Peru Weather in October 2024: Travel Tips for First-Timers

October is the beginning of spring in Peru and is a shoulder month between the wet and dry seasons. As long as you don't mind occasional showers, this is a great time to visit to see all the top attractions without the peak season crowds.

In October, you will also have the benefit of warmer temperatures in the Andes and more affordable rates on travel and accommodation.

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1. Peru Weather in October Overview

Nazca Desert, Peru

• Average temperature range: 12°C-32°C (54°F-90°F)
• Dry season: Lima, Trujillo, the Amazon Rainforest
• Shoulder Season: Cusco, Machu Picchu, Lake Titicaca, the Sacred Valley
• Rainfall: 31.4 mm (1.2 inches) in Cusco
• Rainy days: 8 in Cusco, 3 in Lima

Peru is located in the southern hemisphere close to the equator and experiences similar temperatures year-round. Because October is a transition month between the dry winter and the wet summer, this month has pleasant and mild weather with a few showers. Showers are less common at the beginning of the month and more common toward the end.

In most regions, rains come in the afternoon and can be avoided by planning tours and activities in the mornings or evenings.

Although you may not experience perfectly clear sunny days in October, pictures of Machu Picchu are still stunning with the surrounding bright green valley, a few fluffy clouds, and fewer people.

Machu Picchu in October

Machu Picchu, Peru

When visiting Machu Picchu in October, you'll be able to enjoy comfortably cool temperatures with highs around 21°C (70°F) and lows around 12°C (54°F). Although afternoon showers do become more frequent, most days will be slightly cloudy with a good amount of sunshine.

If you want to avoid cloudy skies, visit in the early morning around 6 am when the sun comes up and burns away the clouds and fog from the previous night.

On average, Machu Picchu experiences 8 rainy days in October meaning that flexible plans will be important in case the weather forecast looks good one day and bad another. Heavy rains are more likely to occur closer to the end of the month as the rainy season draws near.

2. October Weather by Region

Peru has three different climate regions that each have its own distinct weather patterns. These areas include:

• The high-altitude Andes
• The coast
• The Amazon Rainforest

Depending on where you go, you will need to bring different clothing for different weather!

Cusco and the Andes: 12°C-21°C (54°F-70°F)

The Andes Mountains, Peru

Temperatures are mild and cool in the mountains in October making it a great time to be outside and explore cities like Cusco and Huaraz. Weather changes quickly in the mountains so while days are mostly sunny, showers may appear suddenly with little warning.

Although you will have to put up with the occasional shower, the rain makes the orchids begin blooming all around the Sacred Valley and Andes making for truly stunning views.

Lima and the Coast: 15°C-20°C (59°F-68°F)

Lima, Peru

October is the start of the high season in Lima and along the coast of Peru as the heavy fog that plagues the city in the cooler months starts to lift.

In Lima, daytime temperatures are typically around a comfortable 18°C (65°F), perfect for a walking tour. Temperatures are slightly warmer north of Lima in cities like Trujillo and cooler south of Lima in places like Arequipa and Ica.

The Amazon and the East: 22°C-32°C (72°F-90°F)

The Amazon Forest in Peru

The Amazon Rainforest is hot and wet year-round, but October is the last month of the dry season and is one of the best times to spot wildlife. This is a great time of year to cruise down the Amazon River or take a short walk through an indigenous village. Even though October is part of the dry season, in the Amazon it rains every day.

The good news is that rains usually fall in the afternoon giving you the whole morning to enjoy the forest before retreating to your hotel or boat for a few hours until the sun returns.

Suggested reading: How to Plan a 2-Week Peru Itinerary.

3. Best Places to See in Peru in October

With mostly good weather and almost no crowds, October is a great time to travel in Peru and visit some of the country's most popular destinations like Machu Picchu, Cusco, and the Sacred Valley.

October is also humpback whale season along the coast and travelers can take a boat tour to spot these incredible giants.

1) The Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu, Peru

Being one of the 7 Wonders of the World, Machu Picchu is a must-see place in Peru, especially for first-time visitors! October is a great time to experience this incredible Incan ruin at its most beautiful when it's covered in bright green vegetation instead of other travelers.

First, explore the beautiful towns of Ollantaytambo and Pisac in the Sacred Valley to see Spanish colonial villages and sprawling handicraft markets. Then take the Incan Rail up to Machu Picchu and enjoy the views of this historical site surrounded by the Sacred Valley below.

2) The Amazon Rainforest

The Amazon Rainforest, Peru

October is one of the last months of the year to visit the Amazon before the heavy rains arrive and cause the water levels to rise and the animals to become less active.

The best way to explore the Amazon is through a relaxing cruise.

Spend time taking in the beauty of the jungle as you meander down this incredible waterway. Most cruises also stop to let travelers explore authentic indigenous villages and learn more about the local people and culture.

3) Lima

Lima coast, Peru

As the heavy winter fog slowly lifts and temperatures rise, Lima becomes a sunny and charming colonial city. Peru's capital city is full of impressive architecture, cathedrals, and interesting historical museums waiting to be explored.

If history is not your thing, don't worry! Lima's food scene is enough on its own to warrant a visit.

Lima is one of the top up-and-coming culinary destinations in the world with multiple Michelin-rated restaurants and a vibrant street food scene.

4) The Ballestas Islands

The Ballestas Islands, Peru

Located just three hours south of Lima, the Ballestas are a small cluster of rocky islands that rival the Galapagos in their natural diversity and stunning scenery.

This off-the-beaten-track destination is the perfect place for nature lovers to spot animals like dolphins, sea lions, blue-footed boobies, penguins, and a large variety of endangered birds.

5) Arequipa and the Colca Canyon

The Colca Canyon, Peru

Often called the White City, Arequipa is a charming colonial city ringed by three stunning volcanoes.

Spend time here touring charming cathedrals and relaxing in coffee shops, then head to the nearby Colca for stunning views of one of the deepest canyons in the world complete with Andean Condors soaring above it.

4. October Crowds and Costs

The Andes Mountains, Peru

As part of the shoulder season, October sees fewer crowds and more affordable costs than many other months. Compared to the high season months of June through August, October feels almost empty with no long lines or wait times at major attractions and more opportunities to take unobstructed photos at Machu Picchu.

Because tourism is lower in October, rates for travel and accommodation also fall. Prices are not as low as what you'll see during the rainy season, but October offers the perfect in-between with better rates than the high season and much better weather than the low season.

5. What to Wear in Peru in October

Cusco Hanging Bridge, Peru

As temperatures rise in the Andes, there is no longer a need for winter coats, hats, and gloves. Instead, pack a few fleeces and hoodies and make sure to bring warm, waterproof shoes. You will also need a rain jacket and umbrella.

In the Amazon, the weather is hot and humid so moisture-wicking materials are your friend. The rainforest is full of all kinds of little creatures, including mosquitos, so long pants and sleeves will offer you more protection from bites.

On the coast, weather will be pleasant and you will likely be comfortable in pants and a sweater.

Monthly Weather in Peru

Explore Peru with Global Highlights

For the perfect October trip to Peru, look no further than Global Highlights!

We specialize in creating tailor-made tours that not only consider your travel dreams but also work around the weather to craft the perfect experience. Let us deal with the planning stress so you can just enjoy the journey.