Weather & Climate
In the highlands from May to October, rain is scarce. Daytime temperatures
reach a warm 68°F to 77°F (20°C-25°C), and nights are often quite cold (near
freezing), especially in June and July. Rainfall is very abundant from December
to March, when temperatures are slightly milder -- 64°F to 68°F (18°C-20°C)
dropping only to 59°F (15°C) at night. The wettest months are January and
February (this trip is not offered in January and February). Although the Amazon
jungle is consistently humid and tropical, with significant rainfall year-round,
it, too, experiences two clearly different seasons. During the dry season
(May-October), temperatures reach 86°F to 100°F (30°C-38°C) during the day. From
November to April, there are frequent rain showers (which last only a few hours
at a time), causing the rivers to swell. Temperatures are similarly steamy. Due
to the altitude, you need to be prepared for a range of temperatures, including
cool days and evenings and/or foggy, rainy periods. Days can be very warm with a
strong sun at the higher altitude. The wet and/or cool periods often disappear
as quickly as they arrive. Appropriate rain gear is highly recommended for your
comfort. This does not necessarily involve an excess of clothing, just carefully
selected items. The following chart of average temperatures in Cusco will help
you to prepare for your tour.
Average Daily Temperature (High/Low)
| |
° F |
°C |
| Mar |
66 / 43 |
19 / 6 |
| Apr |
67 / 41 |
19 / 5 |
| May |
67 / 36 |
19 / 2 |
| Jun |
66 / 32 |
19 / 2 |
| Jul |
66 / 32 |
19 / 2 |
| Aug |
67 / 35 |
19 / 2 |
| Sep |
68 / 39 |
20 / 4 |
| Oct |
69 / 41 |
21 / 5 |
| Nov |
69 / 42 |
21 / 6 |
| Dec |
69 / 43 |
21 / 6 |
The above are average temperatures. Actual temperatures may vary
depending on developing weather patterns. Please consult a newspaper, the
Internet, or a local tourism office prior to your departure for current weather
information.