As the Southern Hemisphere embraces its winter season, Peru experiences some of the best weather for traveling and exploring. If you plan on traversing through the coastal deserts, ascending the majestic Andean peaks, or basking in the lush greenery of the Amazon rainforest, here is our guide to the weather in Peru in August.
August marks the winter season in the Southern Hemisphere, and Peru is no exception. In various regions of the country, temperatures can vary widely.
Peru's coastal areas, including cities like Lima and Paracas, experience mild temperatures during August. The coastal region typically sees temperature ranges between 14°C and 19°C (57°F to 66°F). Visitors can expect comfortable weather with a mix of sunshine and cooler breezes.
In the Andean highlands, which include popular destinations like Cusco and Arequipa, August brings cooler temperatures. Daytime highs average between 15°C and 20°C (59°F to 68°F). The high-altitude landscapes offer breathtaking views, and while the days can be mild, nighttime temperatures can significantly decrease.
The Amazon rainforest region, encompassing cities such as Iquitos and Puerto Maldonado, experiences warmer temperatures in August. Daytime averages range from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F). Despite being winter in the Southern Hemisphere, the Amazon remains a humid and tropical environment. Visitors should prepare for the warmth and potential humidity.
The weather in Peru in August is warm in the rainforest © Shutterstock
Rainfall in Peru in August greatly depends on the region. The coastal regions, Lima and the northern coast, are typically dry during this time of the year. In fact, Lima, in August, experiences 0.3 rainy days with up to 1mm of precipitation being accumulated. February is actually the wettest month in these areas with up to 4mm of rainfall.
In the Andean highlands, the average annual rainfall ranges from 500mm to 1,000mm. However, August is not part of their rainy season, meaning less rainfall is expected during this month. March, on the other hand, with an average of 151mm of rainfall, is the wettest month in the Andean highlands.
Things not to miss: Kuelap, Peru © Shutterstock
When considering a visit to Peru in August, it's essential to factor in both crowd levels and costs to ensure a seamless travel experience.
Booking ahead is essential if you plan to visit Peru in August. As August falls within the dry season in many parts of the country, it tends to attract a significant number of tourists. Consequently, popular destinations such as Machu Picchu, Cusco, and Lima may experience higher crowd levels.
To navigate this, it’s advisable to book several months in advance. Particularly for an Inca Trail permit, they often go on sale as early as January and can sell out rapidly.
Booking in advance not only guarantees your spot but may give you early bird discounts, making the trip more affordable. It can also save you from the stress of last-minute planning and price hikes that often occur due to high demand.
August is one of the busiest months in Peru due to favorable weather conditions and overlapping summer vacations in North America and Europe. You can expect an increase in crowd levels and prices in Peru in August.
Compared to the off-peak season, which typically occurs from December to March, costs for travel, accommodation, and tours may be slightly higher in August. For instance, flights can be more expensive due to high demand and hotel prices may surge due to limited availability.
To learn more in-depth about the best time to see Peru, see our guide
Photo of the Paracas National Reserve in Paracas, Peru © Michael L. Demmons/Shutterstock
Eager to discover 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.
Hiking in Peru, Cordillera Blanca © Pavel Svoboda Photography/Shutterstock © Shutterstock
In August, Peru offers a diverse range of destinations, each with its unique charm and attractions. Here are a few to consider, or see our guide to the best things to do in Peru.
The capital city of Peru, Lima, offers a blend of history, culture, and modernity. Explore the historic districts of Barranco and Miraflores, indulge in the diverse culinary scene, and visit the Larco Museum to discover Peru's rich pre-Columbian history.
As the gateway to Machu Picchu, Cusco is a cultural hub with its well-preserved colonial architecture, Incan ruins, and vibrant markets. August also sees the celebration of the Inca festival of Inti Raymi, making it an exciting time to visit.
