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If you have decided but still do not know when is the best time to visit Machu Picchu, know that in Cusco there are two seasons: dry and rainy. Although every day is a good time to visit the Inca City, each month has its own peculiarities.
What is the climate in Machu Picchu?
Due to its location in the middle of the Amazon jungle and the Andes Mountains, enjoys a very special climate.
In Machu Picchu there are two distinct climatic seasons: the dry season and the rainy season.
The dry season in Machu Picchu
This is the best time of the year to visit Machu Picchu.
The dry season occurs between April and October.
During these months the sun shines all day long and rains are almost absent, allowing tourists to take a pleasant walk through the Inca city.
In June and July, daytime temperatures can reach 25ºC (77ºF). In the early hours of the day, the lowest temperatures can reach 0ºC.
During the dry season, there is also the “high tourist season”, when registers the highest number of visitors of the year.
The rainy season in Machu Picchu
The months of November to March are the rainy season. Contrary to what many people think, it does not rain all day. In most cases, the rains only occur in the afternoon.
During these months, the Inca City may appear foggy. However, as the morning progresses, this disappears.
In February and March, rainfall is more frequent than during the rest of the year. Maximum temperatures can reach 22ºC (71.6ºF). Minimum temperatures are 8ºC (46ºF).
During the rainy season there is also a “tourist low season”. During these months it is possible to get lower prices on hotels, excursions and other services.
When is the best time to visit Machu Picchu?
The dry season is the best time to visit it, the days are sunny and bright are in May, June and July are the best months to visit the Inca City. During these days, the Inca City presents a beautiful landscape.
Also is the best time to do the Classic Inca Trail 4 Days. Read more about best time to do Inca Trail.
In addition, during these months Cusco celebrates its best festivals, such as the famous festival of Inti Raymi (June) or the Fiestas Patrias del Peru (July).
What is the best time to explore the mountains of Machu Picchu?
In the Inca City, visitors can enjoy incredible routes, such as hiking to the top of Mountain or Huayna Picchu.
The months of May, June and July are the best for these treks. The chances of rain are low and at the top, the views are spectacular, on the other hand, February is not a good time to go to there. This month is characterized by more rain, which also limits visitors to the Inca Trail.
During the rainy season, the mountain trails are narrow and vertiginous. On those days, some visitors may be frightened by wet trails.
What is the high season in Machu Picchu?
The high tourist season is between May and August. This season coincides with the dry season, but also with vacations in Europe and the United States. If you plan to come in high season, please note that you must book your tickets in advance, minimum 3 months and if it is Huayna Picchu 5 months in advance.
In high season, you will have to wait in a long line to board the bus that will take you from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu.
During these months, the prices of most tourist services increase. Therefore, it is advisable to book them in advance online.
What is the low season in Machu Picchu?
The low tourist season coincides with the rainy season. It runs from November to March and is characterized by the fact that fewer tourists visit the Inca city during these months. Despite the rains, according to some tourists, the low season is the best time to visit.
In addition, on those days it is possible to be in there with as few people as possible. Thus, tourists can visit the archaeological site with more tranquility. Finally, during the low tourist season, prices are lower. You can buy tours, hotels and other services at good prices.
This is Machu Picchu month by month
Every month is special. The climate varies in wet and dry seasons.
The best months are considered to be May, June and July.
Machu Picchu in January
January is rainy, but not every day. It is possible to visit the Inca City in full sun. There are not many tourists visiting the archaeological site. It is advisable to bring a raincoat and sunscreen.
Machu Picchu in February
This is the rainiest month. The Inca Trail is closed for maintenance. Rain can occur at any time, especially in the afternoon. However, with a little luck, there can be sunny days. Despite the rain, the Huayna Picchu and mountains are still open. Also it is still open, only the Inca Trail is closed this month.
Machu Picchu in March
In March, the rains decrease, although they can still occur during the afternoon. The Inca city is at its maximum splendor. In the morning, fog can lift and cover the landscape. The Inca Trail reopens for hiking and remains closed in February.
Machu Picchu in April
April marks the beginning of the so-called “dry season”. Rainfall decreases considerably. The sun is warm, but the heat does not reach maximum temperatures. The wonder of the world can still be admired in an intense green color. According to some experts, this intermediate month is a good opportunity to visit it.
Machu Picchu in May
May is one of the best times to visit. The sun rises very early. Tourists from Europe and the United States begin to visit the archaeological site in large numbers. This month is perfect for treks such as Huayna Picchu, Inca Trail or Salkantay trekking.
Machu Picchu in June
June is also a good time to visit. The sun is intense during the day and rain is rare. The Inca City has the highest number of visitors per day. It is a good opportunity to climb the Huayna Picchu mountain. It is advisable to bring a hat, sunscreen and mosquito repellent.
Machu Picchu in July
July is a good month to visit it, but also the city of Cusco. At the end of this month the Inti Raymi (Festival of the Sun) is celebrated. The weather is the hottest. It is necessary to protect yourself from the sun and mosquitoes. Tickets should be purchased well in advance through the Internet (minimum 4 months).
Machu Picchu in August
August is a good time to visit, with sunshine, little chance of rain and a decrease in the number of tourists. In August the weather is pleasant. Be sure to bring a hat, sunscreen and mosquito repellent.
Machu Picchu in September
September is a good month to go to, as well as for trekking routes such as the Inca Trail, the Salkantay Trek or the ascent of Huayna Picchu. The weather is pleasant: not too sunny and not too cold. However, rain can appear at any time, so take a raincoat.
Machu Picchu in October
This is the last month of the dry season. The weather is still pleasant. The days are sunny and there is little chance of rain. The number of tourists visiting the archaeological site decreases. It is also a good month for excursions to Huayna Picchu, the Inca Trail or Montaña.
Machu Picchu in November
November is the beginning of the so-called “rainy season “. As the name suggests, the rains become more frequent, although they are still scarce. It is a good time to visit the Inca City with fewer people, as the number of daily visitors decreases. Bring a raincoat and appropriate clothing for sunny days.
Machu Picchu in December
In December, the number of visitors increases due to the Christmas and New Year vacations. The weather is warm. Rainfall is more frequent, especially in the afternoon. Mornings are usually sunny. It is recommended to carry a backpack.
Frequently asked questions
According to the guidebooks, you can get excellent photos in April, May, September, October and November. On those days it does not rain as much, but the landscapes are green.
Does not close any day of the year, except in exceptional cases of protests or natural disasters.
Any day of the year is a good time to visit, However, some tourists do not like the rains that can fall on the Inca city in February.
Early in the morning (at 6 am) you can take beautiful pictures. The same during sunset (at 4 or 5 pm).
Even if it rains a lot in February, you can still do the tour and take good pictures, yes, it is a good idea!
At Christmas time is full of a special atmosphere in all its tourist facilities: hotels, restaurants and more.
During the rainy season (November to March) it is possible to book hotels, tours and cheaper. For this, it is recommended to buy online in advance.
During the dry season months, especially June, July and August, the nights are colder.
The economical route via hydroelectric is not recommended during the months of heavy rains: January, February and March. The rest of the year, you can take this alternative route without risk.
Celebrates its anniversary every year on July 7. That day is celebrated as the Wonder of the Modern World (since 2007). At night, music and dancing are guaranteed in the town of Aguas Calientes.
