Peru weather in March: when to go

From coastal cities with refreshing Pacific breezes to the mystical highlands filled with ancient wonders, March in Peru makes for a great travel experience. But keep in mind, that the weather can vary depending on the region. Here’s a detailed guide to what you can expect from the weather in Peru in March.

Is March a good time to visit Peru?

March can be a pretty good time to visit Peru as it marks the shift from the wet season to the dry season. The weather tends to be mild, especially in coastal areas like Lima, which makes it great for sightseeing and outdoor activities. 

While some regions, like the Andes and the Amazon, might still see some rain, overall conditions are getting better. Visiting in March means a nice balance with fewer tourists compared to the busy summer months. Just keep in mind that the weather can still be a bit unpredictable, and some remote areas might be harder to access due to the recent rains.

Still not sure when you want to take your trip to Peru? See our guide to when to go to Peru.

March: Sunshine, average temperatures, and rainfall

March marks the transition from wet to dry season in Peru, though rainfall patterns vary by region. Daylight hours begin to decrease slightly but still average around 12 hours per day. If you're still not sure where to head during your Peru trip, see our trip ideas gallery for more inspiration.

Coastal Region

The coast (in places like Lima, Paracas National Reserve and Pisco) experiences pleasant temperatures, averaging 76°F (24°C). Rainfall remains minimal at 0.1 inches (2.5 mm). The sea is warm and ideal for swimming.

Andean Region

Andean temperatures (in places like Cusco, Lake Titicaca, and Huascarán National Park) average 54°F (12°C). Rainfall decreases but is still significant at 4.3 inches (109 mm). Trekking conditions start to improve as the month progresses.

Amazon Rainforest Region

The Amazon (places like Iquitos, Tarapoto, and Pucallpa) continues to be hot and humid, with average temperatures of 86°F (30°C). Rainfall decreases slightly but remains high at 10 inches (254 mm). River levels are typically at their highest.

What about the crowds & costs?

In Peru, March falls in the late summer to early fall period. While it's not as busy as the peak summer months, there are still plenty of tourists, especially those drawn to the pleasant weather. Prices might still be slightly impacted by leftover summer demand, but the good news is that you'll likely find fewer crowds at popular spots. It's a good idea to book your accommodations and tours ahead of time, especially for major attractions. If you’re flexible with your travel dates and open to visiting less touristy places, you can save some money and enjoy a more personal experience.

If you're still looking for options for your spring trip, also explore our list of the best vacation destinations in March.

Things to do in Peru in March

March marks the end of the rainy season, and sites in the highlands start clearing up. Fewer tourists mean popular spots like Machu Picchu are less crowded. Take a look at our top experiences for this month or dive into the full rundown of 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.

Historic Lima

With mild weather in March, it's a good time to visit Lima’s historic district. Check out the Plaza de Armas, Lima Cathedral, and the San Francisco Monastery. Don’t forget to sample the local cuisine — Lima’s food scene is one of the best in South America. Try ceviche at the Central Market or at renowned restaurants like La Mar or Chez Wong.

Semana Santa celebrations

Semana Santa (Holy Week) usually falls in March or April and is celebrated in cities like Cusco and Ayacucho. Expect processions, religious events, and lots of local celebrations that give you a glimpse into Peru's deep-rooted traditions and religious heritage. Ayacucho's celebrations are particularly renowned, featuring over 15 processions throughout the week, along with traditional music and local cuisine. 

Take flight over the Nazca Lines

Take a flight over the Nazca Lines in the Nazca Desert. These ancient geoglyphs, depicting various animals and symbols, remain one of Peru's most mysterious and intriguing archaeological wonders. Book a 30-minute flight from Maria Reiche Airport in Nazca to observe famous geoglyphs like the Hummingbird (28m wide), the Monkey (55m long), and the Condor (130m wide). March's improving weather conditions can offer good visibility.

Relax at the Beach

Visit Peru's coastal areas, such as Mancora or Punta Sal, and enjoy the beach. March offers warm temperatures, making it an excellent time to unwind by the ocean, engage in water sports, or explore coastal towns. The Pacific breezes provide a refreshing atmosphere for beach activities.

Participate in the Festival de la Vendimia

Join the lively Festival de la Vendimia (Wine Harvest Festival) in the town of Ica. This vibrant celebration of the grape harvest and winemaking traditions features parades, music, dancing, and the opportunity to taste a variety of locally produced wines. 

It's a fantastic way to experience Peruvian culture and indulge in the country's growing wine scene. The festival is typically held in the second week of March and includes events such as grape stomping competitions, the crowning of the Queen of the Harvest, and folk dance performances. 

Plan your trip with our Peru itineraries

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.

Still deciding where to go this spring? See our picks for the best places to go in March.