°C (26°F), while November is slightly milder, with an average of 8°C (46°F) and a minimum of -1°C (30°F). Precipitation also varies significantly; May sees 70 mm (2.8 in) over approximately 20 days, while November has a much wetter climate, with 158 mm (6.2 in) spread over 26 days. Humidity levels remain relatively stable, with May at 83% and November slightly lower at 81%. For more detailed information on November weather, you can check Colca weather in November.
May generally offers cooler temperatures than December, with average highs reaching up to 15°C (60°F) compared to December's 16°C (62°F). However, December features milder minimum temperatures, starting at a low of -1°C (30°F), compared to May's -4°C (26°F). In terms of precipitation, December significantly surpasses May, recording 198 mm (7.8 in) over 29 days, compared to May's 70 mm (2.8 in) across 20 days, resulting in higher humidity levels in December at 87%, versus May's 83%. For more information on December conditions, you can check Colca weather in December.
As May unfolds in Colca, the weather takes on a unique character distinct from other months. With cooler temperatures averaging around 6°C and occasional dips to a brisk -4°C, visitors should prepare for a refreshing chill in the air. The region sees significant precipitation, with nearly 70 mm spanning over 20 days, making it one of the wetter months. This heightened humidity of 83% creates a lush atmosphere, perfect for enjoying the vibrant landscapes. Overall, May serves as a transitional period, inviting travelers to immerse themselves in the rich climate of the Colca Valley. For a deeper understanding of seasonal variations, explore our detailed Colca Climate.