Travel advice for Peru
From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Peru
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In April, the enchanting South American nation of Peru experiences a captivating transformation in its weather and landscapes. For those planning to embark on a journey to this fascinating destination in April, understanding the weather patterns and embracing the local customs is paramount. Here is our guide to the weather in Peru in April.
Peru's weather in April exhibits a transitioning phase from the wet season to the dry season. Showers start to decrease, and temperatures become milder. These weather conditions differ across the country, as Peru is a geographically diverse nation, encompassing the arid desert coastline to the west, the high Andes mountains, and the tropical Amazon rainforest to the east.
In Peru, average temperatures can vary significantly by region during April:
The coastal areas tend to still be warm and typically have temperatures hovering around 21-24°C (70-75°F) with minimal rainfall, making it ideal for beach visits and water sports. On average, the temperature might reach a high of 25°C and a low of 12°C. Expect regular days of moderate heat and very cool nights.
In the Andean highlands, temperatures range from a mild 10-20°C (50-68°F), which is excellent for trekking to Machu Picchu or exploring the Sacred Valley. The temperature can drop to 5°C (41°F) at night, making the evenings and early mornings chilly.
The Amazon rainforest has temperatures around 25-30°C (77-86°F) with occasional showers. Despite being the beginning of the dry season, the Amazon region can still see some rainfall, but less compared to the earlier months. Also, this region is always humid, which can make the temperatures feel a bit warmer than they are.
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When planning a trip to Peru, April is a great time to go. April is considered the shoulder season in Peru, as it falls between the peak and off-peak tourist season.
Some reasons to plan your trip to Peru for April:
There are a few cons you’ll also want to consider when planning your trip — such as cooler nighttime temperatures in the Andean region, lingering humidity in the Amazon, and the possibility of overcast skies along the coast. Beyond this, April can be a great time to visit Peru.
Choosing the best time to visit Peru largely depends on individual preferences and the specific regions you plan to explore. The country's vast geographical diversity means that the weather varies significantly across different regions.
Remember, it's challenging to find the best time to visit all areas on a single trip, given the weather's variability. But with Peru's wide array of attractions, the trip is worthwhile regardless of the weather. To learn more in-depth about the best time to see Peru, see our guide.
April in Peru brings a mix of religious, cultural, and traditional events, offering travelers a unique opportunity to engage with the country's vibrant heritage. Here are some notable events and festivals that take place in Peru during April, or see our guide to the best things to do in Peru.
Holy Week or Semana Santa provides a distinctive cultural snapshot of Peru's rich traditions and deeply ingrained religious beliefs. This event is more than just a religious celebration, it's a social gathering of families and communities, marked by processions, music, dance, and feasts.
In contrast to the somber proceedings of Good Friday, Easter Sunday is a joyful affair. The day begins with the Easter Mass, followed by parties, feasts, and dances organized in various parts of the country. Families gather to enjoy typical holiday dishes, including desserts like "empanadas de Semana Santa" (Easter empanadas).
While Holy Week in Peru is celebrated countrywide, the cities of Ayacucho, Cusco, Arequipa, and the capital city Lima, each offer unique and unforgettable experiences during this time:
Literary enthusiasts visiting Trujillo in April can explore the International Book Fair, featuring book presentations, author talks, and cultural activities. It's an excellent opportunity to engage with Peru's literary scene and discover local and international authors.
Held in Lima, Feria de las Cruces takes place in various districts and involves vibrant processions, music, dance, and the decoration of crosses with flowers. The festival combines both religious and cultural elements, offering a lively and colorful atmosphere.
In the city of Puno, located on the shores of Lake Titicaca, April hosts a week-long celebration with a variety of events, including parades, traditional dances, and cultural performances. Puno Week is a captivating display of the region's folklore and customs.
When packing for your trip to Peru's coastal region in April, consider the region's semi-tropical climate, which brings warm, dry days and cooler evenings. Here's a suggested packing list:
Remember, everyone’s needs will be different, so adjust this list based on your personal preferences. Consider packing versatile clothing items that can be worn in multiple ways to save space in your suitcase.
The Andean Highlands of Peru, which include places like Cusco, Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu, can be unpredictable in April. The weather can range from sunny and mild during the day to chilly in the evenings and nights. If you’re planning on taking a trip to these specific sites, here's what you should consider packing:
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April in Peru is generally considered part of the shoulder season, falling between the peak tourist season (May to October) and the wet season (November to April). Understanding the crowd and cost dynamics during this period can help you plan your trip effectively.
April typically sees fewer tourists compared to the peak months. This means that popular attractions and sites may be less crowded, allowing for a more relaxed and enjoyable travel experience.
Semana Santa, the Holy Week leading up to Easter, is a significant event in April. While it can attract crowds, especially in religiously significant cities like Cusco, it also provides a unique cultural experience
As April is part of the shoulder season, accommodation prices may be more affordable compared to the peak months. However, prices can vary based on the specific location and type of accommodation.
Flights and transportation costs might be relatively lower than during the peak season. It's advisable to book transportation in advance to secure better deals.
Machu Picchu is situated in the Andean highlands, and weather conditions can vary. April is the beginning of the dry season, but there might still be some residual effects from the wet season. Be prepared for potential rainfall and cooler temperatures, especially in the mornings and evenings.
Visiting Machu Picchu early in the morning or later in the afternoon might help you avoid peak crowds. Many tourists arrive in the late morning, so planning your visit strategically can enhance your experience.
The number of days you spend in Peru really depends on what you want to see and do. Peru is a diverse, expansive country with a wealth of cultural, historical, and natural attractions to explore, ensuring there's something for every traveler.
If you want to visit some of Peru's most popular destinations such as Lima, Cusco, Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley, Lake Titicaca, and the Nazca Lines, a trip length of 10 to 14 days would be ideal. This allows ample time to explore these diverse destinations in depth, participate in different activities, and experience the country's rich culture and cuisine.
For those with limited time, a week-long trip can also offer a taste of Peru's highlights. You could visit the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu, the historic city of Cusco, and the beautiful Sacred Valley, before heading to Peru's capital, Lima, for some city exploring.
If you're particularly interested in hiking the Inca Trail, keep in mind the hike takes 4-5 days in addition to acclimatization time in Cusco. Trips to the Amazon rainforest also usually require at least 3-4 days due to the travel distances involved.
From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Peru
written by
Dre Roelandt
updated 30.01.2024
Dre Roelandt is originally from the United States but lives and works in Berlin, Germany. Dre is a freelance writer and artist with a passion for travelling. They are an in-house Content Editor at Rough Guides.