5:10 am in Cusco, the sunrise welcomes a new day with the drizzle outside. This is the kind of morning that invites you to stay a little longer in bed, but believe me the day is about to turn just wonderful. The summer in the Peruvian Andes is something else, due to its geographical conditions. Warmer temperatures accompanied by more precipitation and eventual hail. But, let’s not jump into conclusions, for many this is the perfect season and I’ll tell you why.
Picture this: Machu Picchu less crowded, cheaper lodging and flights, abundance of greenery and vibrant life in the landscape. A little rain isn’t going to stop you from enjoying the best time to be in Cusco. Even with the extra precipitations during the rainy season, we are not talking about nonstop rains. Scattered rains during the afternoons are usually accompanied by cloudy skies.
In this blog I will share my best recommendations.
Regional breakdown
The rainy season in the Peruvian Andes happens during the southern hemisphere summer, as a consequence of the geographical conditions of the region. The Andes are a natural barrier between the coastal desert of Peru and the Amazon Rainforest. In this region the clash of the cold and warm winds, plus the rugged landscape creates the perfect conditions to have a rainy season during the summer.
In the other hand, the coastal area of Peru experiences the summer time. Places like Ica or Lima enjoy the best weather for beach activities, trips to the desert in the Huacachina, flights over the Nazca lines and more. Then, the Amazon is also exposed to more rains. Which can be both convenient or inconvenient, first the temperature will be fresh and the jungle is more alive than ever along the year. But some days heavy rains will limit the possibility to complete certain activities.
Rainy season bucket list
I will share my favorite activities during these months and why you should have them in your to do list in Peru:
- Short Inca Trail: This is one of the most beautiful trails in the world. It follows the Urubamba Canyon, which during the rains turns colorful and full of life. Plus, some rain in the cloud forest feels extremely refreshing.
- Choquequirao Trek: One of the most demanding treks in Cusco. It traverses the Apurimac canyon over exposed trails, which in combination with the high sun radiation adds difficulty to the experience. During the rainy season the conditions are fresher and with the occasional precipitation you feel energized to tame the tough trails.
- Lima and Paracas: with the warmer sea currents during this season, the beach days feel just perfect. Enjoy a chilled day sunbathing, a surf lesson or a kite surfing session.
- Arequipa: Located in a lower area of the Southern Andes, it isn’t affected by the rainy season. So, if you want to enjoy the best weather in the Andean region, this is the place. Wander around the “white city” or go mountaineering in the Misti.
- Colca Canyon: the second deepest canyon in Peru and the fourth in the world, is the best place to spot Condors and the famous Altiplano on the way there.
Packing list
If you are planning to spend a few days or weeks in Peru during the summer months, this is the most complete packing list:
1.- For the Coast (Lima, Paracas, Ica, Huacachina)
The coast is hot and humid from December to March, so think lightweight and breathable.
- Light T-shirts or tank tops
- Loose cotton or linen shirts
- Shorts or light trousers
- Swimwear (for Huacachina lagoon or hotel pools)
- Light sweater or windbreaker for coastal breezes
- Flip-flops or sandals
- Sun hat or cap
Lima’s summer sun can be surprisingly intense, sunscreen and sunglasses are musts.
2.- For the Andes (Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu)
Here the same months bring rain, especially in the afternoons. Mornings can still be sunny and warm, while evenings turn cool.
- Waterproof rain jacket (breathable material)
- Light poncho for heavy showers
- Fleece or thermal mid-layer
- Quick-dry long-sleeve shirts
- Convertible or quick-dry trekking pants
- Base layer tops for cold nights
- Warm hat and gloves (especially above 3,000m)
- Wool socks or merino blend socks
- Waterproof trekking shoes
- Comfortable sneakers for city walks
Mornings in Cusco often start sunny, but the weather changes fast, layer up and keep your rain gear handy.
3.- For the Amazon Jungle
- Light long-sleeve shirts and pants (to protect from insects)
- Insect repellent clothing or permethrin-treated fabrics
- Rubber boots (some lodges provide these)
- Quick-dry towel
- Bandana or buff (for sweat and insects)
Footwear
- Waterproof hiking boots (broken in before your trip)
- Light sneakers for everyday exploring
- Flip-flops or sandals for showers or relaxing
- Extra socks (synthetic or merino wool)
- Plastic bags or dry sacks to separate wet gear
Travel Accessories
- Daypack (20–30L) with rain cover
- Duffel or backpack for main luggage
- Reusable water bottle or hydration bladder
- Packing cubes or dry bags to organize gear
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- Microfiber towel
- Power adapter (Peru uses 220V, types A/B/C plugs)
- Headlamp or flashlight (for treks or power cuts)
- Portable charger / power bank
Along the treks, charging points can be limited, a power bank keeps your camera and phone alive on the trail.
Health & Personal Care
- Personal medications (carry in original packaging)
- Basic first-aid kit (bandages, antiseptic wipes, painkillers, altitude pills if needed)
- Insect repellent (DEET or natural alternative)
- Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
- Lip balm with SPF
- Hand sanitizer & wet wipes
- Electrolyte packets or rehydration salts
- Travel-size toiletries (biodegradable soap/shampoo if trekking)
- Toilet paper or tissue packs (often missing in public restrooms)
Electronics & Documentation
- Smartphone / camera (with waterproof case or pouch)
- Extra memory cards & batteries
- Universal adapter & chargers
- Offline maps or downloaded navigation app (Maps.me)
- Printed copies of passports, tickets, insurance
- Travel insurance covering adventure activities
Final thoughts
The rainy season isn’t precisely to be survived, instead with the proper measures, it can be enjoyed to the fullest. If your schedule doesn’t allow you to travel during the high season, don’t be afraid of book a vacation in Peru during the rainy season. Don’t let the name discourage you, there is more to enjoy than it is trying to stop you.
Nature is more alive than during any other time of the year, you’ll come across less people everywhere and there are plenty of cultural activities going on.
Pro traveler tip: there is no new year’s eve celebration like Cusco’s.
