Climate of the Jungle

The extensive Peruvian jungle, traversed by the mighty Amazon River, can be divided into two distinct zones: the high jungle or mountain eyebrow located above 700 meters above sea level, and the low jungle below 700 meters above sea level.

The climate of the Peruvian jungle is hot and humid, remaining relatively constant throughout the year.

Departments of the Peruvian Jungle

The Peruvian jungle consists of 5 departments: Loreto, Amazonas, San Martín, Ucayali, and Madre de Dios, each with its own characteristic climate.

In the north, Loreto, the largest department, features a tropical climate and abundant jungle. Amazonas, close to Ecuador, enjoys a warm and rainy climate alongside its lush forests. San Martín immerses you in its waterfalls and its warm climate makes it a must-visit.

In the center, Ucayali has a warm and very rainy climate, perfect for visiting the waterfalls it offers.

In the south, Madre de Dios features sunsets accompanied by a warm sensation.

Seasons in the Jungle

In the Peruvian jungle, the seasons are not very pronounced, but they can be identified by precipitation patterns.

• In the summer (December to March) tends to be warmer and the days are mostly rainy, making this season perfect for enjoying outdoor activities.
• In the winter (June to August), the climate is cooler and rain is not frequent. Temperatures are moderate and pleasant for walking through the streets.

However, there are 2 transitional seasons:

• In the autumn (April and May), temperatures gradually begin to decrease, providing a cooler and more comfortable climate after the summer heat, with occasional rain.
• In the spring (September and November), characterized by the receding waters, clears the paths in the forests, making it perfect for exploration, and temperatures slowly begin to rise.

It is important to note that throughout the year, the climate in the Peruvian jungle is generally stable and offers favorable conditions for tourism at any time, with very rainy days likely.

Temperature in the Jungle

The Peruvian jungle is divided into two zones: the high jungle and the low jungle, each with different temperatures.

The High Jungle has an average high temperature of up to 26 °C and a low of 12 °C, with humidity levels between 80 to 90%. Between May and August, temperatures can drop to 8-12 °C.

The Low Jungle, on the other hand, has an average temperature that can rise to a maximum of 31 °C and drop to 15 °C, with humidity levels up to 75%.

In general, humidity in the jungle is very high throughout the year.

Precipitation in the Jungle

The Amazon jungle in Peru experiences the highest rainfall from November to April, during which 80% of the region's annual precipitation occurs. The Low Jungle receives more than 1000 mm of rain annually, while the High Jungle experiences abundant rainfall ranging from 2600 mm to 4000 mm, with peaks exceeding 8000 mm per year.

Between April and October, rainfall is less frequent, rivers recede, and roads are easily passable. However, the rainy season, from November to March, is characterized by frequent downpours (at least one per day) that can cause deterioration of land access routes.

What to Bring to the Peruvian Jungle

When visiting the Peruvian jungle, it is essential to carry the appropriate clothing to adapt to the varied climate. Here are some suggestions:

1. Lightweight and breathable clothing: For warm days, it is advisable to wear long-sleeved shirts that are very light, allowing them to dry more quickly in case of rain.
2. Sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat: Protect your skin from the sun with broad-spectrum sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat.
3. Mosquito repellent: Repellent is vital on your visit to the jungle, as mosquitoes can be quite aggressive.
4. Light jackets: Even in the jungle, nights can be cool, so bring a light jacket for cooler evenings.
5. Comfortable footwear: Opt for hiking shoes if you plan to explore the jungle interiors.