Peru in December 2025: Ideal Beach Holiday Time

Peru in December enters the summer and wet season and features warmer temperatures and frequent showers, especially in the Andes and the Amazon Rainforest. The month is overall a part of the low tourist season. The guide will tell you the weather, cost, crowds, and incredible highlights of destinations, activities, and festivals. Essential tips are also given to ensure your smooth trip to Peru.

December - Best Time for a Beach Holiday

December marks the onset of summer along Peru's coast and the official start of the country's beach season, which enjoys warmer temperatures at 22°C to 28°C with favorably sunny days and big waves, making it perfect for travelers who are taking the holidays for beach sunbathing and surfing.

There are many ideal destinations for beach relaxation, like Paracas, Chicama, and Máncora. Among the sites, Máncora is a hotspot for sun-seeking, pristine golden sand, and a mix of laid-back and vibrant vibes of relaxation and parties.

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Peru Weather in December

Peru's weather in December is generally warmer (with average temperatures ranging from 16℃ to 26℃) and rainy a lot, marking the beginning of summer and the rainy season.

The weather this month is excellent for coastal resorts and beaches. In coastal regions like Lima, Máncora, and Paracas, December brings warm, dry, and sunny days, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C. The closer to the north, the warmer the weather is.

In Andean and highland regions, temperatures will be milder, averaging 13℃ (nights can be a bit cool), and rain will increase a lot (especially in the afternoon), including places such as Cusco or Machu Picchu. While cities like Arequipa may see less frequent rainfall during the month.

The Amazon Rainforest will experience hot, humid, and rainy weather, where temperatures can reach 23℃ to 32℃. You may experience more rain showers and a humid atmosphere in places like Iquitos, Tarapoto, and Puerto Maldonado.

Although the weather varies significantly across regions this month, whether it is a good time to visit or not is determined by your personal preferences, which include everything from beach vacations to active participation in festivals, hiking for lusher vegetation, and exploring less crowded historical sites.

Map of Peru's Weather in December

Cost & Crowd of Visiting Peru in December

December is one of the busiest months for holidays in Peru. The increasingly warm temperatures and dramatic festive mood are big draws for visitors. It is overall in its high tourist season. But with its own set of considerations regarding locations, regional weather, and events, December is also a mixed season to specify different levels of cost and crowd:

Early December:

The early period of the month generally attracts fewer tourists due to increasing rain throughout Peru's most areas and before-holiday business at work. You can expect potentially lower prices for flights, accommodation, and tours. Travel agencies, hotels, or attractions may offer a good discount and promotion during early December.

Late December (Christmas and New Year):

Some major festivals like Christmas and New Year take place in late December. This period is a busy time for vacation for both local and international tourists. Popular spots like Cusco, Machu Picchu, and Lima and beach destinations like Máncora and Punta Sal will see a significant rise in tourists.

International and domestic flights charge a higher price. Hotels and tours in popular areas often increase their rates, especially during the holidays. Besides, accommodation, flights, and attraction tickets will be fully booked, so it's advisable to make reservations well in advance to avoid price hikes.

Where to Go in December in Peru

Cusco:

Cusco Cathedral

Cusco is a year-round tourist city in Peru, and December is no exception. Although it will encounter a high possibility of rainfall at the start of the wet season, Cusco is still impressive with festive celebrations and stunning mountain scenery.

The city will host many vibrant festivals in December. You can watch fantastic street processions with Incan traditions during the Inmaculada Concepcion on December 8th. Spend a day enjoying various exquisite handicrafts in the Santuranticuy market on December 24. You can expect busy parties and magnificent fireworks in the famous Inca ruins during Christmas and New Year's Eve.

For nature seekers, the Andean highlands in nearby Cusco offer less crowded trekking paths and beautiful scenery of lush green flora and wildflowers thanks to the rain.

Paracas National Reserve:

Sea Lions in Paracas National Reserve

Paracas National Reserve is located on the far southern coast that boasts incredible marine life, sand dunes, and seductive beaches. The warm and sunny weather in December provides excellent conditions for beach activities and wildlife viewing.

You can take a leisurely sunbath or play with the desert scene. If you're a wildlife lover, it's a real hit to take a boat trip around the reserve for sea life observation. You have great chances to catch a clear glimpse of penguins, sea lions, and diverse bird species like flamingos and pelicans with pleasant weather.

Máncora:

Beach in Mancora

Mancora in December is a hotspot for locals and holidaymakers to hit the beaches. With warm temperatures and sunny skies alike, Mancora has some wonderful beaches to unwind, such as Playa Mancora, Playa Arenillas, and Playa Las Pocitas.

You can find bustling restaurants, lively bars, shops, cafes, and indigenous markets that cater to everything you want. The town's nightlife is buzzing with beer parties and celebrated activities, especially on Christmas and New Year's.

The ideal waves also make Mancora a popular surfing destination in December. There is a range of thrilling surfing programs for both beginners and experienced surfers. For another adventure, you can go on a boat ride for whale and sea turtle watching.

Huaraz:

Huascarán National Park

If you decide on an exclusive trekking journey to the Andean mountains, Huaraz is a must-list choice to meet your preferences in December. The frequent rainfall this month may challenge the trekking in the city, but it generally does in the morning.

The mountain landscapes are very quiet and amazingly green thanks to the rain. You can engage in some popular treks like Santa Cruz Trek and Laguna 69, holding eye-catching views of lush valleys, turquoise lakes, and snow-capped peaks. You can also go mountaineering to breathtaking peaks like Ishinca, Tocllaraju, or Pisco.

