Weather overview
Yungay sits in Peru’s highlands, where the weather stays mild year-round but shifts noticeably between wet and dry periods. The average temperature hovers around 15 °C, with only slight variations from month to month. What changes more dramatically is the rainfall, which shapes the best times to visit.
From May to September, Yungay enjoys its driest stretch, with clear skies and minimal rain. The rest of the year brings more moisture, peaking in March when downpours are frequent. Travelers who prefer dry trails and steady conditions often aim for the June–August window, while those who don’t mind occasional showers might explore other months for fewer crowds.
Temperature
Temperatures in Yungay remain steady, rarely straying far from the 14–16 °C range. The warmest days arrive in October, when highs reach 24.6 °C, while nights cool off most in July, dipping to 7.7 °C. These swings mean layers are useful even in a single day.
Daytime warmth contrasts with chilly evenings, especially in the dry season. In June and July, afternoons can feel pleasant at 23–25 °C, but mornings and nights demand a jacket. The narrow gap between seasons makes Yungay a destination where a light sweater is always handy, no matter the month.
| Month | Minimum | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| January | 10 | 22.4 |
| February | 10.5 | 22.2 |
| March | 10.3 | 21.6 |
| April | 9.8 | 22.4 |
| May | 9.6 | 23.4 |
| June | 8.7 | 23.4 |
| July | 7.7 | 25.2 |
| August | 9.1 | 24.5 |
| September | 9.3 | 24.6 |
| October | 9.4 | 24.6 |
| November | 9.5 | 23.7 |
| December | 10.1 | 23 |
Precipitation
Rainfall defines the rhythm of life in Yungay. The wettest months—January through March—bring heavy showers, with March topping the list at 274.3 mm. Trails can turn muddy, and outdoor plans may need flexibility during this stretch.
By May, the rains ease sharply, and June through August see almost no precipitation, just 5–8 mm per month. This dry spell offers the most reliable conditions for hiking and sightseeing. Rain returns gradually in September, picking up through December before the next wet cycle begins.
| Month | Precipitation |
|---|---|
| January | 188.2 |
| February | 211.2 |
| March | 274.3 |
| April | 152.2 |
| May | 48.2 |
| June | 8.2 |
| July | 5.3 |
| August | 19.1 |
| September | 79.2 |
| October | 162.2 |
| November | 139.6 |
| December | 171.1 |
What to pack
For a trip to Yungay in the dry season, pack for cool mornings and warm afternoons. A light jacket, breathable layers, and sturdy shoes will handle the 7–25 °C range. A rain shell is optional but useful for brief showers in September or October.
During the wetter months, waterproof gear becomes essential. A compact umbrella or a raincoat will help navigate the frequent downpours from January to April. Quick-dry clothing and waterproof footwear will keep you comfortable on slick paths. Even in the rain, temperatures stay mild, so heavy winter gear isn’t necessary.
| Month | Wind speed |
|---|---|
| January | 1.7 |
| February | 1.6 |
| March | 1.4 |
| April | 1.4 |
| May | 1.6 |
| June | 1.7 |
| July | 1.9 |
| August | 1.6 |
| September | 1.5 |
| October | 1.7 |
| November | 1.7 |
| December | 1.4 |