April is a great time to visit Peru when rain levels dip significantly in the Sacred Valley. There are few crowds before the high season begins (with the exception of Holy Week). You’ll also have sunny weather and lower rates along the 1,500 miles of Pacific coast. Find out what to do and where to go in this monthly guide.
## Discovering Peru in April: A Comprehensive Guide
April in Peru marks the transition into the autumn season, a time of shifting weather patterns and increasing tourist activity, particularly around the Easter holiday. As you plan your Peruvian adventure, understanding the nuances of the climate, crowd levels, and regional highlights will ensure a memorable and rewarding experience. This guide offers a detailed overview of what to expect in Peru during April, helping you make informed decisions and maximize your time in this captivating country.
Peru’s geographical diversity gives rise to three distinct climate zones, each offering a unique experience in April:
* **The Desert Coastal Strip:** This arid region, encompassing destinations like **Mancora**, **Trujillo**, **Lima**, **Paracas**, and **Arequipa**, enjoys predominantly dry and sunny conditions in April. Temperatures are mild and spring-like, with minimal rainfall. In **Lima**, you can expect average high temperatures around 75° F (24° C) and lows of 64° F (18° C). As you venture south of **Lima**, temperatures tend to be slightly cooler compared to the northern reaches of the coastal strip, which lie closer to the equator. The consistent sunshine and pleasant temperatures make April an ideal time to explore the coastal cities, enjoy the beaches, and discover the historical and cultural treasures of this region.
* **The Andean Zone or Highlands:** As the rainy season recedes, the Andean highlands, including destinations such as **Huaraz**, **Machu Picchu**, **Cusco**, and **Lake Titicaca**, experience drier conditions in April. Temperatures begin to cool down, varying depending on the altitude. In the **Cusco** region, you can anticipate highs around 66° F (19° C) and lows around 41° F (5° C), with occasional moisture lingering from the recent rainy season. While some clouds and moisture may persist, they should not deter you from visiting, as the landscapes remain lush and vibrant, showcasing the region’s stunning flora and fauna. The clear skies and crisp air create ideal conditions for hiking, exploring ancient ruins, and immersing yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the Andes.
* **The Large Eastern Area Covered by the Amazon Rainforest:** In the Amazon rainforest, covering areas like **Iquitos**, **Tarapoto**, **Manu**, and **Puerto Maldonado**, April brings warm, humid temperatures and persistent wet weather. Temperatures tend to cool off slightly at night, offering some respite from the daytime heat. Near **Iquitos**, the Amazon jungle typically experiences highs around 88° F (31° C) and lows around 72° F (22° C). Rainfall is frequent, with tropical downpours and thunderstorms commonly occurring in the afternoon. April sees an average of 12 inches of rainfall, making it one of the wetter months in the Amazon. Despite the rain, the Amazon rainforest teems with life, offering unparalleled opportunities for wildlife spotting, jungle trekking, and experiencing the raw beauty of this incredible ecosystem.
### Navigating Crowds and Costs in April
April marks the beginning of increased tourism in Peru, especially as Easter approaches. If Holy Week falls in April, anticipate a significant surge in crowds and a corresponding rise in prices. Hotel rates will likely increase, and availability may be limited, so it is essential to make reservations well in advance to secure your preferred accommodations and travel arrangements.
However, with the exception of the Holy Week period, the Sacred Valley offers certain advantages for travelers during April. You can expect fewer crowds compared to the peak season, less muddy conditions on hiking trails, and the opportunity to witness the landscapes adorned in vibrant greenery. Moreover, you may find decent rates for flights and hotels during this time.
Generally, the mountains and canyons of Peru remain relatively quiet in April, making it a good month to visit if you prefer to avoid the bustling crowds of the high season. As tourism begins to shift from the coastline to inland destinations, April presents an excellent opportunity to explore Peru’s beach towns with fewer people, favorable weather, and potentially lower prices.
### Where to Embark on Your Peruvian Adventure
* **The Northern Coast:** Peru’s northern coast, including destinations like **Máncora**, remains sunny and warm throughout the year due to its proximity to the equator. This region offers excellent surfing opportunities and a relaxed beach atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for those seeking sun, sand, and surf.
* **The Beaches Around Lima:** While April marks the beginning of cooler temperatures in the Pacific Ocean, making swimming less appealing, the beaches around **Lima** still offer opportunities for sunbathing and enjoying the coastal scenery.