What to Do to Visit Peru in December

Cycling Along the Malecón de Miraflores

Cycling Along the Malecón de Miraflores

Lima experiences agreeable weather in December, so it's very suitable for cycling along the Malecón de Miraflores to capture the city's coastal images and culture. This scenic clifftop walkway extends far, six miles.

Along the route, there are plenty of landmarks and highlights to discover. You can stop at one park and keep an eye out for different sculptures and flower gardens. Then the Larcomar Shopping Center is a wonderful, relaxing site for eating, bowling, film watching, and the like. Don't miss the landmark of the Lighthouse of Miraflores, a blue and white striped cylindrical tower that is nice to make a photo Instagram-worthy. The final highlight of the cycling should be the Villena Rey Bridge, where you can admire an idyllic picture of the gently blue coastline meeting the cute, green hillsides.

Visit Machu Picchu

The Sun Light on Machu Picchu

Speaking of Cusco, Machu Picchu also gains substantial attention for its photo opportunities and Inca sites. The place is mild all day and receives rain downpours in December. Despite the rain, it is still worth a visit.

The rain-related mist the sun pokes through creates unique light for shutterbugs taking a classic shot of the green landscapes. You can hike into the lush scenery and spot wide species of flora like lilies and orchids. Besides nature views, the ancient Inca ruins in Machu Picchu are ideally less crowded if you prefer not a busy environment for your cultural exploration.

Enjoy a Food Tour in Lima

Food in Peru

If you're a food lover, don't miss taking a food tour in Lima. The city gives a remarkable variety of Peru's dishes, drinks, and fruits. You also will find some incredible cuisines that blend indigenous bases with Spanish, African, Asian, and other international influences. You can sample iconic Peruvian dishes and drinks: ceviche, lomo saltado, and pisco sour.

While enjoying, you may learn about Lima's diverse gastronomy and the cultural roots behind each local delicacy and also have chances to join in the making of these unique dishes. The tour will guide you to try different flavors, from world-famous ceviche to hearty stews, rich ingredients, and sweet treats, offering a memorable culinary experience in Lima.

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Go Surfing

December brings some good waves along the coastline of Peru with pleasantly warm water and sunny weather. Peru has many destinations for your surfing needs. The hotspots include Lima, Cabo Blanco, Chicama, and Máncora.

Different surf schools offer surf lessons for people of all ages and abilities. If you're a beginner, you can go kiteboarding and play with warm, consistent swells. It is a must-try for experienced surfers to take part in local high-profile surfing competitions. There are different levels of surf sports that cater to what you learn, and you just enjoy the thrill of it in a relaxed vibe.

Surfing in Peru

Peru's Festivals and Events in December

Santuranticuy Festival

Santuranticuy, which means "selling of saints," is a notable festival held in Cusco's Plaza de Armas. This is a magic traditional market about handicrafts. Every year on December 24, a lot of artisans from across the region come to show their amazing technical skill and creativity.

You can enjoy a wide range of unique crafts. The highlights include intricately crafted figurines of the Holy Family, shepherds, angels, animals, and other forms, and beautiful Andean touches like llamas and condors, as well as some exquisite handmade pottery, textiles, jewelry, and other crafts. You can also try typical Peruvian holiday treats like panettone (sweet bread), hot chocolate, and empanadas while at the market.

Inmaculada Concepción

The Feast of the Immaculate Conception is a national religious holiday that is celebrated on December 8th each year. In honor of the Virgin Mary, many regions across Peru host spectacular street processions around their local church.

You can see the colorful processions blended with indigenous traditional dances and music, such as the Marinera or Huayno in Lima, Cusco, or Arequipa. During the holiday, you can come to open fairs and markets to pick out local specialties, crafts, and religious items. The night will be vibrant with brilliant fireworks.

Christmas Eve and Christmas Day

As a national holiday, Christmas Day in Peru has been fused with indigenous traditions. The whole region is stunning with lively festivities. It is a common sight that churches and other public areas are delighting with traditional dances and plays.

On Christmas Eve, you can enjoy the remarkable fireworks and join in the hopping markets. It's exciting to exchange gifts with locals and expect the midnight gift-opening sessions. On Christmas Day, it's about the feast including hot chocolate, panettone, roast turkey, and lechón, each of which definitely irritates your taste bud.

Tips for Traveling to Peru in December

Pack Accordingly

• For coastal regions, it's suitable to pack lightweight and breathable clothing, as well as swimwear and sunscreen, allowing for sunny and warm conditions.
• In the highlands, the temperatures are mild and rain is substantial, so rain gear is a must, including waterproof jackets and well-knit hiking shoes. Also bring layers in case of significant temperature changes.
• The jungle is hot, humid, and rainy. You should wear light and breathable clothing and take rain gear and insect repellent.
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Plan Ahead

December is peak tourist season in Peru, especially around Christmas and New Year's. Book accommodations, flights, and tours in advance to secure availability and avoid inflated prices, especially for late December.

Stay Informed

During the start of the rainy season, the weather will still keep changing in December. Rain showers are more likely to occur in the afternoon, particularly in the Andes and Amazon, so keep updated on weather conditions to adjust travel plans as needed.

Prepare for Altitude

If you're planning to visit high-altitude destinations like Cusco, Machu Picchu, or Lake Titicaca, give yourself some time to get used to the high altitude before beginning strenuous excursions.

Your Peru Vacation Starts Here

The country in December is vibrant with warmth and festivities. It is nice to embark on the journey of a lifetime and discover the magic of Peru, from seeing the brilliant nature in the Andes and the Amazon to soaking in beach fun on the coast. Book your vacation journey with Odynovo. You will enjoy travel arrangements that meet your individual requirements.