Lima Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Lima.
Climate overview of Lima
Lima is built on a desert, has a population of more than nine million, and receives hardly any rainfall. According to some studies it is the second driest capital in the world after Cairo (e.g. The National Environmental Council, CONAM). The city gets almost all of its water from the Rio Rimac and two other rivers with sources high in the Andes. Experts warn that increased demand together with climate change and melting tropical glaciers will cause severe water scarcity in Lima already by 2025. So best to be considerate with water when you visit Lima.
When looking at the best time of year to visit Lima it is best to check the temperatures.
Lima Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Lima — and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in Lima
In Lima temperatures are generally consistent throughout the year. Average maximum daytime temperatures range from a comfortable 25°C (77°F) in February, the warmest time of the year, to a pleasant 19°C (66°F) during cooler months like August.
At night, you can expect temperatures ranging from 21°C (70°F) in February to around 15°C (59°F) during August.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Lima
Lima sits in an arid zone with minimal moisture, averaging 197 mm (7.8 in) of rainfall per year. Significant seasonal changes in precipitation occur throughout the year. In the wettest month, February it receives moderate rainfall, averaging 31 mm (1.2 in) of precipitation, recorded across 2 rainy days. In contrast, the driest month April brings less rainfall, with 10 mm (0.4 in) over a single rainy day. For more details, please visit our Lima Precipitation page.
The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow
The average number of days each month with precipitation
Sunshine Hours in Lima
Seasonal changes in sunshine hours are quite dramatic in Lima. While April receives considerable daily sunshine with up to 6.2 hours, July marks the darkest time of the year, where sunshine is scarce with only 1 hour of sunlight per day.
Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.
Monthly hours of sunshine
Daily hours of sunshine
Water Temperature in Lima
The mean water temperature over the year ranges from 16°C (61°F) in September to 22°C (72°F) in February.
Water temperature over the year
Humidity in Lima by Month
The city experiences its highest humidity in April, reaching 85%. In December, the humidity drops to its lowest level at 81%. What does this mean? Read our detailed page on humidity levels for further details.
Relative humidity over the year
Wind Speed in Lima
The mean wind speed varies between 2 m/s (4 knots) and 3 m/s (6 knots) throughout the year. It is lowest in May, June and July and highest during January, February, March, April, August, September, October, November and December. What does this mean?
The mean monthly wind speed over the year (meters per second)
Best Time to Visit Lima
This remarkable weather stability means there's no "bad" time to visit. Every month offers good conditions for being outdoors and exploration. Seeking the perfect travel destination for this year? We've created a tool that suggests locations matching your desired weather. Let our weather planner guide your travel decisions.
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Lima
What is the best time to visit Lima?
Lima has a distinct dry season from January to December.
What temperatures can I expect in Lima?
Daytime highs range from 19°C (66°F) in August to 25°C (77°F) in February. Nighttime lows range from 15°C (59°F) to 21°C (70°F). Temperatures stay relatively stable year-round.
How much rain does Lima get?
Annual rainfall is around 197 mm (7.8 in). February is the wettest month with 31 mm (1.2 in), while April is the driest with 10 mm (0.4 in).
How sunny is Lima?
Lima receives around 1,238 hours of sunshine per year. April is the sunniest month with 185 hours, while July is the cloudiest with just 30 hours.
Lima 3-Day Forecast
Lima 3-Day Forecast
Lima on the map
Lima is highlighted — select any city to see its climate.
Popular this month
Where to go in June — average daytime high across popular destinations.
Iquitos
30°C (86°F) Trujillo
23°C (73°F) Lima21°C (70°F) Arequipa
19°C (66°F) Puno16°C (61°F) Machu Picchu
15°C (59°F) Cusco15°C (59°F) Urubamba13°C (55°F) 
Bucket list
Need travel inspiration? Check out our bucket list articles and be inspired.
Visit the Rainbow Mountains
The Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) is acolored rainbow mountain that will steal your heart forever and the view from the top will take your breath away.
"The other" Machu Picchu: the Inca City of Choquequirao
Discover Choquequirao, the hidden Inca city near Cusco. Hike through stunning landscapes and explore ancient ruins with fewer crowds than Machu Picchu.
Hike the inca Trail
Few walking tours speak so much to the imagination as the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. The tour leads through beautiful mountain landscapes and it is called the 'Royal Highway'
The Inkaterra Reserva Amazonica
One of your highlights during a trip in Peru might be this eco-luxury lodge in front of the Madre de Dios River, called Inkaterra Reserva Amazonica.