Weather in Peru in December: travel guide

Located in the western part of South America, Peru has a diverse climate shaped by its different landscapes. The coast, the Andes, and the Amazon Rainforest all have their own unique weather. In this article, you’ll learn about the weather in Peru in December, along with some travel tips from local experts.

Is December a good time to visit Peru?

December is when summer starts in Peru, which means warmer temperatures along the coast and the beginning of the rainy season in the Andes and Amazon regions. If you’re heading to places like Lima or Mancora, you’ll find nice beach weather. But in the mountains, like Cusco or Machu Picchu, it’s transitioning from dry to wet season. 

Expect lush scenery but also the chance of rain, which could affect hiking and visibility. December is actually a busy time for tourists, especially around the holidays, so expect more crowds at popular sites. But on the plus side, you’ll get to experience some festive local celebrations.

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

Sunshine, average temperatures, and rainfall

December marks the start of summer and the wet season in Peru. Daylight hours are at their longest, often exceeding 13 hours per day across 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) is warm, with temperatures averaging 75°F (24°C). Rainfall remains minimal at less than 0.1 inches (2.5 mm). This is peak season for coastal resorts and beaches.

Andean Region

Andean regions (in places like Cusco, Lake Titicaca, and Huascarán National Park) experience mild temperatures, averaging 56°F (13°C). Rainfall is substantial, reaching about 4.7 inches (119 mm). Despite the rain, this can be a lush and beautiful time to visit, with fewer crowds.

Amazon Rainforest Region

The Amazon (places like Iquitos, Tarapoto, and Pucallpa) is hot and wet, with average temperatures of 86°F (30°C). Rainfall is heavy, often exceeding 10 inches (254 mm). The high water season begins, allowing access to areas unreachable in the dry season.

What about the crowds & costs?

December is part of the high tourist season in Peru, especially around Christmas and New Year’s. You’ll find popular spots like Cusco, Machu Picchu, and beach towns pretty packed. Prices for hotels and tours go up a lot during this time, so booking in advance is a must. Early December might be a bit less crowded and slightly cheaper compared to the holiday weeks, but it’s still considered peak season, so overall costs will be higher than during the off-season.

Things to do in Peru in December

In December, the holiday season kicks off, and the summer warmth starts to build. It’s a lively time for coastal visits and local festivities. Take a look at our top recommendations for this month or see the complete guide to Peru’s best 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.

Santuranticuy in Cusco

On December 24th, Cusco's Plaza de Armas hosts the Santuranticuy Market. This centuries-old tradition, dating back to colonial times, brings together artisans from across the region. Visitors can browse intricate nativity figurines, traditional crafts, and holiday decorations. The market is particularly known for its handcrafted Niño Manuelito figurines, a key element of Cusco's Christmas celebrations. 

Chocolatada in Lima

Throughout December, many organizations in Lima host Chocolatada events. This Peruvian Christmas tradition involves distributing hot chocolate and panettone (a sweet bread) to children in underprivileged communities. These events often include music, games, and gift-giving. Participating in a Chocolatada provides an opportunity to engage in local charitable activities and experience the warmth of Peruvian holiday spirit. Many hotels and tour operators can help visitors find and participate in these community events.

New Year's Eve celebrations in Miraflores

Ring in the New Year Peruvian-style in Lima's Miraflores district. Peruvian traditions include wearing yellow for good luck and eating 12 grapes at midnight, one for each month of the coming year. The Malecón, a six-mile stretch of parks along the coast, offers prime viewing for the midnight fireworks display over the Pacific Ocean. Many restaurants and hotels in the area host special dinners and parties.

Visit the Larco Museum's special holiday exhibits

The Larco Museum in Lima, housed in an 18th-century colonial mansion, often hosts special exhibits during the holiday season. These may focus on pre-Columbian holiday traditions or showcase seasonal archaeological finds. The museum's permanent collection includes over 45,000 pieces of pre-Columbian art, offering insights into 5,000 years of Peruvian history. In December, the museum's beautiful gardens are adorned with holiday lights

Explore Machu Picchu in the lush season

 The increased rainfall results in lush, green landscapes that contrast beautifully with the gray stone structures. Morning visits often offer clearer skies, and the occasional mist adds a mystical atmosphere to the ruins. Despite the chance of rain, December's warmer temperatures make exploring comfortable. The rainy season also means fewer crowds.

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 picking where to go? See our guide to where to go in December.