December is a strange month in Cusco and the Sacred Valley: both quiet (at the beginning of the month) and hectic (over Christmas and New Year). Then again, the famous Christmas and New Year festivities in Cusco pull in a lot of Peruvian visitors as well as a fair few from overseas, and one of the biggest handicrafts fairs anywhere in the Andes takes place in Cusco too.
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Weather in December
During the month of December, the temperature variations are relatively small, creating a consistent climate. Expect daytime highs to hover around a comfortable 68° F (20° C), while nighttime lows will dip to approximately 45° F (7° C). This period also marks the peak of the rainy season for this region of the Andes. Rainfall is at its highest point during the year, so be prepared for frequent showers. However, even with the increased precipitation, there are usually opportunities for breaks in the rainfall, offering windows of sunshine.
The typical weather pattern during this wet season involves heavy rainfall concentrated in the afternoons. Mornings, on the other hand, are often characterized by dry and pleasant conditions. The abundance of rain is beneficial for the local flora. The plant life thrives and flourishes after the weeks of wet weather.
Crowds and Costs During December
Tourist crowds tend to be smaller at the start of December due to the prevailing wet weather conditions. However, as the month progresses and approaches the Christmas holiday season, there is a noticeable increase in the number of visitors, especially in the final ten days of December. This is due to the high volume of Peruvians who travel from other parts of the country to visit family and friends in Cusco and the smaller towns that make up the Sacred Valley. With strategic planning and a bit of luck, it is possible to experience good weather during a December visit to the region while avoiding excessive crowds. Conversely, without careful planning, you might find yourself surrounded by numerous other tourists and experience frequent downpours.
Outside of the Christmas holiday period, the less favorable weather conditions of the low season often lead hotels and tour companies to offer appealing deals and discounts. This can be an excellent opportunity to experience the region at a more affordable price.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Recommended Destinations
Cusco offers a vibrant atmosphere in December. This is due to events like the Fiesta de Concepción Inmaculada celebrated at the beginning of the month, and a handicrafts fair and celebratory New Year parties scheduled towards the month’s end. The weather can be unfavorable, which may limit outdoor activities. As a result, spending more time in Cusco might be preferable compared to other times of the year.
Exercise heightened caution when embarking on any hike that involves steep drops, such as the climb to Wayna Picchu. Due to the frequent rain, the rocks can become extremely slippery, making for hazardous conditions.
Activities to Consider
Participating in one of the many December festivities is highly recommended. The weather is typically worse than usual during this time, but there are also more events taking place. Cusco, as it is throughout the year, serves as the epicenter for most of these celebrations.
While persistent rainfall might discourage longer, multi-day treks, there are still a number of incredible day hikes available in the area. Rafting along certain sections of the rivers near Cusco is also a great option, as the rivers are swollen due to the rain. By the end of December, you might even encounter some Class IV rapids. The rafting is suitable for experienced rafters.
The region’s flora is thriving, allowing nature enthusiasts to observe numerous species of flowers blooming in December around Machu Picchu, including beautiful orchids.
Keep in mind that train services from Cusco’s Poroy train station to Machu Picchu (Aguas Calientes train station) will cease operating at the end of December. Starting in January, travelers will be transported by bus for the Cusco-Ollantaytambo leg of the journey. They will then continue by train to Aguas Calientes.
December Events in Detail
Fiesta de Concepción Inmaculada: The Feast of the Immaculate Conception is a significant religious celebration held on December 8th. Processions honoring the Virgin Mary are a key part of the festivities, particularly in Cusco, but also in other areas throughout the region.
Handicrafts Fair: The Santuranticuy Fair takes place on December 24th and is recognized as one of the largest artisan fairs in Peru. It is held in Cusco Plaza de Armas. The fair mainly displays religious figurines and decorations that Peruvians like to decorate their homes with. You can also find interesting souvenirs.
Christmas/New Year (Navidad/Año Nuevo): While Christmas itself is generally a religious and relatively low-key occasion by Peruvian standards, New Year celebrations in Cusco are widely renowned throughout the country. The city’s stunning backdrop, illuminated by numerous fireworks displays, attracts revelers from all corners of Peru and beyond.
Additional Information
Machu Picchu in November
Machu Picchu in January
Ultimate Guide to Machu Picchu
Peru in December
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* **Expanded explanations of events:** The December events section has been expanded to provide a more detailed description of each event.
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