Cheapest and Most Expensive Time to Visit Peru

The cheapest and most expensive times to visit Peru will vary based on seasons. Knowing when to go—and when not to—can help you save hundreds or ensure you get the experience you're really after.

Here’s a complete breakdown of Peru's seasonal travel costs, highlighting off-season, peak season, and shoulder season, and what to expect during each time of year.

Cheapest Time to Visit Peru

The cheapest time to visit Peru is during the rainy season, especially from January through March. This is the off-season, when many parts of the country—especially the Andes and Amazon—see frequent rainfall, which reduces demand and lowers prices on flights, hotels, and tours.

That said, while rain can affect hiking routes and access to remote regions, cities like Lima, Arequipa, and parts of the northern coast stay relatively dry. If you’re not planning to trek the Inca Trail, this can be a budget-friendly time to explore Peru’s cities, food scene, and culture.

Off Season Highlights:

• Deep discounts on hotels, flights, and group tours
• Fewer tourists in cities and historical sites
• Great time for food lovers and cultural events in urban areas
• Lower crowds at Machu Picchu (though train access is still needed)

Most Expensive Time to Visit Peru

The most expensive time to visit Peru is during the dry season, which runs from May through August, especially June and July. This is Peru’s peak season, thanks to sunny weather and optimal trekking conditions throughout the Andes.

This is when most people come to visit Machu Picchu, hike the Inca Trail, and explore Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and other highland destinations. Availability becomes limited quickly, and prices for hotels, permits, flights, and tours rise sharply.

Peak Season Highlights:

• Clear skies and dry weather in the Andes and Amazon
• Best conditions for trekking and outdoor adventure
• Cultural festivals like Inti Raymi (Festival of the Sun)
• Full access to popular routes and remote regions

Best Time to Visit Peru on a Budget

The best time to visit Peru if you're on a budget is going to be during the shoulder months, especially late April to early May and September through mid-November. These months fall just outside of peak season and offer a perfect balance of low prices, good weather, and smaller crowds.

You’ll still enjoy mostly dry conditions in the Andes and Amazon, but without paying high-season rates. This is also a great time for photography, wildlife spotting, and visiting popular sites like Machu Picchu without risking the kind of heavy rain or overbooked tours that could ruin your trip.

Shoulder Season Highlights:

• Lower hotel and tour prices compared to peak season
• Great trekking conditions with fewer people on the trails
• Better availability for trains, buses, and local flights
• A smart time to explore Peru with ideal weather and lower cost