Peru in August: Outdoor Activities & Andean Culture

August is during the dry season of Peru, suitable for outdoor activities. No matter if you are interested in hiking in the Andes mountains, or exploring the mysterious Inca ruins on a sunny day under the clear blue sky, August is the perfect time. Check this ultimate guide for your Peru tour in August and make the journey smooth and unforgettable.

Peru's Weather in August

August is during the dry season in Peru, offering a mild temperature and almost no rain. Due to the different landscapes, Peru has three distinct climate zones. The weather might be totally different in different parts at the same time. Check the following information for further information.

Map of Peru's Weather in August

The Southern Coastal Areas

The average temperature of the coastline in Southern Areas is between 15°C to 18°C. During this month, most beach towns, including Mancora, Paracas, and more, have mild and sunny weather. This month, it might be foggy during the daytime, especially in Lima and the surrounding areas.

The Andean or Highland Zone

It is windy and dry during August in the Andean zone. The temperature in the daytime can arrive at 20°C and at night will be as low as 2°C. The temperature varies in this region depending on the altitude. Perfect for hiking the Inca Trails and exploring Machu Picchu because of the coolness and clear sky.

The Amazon Rainforest

In the eastern area, including the Amazon Rainforest, the weather is humid and warm. August will be the month with the least amount of rain in this area. The average temperature is from 19°C to 32°C. It is perfect for exploring the Amazon Rainforest and observing the plants and animals.

Crowds & Cost

August in Peru is the busiest time for travelers to explore the Andes mountains and historical sites. This month is during the peak season, so there will be amounts of travelers visiting this wonderful destination. Hot attractions such as Machu Picchu, Cusco, and Sacred Valley will be crowded. If you are planning to hike the Inca Trail, remember to book in advance for at least 6 months, cause it is really popular. Due to the high demand, you may cost more for your Peru tour in August, including the prices of flights, accommodations, transportation, etc.

Where to Go in August

Colca Canyon

Colca Canyon

During August, the weather is great for hiking to Colca Canyon. It is one of the deepest canyons in the world, providing beautiful landscapes and exciting activities for you. You can not only see the Andean plains but also the lush green valley. There are a lot of interesting small villages for you to learn more about Inca culture while hiking to the canyon. Moreover, the pre-Inca agricultural terraces carved into the hillsides are another attraction.

Usually, you can see the condors flying high above the canyon this month. The best time to see condors in Colca Canyon is in the early morning, about 8 am to 10 am.

Lima

Main Square of Lima

As the capital of Peru, Lima offers cultural attractions, culinary delights, and historical sites for travelers to explore. Why not take a walk in Lima to meet the locals at vendors and cafes? Or visit the Barranco Craft Market, to find some cute and exquisite souvenirs to buy for your friends and family. It offers you a great opportunity to support the local creative community.

You may also be interested in experiencing the local atmosphere and taking some wonderful photos. Enjoy your romantic time in Lima. Get to the Puente de los Suspiros at sunset, this bridge is a popular spot to watch the sunset.

Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca)

Rainbow Mountain, Peru

August is suitable for hiking Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca). Located in the southeast of Cusco, Rainbow Mountain is about 3 hours and a half drive from Cusco. The weather is cool and dry during August. Moreover, it is windy in August in Cusco and surrounding areas.

When getting to the top of the mountain and appreciating the unique landscape, you will understand why it is called Rainbow Mountain. Capture the wonderful scene with your eyes and heart, and let the mountain heal you.

It may take you 3 to 4 hours to get up the mountain. Way down the mountain might be easier. The altitude will be more than 15000 feet (4572 meters) so be prepared to avoid altitude sickness.

What to See & Do in August

Explore Amazon Rainforest

August is the perfect time to hike the rainforest and observe the animals and plants in Peru. August offers warmer temperatures in the Amazon areas. During this month, we can access lakes, bird and animal clay licks, and hike the jungle path. Offering more fun activities and explorations for us. It is more possible to experience an abundance of bird migration in flight during this month. And we may have more chances to see aquatic wildlife such as anaconda, caiman, river otters, pink dolphins, and arapaima.

Hiking the Andes Mountain

It is perfect to prepare for a hiking tour during August in Peru. You may know the famous Inca Trail, but there are a lot of beautiful and distinctive hiking routes in Peru that provide stunning landscapes. Salkantay Trek and Lares Trek are two of the most popular trekking trails in Peru, both can combine with the Inca Trail. Hiking the Andes Mountains offers diverse landscapes and scenes including snowy peaks, lagoons, and terraces.

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Let's Fly Kites in Cusco

Kite flying is a popular and traditional activity in Cusco. In Sacsayhuaman, August is the month of kites and winds. This is the perfect month to explore the kite culture in Cusco. Starting around 4 PM, there will be a lot of children and families flying kites in the strong wind at Sacsayhuaman.

When the kite flies in the sky, it may evoke a sense of freedom, joy, and connection with the sky. Empty your mind and worries, and see how the kites shape the routes of wind.

Events & Festival

Festival Celebration in Peru

Feast of Santa Rosa de Lima

Celebrating on 30th August annually, the Santa Rosa de Lima Festival is for honoring Peru's first saint, Santa Rosa de Lima. Rosa was known for her extreme devotion to prayer and acts of charity, dedicated herself to helping the poor, the sick, and those who suffering from leprosy.

In Lima, especially in the district named after her, there are elaborate religious processions to this day. People carry statues of Santa Rosa through the streets, accompanied by music, hymns, and crowds of devotees. There are also cultural events, including traditional Peruvian music and dance performances, which blend indigenous, African, and Spanish influences. Indulge in the vibrant atmosphere and enjoy music and dance, you can feel the passion and optimism of the locals.

Festival of San Sebastián in Huamachuco

This festival is celebrated from 20th to 21st August, to memorize Saint Sebastian, a martyr of the early Christian Church. The festival has become an important part of the local cultural identity in Huamachuco, representing the blend of religious and local traditions.

Starting with a solemn mass in the local church. After that, there are parades where men dress up as "caporales" (a traditional role) and women in their finest traditional dresses. They dance through the streets, accompanied by the rhythmic beats of drums and the melodies of flutes. The festival also includes traditional bull-running events, known as "encierros", which are a thrilling and unique part of the celebration, attracting numerous audiences to see and enjoy.

Travel Tips for Traveling to Peru in August

Book Early for Peak Season

As mentioned before, August is the peak season. Please remember to make all reservations in advance. Including tickets for Machu Picchu, permits for the Inca Trail, flights, and accommodations, these should all be booked in advance for a smooth tour.

Dress in Layer

August is cool and cozy, it is during the winter in Peru. No matter you are planning to a hiking or just visit Machu Picchu, you may sweat a lot while walking. Dressing in layers will keep you more flexible in controlling the temperature and always comfortable.

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