What to Wear in Lima in December: Summer Packing Guide
Plan December outfits for Lima with breathable sun-safe clothing, a hat, and a light layer for breezy coastal evenings, plus packing tips and an FAQ.
On this page
Lima in December: the weather in numbers
Typical December conditions from 30 years of daily weather data, split into early, mid and late month so you can match them to your travel dates.
| Dates | Early Dec (1–10) | Mid Dec (11–20) | Late Dec (21–31) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Afternoon high | 22°C (72°F) | 23°C (73°F) | 23°C (74°F) |
| Night-time low | 17°C (63°F) | 18°C (64°F) | 18°C (65°F) |
| Feels like (afternoon) | 22°C (72°F) | 23°C (74°F) | 24°C (75°F) |
| Range of afternoon highs | 21–23°C | 22–24°C | 22–24°C |
| Days with rain | Rare | Rare | 1 in 10 days |
| Afternoon humidity | 69% | 69% | 70% |
| Average wind | 10 km/h | 9 km/h | 9 km/h |
| Daylight | 12.7 h | 12.7 h | 12.7 h |
What this means for your suitcase
- Warm days: T-shirts and light trousers or skirts, plus one light layer.
Travelling on specific dates? Use our What to Wear Planner for the weather, outfits and a packing list for your exact days in Lima.
Averages for 1991-2020, modelled from Copernicus ERA5-Land and ERA5 reanalysis via Open-Meteo open data (CC BY 4.0), adjusted to Lima's elevation. Modelled afternoon highs can read 1–2°C below airport weather-station records.
December falls in Lima's summer, when the city's coastal desert climate shifts toward warmer days and skies that tend to clear after the gray months. The Pacific moderates temperatures, so afternoons feel mild to warm rather than extreme, but the sun can still be intense when it breaks through. Packing for this transition means balancing breathable daytime clothing with a light layer for evenings.
Local guidance for Lima consistently recommends light, fresh clothing, a hat, sunscreen, and a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings. The city invites walking, so comfortable footwear matters as much as the right fabrics. This guide focuses on packing decisions for a city trip rather than mountain or jungle gear. If you are also considering a trip earlier in the season, the what to wear in Lima in January guidance covers similar coastal conditions.
Daytime Outfits for Lima's Early-Summer Warmth
For daytime exploring in December, lightweight short-sleeved tops, light dresses, shorts, and sandals align with Lima's warm, sunny summer conditions. Choose breathable fabrics so you stay comfortable while walking between neighborhoods or along the malecón. A loose, light-colored shirt reflects heat better than a dark, fitted one. These are editorial suggestions based on seasonal patterns, not a dress code.
Summer in Lima runs roughly from December through March, and one Lima clothing guide describes this period as radiant and warm, with light dresses and short-sleeved shirts as suitable daytime choices. One top and one bottom swapped across the trip is enough variety for city days, and light dresses can double as an easy dinner option. If you run warm, prioritize lighter fabrics; if you chill easily, choose a slightly thicker cotton or blend.
Sun Protection: Hat, Sunglasses, and Sunscreen
Lima's summer sun can be strong even when the morning starts gray, so a hat and sunscreen belong in your day bag, not your suitcase. Peru packing guidance that covers city clothing lists a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen among the essentials to bring. Reapply sunscreen during long afternoons outdoors.
If you plan to spend time near the water or on open plazas, a light long-sleeved layer can supplement sunscreen without adding much weight. Pair it with your hat and sunglasses for a compact sun-protection kit. Keep these items in your day bag so they are available as skies clear.
Evening and Coastal Layering
Evenings along Lima's Pacific coast often turn breezy and cooler than the afternoon, so a light jacket or sweater is worth carrying. This layer does not need to be heavy; a packable cardigan or wind-resistant shell handles most summer evenings. If you are dining near the water, the breeze can feel stronger than inland, so choose something you can easily put on and take off.
A scarf can add warmth without bulk and doubles as a sun cover during the day. Because the temperature swing is modest, layering is more useful than a single heavy coat. Test your combination before departure so you know it works for both a warm afternoon and a cool evening.
Footwear Trade-Offs for City Walking
Lima is a city that rewards walking, so comfortable, breathable shoes are important for long days on pavement and cobblestones. Sandals suit warm afternoons and casual meals, but closed walking shoes offer more support and protection for extended exploration. A practical approach is to bring both and switch based on the day's plan.
