• 514 views
  • ~ mins read

Since some of Peru’s most popular hiking trails are closed due to rain in February, this month is the best time to hit off the beaten tracks and explore the country’s hidden gems. Escape the capital to embark on a trip through lesser-known trails across the country. Take a cable car to the ruins of Kuelap Fortress, considered to be a religious center of the Chachapoyas people, or head for the arid Arequipa, which offers perfect mountain-biking conditions. For those interested in nature, there is Gocta Waterfall, while those into culture and history will feel at home among the mummified remains of the Leymebamba Museum.

Absolutely incredible
  • Douglas Lewns
5 - Excellent
“I went on Salkantay Trek and the experience was absolutely incredible. Our guide, Edw...” Read More
View Incredible Tours in Peru

Peru Weather in February

Giant otter standing on log in the Peruvian Amazonian jungle at Madre de Di
The Amazon has the largest rainforest and river system and the most biologically diverse place on the planet.
Scenery in Lima, Peru
Lima is a part of an elaborate ecosystem that includes the Chillón, Lurín, and Rímac Rivers and has a scenic view of the Pacific Ocean.

Weather conditions across Peru vary from region to region throughout the year. For instance, February is the height of the rainy season in the Sacred Valley and the Andean highlands. Temperatures around Machu Picchu remain moderately hot during this time of year, with average highs of 28°C and lows of 13°C. Paracas, on the southern coast of Peru, experiences very little rainfall in February and see a maximum daytime temperature of 27°C. On the other hand, there is frequent rainfall in the Amazon, causing water levels to rise. If you are heading for Manu and its periphery, expect approximately 27 days of rain and an average temperature of 28°C in February.

For a seasonal overview, check out our travel guide on the best time to visit Peru.

Weather in Peru in February - Rainfall and Temperatures

JanFebMar
Avg Daily (°C)252525
Avg Nightly (°C)202121
Avg Daily (°F)777777
Avg Nightly (°F)687070
Avg Rainfall (mm)343

Why Visit Peru in February

Church of the Immaculate Conception, Peru
The Immaculate Conception Cathedral is a prominent Catholic temple in the department of Ucayali in Peru.

In addition to exploring most of the country’s highlights, a trip to Peru in February allows you to participate in local festivals and go on a challenging hike in the Andes. There are plenty of things you can do in Peru at this time of year. We have listed a few of them below.

  • Coastal getaways: In addition to beaches, Trujillo offers a host of must-see attractions and activities. Drive to Huanchaco if you wish to relax on the sand or travel three miles south to visit pre-Incan archaeological sites. The Temple of the Sun and Moon is the most prominent attraction of the area. The other popular beach destination worth including in your itinerary is the coastal hamlet of Punta Sal.
  • Alternatives to Inca Trail: Although the Inca Trail is closed in February, you can still hike through the less-trodden Salkantay or Lares trails. Salkantay trek is the ideal choice for those who love challenges, while Lares trek takes you to higher altitudes, past remote highland villages.
  • Festivities: Celebrate the Festival of the Virgin of Candelaria if you happen to be in Puno in February. Cheerful processions march to the sound of music across the city during this festival. Carnivals are also celebrated across Peru during this month with parties, dances, and water balloons.

Where to go and what to do

Rocky beach in Huarmey, Ancach region, Peru
Huarmey is gaining the attention of visitors and establishing itself as a must-visit destination in Peru.

From coastal strips and islands to mountainous terrain and rainforests, Peru offers a wide range of destinations for visitors to explore. Sail in the oxbow lakes of the Amazon or cruise down the Manu River during your stay in the rainforest. Since February is a high-water month in the Amazon, you can discover places that are otherwise inaccessible.

This is also an ideal month to soak up the sun on the Peruvian coastline. And with some of the most popular beaches across the country located just south of Lima, finding one is not an issue. Further south from the capital city is Paracas National Reserve, home to towering sand dunes and pristine beaches. It takes around four hours by bus to reach the nature reserve from Lima. Paracas is also the gateway to the Ballestas Islands, which are home to a wealth of wildlife and marine life. Set aside a day for wildlife-watching and feast your eyes on sea lions, pods of dolphins, and migrating humpback whales.

For more information on places to visit in Peru, check out our travel guide on how many days to spend in Peru.

What to bring

Waterfall in Peru
The Peruvian Amazon offers opportunities for adventure, fishing, hiking, wildlife spotting, and many other activities.
Caballitos de totora on the beach of Huanchaco, in Peru
Locals in Huanchaco Beach still use traditional reed boats for fishing. 

The sun shines with its full might over coastal areas across Peru in February. We recommend packing sunscreen with high UV protection to bask in the sun. As for the Andean highlands, carry waterproof gear and shoes that can withstand slippery conditions. Be extra cautious in the Amazon if you have not had malaria shots.

Soaring summer temperatures and numerous outdoor activities await travelers heading for Peru in February. For a customized tour to Peru, feel free to reach out to our local travel experts in Peru! For instant inspiration, check out our trips to Peru in February.

More Information

Published by Will Cooper, updated on August 7, 2023

Related Articles

Plan a trip to PeruWe offer different tour types. You can also chat with a local travel specialist if you want a customized tour to Peru.
  • Erik Krause
    Erik KrauseTravel Expert in Peru
  • James Mackender
    James MackenderTravel Expert in Peru
  • Liz Herrera
    Liz HerreraTravel Expert in Peru
Our travel experts are recommended by:
  • BBC
  • Independent
  • Lonely Planet
0 COMMENTSWe welcome your questions or comments to this article. Our travel experts will respond within 48 hours.