How is the weather in Lima Peru, & Huaraz, Peru?

Question

I'm going to Peru in January. What is the weather like in this time? I saw on Yagoo that it's about 76 degrees but do people go to the beach, do they swim in the ocean or not yet? And in Haraz is it very cold or not so cold. I'm just trying to figure out what kind of clothes should I take?

Answer 1

It can get fairly warm and unpleasant in Lima in January, but in spite of that, going to the beach around that city is not recommended.  The beaches there suck, quite frankly.  They are polluted and crime-ridden.  Sure, people still go, and on a hot weekend day, there can be good crowds at places, but the best beaches are either way to the north (around Mancora) or further south (where it's colder, but at least cleaner).  

Peru's coast is hit with a deep-sea upwelling called the Humboldt current, which, while making the local waters very rich in nutrients and sea life, makes the ocean very cold also.  This phenomenon regulates the coastal temperatures, keeping them from getting really hot and causing lots of overcast days and fog.  Also, it makes for a chilly swim.

Huaraz, in the mountains, is on a sort of reverse weather cycle from the coast.  In January, along the coast you are most likely to experience sunny days, but in the mountains, January is the heart of the rainy season.   Sun on the coast translates to clouds up higher.  

While January is still technically summer in Huaraz, with warmer temperatures, the locals consider it their winter season because that is when most of the rain falls.  Viewing the mountains is harder during this time of year.  Trekking can be difficult because of the rain.  Transport to remote areas is potentially dangerous due to washouts and climbing is impossible because of deep snow and avalance risk.

Temperature-wise, in Huaraz, the days will be pleasant in January.  If it's not raining, you could even wear shorts, but bring a good jacket for the nights.

Answer 2

Well January is their summer, so its pretty cool but not to hot. From what I remember it's not to humid either. My parents both grew up in Lima, and from what my cousins tell me, they do go to the beach a lot. The public beaches are usually really busy and many people leave and go to the beaches at San Antonio which I think is to the north. I think you'd be fine with shorts and shirts....maybe a light jacket as well.