What is the climate like in Lima, Peru? What you should know before you travel

What is the weather like in Lima Peru? The climate in Lima is unique; it is a subtropical desert climate, characterized by being mild, with high humidity and an almost complete absence of significant rainfall. Despite its location in a desert, the temperatures are not extreme. The maximum average annual temperature is approximately 22°C, while the minimum is 17°C.

The characteristics of the climate in Lima are defined by two very distinct seasons:

Summer (December to April): During these months, the weather is warm and sunny. The temperatures are higher, the skies are usually clear, and it is the ideal time to enjoy the coast and outdoor activities.
Winter (May to November): In this period, the temperatures drop slightly. The sky remains persistently covered by a layer of low clouds, a phenomenon known as "panza de burro" (donkey's belly). The humidity is very high and the presence of a fine drizzle called "garúa" is common.

When planning when to travel to Peru, it is fundamental to understand that Lima's climate is the opposite of the Andean highlands. The best time to visit Lima for its weather (the summer, from December to April) coincides with the rainy season in Cusco. Conversely, the high tourist season in Peru (June to August), which corresponds to the dry season in the Andes, is the winter season in Lima, with gray skies and high humidity. This difference is a key factor to consider when organizing an itinerary through the country.

What is the climate like in Lima, Peru?

If you are thinking of visiting Lima, the capital of Peru, or if you are simply curious about its climate, you have come to the right place. Lima, a city that stretches from the Andes mountain range to the Pacific coast, offers a fascinating and unique climate that is characterized by its variability throughout the year. In this article, I will give you a complete overview of the climate in Lima, from temperatures to the weather phenomena that affect this metropolis.

A unique geographical location

Lima is located in an interesting geographical position, located on the central coast of Peru, between the Andes mountain range and the Pacific Ocean. This strategic location has a direct impact on its climate. The proximity of the mountain range and its position in a coastal area create a microclimate that is different from other areas of Peru.

Key Factors of Lima's Climate

Lima's climate is subtropical and desert-like, but its temperatures are moderate, without extremes of heat or cold. This phenomenon is mainly due to the influence of the Humboldt Current, a cold ocean current that runs along the coast and regulates the region's temperature, preventing it from being a typical tropical climate despite its latitude.

Despite being one of the driest capitals in the world, Lima has very high relative humidity, exceeding 80% for much of the year. This combination of low rainfall and high humidity creates a more intense feeling of cold during the winter (May to November) and is the cause of the "garúa", a fine and persistent drizzle. Conventional rains, on the other hand, are practically non-existent in the city.

Lima's Seasons and the Best Time to Travel

As mentioned previously, Lima climate is defined by two main seasons: a warm and sunny summer (December to April) and a cool and humid winter (May to November). During the winter, temperatures usually range between 15°C and 19°C, with high humidity and the presence of the drizzle known as "garúa", which increases the feeling of cold.

It is essential to reiterate the contrast with the rest of the country when planning a trip. The best season to travel through Peru, on a circuit that includes the Andean highlands, is the dry season (June to August). This period coincides directly with Lima's winter, characterized by its overcast skies, an important factor to consider in the logistics of any itinerary.

Anomalous Climate Phenomena: El Niño

The El Niño Phenomenon is an irregular (non-annual) climatic event that alters the normal conditions on the Peruvian coast. It is characterized by an anomalous warming of the Pacific Ocean waters, which inhibits the influence of the Humboldt Current. During an El Niño episode, Lima can experience a considerable increase in temperatures and, unusually, intense rainfall that can lead to flooding.

Low precipitation and high relative humidity

Lima is famous for its arid climate and low precipitation. Rainfall is rare in the city, especially during the period from May to October, when relative humidity can reach high levels. This combination of low rainfall and high humidity can lead to a more pronounced feeling of cold during the winter.

Frequently asked questions about the weather in Lima

Does Lima always have a warm climate?
Not exactly. Although Lima has mild temperatures compared to other areas, the sea breeze and the influence of the cold Humboldt current can make the nights cool, especially in winter.
What is the most recommended season to visit Lima?
The summer months, from December to March, are ideal for visiting Lima, as temperatures are warmer and there is less chance of rain. However, remember that the weather can be unpredictable due to phenomena such as El Niño.
How does El Niño affect the climate in Lima?
During El Niño episodes, temperatures in Lima can rise and heavy rainfall is more likely. This can result in flooding and landslides in and around the city.

Discovering the climate of Lima

The climate of Lima is a reflection of its unique location and proximity to both the Andes mountain range and the Pacific Ocean. This mix of factors results in a subtropical climate with mild but noticeable seasonal variations.

Moderate temperatures, low rainfall, and the influence of weather phenomena such as El Niño make Lima's climate fascinating and worth exploring. If you plan to visit this city, be sure to prepare for its changing weather and enjoy all the experiences it offers in every season of the year.

Best Tours in Peru

Many are the routes that take you to Machu Picchu, but none is like the Inca Trail Tours, the most famous pedestrian path in the Americas. After flying from the capital of Perú, Lima, you will arrive in Cusco to walk for four days along a path through forests and dense fog, millenary stone steps and discovering the ruins of ancient fortifications and Inca cities, and all the time enjoying majestic views.

Inca Trail, Machu Picchu and more

If you want to visit Machu Picchu, we recommend you to book your Machu Picchu Ticket in advance, so you will enjoy your Vacation in Machu Picchu without any problem.