Peru in May 2025: Wild Adventure & Nature Embrace

Peru in May is an adventure paradise for your Peru tour. From the ancient streets of Cusco to the Amazon rainforest of Iquitos, every step of the way is full of surprises. Exploring the marine life of the Ballestas Islands, rafting in the Apurimac River, and hiking the spectacular canyons of Corcarabi are all must-see highlights. Let's unveil its magic and charm!

Peru's Weather in May

Map of Peru's Weather in May

Peru has cool weather in May, blue skies, and sunny weather in most areas, with average temperatures of roughly 15 °C to 20 °C. Ancient ruins are revitalized and various activities such as hiking, bird watching and rafting make it a paradise to embrace nature.

The Southern Coastal Areas

Temperatures in May along the southern coast of Peru are around 10 °C to 22 °C, and may be cool in the morning and evening. The Colca Canyon in Arequipa awaits your exploration, and nearby resorts enjoy the healing benefits of hot springs. You can come to Cusco, where the magnificent mountains, lush grass, and flowers embrace you and The ancient city is ready for you to uncover its secrets.

The Andean or Highland Zone

Temperatures are cooler in the Andean region, averaging 7-19°C, and can be even colder at night due to the higher altitude. Visit the famous Pachacamac, energized by waterfalls, lakes, and ancient ruins set against a backdrop of grass and flowers. The National Park in Huanuco embraces vibrant nature, experiencing a variety of outdoor sports such as paragliding and rock climbing amidst breathtaking scenery.

Huanuco

The Amazon Rainforest

Average temperatures in the tropical rainforest region are 23-30°C, with brief showers possible. The right amount of humidity and stable water levels for exploring the rainforest. In Iquitos, the vegetation is lush and the wildlife congregates near the water sources, and you can take a boat ride deep into the rainforest's interior.

Top Places to Visit in May

Cusco

The weather in Cusco in May is cool and pleasant. In May, the city's vegetation begins to turn yellow and red, giving you the feeling of entering a fairytale. You can head to Lake Chilima, an alpine lake in the Andes, surrounded by mountains and a sea of colorful flowers and water that makes you feel like you're in a wonderland. Experience a hike in Urubamba National Park through cloud-covered valleys, taking in magnificent waterfalls, exotic rocks, and lush forests.

Machu Picchu

The weather in Machu Picchu is sunny and stable, with moderate temperatures, perfect for outdoor activities and magnificent natural scenery. The sun of May pours down on the mountains, giving them rich layers of color, ranging from verdant greens to deep blues. May is the season of lush vegetation, and you can see a wide variety of wildflowers in bloom like bluebells. Also, if you're adventurous, you can try to climb the peak of Huanuco, overlooking the entire Machu Picchu and the surrounding mountains.

Machu Picchu

Iquitos

When you arrive in Iquitos in May, the sun is shining and the skies are blue, giving it a peaceful and energizing feel. Traveling through the dense Amazon rainforest, you can see a wide variety of tropical plants and flowers in bloom, such as phoenix flowers and orchids. May is the season of fish migration in the Amazon River, and you can take a tour along the river in a small boat or canoe to witness spectacular scenes of fish jumping and feeding. In addition, the humidity and warmth of May provide ideal conditions for biological activity, and you may see pink porpoises gracefully leaping out of the water as if dancing in the water.

Arequipa

The weather in Arequipa in May is pleasantly warm and sunny with slightly cooler nights. The snow in the Andes begins to melt, creating spectacular glaciers and waterfalls. Climb aboard a hot air balloon and take in the snow-capped mountains and valleys, and feel the freedom and serenity of being above the clouds. Observe condors and other typical highland animals in their natural habitat, including alpacas, biscachas and pumas. The nearby hot springs provide an immersive and relaxing way to unplug and unwind.

Recommended Tour Itinerary

In-Depth Peru Vacation 13 DAYS Explore This Tour

What to See & Do in May

Observe Tremarctos Ornatus

In May, the weather is warm and dry, perfect for outdoor activities and wildlife watching. Deep into nature reserves such as Manu National Park or Huascaran National Park, the huge tall trees are covered with vines and mosses, forming a mysterious green umbrella. The air is humid, the ground is muddy, and puddles and streams are often dotted. You may see male tremarctos ornatus showing their strength and superiority, attracting the attention of females in various ways. The females and cubs forage in trees or bushes and learn survival skills on the ground, where the whole forest is full of vitality.

Birdwatching on Ballestas Islands

May is the breeding season for birds, and the bird activities on Ballestas Island are frequent. You can see Peruvian boobies, Cuanay cormorants, red-legged cormorants and many other birds nesting on the rocks and looking for mates. The steep rocks and the blue waters form a sharp contrast, and the sea around the island sparkles charmingly in the sun. The bird nests on the stones are dense and orderly, creating a sense of natural painting. Soak up the scenery, let the sounds of the waves and birds chirp fill your ears, and feel a natural symphony.

