The Peruvian Highlands (Sierra) are one of the most surprising regions in the country, a place where ancestral history, the imposing landscapes of the Andes, and the warmth of its people combine to offer a unique experience. If you are planning to travel to Peru, this region is a mandatory stop that will allow you to connect with the deepest essence of its identity.
Can you imagine walking ancient Inca trails, meeting Quechua communities, visiting turquoise lagoons, or climbing snow-capped mountains? You can find all of that here. Throughout this article, we will show you the essentials you need to know to prepare your trip to the Highlands: which departments make it up, what the climate is like, the seasons, rainfall, winds, and, of course, what to pack in your luggage. The adventure is about to begin. Join us!
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Which Departments of Peru Belong to the Sierra Region?
The Sierra of Peru is the Andean region of the country and crosses the entire national territory longitudinally. It is made up of mountainous areas of the Andes mountain range, which rise from 2,000 to over 6,000 meters (approx. 6,562 to over 19,685 feet) above sea level.
In total, the Sierra is made up of 11 departments, although several of them also have territories on the coast or in the jungle. These are:
- Cajamarca
- Áncash
- Huánuco
- Pasco
- Junín
- Huancavelica
- Ayacucho
- Apurímac
- Cusco
- Puno
- Arequipa (Andean part)
Each of these departments has its own identity, with colonial cities, archaeological zones, lagoons, snow-capped peaks, and great cultural richness. For example, Cusco is the historical capital of Peru and the starting point for visiting Machu Picchu, while Puno is famous for Lake Titicaca, the highest in the world.
In these regions, both Spanish and indigenous languages such as Quechua and Aymara are spoken, and each has unique traditional festivals, typical cuisine, and colorful markets. Traveling through the Sierra is immersing yourself in the most authentic parts of Peru.
How Do the Seasons of the Year Vary in the Peruvian Highlands?
Unlike other regions, the Sierra of Peru does not have classic seasons like spring, summer, autumn, and winter marked by exact dates. Instead, the Andean region is governed by two main seasons: the rainy season and the dry season.
Seasons in the Highlands:
- Dry season (May to September):
This is the best time to travel. Days are usually sunny, with clear skies, ideal for outdoor activities and adventure tourism. However, nights are cold, especially in high areas like Puno or Cusco. - Rainy season (October to April):
During these months, especially between January and March, rainfall can be intense, although not constant. It is common to have sunny mornings and rain in the afternoons. Some roads or trekking trails may be affected by the rains.
Key points:
- In higher areas, such as the altiplano (high plateau), it can be very cold even during the day.
- In cities like Cusco or Huaraz, the seasons directly affect the planning of excursions to mountains or archaeological sites.
If you are organizing your visit, we recommend traveling between May and September, when the climate is more predictable and the Andean views are spectacular.
What Temperatures Are Recorded in the Peruvian Highlands?
Temperatures in the Sierra of Peru vary significantly depending on the altitude and time of year. Cities and towns located at high altitudes, such as Puno or Cerro de Pasco, can record sub-zero temperatures during the nights, while places like Abancay or Huánuco, which are in inter-Andean valleys, have milder climates.
Average temperatures:
- Day: Between 17°C and 22°C (63°F and 72°F) in cities like Cusco, Arequipa, or Ayacucho.
- Night: Can drop to 5°C (41°F) or even -5°C (23°F) in high areas like Puno or Huancavelica.
During the day, the sun can be quite strong due to the altitude, so it is common to feel warm even if the temperature is moderate. At night, however, the cold intensifies rapidly, especially in rural areas where there is no heating.
Examples:
- Cusco: 22°C (72°F) during the day, 7°C (45°F) at night (dry season).
- Puno: 15°C (59°F) during the day, -2°C (28°F) at night (Andean winter).
- Huancayo: 20°C (68°F) during the day, 5°C (41°F) at night.
Therefore, it is essential to pack layers of clothing: t-shirts, fleece jackets, and a good jacket for the night. It is also important to protect your skin with sunscreen, as UV radiation is high at altitudes above 2,500 meters (approx. 8,200 feet) above sea level.
Does it Rain Much in the Highlands? When is the Rainy Season?
Yes, the Sierra of Peru has a well-defined rainy season that usually starts in October and ends in April, reaching its most intense point between January and March. Although it doesn’t rain every day, precipitation can be heavy and last for several hours.
Characteristics of the rainy season:
- Start: October, with intermittent rains.
- Peak: January, February, and March, with almost daily rains.
- End: April, intensity decreases gradually.
Rains in the Highlands usually fall in the afternoons or evenings, which allows for morning activities if the weather permits. Even so, during these months there is more cloudiness, muddy roads, and a risk of landslides in rural areas.
What to keep in mind?
- Some hiking routes, like the Inca Trail, close in February for safety.
- It is advisable to bring ponchos, waterproof clothing, and boots if you travel during this time.
- The landscape becomes incredibly green and full of life, ideal for photography.