Weather in Peru in July: Weather & Travel Tips

From the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu to the lively streets of Lima, July shows you a different side of Peru’s charm. Get ready to swap your sun hat for a cozy scarf as you explore Peru during its cooler winter months. Here’s our guide to the weather in Peru in July.

Is July a good time to visit Peru?

Yes, July is a great time to visit Peru! The weather is perfect for exploring the country, as it's the dry season, meaning clear skies and very little rain. This makes it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. July is also Peru's winter, so while the coastal areas are mild but can be a bit cloudy, the Andean highlands have cooler temperatures, especially at night. It's a great month for visiting iconic spots like Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley with fewer weather-related disruptions.

Learn more in-depth about the best time to visit Peru.

July: Sunshine, average temperatures, and rainfall

July is the heart of the dry season and winter in Peru. Daylight hours remain short, averaging about 11 hours across the country. If you're still not sure where to head during your Peru trip, see our trip ideas gallery for more inspiration.

Coastal Region

The coast is at its coolest (in places like Lima, Paracas National Reserve and Pisco), with temperatures averaging 66°F (19°C). Rainfall remains negligible at less than 0.1 inches (2.5 mm). Lima experiences its characteristic winter garúa (coastal fog).

Andean Region

Andean regions (in places like Cusco, Lake Titicaca, and Huascarán National Park) are cold, with average temperatures of 50°F (10°C). Rainfall is minimal at 0.4 inches (10 mm). Clear, sunny days contrast with very cold nights, often dropping below freezing.

Amazon Rainforest Region

The Amazon (places like Iquitos, Tarapoto, and Pucallpa) experiences its coolest month, though still warm, averaging 80°F (27°C). Rainfall is at its lowest, around 3.5 inches (89 mm). This is peak season for Amazon tours due to easier trail access.

What about the crowds & costs?

July is part of Peru's high tourist season, so you can expect it to be busy, especially with summer vacations happening in North America and Europe. Key places — especially Machu Picchu and Cusco — tend to get crowded, and it’s smart to book things like hotels, flights, and tours in advance. Prices are usually higher this time of year. But the great weather and the exciting cultural events, like Peru’s Independence Day celebrations on July 28th and 29th, make July a popular time to visit, even with the bigger crowds and increased costs.

Things to do in Peru in July

In July, you'll find cultural celebrations, great weather for outdoor activities, and some can’t-miss events. Check out our top five experiences for this month or explore our full guide to Peru’s best attractions. For an even more in-depth look at how to spend your time in Peru, see our ideal 7-day, 10-day and 14-day itineraries.

Fiestas del Cusco and Inti Raymi

While the main Inti Raymi celebration happens on June 24th, the Fiestas del Cusco continue into early July. Experience colorful parades, traditional dances, and music performances throughout Cusco. It’s a great way to dive into Peruvian culture at the start of your July visit.

Peru's Independence Day Celebrations

On July 28th and 29th, join in the patriotic celebrations for Peru's Independence Day. These national vacations feature military parades, fireworks, and festive gatherings across the country. Lima’s Plaza de Armas is the focal point of the celebrations, while Cusco offers its own mix of modern and traditional festivities. It’s a chance to see Peru at its most lively.

Virgen del Carmen Festival in Paucartambo

Witness one of Peru's most colorful and traditional festivals, the Virgen del Carmen, held annually from July 15th to 17th in Paucartambo, near Cusco. This three-day celebration features elaborate costumes, masked dancers, religious processions, and fireworks. The festival hosts a unique blend of Catholic and indigenous traditions.

Hike the Inca Trail or Salkantay Trek

Take advantage of July's dry weather to embark on the iconic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu or the less crowded Salkantay Trek. These multi-day hikes offer views of the Andean landscape and culminate in the awe-inspiring sight of Machu Picchu. July's clear skies and minimal rainfall create ideal hiking conditions.

Northern Peru's archaeological sites

While most tourists flock to Machu Picchu, July's dry weather makes it an excellent time to explore the less-crowded but equally fascinating archaeological sites of Northern Peru. Visit the ancient ruins of Chan Chan, the largest pre-Columbian city in South America, near Trujillo. Explore the Tomb of the Lord of Sipán and the pyramids of Túcume near Chiclayo. These sites offer a unique perspective on Peru's rich pre-Incan history and are less touristy than their southern counterparts.

Plan your trip with our Peru itineraries

Our Peru itineraries are crafted to help you experience the best of the country, stress-free. Think of them as a starting point — perfect for planning, but flexible enough to adjust to your own pace and interests. After all, travel is about freedom, but a little planning goes a long way.

• Peru itinerary 7 days: Perfect for travelers with limited time who want to experience the country’s cultural and archaeological highlights.
• Peru itinerary 10 days: Ten days lets you go beyond the basics with visits to Lake Titicaca and the Andean highlands, along with Machu Picchu and Cusco.
• Peru itinerary 14 days: A two-week adventure covering Peru’s top spots, from the Amazon rainforest to Arequipa and the Colca Canyon, plus the Inca heartland. A great option if you want to immerse yourself in a world of nature, adventure and ancient history.

Still looking for options for your summer trip? Explore our list of the best vacation destinations in July.