La Merced in February

Outside the best window (check). Across Peru: Inca Trail closed; wettest month; Candelaria festival in Puno (check dates).

February is rated mixed. These months rate higher:

• AprilGoodOutside the best window (check). Across Peru: Shoulder season: green and mostly dry; Easter crowds in Cusco and Ayacucho.
• MayGoodOutside the best window (check). Across Peru: Dry season begins; good trekking; Machu Picchu tickets still available a few weeks out.
• JuneGoodOutside the best window (check). Across Peru: Inti Raymi (24 Jun) and Corpus Christi in Cusco; book tickets and rooms months ahead.
• JulyGoodOutside the best window (check). Across Peru: Peak season plus Fiestas Patrias (28–29 Jul); cold nights in the Andes.

• La MercedHighs around 0 °C (32 °F), lows around 0 °C (32 °F), rain on about 0 daysHighs around 32 °F (0 °C), lows around 32 °F (0 °C), rain on about 0 days

Dates as our data lists them. Moving holidays (lunar and Islamic calendars, Easter) shift every year: check the date for your year before you build a trip on it.

• Virgen de la Candelaria, Puno big impact

  Early Feb (check) · Peru

  Two weeks of dance; Puno rooms sell out.

Crowds · Peru overall

Low

Prices · Peru overall

Low

Peru overall: Inca Trail closed; wettest month; Candelaria festival in Puno (check dates).

Weather, crowds and prices for any two months in La Merced, side by side.

• A warm coat, hat and gloves for mornings and evenings

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