Yes, you can go to Peru in December. However, it is important to note that December falls under the wet season in many parts of the country, so be prepared for occasional rain showers and plan your activities accordingly.
A more thorough response to your inquiry
Yes, you can definitely visit Peru in December. While it is true that December falls under the wet season in many parts of the country, it does not mean that you won’t have a great time. In fact, visiting Peru during this time can offer unique experiences and incredible adventures.
Here are some interesting facts about Peru in December:
-
Weather: December is part of the rainy season, particularly in the Andes and the Amazon regions. However, the weather can vary greatly depending on the specific location you plan to visit. Coastal areas, such as Lima, experience a mild summer during this time with temperatures ranging from the 60s to 70s Fahrenheit (15-25 degrees Celsius).
-
Festivals: December offers an opportunity to experience the vibrant festive spirit in Peru. One of the most popular celebrations is Christmas, which is widely celebrated throughout the country. Peruvians celebrate with fireworks, music, dances, and elaborate nativity scenes called “nacimientos.” The city of Cusco also celebrates the Festival of the Sun (Inti Raymi) on December 24th, honoring the Inca sun god.
-
Machu Picchu: December is considered a shoulder season for visiting Machu Picchu, meaning it’s less crowded compared to the peak tourist months. While there may be occasional rain showers, it can also bring a sense of mystique to the ancient ruins. Just make sure to pack appropriate rain gear and be prepared for some slippery trails.
-
Wildlife: The wet season in the Amazon rainforest brings lush vegetation and increased wildlife activity. This can be an excellent time to explore the diverse flora and fauna of the region. You might spot colorful birds, monkeys, and even jaguars during your jungle excursions.
-
Food: December is a great time to indulge in Peruvian cuisine. From savory dishes like ceviche and lomo saltado to sweet treats like picarones and panettone (a traditional Christmas cake), the culinary scene in Peru is sure to delight your taste buds.
As the famous travel writer Paul Theroux once said, “Tourists don’t know where they’ve been; travelers don’t know where they’re going.” So embrace the adventure and immerse yourself in the beauty and cultural richness of Peru, even in December!
Here’s a table to summarize the key points:
| Fact | Information |
|---|---|
| Weather | December is part of the rainy season, but weather can vary by region |
| Festivals | Christmas celebrations with fireworks and nativity scenes. Cusco’s Festival of the Sun |
| Machu Picchu | Shoulder season, less crowded. Rain may add a mystical touch. |
| Wildlife | Wet season in the Amazon brings lush vegetation and increased wildlife activity. |
| Food | Indulge in delicious Peruvian cuisine, including festive treats like panettone. |
So don’t let the occasional rain showers deter you from exploring and experiencing the wonders of Peru in December. With adequate preparation and an open mind, you can have a memorable and enriching journey.
In this video, you may find the answer to “Can I go to Peru in December?”
This video provides a 10-day travel itinerary for exploring Peru. The journey begins in Cusco, where the speaker suggests acclimating to the altitude and exploring the city’s attractions. They then move on to indulge in Peruvian cuisine by visiting the San Pedro Market and attending a cooking class. The next stop is the Sacred Valley, where they stay at the unique Star Lodge with its hanging cliffside pods. Despite unexpected challenges like long walks and disrupted plans due to protests, they manage to explore ancient ruins and hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. The trip concludes with relaxation at a spa in Cusco and souvenir shopping before heading home. Despite the setbacks, the overall experience is described as insane and unforgettable.
See more possible solutions
December to February can be the best time of year to visit Peru if you are travelling to the coastal regions, especially in the north.
In addition, people are interested
Although the weather is moderate year-round (especially north of Lima), the water and air temperatures are noticeably more pleasant for swimming. In addition, the fog that settled over Lima for much of the year finally disperses in December.