Machu Picchu, the legendary Lost City of the Incas, beckons travelers from around the world to explore its awe-inspiring stone ruins nestled on a remote mountain in southern Peru. With visitor numbers still recovering from the pandemic, now presents a golden opportunity to embark on a journey to this ancient Inca citadel. However, the Machu Picchu experience can be greatly influenced by weather conditions, so in this comprehensive guide, we’ll help you pinpoint the optimal time to visit this iconic destination.
Weather and Machu Picchu
The climatic conditions during your visit to Machu Picchu can significantly impact your overall experience. Here’s a breakdown of the weather by month to help you plan your trip:
January
- Peak of the rainy season in Peru.
- Trails to Machu Picchu are wet, and there’s high humidity.
- Frequent rain makes hiking the Inca trail and other routes challenging.
- If you don’t mind hiking in the rain and missing out on views, you can still visit.
- Alternatively, consider taking the train from Ollantaytambo or Cusco to Aguas Calientes.
February
- Wettest month with unsafe weather conditions.
- Inca trail is closed for maintenance and safety reasons.
- Consider alternative treks like Salkantay.
March
- Precipitation levels decrease, and Inca trail reopens.
- Weather can still be wet during hikes, so pack waterproof gear and layers.
April
- Rainy season draws to a close.
- Machu Picchu remains less crowded.
- Mostly dry weather with occasional light showers.
May and June
- Dry season begins, attracting more visitors.
- May and June feature events like Inti Raymi, the traditional Inca ceremony.
- Expect larger crowds, especially in the mornings.
- Ideal time for hiking the Inca trail.
July and August
- Peak of the dry season and high season for visitors.
- Prepare for queues and crowded spots.
- Arriving early or in the afternoon can help avoid crowds.
September
- Dry season is ending, but visitor numbers are lower than in July and August.
October and November
- Among the best months to visit Machu Picchu.
- Less rain and more sunny days.
- October is busier due to drier conditions.
December
- Rainfall increases, and visitor numbers decrease.
- Expect fog in the mornings and showers in the afternoon.
Read more at: Machu Picchu Weather.
Other Considerations
Ticket Availability
Since reopening post-pandemic, the Peruvian government limits daily visitors to Machu Picchu. Tickets must be purchased months in advance, with specific entrance time slots.
Read: How to buy Machu Picchu Tickets Online?
Accommodation Rates
Peak season sees higher accommodation rates compared to the low season. Plan accordingly and check out our guide to the best places to stay in Cusco for options.
Weather in Peru
To fully understand Machu Picchu’s weather, it’s essential to grasp the broader climate patterns in Peru. Lima may experience sunny days for weeks, while Aguas Calientes, the nearest town to Machu Picchu, may be inundated with rain due to varying terrains and ecosystems across the country.
Best Weather Months
For those seeking the iconic Machu Picchu view with clear blue skies, sunny days are a must. Heavy mist and rain, common during the rainy season, hinder visibility significantly. Ideal weather conditions align with Peru’s dry season.
| Months | Temperature Range | Rainfall | Weather Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|
| December to March | 12-24°C (54-75°F) | Afternoon Showers | Rainy season with some downpours; Inca trail closed in February. |
| May to September | 17-19°C (62-66°F) | Less Likely for Overcast Days | Dry season with clear skies; peak season for tourism. |
| April, October, November | Occasional Downpours | Occasional Downpours | Shoulder season with occasional rain; best time for clear views. |
These are the months when weather conditions align with the best experiences at Machu Picchu.
Avoiding Crowds
Large crowds can affect your Machu Picchu experience. Here’s an overview of daily average visitors based on ticket sales in 2019:
- Highest in August (4,800+ visitors per day).
- Lowest in December (1,900 visitors per day).
Even during the low season, Machu Picchu remains popular. The best time to visit, considering both weather and crowds, falls during the shoulder months of April, October, and November.
Best Time of Day
Selecting the right time of day can enhance your Machu Picchu experience. There are five morning time slots and four in the afternoon. The choice depends on your mode of arrival: train or hiking.
Train Arrival
- Early morning (8-11 am) is the busiest time.
- Opt for afternoon slots (12-3 pm) to avoid crowds.
Hiking the Inca Trail
- Arriving around 6 am to see the sunrise at the Sun Gate is ideal.
- Visiting during the shoulder or low season improves your chance of fewer hikers.
- Inca trail permits must be purchased months in advance.
For train travelers, booking bus tickets in advance and arriving early in the morning can help beat the crowds. Hiking from Aguas Calientes is another option for those looking to minimize queues.
Insider Tip: Consider trekking with local companies like Alpaca Expeditions, known for their sustainability efforts and excellent service.
Machu Picchu is a treasure that deserves to be explored in the best possible conditions. Plan your visit wisely to make the most of this iconic site, its history, and its breathtaking views.
Hi, I’m John, a Cusco native with 10+ years of experience as a local travel guide. I’m the founder of Machu Picchu Guide, Xplore Cusco, and Machu Picchu MP. Let me be your expert guide to uncover the authentic beauty and history of Cusco through my travel blogs. Join me for an unforgettable journey.