Raft Along the Apurimac River

The Apurimac River has a steady flow, little rainfall, and comfortable temperatures in May, making it suitable for an exciting rafting trip. You will experience the thrill of drifting down the river on a sturdy rubber boat. The scenery on both sides is amazing: waterfalls tumble from great heights, pristine jungles spread along the river banks, and you can often see kingfishers and lively monkeys. This rafting trip is a perfect combination of excitement and natural beauty, making your adventure unforgettable.

Trek the Colca Crayon

Hiking Colca Crayon in May, one is first struck by the steep mountain walls on either side. These walls tower above you and are covered with lush green vegetation and blooming wildflowers such as lavender and tulips. You will traverse steep cliffs and verdant farmlands, soaking up the clear skies above the plateau. If you trek in the morning light, you may even see the Andean lily-of-the-valley bird soaring gracefully through the sky, a sight unique to Colca Canyon. When you feel tired, you can soak in the natural hot springs to relieve your fatigue while looking out over the surrounding canyon scenery.

Colca Crayon

Events & Festivals

Virgen Maria Auxiliadora

Usually celebrated on the second Sunday of May to pray for safety and protection at sea, it is a festival for people offering flowers, candles, and gifts. You can watch the sea races, where the crews need to be flexible to deal with changing sea winds and waves, join the Peruvian people in celebrating the victory, and watch events such as traditional musical performances, dance shows, and fireworks displays. Experience this ancient and exciting scene firsthand by participating in or watching such a race!

Qoyllur Rit'i Festival

The Qoyllur Rit'i festival is usually held at the end of May in the Cusco region, blending indigenous Andean traditions with Catholic influences. You will see pilgrims from different Andean communities performing pilgrimages of various religious rituals, with colorful costumes and traditional dances reflecting the lively atmosphere of its rich cultural heritage. In addition, you will enjoy the pilgrims' tradition of "Ukukus" (Bearmen), participating in candlelight parades that light up the night, and enjoying unique Andean music.

Corpus Christi Festival

The Corpus Christi Festival is celebrated on the ninth Thursday after Easter (usually at the end of May). You'll see local residents perform grand processions and religious ceremonies, carrying richly decorated icons through the streets of the city. In addition to watching the parade, you can also taste traditional dishes specially prepared for the celebration like "Chiriuchu", a typical dish consisting of ingredients such as chicken, seaweed and cheese.

Crowds & Costs

May is a flat season, the vegetation is lush and the weather is mild and pleasant. In contrast to the busy tourist season (June to September), the mountains and canyons in May maintain a peaceful and pristine look without excessive crowds and noises. There are relatively fewer tourists and you can explore the natural scenery more freely and enjoy the quiet time. In addition, airfare and hotel prices are relatively reasonable, offering special deals as tourists have not yet flooded in.

However, during the holiday season, flight and hotel prices may increase. It's advisable to book flights and hotels in advance to avoid inconvenience and extra costs.

Travel Tips for Traveling to Peru in May

Prepare Comfortable and Practical Outfits

Although May is the dry season in Peru, it's recommended to wear suitable clothing for occasional rainfall and weather changes. Bring light clothing such as breathable short-sleeved shirts, t-shirts and shorts, and carry a light jacket or long-sleeved shirt as a precaution against cooling. Also, remember to carry a folding umbrella or waterproof jacket for possible showers.

Carry Sanitary Supplies

May in Peru is a great time to explore nature, but in its wilderness areas, don't forget to bring your own personal hygiene products, such as paper towels and no-rinse alcohol. Many remote areas or nature reserves may have no or very limited public restroom facilities. This can be an inconvenience and requires some adaptability and preparation. Therefore, it's better to carry some paper towels, wipes, hand sanitizer, and other items to keep you clean.

Bring Reusable Water Bottles

With relatively dry weather in May, carrying a reusable water bottle will help you stay hydrated, and reduce the use of single-use plastic bottles. Disposable plastics and other garbage are easily washed into water sources by the wind, harming to water, wildlife, and vegetation. The simple act of carrying a water bottle not only benefits your health but also reduces the impact on the local ecosystem.

Experience the Richness of Peru in May

Peru Discovery With Amazon Rainforest - 10 Days

On this trip, you can go deep into the Amazon rainforest and discover many plants and animals, explore the historic old town of Cusco with a visit to the Cathedral of Cusco, Sacehuaman, the Monastery of Santo Domingo and the Holy Valley, hike the Inca Trail and explore Machu Picchu. In the end, you will find that Peru is an extraordinary travel destination.

History and Food Tour in Peru - 8 Days

This 8-day tour combines fine dining with historical exploration. You will enjoy unique regional cuisine in Lima, Arequipa and Cusco, not only tasting traditional flavors in restaurants, but also creating Pachamanca fests with your own hands under the guidance of chefs. Besides, you'll also visit historical sites such as Machu Picchu, Saxehuaman and Cuenco.