Visiting Machu Picchu and Cusco, Peru is filled with adventure and is unlike any other place. While you may want to explore this region and the land of the Incas, you want to make sure you visit it at the right time of the year. Here is a detailed post outlining the best time to visit Machu Picchu.
Timing is everything, and peak tourist season for Machu Picchu, the Inca Trails and Cusco runs from June to August. If you want to avoid crowds, the best time to visit Machu Picchu and Cusco, Peru is before the peak season in April or May.
September and October are also great months to visit Machu Picchu, as they are after the peak season and before the rainy season starts. As Machu Picchu and Cusco only have two seasons: Summer (wet) and Winter (dry), it’s best to plan and book ahead to avoid the rush.
Avoid Machu Picchu During the Rainy Season
Visiting Machu Picchu or hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu during the rainy season (October to March) will put a damper on your travels and fun. The heaviest rainfall occurs in January and February, making these months the least ideal for a visit to Machu Picchu mountain.
While most travelers don’t mind the occasional rain, storms during the rainy season are fierce. They cause landslides, disrupt transportation schedules, and wash away bridges. These rains can also force the closure of Machu Picchu due to safety hazards, making it not advisable to visit Machu Picchu during this period.
Dry Season
The beginning of April is the start of winter or the dry season. This runs through until September, with June and July being the season’s driest. June and July are also the coldest, seeing temperatures that can drop below 0 degrees but usually average 0-25 degrees.
Around noon, you will see a rise in temperature due to the daytime insulation and the lack of humidity in the air. Because of this season’s lack of solar radiation, temperatures will drop in the evening and early mornings.
Machu Picchu Weather: Month by Month
The best time to visit Machu Pichu is naturally down to your personal preference. However, this guide will help you decide when to explore Machu Picchu, leaving you far more prepared for your trip.
Weather at Machu Picchu in January: January is one of the rainiest months of the year. It is also very warm and brings with it many natural weather warnings. For example, in past years, Machu Picchu Trails have seen mudslides, flooding and Avalanches on the Salkantay Mountain.
There are very little tourists but some do visit, by train. If you want to see mile-long views with clear skies, January would not be recommended.
The temperature in Machu Picchu in January is warm ranging between 27˚C (80˚F) during the day and 17˚C (63˚F) at night.
Average rainfall in January: 129.5 mm (5.1″).
Weather at Machu Picchu in February: February in Machu Picchu is generally not recommended for visitors due to the heavy rainfall. It is considered the peak of the rainy season, bringing more frequent and intense downpours compared to January.
These rains can cause significant damage to the surrounding areas, with an increased risk of landslides and rivers overflowing. Travel disruptions are also common, with potential road closures and delays. Adding to this, the Inca Trail, a popular multi-day trek leading to Machu Picchu, shuts down entirely during February and March for maintenance and safety reasons.
The temperature in Machu Picchu in February: Despite the rain, February’s temperatures remain warm, with highs reaching up to 25°C (77°F) during the day. However, the high humidity levels can make it feel even warmer.
At night, temperatures drop down to around 18°C (65°F). If you are determined to visit Machu Picchu in February, be sure to pack waterproof gear, including a rain jacket, pants, and sturdy hiking boots with good traction. Be prepared for potential delays and adjust your expectations for outdoor activities.
Average rainfall in February: 142.2 mm (5.6″).
Weather at Machu Picchu in March: is where we start to see some improvements. During the last two weeks of March, the weather turns pleasant and cloud cover begins to disperse. The best time to visit Machu Picchu begins from here.
The temperature in Machu Picchu in March: is warm with figures reaching up to 27°C (81°F) and 17˚C/64˚F at night.
Average rainfall in March: 108 mm (4.3”).
Weather at Machu Picchu in April: April makes it one of the best times to visit Machu Picchu. There are fewer crowds and the weather is much more bearable.
The temperature in Machu Picchu in April: Pleasant, reaching 22˚C (77˚F) during the day and 14˚C (61˚F) at night.
Average rainfall in April: 61 mm (2.4″).
Weather at Machu Picchu in May: May is the start of the dry season. This is when Peru attracts tourists itching to get a glimpse of Machu Picchu in all its glory. A clear view is present, with a beautiful backdrop of the Andes mountains on each road journey.
The temperature in Machu Picchu in May: Reaches the high 20˚s (70˚F) and at night the temperatures drop to 13˚C (55˚F).
Average rainfall in May: 22.9 mm (0.9″).
Weather at Machu Picchu in June: June is the start of Winter and the tourist season in Machu Picchu. This makes June one of the busiest months to visit Machu Picchu. The weather is ideal with plenty of reasons to celebrate. For example, June celebrates the anniversary of Cusco. Hence, do expect large crowds to flock to the area. This will cause significant crowding and long queues.
The temperature in Machu Picchu in June: lies between 20°C (58°F) and 11°C (52°F).
Average rainfall in June: 17.8 mm (0.7″).