Known as the "White City" for its stunning white volcanic stone architecture, Arequipa boasts historical landmarks such as the Santa Catalina Monastery. The Colca Canyon nearby is also a popular destination for hiking and witnessing the Andean condors.
Arequipa is a popular Peru destination in August © Shutterstock
As the South American nation enters the heart of its dry season, there are plenty of opportunities for exploring.
For most tourists visiting Peru, the highlight of their trip is often the trek to the historical Inca city of Machu Picchu, often called the 'Royal Highway'. August presents an opportune time for this adventure since rain is less frequent and paths are typically dry and accessible.
Whether it's the classic Inca Trail or the alternative Salkantay Trek, hikers in August can revel in breathtaking views of mountain landscapes, luminous greenery due to reduced rainfall, and an excellent view of ancient Inca ruins' intricate stonework.
While the daily limit for entry to the Inca Trail is set at 500 people, it's advisable to snag your spot in advance due to high demand in August. Early morning hikes prove popular for the magical sunrise views over the mystical Inca citadel.
Nestled in the Andes, the Sacred Valley is dotted with ancient Inca ruins, picturesque villages, and stunning landscapes. As Peru is in the middle of its dry season, the reduced rain allows plants and trees to flourish, giving the valley a lush, green overlay that is stunningly beautiful.
Packed with enriching cultural experiences and impressive Inca ruins, towns within the Sacred Valley like Ollantaytambo, Pisac, and Sacsayhuaman boast their own unique allure. The massive Inca fortress at Ollantaytambo or the market town of Pisac offers tourists plenty of exploration opportunities.
The weather in Peru in August is great for seeing the Sacred Valley © Shutterstock
August can be a favorable time to visit the Peruvian Amazon as it falls within the dry season, characterized by lower rainfall, making exploration more accessible. With reduced precipitation, wildlife viewing is enhanced as animals tend to gather around water sources.
While mosquitoes are still present, the overall population tends to be lower during this period. However, visitors should remain vigilant and take necessary precautions.
The dry season also offers more comfortable temperatures for exploration, but the humidity persists. It's essential to consider potential limitations on river access due to lower water levels.
Few places on Earth are as enchanting as Vinicunca, more widely known as the Rainbow Mountains. This geological phenomenon is characterized by vibrant layers of mineral-rich sedimentary rock, creating a surreal, multicolored landscape.
August makes a perfect month to visit these mountains because of the dryer weather and clearer skies of the Andean winter season.
The Rainbow Mountain trek ranges from moderately difficult to strenuous, largely depending on your acclimatization to the altitude. The total round-trip hike is approximately 15 kilometers, starting at an elevation of 4,326 meters and culminating at the peak of Rainbow Mountain at 5,200 meters. It is a demanding climb that takes anywhere between 3 to 4 hours to get up and another 2 to 3 hours to descend.
The stone face of humanity in Marcahuasi, Peru © NiarKad/Shutterstock
Peru honors diverse festivals in August, making it a culturally rich time for tourists to immerse themselves in the country's vibrant traditions. Here are a few you might want to explore:
Celebrated in various Andean communities, Pachamama Raymi is a homage to Pachamama, the Inca Earth Goddess. This festival includes rituals, offerings, and ceremonies expressing gratitude to the Earth for its fertility and abundance. Local communities may hold traditional dances and feasts.
Given the significance of potatoes in Peruvian cuisine, National Potato Day on August 30th celebrates the diversity of native potato varieties. Events include agricultural fairs, culinary contests, and educational activities to promote the preservation of Peru's rich potato heritage.
Paying homage to Saint Rose of Lima—the patron saint of Lima and the Americas—major processions take place in various Peruvian cities on August 30. Particularly in Lima, Arequipa, and Junín, the aura of remembrance and celebration affiliated with the saint fills the air.
The weather in Peru in August is great for trekking the Rainbow Mountains © Shutterstock
In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.
From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Peru
written by
Dre Roelandt
updated 30.01.2024
