Peru’s seasons present different opportunities to see various aspects of her beauty all year round. The seasons are opposite those of the northern hemisphere, so December is the middle of summer and June begins the winter months. There are festivals in each season and wonderful activities year round, depending on your tastes.
We do have a rainy season, but the sun usually shines every morning with downpours in the afternoons. Rainy season tends to be November through April, with wettest months from January to March. Machu Picchu is in the rainforest, so visiting the site during the rainy season is going to be wet. Raingear AND sunscreen are necessary all year round.
In the higher altitudes, the changes in temperature from day to night are significant and sudden, so layers of sweaters and jackets are ideal. Daytime temperatures may range from F70’s highs to nighttime lows of F30’s. Best to check Peru weather on the internet for the times and locations you will be visiting. Bring layers and extra pairs of shoes to stay dry and warm.
Travelers can visit Peru any time of the year. Dry season runs from May to November and this is typically the time that is most recommended. However, this is also the cooler time of year. Nighttime temperatures can drop to below freezing at the height of the dry season. June, July and August are the most popular months to visit so you will tend to encounter much larger crowds during these months.
In the wet season (December to April), you can expect showers three to four afternoons a week. For travelers that don’t mind a little drizzle and muddy trails, this time of year offers smaller crowds and greener hillsides, with wildflowers and orchids often in bloom.
The shoulder seasons, April to June or September to November can often provide the best of both worlds. They typically have fewer crowds and warmer temperatures than the height of the dry season, but still tend to have relatively little rain.