South America · December
Best time to visit Peru in December 🇵🇪
December in Peru is shoulder season — mixed conditions. a shoulder-season pick — quieter and cheaper, but expect mixed weather or a few closures.
Peru year at a glance
The absolute peak months for Peru are April, May, June, July, August, September, October. December is a solid shoulder choice if you want fewer crowds.
What Peru is like in December
Highlands & Machu Picchu: dry May–Sep best, wettest Jan–Mar. Inca Trail closed February. Amazon: lower water Jun–Oct, flooded Dec–May.
Insider tip
Reserve Inca Trail permits 4–6 months ahead — daily caps fill fast.
December by region in Peru
Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu
shoulderDry May–Sep. Inca Trail closed Feb.
Amazon (Iquitos, Madre de Dios)
goodHigh water Dec–May (boat access); low water Jun–Oct (more trails, wildlife).
Lima & Pacific coast
bestSunny Dec–Apr; grey & misty Jun–Oct.
Where to go in December instead
Thailand in December
A tale of two coasts and three seasons.
Philippines in December
7,000 islands, one dry season.
Cambodia in December
Cool & dry for Angkor.
Laos in December
Mekong country, cool dry winters.
UAE in December
Desert winters are magical; summers brutal.
Switzerland in December
Two seasons, both spectacular.