Machu Picchu, the jewel of the Peruvian Andes, attracts thousands of tourists every year thanks to its combination of history, breathtaking scenery and culture. But when is the best time of year to visit Machu Picchu? The answer will depend on what you’re looking for: favorable weather, fewer crowds or a more economical environment.
Here you will find everything you need to know to plan your trip and choose the season that best suits your preferences. In addition, we will give you some tips to get the most out of your adventure in the Lost City of the Incas.
When is the best time of the year to visit Machu Picchu?
Machu Picchu is open all year round, and each season offers a different experience. The region has two main seasons:
- Dry season: From May to September.
- Rainy season: From October to April.
Both seasons have their advantages, so the key is to choose according to your preferences. Below, we explore the characteristics of each season so you can decide when to visit this incredible place.
Machu Picchu during the dry season (May to September)
The dry season is the most popular because it offers sunny days and clear skies, guaranteeing spectacular views. It is ideal for hiking and photography, although it is also the busiest time, especially in June, July and August, coinciding with vacations in Europe and North America.
- Temperatures: Highs of 27-30 °C and lows of 4-7 °C at night.
- Positive aspects:
- Clear skies for perfect photos.
- Excellent for trekking on the Inca Trail or Salkantay Trek.
- Aspects to consider:
- Cold nights, wear warm clothes.
- There are more tourists, so it is necessary to book in advance.
- Some mountain routes may have snow, especially in June and July.
Machu Picchu during the rainy season (October to April).
If you prefer fewer tourists and lower prices, the rainy season is perfect for you. Although there are rainy days, the landscape becomes greener and more lush. You can also find deals on flights and accommodations.
- Temperatures: Highs of 21-25 °C and lows of 6-8 °C.
- Positive aspects:
- Few crowds and more space to explore.
- Discounts on hotels and tours.
- Rains bring a mystical air with clouds over the mountains.
- Aspects to consider:
- Frequent rains, especially in January and February.
- Some trekking trails, such as the Inca Trail, close in February.
- It is necessary to carry rain gear and be prepared for delays.
Transition season: the perfect combination
The transition season occurs between April-May and September-November. During these months, you will find the best of both seasons:
- Little rainfall, but without the cold nights of winter.
- Fewer tourists than in the high season.
- Pleasant weather for hiking and tours.
If you are looking for a balanced experience, the transition season is ideal for exploring Machu Picchu with less stress and more comfort.
Recommended months to visit Machu Picchu
- May: Beginning of the dry season, with little rain and ideal weather.
- June to August: High season with good weather, although with many crowds.
- September and October: Few tourists and mostly sunny days.
- January and February: Ideal if you are looking for bargains and don’t mind the rain.
Summary of the weather in Machu Picchu
Although there are only two main seasons, dry and rainy, it is important to be prepared for any conditions: sunny, cloudy and rainy days. The weather in the Andes is unpredictable because Machu Picchu is located in the cloud forest region.
Machu Picchu in January
January is the rainiest month of the year, so it is essential to bring good rain gear. Be prepared for possible itinerary changes, road closures, train delays and flight cancellations.
- Temperature: Highs of 21°C (71°F), lows of 7°C (45°F).
- Recommendation: Ideal for those looking to visit Machu Picchu on their own and take advantage of deals on hotels, flights and tours.
- Recommended trekking: Lares Trek. Avoid the Salkantay and Choquequirao because of the rains.
More information about Machu Picchu in January.
Machu Picchu in February
Although it rains less than in January, the rains in February can be intense. The number of visitors is low, allowing you to explore at your leisure.
- Temperature: Highs of 22°C (72°F), lows of 8°C (46°F).
- Considerations: Possible landslides and temporary closures of the Inca Trail and other routes.
- Trekking available: Only Lares Trek. The Inca Trail and other routes, such as the Salkantay, are closed for maintenance.
More information about Machu Picchu in February.
Machu Picchu in March
The weather improves in March, especially in the second half of the month. The Inca Trail reopens and there are more sunny days, although with occasional showers.
- Temperature: Highs of 21°C (71°F), lows of 6°C (42°F).
- Recommendation: It is still best to avoid the Salkantay Trek due to the rains.
- Tip: The second half of the month is ideal for visiting, with less chance of rain.
More information about Machu Picchu in March.
Machu Picchu in April
The high season begins with good weather and less rain. Mornings are usually clear, allowing you to enjoy the sunrise at the citadel.
- Temperature: Highs of 22°C (73°F), lows of 4°C (39°F).
- Recommendation: Book tours and trains in advance. April is ideal for the Inca Trail and other routes.
More information about Machu Picchu in April.
Machu Picchu in May
May marks the official start of the dry season. The weather is perfect for trekking and the mountain views are spectacular.
- Temperature: Highs of 30°C (86°F), lows of 6°C (42°F).
- Recommendation: One of the best months to hike Machu Picchu, the Inca Trail and routes such as Salkantay and Lares.
More information about Machu Picchu in May.
Machu Picchu in June
The high tourist season begins with the arrival of thousands of visitors from the northern hemisphere. Rainfall is minimal, but be prepared for cold nights.
- Temperature: Highs of 28°C (83°F), lows of 7°C (44°F).
- Recommendation: Book lodging and excursions in advance due to high demand.
Machu Picchu in July
July is part of the dry winter in the Andes. Although temperatures in the citadel are mild during the day, nights can be freezing in the mountains.
- Temperature: Highs of 27°C (82°F), lows of 7°C (44°F).
- Considerations: There will be long lines for buses and trains. Book everything well in advance.
