Planning a vacation to Peru in April? Here’s everything you need to know

Traveling to Peru in April? Find out more about Peru’s weather, prices, and what to expect during the shoulder tourist season in April.

Peru in April is a sublime month to travel to, so you made the right choice!

During this month, Peru experiences the tail end of summer, leading to pleasant temperatures perfect for exploration.

Rainfall subsides in the Sacred Valley, revealing lusher landscapes and making it an ideal time for trekking to Machu Picchu.

Additionally, local festivals in Peru in April, such as Semana Santa (Holy Week), offer a unique insight into Peru’s rich cultural tapestry.

As crowds are thinner than the peak tourist months, visitors can intimately connect with Peru’s historical sites, vibrant traditions, and breathtaking terrains, ensuring an unforgettable journey.

🙋 Is April a good month to visit Peru?

ABSOLUTELY! April is an excellent month to visit Peru.

This period marks the transition from summer to the onset of winter, resulting in moderate temperatures conducive to sightseeing and outdoor activities.

As the heavy rains from the wet season taper off, landscapes flourish, turning more verdant and picturesque, especially in the Sacred Valley.

This provides trekkers with an opportune window to journey to iconic sites like Machu Picchu, with less muddy trails and captivatingly lush views.

Furthermore, Peru in April witnesses local festivities, most notably Semana Santa (Holy Week), giving travelers a firsthand experience of the country’s deep-rooted cultural traditions.

This ensures less crowded attractions and a more immersive experience. With a blend of favorable weather, cultural immersion, and manageable tourist influx, Peru in April is a prime month to visit.

💡 Tip: An added advantage of visiting in April is the relatively fewer tourists, compared to the peak tourist months.

🌡️ Weather in Peru in April

Peru’s diverse geography divides it into three distinct areas, and each has its own unique climate in April:

Lima and the Coast

This region experiences a mild, humid climate in Peru in April. Temperatures range from around 19°C (66°F) in the early mornings and evenings to 25°C (77°F) during the daytime.

It’s usually overcast, with the “garúa” (a misty drizzle) starting to form, especially in the mornings and evenings.

Cusco, Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu

Peru in April is a transitional month from the wet to the dry season. Temperatures in Cusco hover between 7°C (45°F) at night to 20°C (68°F) during the day.

The Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu tend to be slightly warmer but can also experience sporadic showers.

Arequipa and Lake Titicaca

The climate here is generally drier. Temperatures range from 5°C (41°F) at night to 21°C (70°F) in the day. Days are mostly clear, with chilly nights.

Iquitos and Puerto Maldonado

As one of the rainiest parts of the country, the Amazon rainforest can still receive rainfall in April, though it’s declining. Humidity remains high.

Temperatures can be quite warm, ranging from 20°C (68°F) at night to 30°C (86°F) during the day.

💡 April is generally a transitional month in Peru. While the coastal region starts experiencing its misty conditions, the highlands move towards the dry season, and the rainforest witnesses declining rainfall.

🥵 Humidity in Peru in April

Areas like Lima and the surrounding coast experience high humidity levels in Peru in April. The coastal region often feels muggy due to the “garúa” (a misty drizzle), even if temperatures are relatively mild.

Humidity levels can easily reach upwards of 80%.

Places like Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu have moderate humidity in April.

Although this region sees a decrease in rainfall as it transitions from the wet to the dry season, there can still be occasional showers, leading to temporary spikes in humidity.

However, the Andean Highlands are not as humid as the coast.

The Amazon region, including Iquitos and Puerto Maldonado, is highly humid throughout the year, including in April.

Despite decreasing rainfall this month, humidity levels remain very high, often exceeding 90%.

☔ Rain in Peru in April

The coastal areas, including Lima, generally do not experience heavy rain.

These regions are characterized by “garúa,” a misty drizzle, especially in the mornings and evenings. While it contributes to high humidity, it’s not considered heavy rainfall.

April is a transitional month in places like Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu. While they move towards the dry season, occasional heavy rainouts can still occur, especially in early April.

As the month progresses, the chance of heavy rainfall decreases, and showers become lighter and less frequent.

The Amazon region, including Iquitos and Puerto Maldonado, can experience heavy rain in April, though it’s less intense and frequent than in peak rainy months.

This region is the most likely to see substantial rain during the month.

While lighter rain and drizzles can occur, the norm is more intense rainfall, albeit reduced from the peak rainy season.

📍 Places to visit in Peru in April

April in Peru has a unique window of opportunity to visit several destinations with favorable weather. Here are the top 5 places to visit:

Machu Picchu

With temperatures ranging from 12°C (54°F) at night to 25°C (77°F) during the day, Machu Picchu provides a pleasant climate for travelers.

The iconic Incan citadel sits high in the Andes, and the month’s moderate weather combined with fewer crowds makes April an ideal time for exploration.

Sacred Valley

Near Cusco, the Sacred Valley experiences temperatures from 7°C (45°F) at night to 20°C (68°F) during the day.

Its rich tapestry of Incan ruins, traditional villages, and picturesque landscapes look even more inviting under the mild sun of April.

Arequipa & Colca Canyon

Arequipa enjoys a drier climate with temperatures between 10°C (50°F) at night and 23°C (73°F) during the day.

The “White City” and the nearby Colca Canyon, one of the world’s deepest canyons, are both radiant in this month’s soft sunlight.

Trujillo & Chan Chan

Trujillo, on the northern coast, has temperatures from 16°C (61°F) to 24°C (75°F).

The mild and sunny climate makes it perfect for exploring the ancient city of Chan Chan and immersing oneself in Trujillo’s colonial charm.

Paracas & the Ballestas Islands

Paracas experiences a mild coastal climate with temperatures ranging between 18°C (64°F) at night to 25°C (77°F) during the day.

Boat tours around the Ballestas Islands and explorations in the Paracas National Reserve become even more enjoyable with the conducive weather.

🎉 Events and festivals in Peru in April

April is a significant month for Peru in terms of cultural and religious events. Here are the top five major events suitable for travelers:

Semana Santa (Holy Week)

Semana Santa is one of the most celebrated religious events in Peru. Lasting a week, it commemorates the Passion, Death, and Resurrection of Jesus Christ.

The cities of Cusco and Ayacucho are particularly known for their elaborate processions and traditions. Travelers can witness ornate floats, traditional Andean religious music, and devotees dressed in penitential robes.

The Good Friday procession in Cusco, where the Black Christ is paraded through the streets, is especially moving.

Pascua (Easter Sunday)

Celebrated nationwide, Pascua marks the resurrection of Jesus. Towns and cities hold festive Masses, and it’s customary to feast on dishes like “empanadas” and “panetón.”

The event blends Catholic traditions and indigenous influences, offering travelers a unique insight into Peru’s cultural mosaic.

Día del Niño Peruano (Peruvian Children’s Day)

Taking place on the second Sunday of April, this day celebrates the importance of children in Peruvian society.

Events like parades, games, and performances are organized in parks and public spaces.

It’s a vibrant event that offers travelers a chance to engage with local communities and experience the joyous atmosphere.

Anniversary of the Battle of Junín

Celebrated on April 6th, this event commemorates a decisive battle in Peru’s struggle for independence from Spanish rule.

While not as festively celebrated as other holidays, it’s an opportunity for travelers to delve into Peru’s rich history.

Museums and historic sites, especially around Junín, host special exhibitions and provide context to the event’s significance.

⁉️ FAQ: April in Peru