Avoid heavy boots or stiff new shoes that need breaking in; Lima's urban terrain does not require them. If you plan a day trip to coastal or desert ruins outside the city, a separate Lima day trip packing for desert and ruins guide covers the sand and uneven ground that change footwear needs. For the city itself, prioritize cushioning and breathability.
Fabric Choices for Warm, Humid Conditions
Lima's coastal humidity means breathable, quick-drying fabrics feel better than heavy weaves. Cotton, linen, and lightweight technical blends move moisture and dry faster after a day of walking. A fabric that packs small also helps you avoid overfilling your bag.
Denim and bulky knits are less useful in December because they trap heat and take long to dry. Reserve them for cooler months or higher-altitude destinations if your trip continues beyond Lima. For the coast, think light and layerable rather than thick and structured.
A Compact Five-Day Packing Example
For a five-day city trip, a workable capsule pairs a few breathable tops with one or two bottoms, a light dress or similar warm-weather option, a light jacket or sweater, comfortable walking shoes, sandals, a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. This range covers daytime warmth and evening breeze without duplicating items. Laundry services are widely available in tourist areas, so you can pack less and refresh clothing mid-trip.
Keep the palette neutral so pieces mix easily, and choose fabrics that dry overnight. If your itinerary includes a nicer dinner, one smart-casual outfit is enough; check with the specific venue if you are unsure what is expected. The goal is flexibility, not a large wardrobe.
What to Leave Behind
Heavy coats, bulky knits, and thermal base layers are unnecessary for a December trip focused on Lima. Lima's climate is mild, so travel guidance advises light layers over heavy clothing. Leave behind footwear that is better suited to trekking destinations.
Expensive jewelry and items that draw attention are better left at home when visiting a large city. If your trip continues to the Andes or the Amazon, pack those needs separately rather than overloading your Lima bag. Let the coastal climate, not a mountain forecast, drive the core of your suitcase.
Before-Departure Weather Check
Seasonal patterns describe tendencies, not a forecast, so review current conditions shortly before you fly. Check a reliable weather service for Lima and note the daytime high, overnight low, and any unusual pattern. Use that snapshot to adjust quantities and confirm whether your light layer will be enough.
If the forecast suggests a cooler-than-usual stretch, add one warmer mid-layer rather than replacing your whole plan. If it looks warmer, you can leave the extra sweater at home. This small check prevents overpacking while keeping you prepared for the coastal breeze.
Plan Your Visit
December in Lima is a packing exercise in balance: breathable, sun-safe clothing for warm afternoons and a light layer for breezy evenings by the Pacific. Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, and choose comfortable shoes for a city that rewards walking. Keep the rest of your bag light and flexible.
Confirm current conditions before departure rather than relying on seasonal averages, and adapt your capsule accordingly. With a compact, layerable wardrobe, you can move between daytime exploration and evening dining without checking a heavy bag. Lima's mild summer makes that simplicity possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a raincoat in Lima in December?
Rain in Lima is scarce, and travel guidance for the city does not treat a raincoat as essential. A light jacket or sweater is more useful for breezy coastal evenings. If you continue to other regions of Peru, check separate packing advice for those climates.
What should I wear in Lima in December during the day?
Light, breathable clothing such as short-sleeved tops, light dresses, shorts, and sandals suits the warm summer conditions. Add a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for sun protection. These are editorial suggestions based on seasonal tendencies, not a dress code.
Are there dress codes for restaurants or nightlife in Lima?
Lima's atmosphere is generally casual, but some venues may have their own expectations. No universal dress code applies. If you plan a special dinner, a smart-casual outfit is a safe editorial choice, and you can confirm specific venue policies directly with the establishment.
What shoes should I bring for Lima in December?
Comfortable walking shoes are the priority because Lima invites exploring on foot. Sandals work well for warm afternoons, while closed shoes offer more support for longer walks. Choose breathable options and avoid heavy boots unless your trip continues to mountain destinations.
What should I leave behind when packing for Lima in December?
Leave heavy coats, bulky knits, and thermal base layers at home for a Lima-focused trip. A raincoat is not essential for the city in December. Expensive jewelry and heavy footwear are also better left behind unless another part of your itinerary requires them.
Sources
Free: The Ultimate Packing Cheat Sheet
A carry-on capsule wardrobe, the complete packing checklist, layering made simple, and what to wear by season — one printable page you'll use on every trip.
You might also like
Continue reading
More guides you'll find useful
