Positioned in the western region of South America, Peru boasts a diverse climate influenced by its varied geography. From the coastal plains to the towering Andes and the lush Amazon Rainforest, each area encounters distinct weather patterns. This article will explore the weather in Peru in December, offering travel tips from our local experts.
The weather in Peru in December signals the arrival of summer in the Southern Hemisphere. You can expect warmer temperatures and the beginning of the rainy season in some regions,
December sees warm and sunny weather along Peru's coastal areas. Daytime temperatures can range from 20 to 30°C (68 to 86°F), creating a pleasant environment for beachgoers and tourists. The evenings remain mild.
In the Andean regions of Peru, December marks the onset of the rainy season. Daytime temperatures can vary between 15 and 20°C (59 to 68°F), and nights tend to be cooler.
The higher altitudes, including popular destinations like Cusco and Machu Picchu, experience increased precipitation, creating lush landscapes but also potentially impacting outdoor activities
December in the Amazon rainforest region of Peru brings warm and humid conditions. Daytime temperatures can soar to around 30°C (°F) or higher.
This month marks the start of the rainy season, with increased precipitation contributing to the flourishing biodiversity of the rainforest.
December is characterized by an increase in rainfall in various regions of Peru, particularly in the Andean highlands and the Amazon rainforest. Coastal areas also experience a rise in humidity, contributing to the transition into the wet season.
While the temperatures are generally warm and inviting, travelers should be prepared for sporadic rain showers, especially in the afternoons and evenings.
Kuelap — often missed, but great Peru destination © Shutterstock
If you’re considering a December trip to Peru, it’s important to prepare for variable weather. Make sure to pack clothing for the rain, select waterproof gear, and maintain flexibility in your travel itinerary. That said, despite the weather in Peru in December, it is still a great time to visit, particularly in the coastal regions.
In December, Peru offers an array of benefits for those willing to embrace the rainy season.
Compared to the peak tourist season from June to August, December tends to be less crowded. This means you may have a more relaxed experience at popular tourist sites and encounter shorter lines.
Peru has beautiful beaches along its coast, and December is an excellent time to visit them. You can enjoy the sun, relax on the sandy shores, and even try water activities in locations like Mancora or Punta Sal.
Peru has several natural hot springs, and December can be an ideal time to indulge in a relaxing soak. Whether you're in the Andes or near volcanic regions, you can unwind and enjoy the therapeutic benefits of these natural thermal baths.
December is a festive month in Peru, with various cultural and religious celebrations taking place. Christmas and New Year's Eve festivities are vibrant and can offer a unique cultural experience.
20 geological wonders of the world: Colca Canyon, Peru © Shutterstock
While there are certainly advantages to visiting Peru in December, you should also be aware of the potential downsides associated with this time of year:
December marks the beginning of the wet season in Peru, and heavy rainfall, especially in the Andean regions, can interfere with outdoor plans and make conditions for activities like hiking more challenging due to slippery and muddy trails.
In the mountainous areas, persistent cloud cover and fog can obscure the breathtaking views that many travelers come to see, including the vistas surrounding Machu Picchu.
In the Amazon, the higher water levels can transform trails and make hiking more difficult, with certain pathways being submerged. The dense vegetation can also become increasingly thick and muddy, providing a more complex trekking scenario.
The Sacred Valley may be a bit rainy due to the weather in Peru in December © Shutterstock
December brings a mix of crowds and costs to Peru, as it marks the beginning of the high tourist season and the onset of the summer months. While the weather is generally warm and pleasant, popular destinations like Cusco and Machu Picchu can be quite crowded.
Expect higher prices for accommodations and activities, as December attracts visitors seeking to celebrate the festive season and explore Peru's cultural treasures. Advance bookings and planning are advisable to secure the best deals during this busy period.
Looking for a budget travel destination? Check out our list of the 20 cheapest places to travel around the world.
Choosing to visit Peru in December comes with both enchanting festivities and heightened tourism. While the country is bathed in warm summer weather, popular destinations like Cusco and Machu Picchu witness an influx of visitors celebrating the holiday season.
Compared to other months, December stands out for its vibrant cultural events, but it also entails higher costs for accommodations and activities. Travelers looking to immerse themselves in Peruvian holiday traditions may find December to be an unparalleled experience, albeit one that requires careful planning and reservations.
Still deciding when the best time to visit is? See our guide to when to go to Peru.
Choquequirao, Peru © Christian Declercq/Shutterstock © Shutterstock
Why not book your trip to Peru today? 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.
December in Peru offers a mix of cultural celebrations, outdoor adventures, and festive atmosphere. Here are a few destinations to consider exploring in December, or see our guide to the best things to do in Peru.
Lima is adorned with dazzling Christmas lights during December. Stroll through the neighborhoods of Miraflores and Barranco to admire the beautifully decorated streets and parks.
The weather in Peru in December is great for seeing Arequipa © Shutterstock
Enjoy a unique aerial view of the mysterious Nazca Lines. December provides clear skies, making it an ideal time for a flight over these ancient geoglyphs in the Nazca Desert.
December is a good time to hike in the Colca Canyon, one of the world's deepest canyons. Enjoy the breathtaking scenery and perhaps spot the Andean condor soaring in the skies.
Head to Mancora on the northern coast for some sun and surf. December marks the beginning of summer in this region, offering beachgoers warm weather and a vibrant atmosphere.
Seeing the Nazca Lines is one of the best things to do in Peru © Shutterstock
Here are some of the events and festivals to look forward to in Peru in December:
Christmas is widely celebrated throughout Peru, with festive decorations, religious ceremonies, and family gatherings. Cities like Lima and Cusco are adorned with lights, and many churches hold special Christmas services.
Held in Cusco's Plaza de Armas, this Christmas Eve market is one of the oldest in Peru. It features a variety of handmade crafts, nativity scenes, and traditional Peruvian Christmas decorations.
Peru welcomes the New Year with lively celebrations, especially in cities like Lima. Fireworks, street parties, and concerts are common, and coastal areas often have beachfront festivities.
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 23.01.2024
