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 Peru travel guide to what you can expect from the weather in Peru in March.

Peru in March at a glance

• March marks the tail end of the rainy season in Peru, with wet conditions in the Andes but improving weather toward the month's end.
• Average temperatures: Coast 68°F-81°F (20°C-27°C); Andes 10-20°C; Amazon 23-31°C with high humidity
• Fair to good time: Inca Trail closed for maintenance; Machu Picchu accessible but rainy; coast and Amazon better
• Low to moderate crowds due to rain; costs significantly lower than in the dry season, good deals available 

What is the weather like in Peru in March?

The weather in Peru in March varies depending on where you go. Along the coast, including Lima, it's warm and humid with barely any rain.

In the Andes, mornings can be clear, but afternoon showers are common, especially around Cusco. Trekking routes may still be muddy, but it’s the tail end of the rainy season, so conditions are improving.

The Amazon is at its wettest, with heavy tropical downpours throughout the month. Even so, March can be a smart time to visit if you want fewer crowds at major sights like Machu Picchu. Just pack for mixed conditions and keep your rain gear handy. This is a great time to plan your Peru itinerary.

Average daily temperatures in March

March is late summer in Peru, and it’s one of the warmer months along the coast. In Lima, you’ll usually see daytime temps around 75 to 79°F (24 to 26°C), with nights dropping to 66 to 70°F (19 to 21°C). It’s mostly sunny there before winter fog sets in. Up in Cusco and the Andes, it’s cooler—64 to 68°F (18 to 20°C) during the day, but it can fall to 39 to 43°F (4 to 6°C) at night, so you’ll want warm layers.

The Amazon stays hot and humid at 86 to 90°F (30 to 32°C), and you’ll probably get some heavy afternoon rain. Ocean temperatures along the coast peak at 72 to 75°F (22 to 24°C), which is warm enough for a swim. March is still part of the rainy season in the highlands, especially around Machu Picchu, where trails can be muddy.

But it’s a great time for coastal travel or heading into the desert areas like Nazca and Ica, where you’ll get hot, dry weather around 86 to 88°F (30 to 31°C). You’ll need to pack for all kinds of weather here—light clothes for the jungle, warm layers for the mountains, and swimwear for the coast.

Ready to see Peru? Have our local Peru travel experts create the perfect customized itinerary.

Is March a good time to visit Peru?

March in Peru brings a mix of weather and travel conditions. It’s still the rainy season in the highlands, especially around Cusco and Machu Picchu, but mornings are often clear, making early starts your best bet.

The Inca Trail stays open and much quieter than in peak months, with green landscapes in every direction. On the coast, places like Lima stay warm and dry, good for wandering neighborhoods or heading to the beach. In the Amazon, high water levels make river trips easier and wildlife viewing from boats more rewarding. With fewer tourists around, major sites feel more spacious and prices drop across the board.  For more tips, see our guide to how to plan a trip to Peru.

• Rainy season but fewer crowds at Machu Picchu
• Lush green landscapes throughout Sacred Valley
• Excellent Amazon river conditions
• Warm, dry weather on the coast
• Lower prices and better availability
  

What about the crowds and 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 deciding, don't miss our guide to the best time to go to Peru.

Where to go in Peru in March

March brings big changes across Peru, especially as the rainy season starts easing off in the Andes. Here are some of the best places to visit in Peru. 

Cusco

As the rainy season starts to fade in March, the Sacred Valley’s bright green hills and dramatic views make it a strong choice for 9-day Peru trips with time for Cusco, nearby villages and Inca sites. In town, the mix of colonial buildings and Inca stonework looks even more striking as cloud cover shifts through. Local markets are packed with fresh produce, especially from nearby farms, and harvest festivals bring colorful dances and parades to surrounding villages.

Lima

March is one of the best times to see Lima at its most active. The sky stays clear most days, which means great sunsets along the cliffs in Miraflores and warm evenings in the Barranco neighborhood. The food scene is in top form with seasonal ingredients showing up in everything from street snacks to fine dining menus. If you're into museums or galleries, you’ll have plenty to explore indoors if the sun gets too strong. On weekends, locals head to the beach, so coastal spots nearby start to buzz. See our pick of the best restaurants in Lima. 

Arequipa and Colca Canyon

Rains start to ease up by March, making this a good window for heading south. Arequipa’s white volcanic buildings seem to glow after the rain clears, and walking through the old town feels especially peaceful in the early morning. Colca Canyon becomes more accessible again, and condor sightings tend to be good as the birds ride the warming air currents. Hiking trails are passable, and the surrounding hills stay green. If you're exploring for a few days, the hot springs nearby are a great way to unwind.

Things to do in Peru in March

As the rains begin to ease in the Andes, Peru starts to feel a little quieter. Big-ticket sites like Machu Picchu are still green from the rains but less crowded than in high season. Here are some of the best things to do in Peru. 

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 (28 m wide), the Monkey (55 m long), and the Condor (130 m 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. See our list of the best beaches in Peru.

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. 

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.