When to go — Pacific coast

The Lima and Pacific coast region has particular climatic conditions linked to the cold Humboldt current that brings up Antarctic waters along the Peruvian coast. Lima and the central coast are then subjected to the garúa fog (June to November) — specific phenomenon maintaining an almost permanent grey sky, cool temperatures (15-19 °C), high humidity (85-95%) and an almost total absence of sun. Paradoxically, it almost never rains in Lima (3 mm/year only) — the fog just stays suspended.

From December to April, austral summer finally brings sun to Lima: pleasant temperatures (22-28 °C), blue sky, beaches passable, festive atmosphere. It's the best time for Lima and the central coast. Important coincidence: this period corresponds to the Andean wet season — if you combine Lima with Cusco-Machu Picchu, you'll have sunny Lima but wet Andes.

The southern desert coast (Paracas, Ica/Huacachina, Nazca) enjoys a much more stable climate: blue sky year-round (south of the garúa fog zone), warm temperatures (24-32 °C daytime, 12-18 °C nighttime), near-total aridity. It's one of the driest zones in the world — conditions are favorable 12 months a year to visit Paracas, do sandboarding at Huacachina and fly over the Nazca Lines.

Our recommendation for a combined coastal Peru + Andes trip: travel in May, October or November (shoulder season) to combine favorable conditions on Lima (gradual fog exit) and Andes (dry season started or returning). If you prioritize Lima gastronomy, travel rather in December-March (sunny Lima, beware of wet Andes). If you prioritize Cusco-Machu Picchu, accept foggy Lima in June-August (Andean high season).

Events to note in Lima: Mistura (giant gastronomic festival every September, the major culinary event in Latin America), Señor de los Milagros (iconic religious procession in October), Fiestas Patrias (28-29 July, national day).