Travel advice for Peru
From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for visiting Peru
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updated 09.10.2024
June is often seen as an ideal time to visit many parts of Peru, especially if you’re planning to explore iconic sites like Machu Picchu. The weather tends to be relatively dry, allowing you to experience the landscapes at their most stunning. Here’s a complete guide to what you can expect from the weather in Peru in June.
Created by local experts
If you're thinking about visiting Peru, June is a great time to go. The weather is generally mild to cool with very little rain. In the Andes, places like Cusco and Machu Picchu have clear skies and comfortable temperatures, which is why it's the start of the busy tourist season.
Even the Amazon Rainforest has less rain, so it’s a good time to see wildlife. Coastal areas, like Lima, are cooler and often cloudy, typical for their winter season. June is a nice mix of good weather.
Still not sure when you want to take your trip to Peru? See our guide to when to go to Peru.
June is characterized by dry conditions across most of Peru. It marks the beginning of winter in the Southern Hemisphere, with the shortest days of the year averaging around 11 hours of daylight. If you're still not sure where to head during your Peru trip, see our trip ideas gallery for more inspiration.
Coastal areas (in places like Lima, Paracas National Reserve and Pisco) experience cooler temperatures, averaging 68°F (20°C). Rainfall is almost non-existent at less than 0.1 inches (2.5 mm). Lima often experiences overcast skies and cooler temperatures.
The Andes (in places like Cusco, Lake Titicaca, and Huascarán National Park) see colder temperatures, averaging 50°F (10°C). Rainfall is minimal at 0.4 inches (10 mm). Night temperatures can drop below freezing, especially at higher altitudes.
The Amazon (places like Iquitos, Tarapoto, and Pucallpa) experiences a slight cooldown with average temperatures of 80°F (27°C). Rainfall decreases to about 4 inches (102 mm). This is an excellent time for jungle treks and wildlife spotting.
June kicks off the high season in Peru, especially in hotspots like Cusco and Machu Picchu. You’ll likely run into bigger crowds at the main attractions and see higher prices for hotels and tours. Cusco gets even busier around June 24th with the Inti Raymi festival drawing in lots of visitors. That said, the great weather and lively cultural events often make the higher costs and busier vibe worth it. To keep things manageable, book ahead, check out some off-the-beaten-path spots, and try to visit popular sites early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
Still looking for options for your summer trip? Explore our list of the best destinations for vacations in June.
In June, festivities ramp up with major events like Inti Raymi in Cusco. The weather is perfect for highland adventures, and there’s a lively atmosphere. Take a look at our top experiences for this month or dive into 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.
Experience the grandeur of Inti Raymi, the Festival of the Sun, held annually on June 24th in Cusco. This spectacular Incan celebration marks the winter solstice in the Southern Hemisphere.You’ll see colorful processions, traditional dances, and a reenactment of ancient ceremonies at the Sacsayhuamán fortress.
Take advantage of June's dry weather to embark on the Salkantay Trek, an alternative route to Machu Picchu. This 5-day journey offers views of snow-capped mountains, cloud forests, and diverse ecosystems. The clear skies make for great photo ops of Salkantay Peak, and since it’s less crowded than the classic Inca Trail, you can enjoy a more peaceful experience.
Join the Fiesta de San Juan celebrations on June 24th, particularly in Peru's Amazon region. This festival honors Saint John the Baptist and coincides with the area's New Year celebrations. In cities like Iquitos and Pucallpa, many take part in traditional rituals like river bathing at dawn, believed to bring good luck. Enjoy local music, dance performances, and regional culinary specialties during this festive time.
Visit Arequipa, known as the "White City," and explore the nearby Colca Canyon in June's pleasant weather. This month offers ideal conditions for spotting Andean condors as they soar over the canyon. The clear skies enhance views of the surrounding volcanoes. Don't miss the Chaccu Festival, typically held in early June, where local communities perform the traditional roundup and shearing of wild vicuñas.
June marks the beginning of winter in Lima, making it an excellent time to explore the city's pisco culture. Take a pisco-tasting tour to learn about Peru's national spirit and its production process. Many bars and restaurants offer special pisco-based winter warmers during this cooler month. Visit the historic Bodega Queirolo or participate in a pisco-sour making class.
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.
Wondering where to head this summer? Don't miss our list of the best places to go in June.
From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for visiting Peru
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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