One of the first things to consider on any walking holiday is the weather. While difficult conditions aren’t likely to put off a dedicated walker (and might even be welcomed for the challenge or adrenaline they can bring to a journey), it is important to be able to prepare for any difficulties the weather can pose while walking. Peru is notable for its unpredictable weather, and with such varied geography it can be quite confusing to predict. However, there are some regions that enjoy fairly stable weather, and even in the worst conditions there’s always a chance of sunshine tomorrow while you’re walking Peru.

The coast

From November through to about April, Peru’s coast is gifted with sunny skies, making it an ideal time for journeys to the beach. The winter, usually from May to October, is far cloudier, keeping a lid on the temperature. Visitors in the summer months are advised to prepare for intense heat and take precautions for the sun. However, in the winter months, the middle stretch of the country, ranging along the coast from from Trujillo to Pisco, is home to the phenomenon of ‘cold humidity’, so several layers in anticipation of the chill may prove more trouble than they’re worth while walking. Peru is also prone to the typical sea winds coming off the coast, so preparing for these is important for long journeys.

The mountains

Between the North and South Andes, mountaineers have no end of options while walking. Peru has a dry season in the Southern Andes, generally between April to October, with clear, warm days that rapidly drop, and can plummet to temperatures of around zero degrees at night – important to remember when preparing for a journey over multiple days. In the rainy months, particularly February and March, the temperature isn’t as much of a worry as the rainfall, which can become torrential at times. The Northern Andes possess a similar climate to the mountains further south, but one more mild due to their proximity to the equator and their reduced elevation. But the rainy season in that region is slightly longer, particularly in Chachapoyas, lasting from October to May.

The jungle

Perhaps the areas remaining the most consistent weather-wise are Peru’s jungles, and travellers to the Amazon will be confronted by the fact that the jungle will always be hot and humid! However, it is significantly less humid in the dry season, from April to October, which makes walking Peru a much easier task, especially in the jungle regions. But there is one significant advantage to making your journey in the wet season, as higher water levels mean more of the jungle is accessible by small boats, and this can make long-distance walking much easier, when a journey can be ‘broken’ with quick voyages by boat.

No matter when you arrive and begin walking, Peru has very changeable weather, and it’s best to take clothing and equipment that’s adaptable to different terrain and weather conditions – not just the route and ground you expect to cover.

Author Bio: Tony Maniscalco is the Sales and Marketing Manager for Ramblers Worldwide Holidays. They offer over 250 guided group walking holidays in over 90 different countries. While walking Peru with Ramblers Worldwide Holidays, you will see scenic locations & landscapes at the best value prices.

Category: Travel
Keywords: Walking Peru