Weather at Machu Picchu in July: July is where we start to note a difference in temperature in Machu Picchu. July creates misty mornings with sunny afternoons, which makes it ideal to explore the ancient Inca land and admire the Urubamba River in its natural surroundings. Please note, Peru’s Independence Day is celebrated on July 27-28.
The temperature in Machu Picchu in July: is between 19°C (66°F) during the day and 10°C (50°F) at night.
Average rainfall in July: very minimal.
Weather at Machu Picchu in August: August changes. It’s the middle of Winter. If visiting Machu Picchu in August, we recommend bringing warm clothes.
The temperature in Machu Picchu in August: cold ranging between 20°C (68°F) during the day and 12°C (54°F) at night.
Average rainfall in August: minimal.
Weather at Machu Picchu in September: September is where we see the crowds go down, which makes it the best time to visit Machu Picchu. September is the end of the dry season, transitioning into the rainy season.
The temperature in Machu Picchu in September: turns warmer, with figures standing between 21˚C (70˚F) during the day and 12˚C (54˚F) at night.
Average rainfall in September: 3.2 mm (1.7″).
Weather at Machu Picchu in October: October is a great time to visit Machu Picchu. The crowds are significantly lower, which makes it a great time to truly take in the beauty of the lost city of the Incas.
The temperature in Machu Picchu in October: 22˚C (72˚F) during the day to 12˚C (54˚F) at night.
Average rainfall in October: 76.2 mm (3″).
Weather at Machu Picchu in November: November is when the temperatures begin to increase along with the rain. If you don’t mind the risk of rain, this is a great time to visit Machu Picchu with very few tourists.
The temperature in Machu Picchu in November: 24˚C (75˚F) during the day and 13˚C (54˚F) at night.
Average rainfall in November: 86.4 mm (3.4″).
Weather at Machu Picchu in December: December is warm. This month is particularly popular with the locals who visit Machu Picchu over Christmas and New Year.
The temperature in Machu Picchu in December: 26˚C (79˚F) during the day and 16˚C (61˚F) at night.
Average rainfall in December: 121.9 mm (4.8″).
When is The Best Time of The Day to Visit Machu Picchu?
The best time to visit Machu Picchu depends on your priorities. Early risers can seize the magic of sunrise over the citadel. During the winter months (June-August), witness the sun peek through the clouds as early as 6 am, painting the ancient city in a golden glow.
You will be among the first visitors, experiencing the tranquility of a silent Machu Picchu bathed in the ethereal light of dawn.
To ensure a smooth arrival, catch the first shuttle bus departing Aguas Calientes (the gateway town) at 5:30 am. Do not be discouraged by queues in peak season, as frequent buses manage the influx of visitors.
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Alternatively, consider an afternoon visit for a different perspective. Reach Machu Picchu by 3 pm, allowing enough time to explore before settling in for a breathtaking sunset.
With fewer crowds in the late afternoon, you will have more space to roam and linger in specific areas that pique your interest. This option offers a unique opportunity to appreciate the ruins in a more intimate setting, bathed in the warm hues of the setting sun.
What’s The Best Time of Year for Hiking at Machu Picchu?
The best time to experience the magic of Machu Picchu through hiking might be during the shoulder seasons, falling in April/May and September/October. These months offer the sweet spot between ideal weather and manageable crowds.
While the dry season (June-August) boasts clear skies and comfortable temperatures, it’s also the busiest time, with long queues and a bustling atmosphere. Opting for the shoulder seasons allows you to witness Machu Picchu’s beauty without feeling overwhelmed by crowds.
Additionally, booking your trek in advance is crucial as Peru has implemented stricter regulations to protect this historical marvel. With a limit of 650 daily hikers compared to over 3000 previously, planning ahead ensures you secure your spot to explore the lost city during your preferred month.
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How Many Days Do You Need to Visit Machu Picchu?
The ideal number of days for your Machu Picchu visit depends on your travel style and interests. For a comprehensive experience, many travelers opt for a 2-day itinerary. This allows for a comfortable overnight stay in Aguas Calientes, the town nestled below Machu Picchu.
With a full day at the citadel, you can explore the ruins at a relaxed pace, take guided tours, and soak in the stunning scenery.
For the adventurous souls, multi-day treks leading to Machu Picchu offer a unique perspective. Imagine retracing the steps of the Incas along breathtaking trails, truly immersing yourself in the history and natural beauty of the region.
Even if your schedule is tight, a whirlwind day trip to Machu Picchu is still possible with the early morning train from Cusco and a return journey in the evening. This option allows you to witness the magic of the citadel firsthand, albeit with less time to delve into its depths.
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Is It Safe to Visit Machu Picchu During the Covid-19 Pandemic?
It is safe to travel to Machu Picchu mountain.
Machu Picchu has recently opened up to tourists again and boasts the ‘Safe Travels’ stamp from the World Travel and Tourism Council. This means the lost city is safe for travelers. And that the local authorities involved in maintaining Machu Picchu, will adhere to industry standards of safety.
