Weather in Peru in February

 The weather in Peru in February brings heavy rain in the highlands and the Amazon, but also fewer tourists and a more local feel. Machu Picchu remains open, though many hiking trails are closed. Coastal cities like Lima stay dry and warm. Despite the rain, this is one of the liveliest months, with Carnaval celebrations taking place around the country. If you don’t mind the weather, it’s a great time for cultural experiences.

Peru in February at a glance

• February falls within Peru's wet season, particularly affecting the Andes and Amazon regions with regular rainfall.
• Average temperatures: coast 72°F-82°F (22°C-28°C), Cusco/highlands 41°F-64°F (5°C-18°C), Amazon 73°F-88°F (23°C-31°C)
• Challenging for Machu Picchu—the Inca Trail closed all month; rain affects highland trekking conditions
• Lower crowds at tourist sites except coast; reduced prices but weather limitations for major attractions

What is the weather like in Peru in February?

February’s one of those months where the weather really depends on where you are. On the coast, like in Lima, it’s warm, dry, and sunny. Máncora and other northern beach towns are especially busy, with hot days and warm ocean water.

In the Andes, it’s full-on rainy season. Cusco and the Sacred Valley get hit with near-daily downpours, mostly in the afternoons. Trails turn muddy, and the Inca Trail shuts down for maintenance all month. You can still visit Machu Picchu, but bring rain gear because you’ll need it.

In the Amazon, rivers are high, which makes boat travel easier and helps you cover more ground. It’s a good time for spotting wildlife from the water. Just expect regular rain, especially if you’re planning to do anything on foot. If you’re heading to the coast or the jungle, February works. If you’re aiming for the mountains, it’s a tougher call.  This is a great time to plan your Peru itinerary.

Average daily temperatures in February

Weather in Peru really depends on where you are, and February makes that especially clear. Along the coast, including Lima, temperatures stay warm at around 77°F (25°C), and northern beach towns can hit 72 to 82°F (22 to 28°C). It’s peak summer here, with hot days and warm evenings, so it’s good for swimming and beach days. Sea temperatures sit between 72.5 and 75°F (22.5 to 24°C), which feels comfortable if you’re heading into the water.

In the highlands, it’s a different story. Cusco sees daytime highs around 64°F (18°C) and cooler nights near 43°F (6°C), sometimes dropping to 41°F (5°C) or lower. It’s the wettest time of year here, so expect afternoon rain and come prepared with good rain gear. That said, mornings are often clear enough to get out and about.

In general, February is summer on the coast and deep into the rainy season in the Andes. You’ll get about 12 and a half hours of daylight, with the sun rising around 6:15 AM and setting just before 7:00 PM.

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Is February a good time to visit Peru?

If you're thinking about visiting Peru in February, you'll find a mix of experiences. While it's the peak of the rainy season in most parts of the country, the coastal regions still enjoy warm, summer-like weather. In the Andean highlands and Amazon rainforest, you can expect more rain, which means some popular hiking trails, like the Inca Trail, might be closed.

On the bright side, the rain turns the landscapes lush and green. Plus, February is packed with festivals and has fewer tourists, so you'll get a more local, laid-back vibe. The cooler temperatures in the highlands and small towns make it an exciting time to explore, as long as you're okay with a few showers here and there. For more tips, see our guide to how to plan a trip to Peru.

• Learn more in-depth about the best time to visit Peru.
• Peak rainy season in highlands and Amazon, potentially closing trails like Inca Trail
• Coastal regions enjoy warm, summer-like weather
• Landscapes are lush and green from the rains
• Fewer tourists provide a more local, authentic experience
• Packed with cultural festivals and celebrations

What about the crowds and costs?

February is part of Peru's shoulder season, meaning fewer tourists at the main attractions. You'll likely enjoy shorter lines and a more personalized experience at popular spots. Prices for accommodations and tours tend to be more budget-friendly, especially in areas like the Andes and the Amazon.

However, coastal regions can be busier due to local summer tourism, so services may get booked up early, and prices there might be higher compared to other regions.  If you're still deciding, don't miss our guide to the best time to go to Peru.

Where to go to Peru in February

February lands in the middle of Peru’s rainy season, which shapes how and where it makes sense to travel. Here are some of the best places to visit in Peru. 

Northern coast and beaches

The northern coast is one of Peru’s strongest February choices. Towns like Máncora and Vichayito see summer conditions, with warm temperatures, light rainfall, and calm seas. It’s a popular time for domestic travel, especially on weekends, but the atmosphere is relaxed once you’re away from the busiest hubs. Swimming and surfing are both good options, and February is one of the better months for spotting marine life offshore. See our list of the best beaches in Peru.

Lima

Lima is at its best in February, making it a practical focus for 5-day Peru trips built around food, culture and the coast rather than longer Andean travel. The city is warm and sunny, coastal fog is minimal, and neighborhoods like Miraflores and Barranco feel lively without being overwhelming.

This is a good time to focus on food, coastal walks, museums, and day trips along the coast. Accommodation prices tend to be more stable here than in peak-season Andean destinations.

Cusco and the Sacred Valley

Cusco and the Sacred Valley are quieter in February, and the landscape around towns like Pisac and Ollantaytambo turns intensely green. Rain is common, particularly in the afternoons, so sightseeing works best early in the day. Carnival celebrations bring water fights, music, and local events, which can feel chaotic but also give a sense of everyday life away from peak tourist months. This is a good time for slower exploration rather than long hikes.

Things to do in Peru in February

February is still summertime along the coast, while the highlands are green from regular rain.  Here are some of the best things to do in Peru. 

Celebrate the Virgen de la Candelaria Festival in Puno

This two-week celebration in Puno is one of the biggest festivals in Peru, with music, parades, and dancing around Lake Titicaca. The main procession happens on February 2, followed by a big dance competition on February 8 and 9. It’s a good chance to see traditional costumes and local culture in full swing. Expect crowds and a packed events calendar, especially around the weekend dates.

Explore Machu Picchu in the mist

February means rain in the Andes, but Machu Picchu is still open and noticeably quieter than in the dry season. The clouds and morning mist give the site a different kind of atmosphere, especially if you're into photography. You’ll need rain gear and warm layers, and it’s best to take the early train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes for a full day at the site before the afternoon showers roll in. 

Spend summer in Lima

Lima stays warm and dry in February, with daytime temperatures around 77°F (25°C). It’s a good time to explore the city’s neighborhoods, hang out by the ocean, and try local dishes like ceviche and anticuchos. The beaches just south of the city are busy, especially on weekends, so it’s worth reservation ahead if you’re planning an overnight. See our pick of the best restaurants in Lima. 

Planning your itinerary

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.