Cajamarca's climate is temperate and dry, with sunny days and very cold nights, with a cool breeze blowing down from the green mountains. Find out which is the best month to travel to the most important city in the northern highlands, considering the region's temperature, and let's go!
The department's altitude influences the weather in Cajamarca and its biodiversity. The rainy season divides the year into two seasons:
Rainy: Although precipitation lasts for eight months, from September to May, most of it falls in the summer (between December and March), with February 15th to March 15th being the season with the most frequent intense and sudden rains.
Dry: This corresponds to the fall and winter season between May and September, with clear skies and mild air during the days and cold at night.
The region is crossed from south to north by the Andes mountain range, whose rugged terrain gives each province a different altitude. The highest is the city of Cajamarca at 2,750 meters above sea level, and the lowest is the district of Choros (Cutervo province), which is at 470 meters above sea level.
The average temperature throughout the year is a very cold 6°C (42°F) and a pleasant 19°C (64°F).
Summer in Cajamarca
Summer in Cajamarca begins at the end of the year (December) and culminates in March, with temperatures ranging from 21°C (68°F) during the day to 8°C (46°F) at night.
Unlike inland areas, the weather during this season is rainy and warm during the day and cool at night.
Winter in Cajamarca
The cold of winter in Cajamarca touches the cheeks without hurting them. A period of clear skies from June to September, with temperatures between 16°C during the day and 5°C at night.
Best season to travel to Cajamarca
Any season is good for visiting the beautiful and historic region of Cajamarca. However, there are perfect climates for visiting a number of tourist attractions, while other seasons are also good for visiting other places of interest.
If you've planned to travel in the summer, it will be a great opportunity to bathe in the icy Llacanora waterfalls. Even though it's rainy season, that won't be a problem for exploring the roofed Cuarto del Rescate (Rescued Room) or the pine forests of Granja Porcón.
If, on the other hand, you've decided to visit Cajamarca in the winter, you'll have clear skies to explore the Sulluscocha Lagoon and all its experiential tourism activities; Santa Apolonia Hill; and the magical archaeological sanctuary of Cumbemayo, among other sites of interest.
The 5 Best Reasons to Visit Cajamarca
1. Nature
One of Cajamarca's natural wonders is Cutervo National Park, home to unique species of flora and fauna.
2. History
This place is home to archaeological relics such as the Otuzco Windows and the Inca Atahualpa Rescue Room.
3. Hot Springs
Soak in the pleasant hot springs of the Inca Baths, which have therapeutic properties.
4. Gastronomy
Take the opportunity to try Peruvian cuisine. Delicacies such as lomo saltado, grilled chicken, or guinea pig stews await you.
5. Folklore
Cajamarca celebrates one of the most popular carnivals in the entire country.
When to Visit Cajamarca?
The months of June through August are the favorites to visit Cajamarca, as the temperatures are warmer and the days are sunny. During this season, there is less chance of rain.
How to get to Cajamarca?
By plane
Cajamarca Airport (CJA) is located about 4 km from the city center. You can easily get there by taxi.
Train
Cajamarca does not have a train station.
Car
There are more than 800 km between Lima and Cajamarca. You must take the Pan-American Highway to connect the two points.
Bus
Various bus companies connect Lima and other parts of Peru with Cajamarca, such as Inca Atahualpa or Continental Pacífico.
