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Climate in the Peruvian Jungle

Tourists biking under the climate of the Peruvian jungle.
Peruvian Jungle

The vast Peruvian jungle, crossed by the mighty Amazon River, can be divided into two very distinct zones: the high jungle or mountain fringe, located above 700 m.a.s.l., and the low jungle, below 700 m.a.s.l.

The climate of the Peruvian jungle is hot and humid, relatively constant throughout the year. This jungle climate favors biodiversity and allows tourist activities almost all year round.

Departments of the Peruvian Jungle

The jungle region of Peru is made up of 5 departments: Loreto, Amazonas, San Martín, Ucayali, and Madre de Dios, each with its own characteristic climate.

In the north is Loreto, the largest department; it has a tropical climate and abundant jungle. Amazonas, being close to Ecuador, has a warm and rainy climate that accompanies its lush forests. San Martín has a warm climate, a place for people who prefer this type of weather. 

In the center we have Ucayali, which has a warm and very rainy climate, where you can visit many waterfalls.

In the south is Madre de Dios, which has sunsets sometimes accompanied by light rains.

Seasons of the Year in the Jungle

The seasons of the year are not very noticeable; however, they can be identified thanks to rainfall.

  • In summer (December to March), temperatures tend to be warmer and the days are mostly rainy; during this season you can enjoy outdoor activities.
  • In winter (June to August), the weather is cooler and temperatures are more moderate and pleasant for walking around the streets.

In addition, there are 2 intermediate seasons:

  • In autumn (April and May), temperatures begin to gradually drop, providing a cooler and more comfortable climate after the summer heat. There may also be rainfall.
  • Spring (between September and November) is characterized by the retreat of the waters, which clears the paths in the forests and the temperature begins to rise little by little.

Temperature in the Jungle

The Peruvian jungle divides its extension into two zones: high jungle and low jungle. This causes each to have different temperatures.

In the high jungle, the maximum temperature can reach up to 26 °C, while the minimum can drop to 12 °C. Between May and August, temperatures can drop to 8 or 12 °C.

The low jungle, on the other hand, has an average temperature that can rise to 31 °C and drop to 15 °C.

Humidity in the Peruvian Jungle 

Humidity in the high jungle is between 80% and 90%, while in the low jungle humidity levels reach up to 75%. This climate is characterized by abundant rainfall, with the high jungle being more humid than the low jungle. In general, humidity in the jungle is very high throughout the year, being a key characteristic of the Peruvian jungle climate that influences the visitor experience. Humidity is constant but intensifies during the rainy season.

Rainfall in the Jungle

The Amazon jungle of Peru records the highest rainfall from November to April, a period in which 80% of the region's rainfall is concentrated. The low jungle has rainfall exceeding 1000 mm/year. The high jungle has abundant rainfall, between 2600 mm and 4000 mm, with maximums exceeding 8000 mm/year.

Between April and October, rainfall is less frequent, rivers decrease their flow, and roads are easily passable. The rainy season, on the other hand, between November and March, is characterized by frequent showers (at least one per day) that can cause deterioration in land access routes.

Natural landscape under the climate of the Peruvian jungle.
Manu National Park, located in the Peruvian jungle

Cold Spells (Friaje) in the Peruvian Jungle

It is a climatic phenomenon characterized by a sudden drop in temperature, rainfall, and winds. It is caused by the entry of cold air masses from the south of the continent between May and August, mainly affecting Madre de Dios, Ucayali, Huánuco, San Martín, and Loreto. Therefore, during this time, it is recommended to wear warm and waterproof clothing that covers the head, face, and ears.

Climate in the Main Jungle Cities

Climate in Iquitos

Throughout the year it is tropical, warm, and very humid. The normal temperature usually ranges around 32°C and drops to 22°C at night. There is not much difference between summer and winter, but there are usually days of high humidity, where the heat feels even stronger and this means less rainfall.

It can then be said that the city has a warm and humid climate, with abundant rainfall and two marked seasons that differ according to the water levels of its rivers.

Climate in Tarapoto

It is a place where it is very hot throughout the year due to its location and surrounding vegetation, with an average temperature of 27 °C. The climate is divided into two seasons: the first is summer, marked by the absence of rain during July, August, and September. Temperatures can reach up to 34°C, and it is very likely that the heat sensation is even higher. During these months, due to the absence of rain, river flow decreases and the water is much clearer.

In winter, Tarapoto is not very cold; rainfall occurs constantly between January and April. For residents, it can be uncomfortable, since even if it rains for just a few minutes, a large flow of water forms in the streets. There are days when the rain lasts all day; this only happens when the rain is light and the drops are smaller than usual. The temperature during this season is usually around 24 °C.

Climate in Puerto Maldonado

It is a tropical place between warm and humid. Rainfall is scarce between June and August, and there is a rainy season between December and March.
The climate throughout the year ranges between 18 °C and 32 °C and rarely drops below 13°C or rises above 36 °C. The best time to visit Puerto Maldonado is from late May to early September.

Climate in Pucallpa

Pucallpa is a warm, humid, and moderately rainy city. Minimum temperatures reach 22°C and maximum temperatures reach 33°C, so it is recommended to bring light clothing, stay hydrated, use sunscreen, and carry a light rain jacket.

In general terms, Pucallpa usually feels hot and humid with frequent rainfall throughout the year.

Best Time to Visit the Peruvian Jungle 

Throughout the year, the climate in the Peruvian jungle is generally stable and offers favorable conditions for tourism at any time, although very rainy days are also likely.

What Should I Bring to the Peruvian Jungle?

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

  • Light and breathable clothing: for warm days, it is recommended to wear long-sleeve, lightweight shirts so they dry faster in case of rain.
  • Sunscreen and hat: protect your skin from the sun with broad-spectrum sunscreen and a wide-brim hat.
  • Mosquito repellent: repellent is essential on your jungle visit; mosquitoes in the jungle tend to bite quite aggressively.
  • Light jackets: even in the jungle, nights can be cool, so bring a light jacket for colder nights.
  • Comfortable footwear: choose hiking shoes for walking, especially if you plan to explore within the jungle.

Ready to explore the Peruvian jungle safely and comfortably? Discover our guided tours led by local experts who will take you to the most fascinating corners of the Peruvian jungle. [discover more here]

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