July falls during the high travel season in Peru. It’s also high travel season in Europe and North America, which means that many Peruvian cities are filled with travelers from all over the world and the airfare tends to be quite high. But it’s also the best time to explore the jungle or climb a mountain. Of course, everyone wants to visit Machu Picchu now, so expect the site to be crowded, as well.
Weather
Weather in Peru depends on the region you are visiting. July in the mountain highlands (such as Cusco) falls during the dry season with hot and dry days. The nights are also dry but cold, with temperatures just above freezing.
On the cost (such as Lima), while it’s not very warm, it’s still possible to swim (especially on the northern beaches).
In the jungle, July falls during the dry season , with temperatures averaging 30-35C, which means it’s the best time to visit this area.
Sample temperatures:
Arequipa avg high 20C ; avg low 7C
Cuzco avg high 18C; avg low 1C
Lima avg high 20C; avg low 15C
Flights and accommodation in July
July falls during the high season, so it only makes sense to expect the prices for both airfare and accommodation to be quite high. Everyone travels to Peru during this time of the year, so Cusco and Machu Picchu tend to be overcrowded. Plan your vacation in advance.
What to do
Just like June, July is also one of the best times to head to the Jungle. So if you have jungle trekking on your mind or want to see the birds nesting, now it’s your chance to do make it happen. During the dry season, the rivers are low , therefore the beaches are exposed. And you don’t have to deal with too many mosquitoes.
You can also visit the mountainous region. Spend some time in the city of Cusco and take a day trip to the Pisac Market, which is a short car ride from Cusco . On Sundays you’ll be delighted to find excellent handicrafts here and it will be a good chance to pick up some souvenirs for those at home.
If you like climbing, then tackle El Misti . You don’t need special if you do this hike in July. Be careful to adjust to the high altitude though (2 days and 1 night is recommended for the hike). Make your base in Arequipa and explore the city before hiking El Misti.
Visiting Machu Picchu is the pinnacle of any trip to Peru. The best time to visit Machu Picchu is between April and October , but most of the visitors tend to come here between June and August. Which means it’s going to be crowded. Try the approach via the Inca Trail , which is not an easy thing to do, but it’s the most rewarding option.
You might also want to visit Lake Titicaca. Thankfully the environment is control and there’s no hotel in sight…so you are left with staying with the families. That’s a lovely way to learn more about the culture and try the local foods.
If you are not into bizarre food – so you’ll probably skip the fried guinea pigs – then ceviche is a good choice. It is the national fish of Peru and contains raw fish bits marinated in lemon (or lime). Onions, herbs and hot pepper can also be added to the mix.
Don’t miss checking out Lima and then you can also plan to see the Nazca Lines from above. Tours leave from Pisco and Ica.
Should you have beaches on your mind, head to the northern beaches. You can swim or surf here.