February is one of the most interesting months of the year to visit Peru, as the country has a wide variety of climates in its different regions. Although much of South America is in the middle of summer, the weather in Peru varies depending on altitude, geography, and proximity to the Pacific Ocean, the peruvian Andes, or the Amazon rainforest.
Because Peru encompasses coast, mountains, and jungle, February weather can mean sunny beaches, heavy rains in the Andes, and humid tropical storms in the Amazon all in the same month.
This guide contains everything you need to know about the weather in Peru in February, including temperatures in Celsius and Fahrenheit, rainfall amounts, regional differences, travel tips, and the best places to visit.
Quick summary – Weather in Peru in February
Short answer (quick overview)
February in Peru is warm on the coast, rainy in the Andes, and hot and humid in the Amazon region.
- Lima (coast): 73–82 °F (23–28 °C); sunny, warm, almost no rain
- Cusco (Andes): 45–68 °F (7–20 °C); heavy rainfall, cloudy
- Machu Picchu: 54–66 °F (12–19 °C); high humidity and rain
- Arequipa: 50–72 °F (10–22 °C); moderate rainfall
- Iquitos (Amazon): 72–90 °F (22–32 °C); hot, humid, frequent storms
Key takeaway: February is the peak rainy season in the Andes and Amazon, but a great beach month on Peru’s desert coast.
Complete Travel Guide: Weather in Peru in February
Peru’s climate can be divided into three major geographic regions, each with its own weather conditions in February:
The Coast (La Costa)
- Includes: Lima, Paracas, Trujillo, Mancora
- Climate: Desert-like, warm, sunny in February
The Andes (La Sierra)
- Includes: Cusco, Arequipa, Puno, Huaraz
- Climate: Cool temperatures, heavy rainfall (rainy season)
The Amazon (La Selva)
- Includes: Iquitos, Puerto Maldonado, Tarapoto
- Climate: Hot, humid, tropical storms
Since February is summer in the southern hemisphere, the coast of Peru enjoys sunny beach weather, while the mountains and jungle are in the middle of the rainy season.
The weather on the coast of Peru in February
February is one of the warmest and sunniest months on the Peruvian coast. The region is strongly influenced by the Humboldt Current and the Pacific Ocean, which keeps temperatures moderate but still summery.
Typical weather conditions:
- Warm temperatures
- Clear skies
- Very low chance of rain
- Ideal for beach vacations
The weather in Lima in February
Temperature: 73–82 °F (23–28 °C)
Rain: Almost none
Humidity: Moderate
Sunshine: Excellent
February brings the best weather of the year to Lima. Unlike the winter months (June–September), when the city is covered in fog known as “la garúa,” February is bright and warm.
Best activities:
- Beaches in Miraflores or Costa Verde
- Surfing
- Day trips to Paracas and the Islas Ballestas
- Outdoor dining and nightlife
Weather in the Andes in February (Cusco, Machu Picchu, Arequipa)
February Peak of the Rainy Season in the Andes
February sees the heaviest rainfall of the year in the Andes. This is due to seasonal moisture carried from the Amazon basin, which rises along the mountains, cools, and turns into daily showers and thunderstorms.
Common weather conditions:
- Cloudy mornings
- Thunderstorms in the afternoon
- Slippery hiking trails
- Occasional landslides
- Lush green landscapes
The weather in Cusco in February
Cusco is heavily affected by the rainy season.
Temperature: 45–68 °F (7–20 °C)
Rain: Very frequent
Humidity: High
Cloud cover: Persistent
What this means for travelers:
- City tours are still possible.
- Conditions for trekking tours can be difficult.
- The photography is beautiful as the mountains turn green.
- Flooding sometimes affects traffic.
Weather in Machu Picchu in February
Temperature: 54–66 °F (12–19 °C)
Rain: Heavy and frequent
Conditions: Wet, humid, slippery trails
Machu Picchu remains open in February, but:
- The Inca Trail is closed for annual maintenance.
- Alternative hiking trails remain open but may be muddy.
- Landslides sometimes affect transportation.
- Photos appear foggy, mystical, and dramatic.
Recommended activities:
- Take the train.
- Bring rain gear.
- Visit the site early in the morning when there are fewer people.
The weather in Arequipa in February
Arequipa has a desert climate, but there is some rain in February.
- Temperature: 50–72 °F (10–22 °C)
- Rain: moderate
- Air quality: clear and fresh after rain showers
Arequipa is still a good destination this month, as the rain is less intense than in Cusco.
Weather in the Amazon Rainforest in February
The Amazon Rainforest in Peru including Iquitos, Puerto Maldonado, and Tarapoto is in the middle of its rainy season in February.
Typical conditions in the Amazon region:
Temperature: 72–90 °F (22–32 °C)
Rain: Heavy tropical showers
Humidity: 85% or higher
Wildlife activity: High
Mosquitoes: Abundant
Advantages of traveling in February:
Excellent wildlife viewing opportunities
Lush green rainforest landscapes
Rivers at their highest water levels (ideal for boat tours)
Disadvantages:
- High humidity
- Muddy trails
- Some lodges are affected by flooding
Rainfall in Peru in February
February is one of the rainiest months in the Andes and Amazon regions.
Average rainfall by region
Cusco: 150 – 200 mm
Machu Picchu: 180 – 230 mm
Arequipa: 20 – 40 mm
Iquitos: 250 – 300 mm
Lima: <1 mm
North coast (Mancora): 5 – 20 mm
What this means:
Rain in the Andes is very predictable usually in the afternoon, while in the Amazon region, sudden tropical storms can occur. The coast remains very dry.
Conclusion: Weather in Peru in February
February in Peru offers a unique travel experience, depending on which region you plan to visit. The coast offers sunny and warm weather, ideal for beach lovers and outdoor activities, while the Andes (Sierra) and Amazon regions reach the peak of their rainy season. Despite the rain,the Andes offer lush, green landscapes, making it a great time to take photos and enjoy the beauty of the mountains. On the other hand, the Amazon rainforest is teeming with life and offers a rich variety of wildlife, although the humidity and rainfall can make traveling difficult.
When planning your trip, it is important to consider the specific region you want to explore. Lima and the north coast (such as Mancora) offer a perfect vacation spot for those seeking sunshine, while Cusco, Machu Picchu, and Arequipa are best suited for those who don’t mind the rain and want to see the stunning green landscapes. Iquitos and the Amazon, on the other hand, offer exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities, but you should be prepared for intense humidity and occasional rain showers.
