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.
May in Cusco brings moderate temperatures, with daytime highs of 16°C (61°F) and nights around 4°C (39°F). Expect around 33 mm (1.3 in) of rainfall during the month.
If your ideal day consists of dry skies and pleasant temperatures, June, July and August typically offer the best circumstances for Cusco.
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Cusco - and find the best time to visit.
50-year average (1976-2025)
Based on our historical records, temperatures in Cusco typically stay consistent throughout May, with daily highs averaging around 16°C (61°F). Nights are cold, with lows typically ranging from 3°C (37°F) to 5°C (41°F).
50-year average (1976-2025)
Average daily rainfall for each day of the month based on long-term records.
Browse day-by-day weather records for Cusco spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.
Our historical data for Cusco spans 1976 to 2026, revealing these weather extremes.
Find out more about the weather in Peru and which places have the best travel conditions in this month. See all of Peru in May →
Perfect weather is subjective. On this map perfect weather has been defined with temperatures between 20°C (68°F) and 29°C (84°F) and not too much precipitation (less than 90 mm (3.5 in) a month).
The weather can swing between comfortable and chilly in May, so flexibility is key. Pack a variety of tops, at least one warm layer, and both shorts and long pants. This gives you options no matter what the day brings. Light rain is possible, so consider bringing a small umbrella or rain jacket. Don't forget sun protection, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat. These are all good ideas with this much sunshine.
We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.
Temperature Rainfall Sunshine Humidity Wind Speed
See the full Cusco climate overview or explore weather in Peru.
Where to go in May - average daytime high across popular destinations.
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.