Arequipa Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Arequipa.
Climate overview of Arequipa
Arequipa is located in the Arequipa region in southern Peru. The city sits at an altitude of 2,000 meters (6,561 feet) above sea level, surrounded by volcanic mountains. As a result, many old colonial buildings were constructed using volcanic rock, earning Arequipa the nickname "The White City."
Arequipa Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Arequipa — and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in Arequipa
In Arequipa temperatures are generally consistent throughout the year. On average, daytime temperatures range from a pleasant 20°C (68°F) in October to a moderate 16°C (61°F) in July.
Nighttime temperatures range from 9°C (48°F) in October to 5°C (41°F) in July.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Arequipa
Arequipa sits in an arid zone with minimal moisture, averaging 100 mm (3.9 in) of rainfall per year. The seasons in Arequipa bring significant changes in precipitation. The wettest month, February, receives low rainfall, with an average of 25 mm (1 in) of precipitation. This rainfall is distributed across 7 rainy days.
In contrast, the driest month, June, experiences much less rainfall, totaling 0 mm (0 in) over 0 rainy days. These distinct seasonal differences provide diverse experiences throughout the year. For more details, please visit our Arequipa 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 Arequipa
Arequipa enjoys sunny spells year-round. August sees up to 10.4 hours of daily sunshine, perfect for a sunny trip. February, the least sunny month, still offers a generous 6.3 hours of sun despite this cloudier time of the year.
Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.
Monthly hours of sunshine
Daily hours of sunshine
Humidity in Arequipa by Month
The relative humidity is moderate throughout the year in Arequipa.
The city experiences its highest humidity in February, reaching 59%. In October, the humidity drops to its lowest level at 39%. What does this mean? Read our detailed page on humidity levels for further details.
Relative humidity over the year
Wind Speed in Arequipa
The mean wind speed over the year ranges from 3 m/s (6 knots) in February, March, April and November to 4 m/s (8 knots) in January, May, June, July, August, September, October and December. What does this mean?
The mean monthly wind speed over the year (meters per second)
Best Time to Visit Arequipa
While rain is rare, remember to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun while you're outside. Looking for inspiration on where to travel this year? We have a tool that recommends destinations based on your ideal conditions. Find out where to go with our weather planner.
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Arequipa
What is the best time to visit Arequipa?
April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December typically offer the most optimal weather in Arequipa. In contrast, January, February and March tend to have less optimal conditions. Arequipa has a distinct dry season from January to December.
What temperatures can I expect in Arequipa?
Daytime highs range from 16°C (61°F) in July to 20°C (68°F) in October. Nighttime lows range from 5°C (41°F) to 9°C (48°F). Temperatures stay relatively stable year-round.
How much rain does Arequipa get?
Annual rainfall is around 100 mm (3.9 in). February is the wettest month with 25 mm (1 in), while June is the driest with 0 mm (0 in).
How sunny is Arequipa?
Arequipa receives around 3,341 hours of sunshine per year. August is the sunniest month with 311 hours, while February is the cloudiest with just 190 hours. Overall, Arequipa enjoys abundant sunshine.
Arequipa 3-Day Forecast
Arequipa 3-Day Forecast
Arequipa on the map
Arequipa is highlighted — select any city to see its climate.
Popular this month
Where to go in July — average daytime high across popular destinations.
Iquitos
30°C (86°F) Trujillo
22°C (72°F) Lima20°C (68°F) Arequipa
19°C (66°F) Puno16°C (61°F) Cusco
15°C (59°F) Machu Picchu15°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.