Weather in Lima

Planning a trip to Lima? Here you will find the latest weather information, as well as up-to-date data, forecasts, and useful charts to help you plan your stay in the best possible way.

The climate of Lima can be described as subtropical desert, with very mild and stable temperatures throughout the year. Despite its location near the equator, there is no scorching heat or extreme cold here. The city is distinguished by surprisingly low rainfall, making it one of the driest megacities in the world.

There are two distinct seasons in Lima, although the temperature fluctuations between them are small. Summer, which lasts approximately from December to March, is the warmest time of the year. Average temperatures during this period range from 21°C to 22°C, while maximums can reach 23-24°C. During these months, a small number of days with precipitation is possible (up to 9 days in February-March), but the total amount of moisture is minimal (about 1 mm), often appearing as a light morning drizzle or mist known as "garúa". Winter, from June to September, is cooler, with average temperatures around 17-18°C. At this time, precipitation is practically absent, and the number of "wet days" tends towards zero.

A key feature of the weather in Lima is its exceptional aridity. Annual rainfall is negligible, making rain a rare phenomenon. Temperatures remain comfortable year-round, allowing you to plan a trip at any time. However, it is worth noting that the sky over Lima, especially in the winter months (from May to October), is often overcast with clouds or that same coastal mist "garúa", which gives the city a peculiar atmosphere.

The temperature regime in Lima is characterized by remarkable stability and mildness throughout the year. The annual range of average temperatures varies from 16.8°C in the coolest months to 22.0°C at the peak of warmth. The hottest month is usually February, when the average daily temperature reaches 22.0°C, and maximum values can rise to 23.8°C. The coolest months are considered to be August and September, with an average temperature of about 16.8°C and minimum nightly readings around 14.9°C.

The summer period, which in Lima falls on the months from December to March, is characterized by very comfortable warm weather. In January, the average temperature is 21.1°C (with nightly lows around 19.3°C and daily highs up to 23.0°C). February brings peak values with an average temperature of 22.0°C (from 20.2°C to 23.8°C). In March, the temperature drops slightly to 21.7°C (from 20.0°C to 23.4°C). December is also warm, with an average value of 19.7°C. These months are ideal for those who prefer warmth without exhausting heat, as even maximum temperatures rarely exceed 24°C, creating pleasant conditions for walking and exploring the city.

The winter months in Lima, covering the period from June to September, bring pleasant coolness but without real cold. Average temperatures at this time stay in the range of 16.8°C - 17.6°C. For example, in June the average temperature is 17.6°C (from 15.7°C to 19.4°C), in July – 17.0°C (from 15.2°C to 18.9°C), and in August and September – about 16.8°C, with minimum temperatures around 14.9°C and maximums up to 18.8°C. An important feature of Lima's climate is the small daily temperature fluctuations: the difference between the average maximum and average minimum temperature during the month is usually only 3-4°C. This means that nights do not bring sharp cooling either in summer or in winter, maintaining a stable and comfortable temperature background all year round.

Lima is famous for its unique climate, where traditional concepts of precipitation require some adjustment. The city is one of the driest capitals in the world, and the concept of a "rainy season" is quite relative here. The amount of precipitation falling throughout the year is minimal, and even in the "wettest" periods, it is more about light drizzle or the famous coastal mist "garúa" rather than full-fledged rain.

If we talk about the period with the highest probability of precipitation, it is the summer months: January, February, and March. In each of these months, only about 1 mm of precipitation falls. However, the number of "wet days" (days with any form of precipitation) reaches its peak at this time: 7 days in January, and 9 days each in February and March. It is important to understand that these "wet days" are most often characterized by morning haze or very fine drizzle that quickly dissipates.

Starting from April and right up to December, almost absolutely dry weather sets in Lima in terms of measurable precipitation – its amount is 0 mm. May and June stand out especially, when not only is no precipitation registered, but also no "wet days" (0 days). In the remaining months of this long dry period (April, July, August, September, October, November, December), there is also no rain, but from 1 to 4 "wet days" per month may be observed (for example, 3 days in April and 4 days in December). This is again connected with the "garúa" phenomenon, which can bring a sensation of humidity without actual rainfall.

Thus, in Lima there is no clearly defined rainy season, as in tropical regions. Instead, a very long dry season is observed, interrupted by a short period at the beginning of the year when the probability of light drizzle or mist is slightly higher. When planning a trip, you can be sure that heavy rains are unlikely to prevent you from enjoying the city at any time of the year.

When planning a trip to Lima, remember that its climate is characterized by mildness and surprising dryness year-round. The key principle when packing your suitcase should be layering. This will allow you to feel comfortable both during the warmer daytime hours and in the cool evenings, as well as adapt to the possible coastal mist "garúa". Be sure to take comfortable walking shoes with you, as exploring the city on foot is a pleasure.

In the summer months (from December to March), when the average temperature hovers around 20-22°C, you will need light clothing: t-shirts, shorts, skirts, light trousers, and dresses. Despite the possible small number of "wet days" with drizzle (especially from January to March), heavy rains are a rarity, so heavy rain gear will not be needed. However, a light windbreaker or cardigan will be useful for evenings or in case the coastal breeze picks up. Don't forget sunscreen and a hat, as the sun can be active even through clouds. Although precipitation is minimal, if you are travelling between January and March, when morning drizzle is possible, a very compact umbrella or a light water-repellent jacket may add comfort, but this is not an essential item considering that only about 1 mm of precipitation falls.

In the winter period (from June to September), when the temperature drops to 17-18°C, it is worth adding warmer items to your luggage: jumpers, a fleece jacket, jeans or thick trousers, as well as a light jacket. A scarf may also come in handy, especially in the morning and evening hours due to humidity from the "garúa". Regardless of the season, sunglasses are relevant for Lima.