Weather in Peru in November

Peru, sitting in the western part of South America, has a pretty diverse climate thanks to its unique geography. The coastal plains, the high Andes, and the Amazon Rainforest all have their own distinct weather patterns. In this article, you'll get the scoop on what the weather in Peru in November is like, plus some helpful travel tips from local experts.

Is November a good time to visit Peru?

Yes, it’s a good time. The weather varies depending on the region: the coast starts warming up, the Andes are still dry and good for hiking, and the Amazon sees the beginning of the wet season, making the rainforest greener. You’ll find fewer tourists compared to peak months, so places are less crowded. Plus, there are cultural events and festivals that can add to your experience. November gives you a nice mix of good weather and a chance to explore without big crowds. Additionally, the risk of altitude sickness decreases, making visits to high-altitude destinations like Cusco and Machu Picchu more enjoyable.

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

Sunshine, average temperatures, and rainfall

November sees the transition to the wet season in much of Peru. Daylight hours are long, averaging about 13 hours 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

Coastal temperatures (in places like Lima, Paracas National Reserve and Pisco) are pleasant, averaging 72°F (22°C). Rainfall remains low at less than 0.1 inches (2.5 mm). This is an excellent time to visit coastal areas before peak summer heat.

Andean Region

The Andes (in places like Cusco, Lake Titicaca, and Huascarán National Park) warm up, with average temperatures of 57°F (14°C). Rainfall increases significantly to about 3 inches (76 mm). Afternoon showers become more common, but mornings are often clear.

Amazon Rainforest Region

The Amazon (places like Iquitos, Tarapoto, and Pucallpa) is hot and increasingly wet, with average temperatures of 86°F (30°C). Rainfall increases to about 8 inches (203 mm). The onset of the rainy season brings lush growth to the rainforest.

What about the crowds & costs?

November is part of the shoulder season in Peru, which means you get decent weather without the heavy crowds of the peak months (June to August). While places like Machu Picchu start getting busier, it’s still less crowded overall. Prices for hotels and activities are generally more reasonable, but they may start to creep up as December approaches. It’s a good idea to book ahead to lock in better deals, especially for popular spots like the Inca Trail

Things to do in Peru in November

November is quieter and still offers good conditions for outdoor adventures. It’s also a chance to visit less-known regions and experience Peru without the crowds. Check out our top experiences for this month or dive into the full rundown of 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.

Día de la Canción Criolla in Lima

The Día de la Canción Criolla, celebrated on October 31st and extending into early November, is a vibrant celebration of Peru's musical heritage. This national holiday celebrates Creole music with concerts, dance performances, and street parties throughout Lima. Experience the lively atmosphere as locals showcase traditional Peruvian waltzes, festejos, and marineras.

Puno Week Festival

Early November brings the exciting Puno Week Festival to the city of Puno. This week-long celebration commemorates the legendary birth of Manco Cápac, the first Inca. The festival is a spectacular display of Andean culture, featuring colorful parades, traditional dances, and music performances that highlight the region's Aymara and Quechua heritage. The event reaches its climax on November 5th with a dramatic reenactment of Manco Cápac and Mama Ocllo's emergence from Lake Titicaca. 

Explore Machu Picchu under ideal conditions

Take advantage of November's relatively dry weather to visit Machu Picchu. With fewer crowds than during the peak season and before the December rush, you can enjoy a more serene experience at this iconic Incan citadel. The comfortable temperatures and reduced chance of rain make it perfect for exploring the ruins and hiking Huayna Picchu.

Día de los Difuntos (Day of the Deceased)

Experience this important cultural event on November 1st and 2nd, especially in Andean regions like Cusco. Join locals in cemeteries as they honor deceased loved ones with flowers, favorite foods, and music. In some areas, you might witness the preparation of "t'anta wawa" (bread babies), a traditional offering.

Beach season in the north

As November marks the beginning of summer in Peru, head to northern coastal towns like Máncora or Punta Sal. With temperatures rising and crowds still relatively low, it's an ideal time to enjoy the beautiful beaches, try surfing, or go whale watching as humpback whales begin their migration.

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.

Not sure where to head for your trip? See our guide to the best places to go in November.