- Rain mm/yr
- 95
Updated July 2026 · Sources cited: climatestotravel.com, weather-and-climate.com
Good to know
Good to Know
- Day–night temperature swing is sharp year-round; pack layers and a warm jacket even in warm months—mornings and nights are consistently cool due to altitude and dry air.
- High altitude (2,335 m / 7,645 ft) means sun is intense and UV exposure is significant; sunscreen and hydration are essential even on cool days.
- Rainy season rainfall is sporadic, concentrated in afternoons/evenings; mornings are typically clear, so early-day treks are usually feasible even December–March.
- Arequipa itself rarely experiences snow; snow-watching requires day trips to nearby volcanic peaks (Misti, Chachani) at higher elevations, most accessible June–August.
- Overall one of the most stable, pleasant climates in Peru—less extreme cold than Puno, less fog than Lima, and sunny most of the year compared to Cusco's heavier rainy-season downpours.
Seasons
Dry Season
- Months
- April to November
- Characteristics
- Clear skies, minimal rainfall, low humidity, abundant sunshine. Days warm (16–18°C (64°F) average highs), nights cool (6.7–10.5°C (44–51°F) average lows). Best conditions for outdoor activities and mountain excursions.
Rainy Season
- Months
- December to March
- Characteristics
- Increased cloud cover, sporadic afternoon/evening showers, slight humidity rise. Daytime temperatures 16–20°C (61–68°F), nights 10–10.7°C (51°F). Rainfall concentrated but not intense; intermittent storms rather than continuous rain.
Overview
Subtropical desert mountain climate with consistent mild daytime temperatures year-round, extreme dryness except during a concentrated rainy season, and significant day-night temperature variation due to high altitude (2,335 m).
Rainfall
- Driest Months
- May through October
- Annual Total Mm
- 95
- Driest Month Mm
- 0
- Peak Rainfall Mm
- 35
- Peak Rainfall Month
- February
- Note
- Desert-level precipitation. Rainy season (January–March) accounts for most annual rainfall; rest of year receives virtually no rain.
Snowfall
- City Proper
- None documented in urban Arequipa at 2,335 m elevation.
- Surrounding Peaks
- Snow occurs on nearby volcanic peaks and higher elevations (Misti 5,822 m, Chachani 6,057 m, Coropuna 6,425 m) year-round at summit elevations. Winter months (June–August) may bring fresh snow accumulation on peaks above ~4,000 m in the region; visible from city on clear days.
Best Months
- List
- May, June, July, August, September, October, November
- Rationale
- Dry season offers maximum sunshine, clearest skies, comfortable daytime temps, and ideal conditions for trekking (Colca Canyon, Misti volcano). Visibility for Andean landscapes is excellent.
Temperature
- Annual Range Celsius
- 9–20 overall (9°C (48°F) minimum to 20°C (68°F) maximum at urban elevation)
- Annual Range Fahrenheit
- 9–20 overall (9°C (48°F) minimum to 20°C (68°F) maximum at urban elevation)
Peak Cold
- Months
- June and July
- Average Low Celsius
- 6.7
- Average High Celsius
- 16
- Average Low Fahrenheit
- 44
- Average High Fahrenheit
- 61
- Note
- Coldest experienced at night; clear dry conditions mean minimal cloud cover amplifies temperature drop after sunset. Requires warm clothing for mornings and evenings.
Peak Warmth
- Month
- October
- Average Low Celsius
- 10
- Average High Celsius
- 18
- Average Low Fahrenheit
- 50
- Average High Fahrenheit
- 64
- Note
- Warmest month; daytime can exceed 24°C (75°F) on individual days.
Worst Months
- List
- December, January, February, March
- Rationale
- Rainy season brings afternoon/evening downpours, cloud cover limiting visibility, and potential road closures in rural areas. Heavy rainfall February impacts mountain routes and outdoor activities.
AI-generated estimateData refreshed July 2026
Sources cited for this category
These are the sources cited in this climate & weather research for this city. Individual figures may not each trace to one of them.
More About Arequipa
Data last updated July 2026 · Verify anything important.