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In Peru, you'll find a diverse climate thanks to its varied geography. From the coastal plains to the towering Andes and the lush Amazon Rainforest, each region has its own unique weather patterns. In this article, you’ll explore what to expect from the weather in Peru in May, along with travel tips from local experts
Created by local experts
Yes, May is a great time for a trip to Peru. It’s when the country starts moving from the wet season to the dry season, so you get pleasant weather in most regions. Along the coast, temperatures are mild, and in the Andean highlands, the skies are getting clearer.
In the Amazon, it’s warm and humid, but manageable. You might still get some rain here and there, but overall, the weather becomes more stable. This makes it a perfect time to explore Peru’s landscapes.
Learn more in-depth about the best time to visit Peru.
May firmly establishes the dry season across Peru. Daylight hours continue to shorten slightly, averaging around 11 hours per day throughout the country. If you're still not sure where to head during your Peru trip, see our trip ideas gallery for more inspiration.
The coast (in places like Lima, Paracas National Reserve and Pisco) experiences mild temperatures, averaging 70°F (21°C). Rainfall remains minimal at less than 0.1 inches (2.5 mm). Coastal fog becomes more common, especially in Lima.
Andean temperatures (in places like Cusco, Lake Titicaca, and Huascarán National Park) average 52°F (11°C). Rainfall decreases further to about 0.8 inches (20 mm). Clear, sunny days are common, making it an excellent time for hiking and sightseeing.
The Amazon (places like Iquitos, Tarapoto, and Pucallpa) remains warm with average temperatures of 82°F (28°C). Rainfall decreases to about 6 inches (152 mm). This period is known as the "low water" season, ideal for spotting wildlife along the rivers.
Curious about the crowds and costs in May? It's part of the shoulder season in Peru, so you get a nice mix of good weather and smaller crowds. Places like Machu Picchu aren’t as packed as they are during the busy months of June to August, making it a lot more relaxed time to explore. Since it’s right before the high season, you can usually snag better deals on accommodations and tours. Just keep in mind that prices might start creeping up towards the end of the month as peak season nears. All in all, May is a great time for fewer tourists, decent weather, and reasonable prices.
Looking for a budget travel destination? Check out our list of the 20 cheapest places to travel around the world.
May is one of the best months for exploring Peru’s natural and cultural highlights. See our top recommendations for this month or browse the full list of must-see sights. 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.
Head to the Sinakara Valley near Cusco to see one of Peru's most important religious festivals, Qoyllur Rit'i (Snow Star). This festival blends Andean traditions with Catholicism and usually takes place in late May or early June. You’ll see colorful processions, traditional dances, and rituals set against snow-covered mountains.
May's clear skies make it an ideal time to visit Arequipa, known as the "White City," thanks to its bright colonial buildings. Wander around the Santa Catalina Monastery, then head to Colca Canyon. It’s a great spot to watch Andean condors glide through the air, and the views are stunning after the wet season.
In Tarma, Junín region, you can join the Festividad del Señor de Muruhuay, a month-long festival honoring a local image of Christ. There are processions, traditional dances, and plenty of local food. It’s a good way to see Peruvian religious traditions up close in the beautiful central highlands.
May is when the Amazon’s low water season starts, making river cruises more interesting. With lower water levels, you’ll see more beaches and better opportunities to spot wildlife, as animals tend to gather near water sources. You’ll also be able to explore more areas on foot.
Lima’s weather is stable in May, so it’s a great time for paragliding. Fly over the cliffs of Miraflores for views of the Pacific Ocean and the city’s coastline. The calm winds and mild temperatures make it a good option for both beginners and experienced paragliders. While in Lima don't forget to sample the local gastronomy.
Find even more options for your trip in our list of the best holiday destinations in May.
Planning your dream trip to Peru? Say goodbye to hours of tedious research with our tailor-made trip service, designed to make your dream vacation a reality. Let us handle all the details of planning and booking, as our team of local travel experts curates trips that are entirely adaptable to your desires. Explore a selection of our Peru trips presented here.
Or browse our Peru itineraries for inspiration.
Still deciding where to go this spring? See our picks for the best places to go in May.
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written by
Dre Roelandt
updated 09.10.2024
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 Senior Content Editor at Rough Guides.
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