The Amazon Rainforest is one of the most remarkable ecosystems on the planet. But one of the first questions travelers ask is simple – when is the best time of the year to visit?
The good news: the Amazon is a year-round destination. When you should go to the Amazon depends on the activities you want to do, though. Each season has different rewards, so the best time depends on what kind of experience you want. In this blog post, we will tell you everything you need to know for your Peru Amazon tour.
Best Time to Travel: Understanding Seasons in the Amazon
Unlike destinations with four distinct seasons, the Amazon jungle has two main periods – wet and dry seasons, or also called high and low water season. Both bring a unique perspective, which we will explain below. Discover the best time for your Amazon adventure!
Rainy Season (roughly December to April)
Many people will tell you not to travel to the Amazon rainforest during the rainy days, but the reality is much more nuanced. It truly depends on the month you travel! Shoulder months are often mild, and in some years the rains start earlier or later than expected, meaning you might avoid the heaviest downpours altogether. Sometimes there are heavy rains until April, but sometimes they can last from December to May.
During low season, the landscape shifts dramatically. Rainfall increases during these months of the year, and Amazon basin river levels rise, transforming the forest into a lush, flooded world. Trees stand in water, small streams become wide channels, and boats can venture into places that are completely inaccessible in the dry months. For many travelers, this watery, misty version of the Amazon is a magical experience in itself.
Temperatures are also cooler, which is a big plus for anyone who struggles with hot, humid conditions. The higher Madre de Dios river make boat travel easier and open up deep, remote areas that you cannot explore during the low-water months. At the same time, some specific regions have restrictions: for example, entering Pongo de Mainique by river is not recommended when water levels are too high, as conditions become dangerous. On the other hand, many other parts of the rainforest become even more accessible.
Wildlife experiences also change. Wet season is fantastic for birdwatching, and flooded forests offer great opportunities to spot animals that thrive in this environment. If you are aiming to see certain species, the best season simply depends on what you are hoping to encounter.
Expect short but heavy showers during high water season, usually not lasting all day. One more advantage: there are fewer tourists, so the rainforest feels quieter and more untouched.
In short, wet season is not something to avoid at all costs. It is simply a different way of experiencing the Amazon, and for many travelers, it is the most rewarding one.
Dry Season (roughly June to November)
With less rain in the biodiverse Amazon, river levels begin to drop and reveal sandy riverbanks, hidden beaches, and trails that stay flooded during other months. This is the moment when the rainforest opens up for those who love trekking, wildlife spotting along the shores, and even swimming in natural pools that appear during the low-water months.
Temperatures rise and there is far more sunlight, which means long, warm days and incredible sunsets over the river. It is also an excellent time for spotting wildlife on foot, especially mammals that tend to stay closer to land when the forest floor is dry. For hikers, this season is the ideal time: you have more opportunities for the exploration of hiking trails, canopy viewpoints, and land-based exploration that is simply not possible in the rainy season.
Overall, the drier conditions in low-water season offer a more active style of adventure, with plenty of movement, clear trails, and higher chances of encountering land mammals up close. It is the perfect choice for travelers who want a dynamic, ground-oriented Amazon experience.
Which tropical rainforest season is better?
Well, it really depends. The best time to explore the Amazon always comes down to your travel style. In general, we do recommend the dry season, especially for travelers who want longer treks, more trails, and plenty of outdoor activities like walking, night hikes, or simply exploring the forest on foot. Days are sunnier and warmer, you can enjoy the pool at your lodge or relax outside, and you have better chances of wildlife sightings.
The only downside is that this period is more popular, so it is important to book in advance. Lodge availability, the specific room you want, and especially flights can fill up quickly. Also, since it is the high season, you will likely see other boats from nearby lodges during excursions.
The rain season, on the other hand, can still be an immerse experience. You just need a more open mindset, because itineraries are more flexible and depend on how the rain behaves that day. The advantage here is that you can access places that are unreachable in dry season due to low river levels, and wildlife is still present.
I once visited Puerto Maldonado during wet season, and we had several beautiful days. What surprised me most was how active the rainforest becomes right after a heavy rain. As soon as the showers stopped, animals came out again to dry their feathers or fur, and it created some perfect wildlife moments. During one boat tour, the sun came out after a strong downpour and suddenly the riverbanks were full of life. Birds were drying their wings, monkeys moved through the canopy, and we ended up seeing far more animals than expected. It was a great reminder that rainy season offers unique sightings you might miss at other times of the year.
If you choose the wet season, pack smart: bring layers, a good rain poncho, a waterproof jacket, sturdy boots, and expect that wet clothes may not dry quickly due to the humidity. With the right mindset and preparation, both seasons can give you an amazing Amazon experience.
Wildlife Viewing: Best Time to Go (Season Activities)
Wildlife is active year-round in the Amazon, but what you see and how you see it can change with the seasons. In the wetter season, animals spend more time in the canopy because much of the forest floor is flooded. This makes it an excellent time for spotting monkeys moving through the treetops, sloths resting high up, and colorful birds perched above the waterways. Aquatic species also thrive during this time, so river tours often include sightings of caimans, giant river otters, and pink dolphins playing in the wider, deeper channels.
In the low-water months, the dynamic shifts. As the rivers recede, sandy banks and mudflats appear, attracting mammals that come out to drink, feed, or warm themselves in the sun. This season is ideal for spotting tapirs, capybaras, coatis, and even elusive jungle cats if you are very lucky. Reptiles become more visible along the exposed edges, and birds gather around the river, making it a great time for photography.
No matter the season, the Amazon always delivers a rich wildlife experience. Birds, monkeys, reptiles, insects, river dolphins, bats, and freshwater species remain active all year. The key difference is simply where they spend their time: higher in the canopy during the rains, closer to the ground during the dry. Both offer incredible encounters, just with a different perspective on the rainforest’s daily life!
Visit the Peruvian Amazon: Planning a Trip & Factors to Consider
To make the most of your visit, we recommend planning ahead especially in the peak of the rainy season. We recommend you to pack lightweight, long layers to protect yourself from the sun and insects, and bring waterproof gear if you are traveling during the high-water season. Do you need more tips for your Amazon jungle packing list? Read our guide with the best recommendations!
If you are traveling with Apus Peru, our team can help you choose the perfect season for your unforgettable Peru trip and craft an itinerary that suits your adventure style. Whether you want a jungle adventure combined with the Andes, luxury river cruises, cultural visits, or wildlife-focused excursions, we will help your Peru trip at its best.
Plan your trip to the Peruvian jungle:
Puerto Maldonado Amazon Tours: Ultimate Guide to the Best Tours
