Weather in Peru in May

In Peru, you'll find a diverse climate thanks to its varied geography. From the coastal plains to the towering Andes and the lush Amazon Rainforest, each region has its own unique weather patterns. In this article, you’ll explore what to expect from the weather in Peru in May, along with travel tips from local experts to help you discover Peru with Rough Guides.

Is May a good time to visit Peru?

Yes, May is a great time for a trip to Peru. It’s when the country starts moving from the wet season to the dry season, so you get pleasant weather in most regions. Along the coast, temperatures are mild, and in the Andean highlands, the skies are getting clearer. 

In the Amazon, it’s warm and humid, but manageable. You might still get some rain here and there, but overall, the weather becomes more stable. This makes it a perfect time to explore Peru’s landscapes.

Learn more in-depth about the best time to visit Peru.

May: Sunshine, average temperatures, and rainfall

May firmly establishes the dry season across Peru. Daylight hours continue to shorten slightly, averaging around 11 hours per day throughout the country. 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 mild temperatures, averaging 70°F (21°C). Rainfall remains minimal at less than 0.1 inches (2.5 mm). Coastal fog becomes more common, especially in Lima.

Andean Region

Andean temperatures (in places like Cusco, Lake Titicaca, and Huascarán National Park) average 52°F (11°C). Rainfall decreases further to about 0.8 inches (20 mm). Clear, sunny days are common, making it an excellent time for hiking and sightseeing.

Amazon Rainforest Region

The Amazon (places like Iquitos, Tarapoto, and Pucallpa) remains warm with average temperatures of 82°F (28°C). Rainfall decreases to about 6 inches (152 mm). This period is known as the "low water" season, ideal for spotting wildlife along the rivers.

What about the crowds and costs?

Curious about the crowds and costs in May? It's part of the shoulder season in Peru, so you get a nice mix of good weather and smaller crowds. Places like Machu Picchu aren’t as packed as they are during the busy months of June to August, making it a lot more relaxed time to explore. Since it’s right before the high season, you can usually snag better deals on accommodations and tours. Just keep in mind that prices might start creeping up towards the end of the month as peak season nears. All in all, May is a great time for fewer tourists, decent weather, and reasonable prices.

Looking for a budget travel destination? Check out our list of the 20 cheapest places to travel around the world.

Things to do in Peru in May

May is one of the best months for exploring Peru’s natural and cultural highlights. See our top recommendations for this month or browse the full list of must-see sights. 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.

Qoyllur Rit'i Festival

Head to the Sinakara Valley near Cusco to see one of Peru's most important religious festivals, Qoyllur Rit'i (Snow Star). This festival blends Andean traditions with Catholicism and usually takes place in late May or early June. You’ll see colorful processions, traditional dances, and rituals set against snow-covered mountains.

Explore Arequipa and Colca Canyon

May's clear skies make it an ideal time to visit Arequipa, known as the "White City," thanks to its bright colonial buildings. Wander around the Santa Catalina Monastery, then head to Colca Canyon. It’s a great spot to watch Andean condors glide through the air, and the views are stunning after the wet season.

Festividad del Señor de Muruhuay

In Tarma, Junín region, you can join the Festividad del Señor de Muruhuay, a month-long festival honoring a local image of Christ. There are processions, traditional dances, and plenty of local food. It’s a good way to see Peruvian religious traditions up close in the beautiful central highlands.

Take an Amazon River Cruise

May marks the start of the Amazon’s low-water season, which can make river cruises a rewarding addition to 10-day Peru trips that include time in the rainforest. With lower water levels, you’ll see more exposed beaches and have better opportunities to spot wildlife, as animals tend to gather near water sources. You’ll also be able to explore more areas on foot.

Paraglide over Lima's Coast

Lima’s weather is stable in May, so it’s a great time for paragliding. Fly over the cliffs of Miraflores for views of the Pacific Ocean and the city’s coastline. The calm winds and mild temperatures make it a good option for both beginners and experienced paragliders. While in Lima don't forget to sample the local gastronomy.

Find even more options for your trip in our list of the best vacation destinations in May.

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 May.