Huaraz: When to Go

Visitors hike here year-round, but the dry season (mid-May to mid-September) is the most popular time, with good weather and the clearest views. During the wet season (December to April), afternoons are often overcast and trails become boggy. With the appropriate gear and some preparation, hiking is still possible - but the vibe is more subdued and some places go into hibernation. For serious mountaineering, climbers generally stick to the dry season.

Hotel prices can double during holiday periods and rooms become scarce - budget hotels tend to dominate in Huaraz.

Semana Santa (Holy Week) is very busy, with Peruvian tourists flooding into town. The Tuesday before Easter is a day of intense water fights - stay inside if you don't want to get soaked. Ash Wednesday is more interesting and colorful, with funeral processions for ño carnavalón (king of the carnival) converging on Plaza de Armas. Here, his 'will' is read - a chance for jabs at local politicians, police and other dignitaries. The procession then continues to the river where the coffin is thrown in. Participants dress in bright costumes with papier-mâché headwear. Huaraz pays homage to its patron, El Señor de la Soledad, over the week beginning May 3. This festival involves fireworks, music, dancing, elaborately costumed processions and lots of drinking. Semana de Andinismo is held annually in June. It attracts mountaineers from several countries, and competitions and exhibitions are held.

Weather

In Huaraz, the dry season (mid-May to mid-September) brings good weather and clear views of the surrounding mountains. The average daily temperature is a pleasant 18°C (64°F), but the mercury often drops to below freezing at night. During the wet season (December to April), expect rainy, overcast conditions in the afternoons and boggy hiking trails. Hiking is still possible, but it usually requires some degree of madness.

Temperature (average ° C)

Rainfall (average mm)