Peru

May – September

Peru has quite a few microclimates, and there’s always something to do here, no matter which month you visit. That being said, the trekking season is definitely May to September, which coincides with the dry season.

There can still be a bit of periodic cloud and rain during these months, but the weather follows a similar pattern to the other mountainous areas in that it is typically clear and still all night and through the morning, with the afternoon clouds rolling in after 2 or 3 pm. 

The weather in Peru varies greatly. That’s what you get when you mix some of the world’s largest rainforests, highest mountains, and most arid coastline. In a matter of days or even hours, you can be in a completely different climate. 

Here’s what to expect depending on what part of Peru you visit:

• On the coast, the climate is arid and mild. Temperatures in summer (December to March) range from 24–30°C (75–86°F), while winter (June to August) sees cooler temperatures of 15–20°C (59–68°F) with cloudy skies and high humidity. Rain is rare, though mist (locally called garúa) is common in winter and can be oppressive. Lima is often considered one of the cloudiest cities in the world.

• In the Andes mountains, the climate changes with elevation. In cities like Huarez and Arequipa, the dry season (April to October) features sunny days around 18–22°C (64–72°F) and chilly nights, often dropping to 0–5°C (32–41°F). During the wet season (November to March), daytime temperatures are similar, but frequent rain cools the air. In the mountains, snow is possible at all times.

• The Amazon jungle is hot, humid, and rainy year-round. In Iquitos or Puerto Maldonado, average daytime temperatures stay between 28–33°C (82–91°F), with nighttime lows around 22–24°C (72–75°F). The heaviest rains fall between November and April, though even the drier months see regular showers.

For our Peruvian trips, we usually stay in a mix of 3-star hotels, local bed and breakfast guesthouses, and tents.

The tents we use for hiking/climbing activities are robust, 4-season tents built to battle the high-altitude elements.

Prices are based on same gender room sharing (two people to a room and tent).

Single tent + hotel rooms are available with an extra cost.

The main mobile operators in Peru are Movistar, Claro, and Entel. Movistar and Ental are generally believed to be better in the more rural areas.

You can purchase a local SIM card at various shopping points in the major cities or at the airport if you would like to have local data on your phone for the trip duration. 

Note that in the mountain areas, you are unlikely to have any cell reception outside of the rare signal at the top of a pass or viewpoint.

In case of emergencies, your guide also carries a satellite communication device so that we are never out of contact. 

Peru is generally considered a safe destination for travelers, with a strong tourism infrastructure and welcoming locals. That being said, this is still South America, where safety standards are a bit different than what others might be used to.

Like many countries, petty crime such as pickpocketing or bag snatching can occur, especially in crowded areas or tourist hotspots in the cities. Violent crime doesn’t often impact tourists, and it’s important to remember that civil unrest and political power shifts are quite common, so much so that the locals are used to them by now.

We’ve always felt safe traveling in Peru with basic precautions—being aware of your surroundings and keeping valuables secure goes a long way.

In truth, the biggest challenge many visitors face isn’t crime, but altitude.

Many of the places we visit in Peru are located at elevations above 3,500 meters, where altitude starts to become a serious issue. In particular, the Cordillera Huayhuash trek takes place almost entirely above 4000 meters. Those wanting to visit the Andes and not fall victim to altitude-related sicknesses should learn how to acclimate properly.

Peruvian cuisine is one of the most diverse and celebrated in the world, blending Indigenous, Spanish, African, and Asian influences into a uniquely flavorful food culture. Each region offers its own specialties based on local ingredients and traditions.

Lima is widely considered the gastronomic heart of South America. The city is home to some of the world’s top-ranked restaurants and showcases the best of Peru’s regional cuisines along with cutting-edge fusion food, including Nikkei (Japanese-Peruvian) and Chifa (Chinese-Peruvian). For food lovers, Lima is a culinary pilgrimage of sorts and should absolutely be added to any itinerary in the country.

Further afield on the coast, seafood reigns supreme. The national dish, ceviche, is made with raw fish marinated in lime juice, chili peppers, and red onions. It’s fresh, zesty, and iconic. Dishes like anticuchos (grilled beef heart skewers) and ají de gallina (creamy chicken stew) are also coastal favorites.

In the Andes, meals are heartier. Staples include potatoes, corn, and quinoa, all native to the region. You’ll find dishes like rocoto relleno (stuffed spicy peppers) and cuy (guinea pig), a traditional highland delicacy. Soups and stews, such as chupe de camarones (shrimp chowder), are common and filling.

​Peru offers visa-free entry to citizens of numerous countries for tourism purposes. Travelers from the United States, Canada, the European Union, Australia, New Zealand, and most South American nations can enter Peru without a visa and stay for up to 183 days. 

To enter Peru, travelers must present a passport valid for at least six months beyond the date of entry. Additionally, proof of onward or return travel may be required. ​

For nationals of countries not granted visa-free access, obtaining a tourist visa prior to arrival is necessary. Specific requirements can vary, so it’s advisable to consult the nearest Peruvian consulate for detailed information. ​

Peru uses the Peruvian Sol (PEN) as its official currency. U.S. dollars are accepted in some tourist-focused businesses, but it’s best to use soles for everyday transactions. Currency exchange is easy in airports, banks, and authorized exchange offices (casas de cambio), especially in major cities like Lima and Huarez

ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist hubs, and they typically offer good exchange rates. However, once you head into remote areas, ATM access becomes limited—so it’s smart to withdraw enough cash before leaving urban centers.

If you have extra time in Peru, there are incredible extensions that can enhance your adventure. Here are some must-see destinations to consider:

• Cordillera Blanca: The Huayhuash’s more famous, more approachable neighbor. Most people opt to visit here instead because the trekking is typically shorter, although no less impressive. Popular routes like the Santa Cruz Trek allow you to explore the dramatic landscapes, with views of famous mountains like Huascarán and Alpamayo.
• Machu Picchu via Ausangate: For those wanting to visit the legendary site, this is our recommended approach. This remote route takes you through spectacular high-altitude terrain, past snow-capped mountains, turquoise lagoons, and remote Andean villages, with far fewer people to deal with. 
• Inca Ruins: Beyond Machu Picchu, Peru is home to many fascinating Inca sites, including Sacsayhuamán, Caral, Choquequirao, and Qenqo. These ruins are just as significant and receive a fraction of the visitors that Machu Picchu does.
• Colca Canyon: Known for being one of the deepest canyons in the world, Colca Canyon offers breathtaking views, condor sightings, and hiking opportunities. The region is rich in natural beauty, with terraced fields, hot springs, and remote villages.