Southern Sierra, Peru: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Southern Sierra, Peru? If you're planning to go to Southern Sierra, here is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Southern Sierra, Peru

Based on the climate and weather in Southern Sierra, Peru, the best time to go is June. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Southern Sierra, Peru

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Southern Sierra, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Southern Sierra, Peru by month

January

January here is relatively cool. Temperatures average in the low 50s F (low 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost about a third of the time. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Peru has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Southern Sierra. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and C. Check that you pick the correct type. The majority of adapters currently being sold are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

February

February in Southern Sierra is chilly. Temperatures average in the low 50s F (low 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost occasionally. It rains most days.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Peru has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Southern Sierra. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and C. Check that you pick the right type. Many adapters on sale are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

March

March can be chilly. Temperatures average in the low 50s F (low 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost regularly. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Peru has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Southern Sierra. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and C. Be careful to pick the right type. The majority of adapters currently sold are just plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

April

If you are traveling to Southern Sierra in April, you will notice that it is relatively cool. Expect it to rain about a third of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 50s F (low 10s C). There is frost a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Peru has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Southern Sierra. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and C. Be careful to choose the right type. Most adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

May

May in this region can be chilly. Temperatures average in the low 50s F (low 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost regularly. It rains once in a while.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Peru has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Southern Sierra. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and C. Be careful to pick the correct type. A lot of adapters on sale are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

June

June here is crisp. Temperatures average in the high 40s F (single digits C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Peru has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Southern Sierra. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and C. Be careful to find the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

July

July in this region can be chilly. Temperatures average in the high 40s F (single digits C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Peru has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Southern Sierra. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and C. Take care to choose the right type. Most adapters for sale now are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

August

Traveling to Southern Sierra in August, you will notice that it dry with little rain. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 50s F (low 10s C). There is frost about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Peru has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Southern Sierra. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and C. Make sure to get the correct type. The majority of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

September

If you go to Southern Sierra in September, you will notice that it can be chilly. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 50s F (low 10s C). There is frost about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Peru has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Southern Sierra. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and C. Check that you get the necessary kind. A lot of adapters on sale are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

October

If you are traveling to Southern Sierra in October, you will notice that it is chilly. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 50s F (low 10s C). There is frost a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Peru has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Southern Sierra. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and C. Ensure that you find the necessary type. Most adapters available are simply plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most locations.

November

November for Southern Sierra can be chilly. Temperatures average in the 50s F (low 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost regularly. It rains about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Peru has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Southern Sierra. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and C. Be careful to pick the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

December

If you are traveling to Southern Sierra in December, you will notice that it can be chilly. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 50s F (low 10s C). There is frost regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Peru has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Southern Sierra. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and C. Be sure to choose the right type. Many adapters available online are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most places.

What to do in Southern Sierra, Peru

Peru is well-known for its stunning natural beauty and rich historical heritage, and the Southern Sierra area of the country is a prime example of both. This region is home to some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Peru, as well as some of the most important historical sites in South America. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Southern Sierra, Peru.

1. Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu is probably the most famous attraction in all of Peru, and for good reason. This ancient city was built by the Incas in the 15th century and is one of the most well-preserved examples of Incan architecture in the world. Visitors can explore the ruins, hike the Inca Trail, and take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

2. Colca Canyon

The Colca Canyon is one of the deepest canyons in the world, and a stunning sight to behold. Visitors can hike through the canyon, spot condors soaring overhead, and take a dip in the natural hot springs.

3. Lake Titicaca

Lake Titicaca is the highest navigable lake in the world and is home to some of the most unique and fascinating cultures in Peru. Visitors can explore the floating islands of the Uros people, as well as the islands of Taquile and Amantani, which are known for their beautiful textiles and traditional way of life.

4. Arequipa

Arequipa is one of the most picturesque cities in Peru, known for its white colonial buildings made from volcanic ash. Visitors can explore the historic center, visit the Monastery of Santa Catalina, and enjoy the local cuisine, which is famous for its spicy dishes.

5. Nazca Lines

The Nazca Lines are a series of ancient geoglyphs etched into the desert floor in southern Peru. The lines depict various animals and geometric shapes and are only visible from the air. Visitors can take a flight over the lines to get a better view of the intricate designs.

6. Cusco

Cusco was once the capital of the Incan empire and is now a bustling city with a rich history and culture. Visitors can explore the historic center, visit the impressive Cathedral of Santo Domingo, and sample the local cuisine, which is a fusion of traditional Andean and Spanish flavors.

7. Rainbow Mountain

Rainbow Mountain, also known as Vinicunca, is a stunning natural wonder located in the Andes Mountains. The mountain is named for its vibrant colors, which are caused by the presence of various minerals in the rock. Visitors can hike to the top of the mountain and take in the panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

8. Huacachina Oasis

Located in the Ica region of southern Peru, the Huacachina Oasis is a natural oasis surrounded by sand dunes. Visitors can take a dune buggy tour, go sandboarding, or simply relax by the water and enjoy the scenic views.

In conclusion, the Southern Sierra region of Peru is a treasure trove of natural wonders and historical sites that are sure to impress any traveler. From the awe-inspiring ruins of Machu Picchu to the stunning colors of Rainbow Mountain, there is something for everyone in this beautiful and fascinating part of Peru.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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