Machu Picchu in August
August is the busiest month in Machu Picchu. Be prepared for crowds and longer waiting times to enter the citadel.
- Temperature: Highs of 26°C (78°F), lows of 6°C (42°F).
- Recommendation: Take alternative excursions to avoid the crowds.
Machu Picchu in September
In September, the rains begin to return and the dry season comes to an end. The weather becomes cooler and the influx of tourists decreases.
- Temperature: Highs of 22°C (73°F), lows of 7°C (44°F).
- Recommendation: Excellent month for trekking without the pressure of crowds.
Machu Picchu in October
October is a month of transition between the dry and rainy seasons. Few rains are expected and temperatures are milder than in winter.
- Temperature: Highs of 22°C (72°F), lows of 5°C (41°F).
- Recommendation: October is ideal to visit, with good availability and fewer tourists.
Machu Picchu in November
The rainy season begins, although there are still sunny and pleasant days. The number of visitors decreases, making it a good time to explore without crowds.
- Temperature: Highs of 25°C (78°F), lows of 7°C (45°F).
- Recommendation: Perfect for those looking for quieter experiences and lower hotel and tour costs.
Machu Picchu in December
December brings more rain, but the influx of visitors increases towards the end of the year due to the vacations and Christmas parties.
- Temperature: Highs of 21°C (71°F), lows of 6°C (44°F).
- Recommendation: One of the last months with good weather before the heavy rains of January and February.
More information about Machu Picchu in December.
Best time to hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
The best time to hike the Classic Inca Trail is during the dry season (May to September). During this period, the weather is more stable and rainfall is less frequent, making it easier to hike the steep trails and offering a safer and more enjoyable experience. However, since the Inca Trail passes through areas of cloud forest, unexpected rainfall can occur, so it is essential to bring waterproof clothing.
Many travelers choose to hike the Inca Trail in a group, which not only makes the experience more enriching and social, but also allows for divided responsibilities and improved logistics on a demanding trek.
Inca Trail during the dry season
The dry season runs from May to September. At this time, days are usually sunny and rains are less likely, but temperatures can vary drastically:
- During the day: The temperature can be hot and reach 25-30°C, so it is essential to wear sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat.
- At night: Temperatures can drop below 0°C, especially in camps at higher altitudes. It is essential to wear thermal clothing to protect from the cold.
This season is the busiest, so you should book tours, train tickets and lodging months in advance to guarantee availability.
Inca Trail during the rainy season
The rainy season runs from November to March. Although temperatures are warmer than in the dry season, the terrain can become slippery and difficult to traverse.
- Equipment needed: Raincoats, non-skid boots and backpacks with rain protection.
- Advantage: As there are fewer tourists, you can enjoy a quieter experience and find better prices on accommodation and tours.
However, some routes and trails may be temporarily closed due to landslides or bad weather conditions, especially in the wetter months of January and February.
Machu Picchu: Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Machu Picchu?
Machu Picchu is located in southern Peru, 80 km northwest of Cusco, in the mountainous region known as the jungle brow, a transition zone between the Amazon rainforest and the Andes.
Who built Machu Picchu and when?
It was built by the Incas around 1450, during the reign of Emperor Pachacuti, one of the most important rulers of the Inca Empire.
What was the purpose of Machu Picchu?
Although the exact use of the site is not entirely clear, it is believed that it may have been a spiritual and political retreat for Emperor Pachacúti, a religious or ceremonial center, and also a strategic administrative post to control the surrounding lands.
How was Machu Picchu discovered?
Although locals had known of its existence for centuries, Machu Picchu was made known to the world in 1911 by the American explorer Hiram Bingham III, who visited the site during an archaeological expedition.
When is Machu Picchu least crowded?
The least crowded months are January and February, during the rainy season. During these months, you will find lower prices on lodging, flights and tours, although you should be prepared for frequent rains and possible road closures.
When is the best time to visit Machu Picchu?
- Best weather: May to October (dry season).
- Less tourists: From April to May and September to October, when the weather conditions are still favorable, but without so many tourists.
How to get to Machu Picchu?
- Flight: Travel to Lima, the capital of Peru.
- Domestic flight: From Lima to Cusco.
- Train: From Cusco or from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes (the closest town to Machu Picchu).
- Bus or hike: From Aguas Calientes to the archaeological site of Machu Picchu.
What is the best time to visit Machu Picchu?
Visit early in the morning (6:00 am).
- The gate of Machu Picchu opens at 6:00 am.
- First bus from Aguas Calientes: 5:30 am.
- Advantage: Possibility to see the sunrise (weather permitting) and enjoy the site without crowds.
- Ideal for those who do the Inca Trail, Salkantay Trek, or spend the night in Aguas Calientes.
Mid-morning visit (9:00 am – 12:00 pm)
- Most tourists arrive at this time, when the trains from Cusco and Ollantaytambo arrive in Aguas Calientes.
- Advantage: The weather is more stable and it is the best time to get good pictures.
- Disadvantage: More tourists.
Afternoon visit (1:00 pm – 3:00 pm)
- Less crowded: After 2:00 pm, the site empties considerably.
- Tip: If you have a train in the afternoon or plan to spend the night in Aguas Calientes, this is an excellent option to visit Machu Picchu in peace and quiet.
Visit on Sundays
- On Sundays, access is free for locals, which makes the site more crowded. If you can, try to avoid this day.
When is the busiest season at Machu Picchu?
June, July and August are the high season months. In this period, it is advisable to book tickets, tours and lodging several months in advance to ensure availability and avoid overpricing.