* **Paracas National Reserve:** Further south, the **Paracas National Reserve** beckons with its stunning sand dunes, dramatic cliffs, and diverse wildlife. This area is perfect for exploring the unique desert landscape and spotting a variety of marine and avian species. April is also a popular time for those considering a combined trip to Peru and the **Galapagos Islands**.
* **Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail:** In the heart of Peru’s interior lies **Machu Picchu**, the most renowned and significant of all Incan ruins. The Inca Trail, the only route that leads directly into the park through the Sun Gate, can become crowded during Holy Week. As an alternative, consider the Salkantay Trek, a less-traveled 5-day journey to **Machu Picchu**. This trek takes you past coffee plantations, glacial lakes, and snow-capped peaks before descending into the lush cloud forest that surrounds the Incan ruins.
* **Lake Titicaca:** Situated in Southern Peru, bordering Bolivia, **Lake Titicaca** is one of South America’s largest lakes. Believed to be the birthplace of the Incas, this region boasts numerous ruins and the **Titicaca National Reserve**, which protects rare aquatic species such as giant frogs. April offers agreeable weather with minimal rainfall, although the high altitude can result in chilly nights.
### Unforgettable Activities in Peru
* **Trekking & Day Hikes:** Peru has long been a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, and hiking is undoubtedly one of the most popular activities. Besides multi-day treks, there are also shorter day hikes that allow you to explore the stunning landscapes and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the region. Consider exploring the day hikes available in the Sacred Valley near **Cusco**, complete with waterfalls, caves, and even hot springs.
* **Watersports & Surfing:** Surfing is gaining popularity in Peru, and many beach towns north of **Lima**, such as Cabo Blanco, Chicama, and **Mancora**, offer excellent surf conditions. You can also enjoy other watersports like kiteboarding, diving, stand-up paddleboarding, and whale- and dolphin-watching. However, remember that ocean temperatures begin to cool in April, so you may need a wetsuit for some activities.
* **History & Inca Ruins:** Within the Sacred Valley, you’ll encounter numerous Inca ruins, including Ollantaytambo, Sacsayhuaman, and Pisac, all located near the colonial city of **Cusco**. While these sites are more spread out than **Machu Picchu**, visiting them provides a comprehensive insight into Incan history, Spanish colonial villages, and local handicraft markets.
* **City Culture in Lima:** Although it often gets overshadowed by **Cusco**, **Lima**, Peru’s capital, is a city rich in history, culture, and culinary delights. Explore its beautiful architecture, cathedrals, and museums, and indulge in the city’s growing culinary scene, which features some of the world’s best restaurants. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness a breathtaking sunset over the bluffs in Miraflores.
* **Wildlife Viewing on the Ballestas Islands:** Embark on a tour boat from the beach town of **Paracas** to the Ballestas Islands, often referred to as the “Galapagos Islands of Peru.” These islands are home to a diverse array of bird species, including pelicans, penguins, Peruvian boobies, and Inca terns. You may also encounter sea lions, turtles, dolphins, and whales in the surrounding waters. Due to its ideal location on the Pacific coast, you can easily combine a trip to the Ballestas Islands with exploring the sand dunes of Huacachina.
* **Sample Local Cuisine:** Immerse yourself in Peruvian culinary traditions by trying local delicacies. The guinea pig dish called *cuy* is a uniquely Peruvian experience, commonly found in highland towns like **Cusco** and the Urubamba Valley. Be sure to sample fresh ceviche, stir-fried beef, and creamy chicken dishes. Potatoes have been cultivated in the Andes for thousands of years, and you’ll find a staggering variety of types on offer, often served with spicy cheese sauce. And don’t forget to indulge in *picarones*, the Peruvian version of donuts.
### April Events and Festivals
Peru is renowned for its vibrant festivals, with numerous celebrations taking place throughout the country each year. Some notable events in April include:
* **Semana Santa:** As a predominantly Catholic nation, Peru observes Holy Week with great reverence. Festivities and processions take place in the streets, particularly in Ayacucho, during the week leading up to Easter.
* **Festividad del Señor del los Temblores del Cusco:** The Lord of the Earthquakes, the patron saint of **Cusco**, is the focus of this significant Holy Week celebration. Dating back to a 1650 earthquake that spared the town from destruction, a statue of Jesus is paraded through the streets of **Cusco**.
* **National Competition Paso Horse:** This week-long festival, held in mid-April in the district of Pachacamac, showcases Peruvian Paso horses, with prizes, skill demonstrations, and parades featuring coastal dances like the Marinera.
By considering these factors and planning accordingly, you can make the most of your trip to Peru in April and create lasting memories.