Best Time to Travel to Machu Picchu

Best Time to Travel to Machu Picchu: Due to its location on the eastern slope of the Andes Mountains, Machu Picchu is often obscured by fog and clouds, adding to the site’s aura of mystery and fascination. Machu Picchu has a remarkable ecosystem that supports a wide range of plant and animal life. You will remember this for a long time. This new information makes exploring the Inca capital much more thrilling and interesting.

The best time to visit Machu Picchu is whenever you can find a convenient combination of favorable weather, low visitor numbers, and awe-inspiring scenery. Generally speaking, the weather in this region has a dry season from May through September and a wet season from October through April.

When is the busiest time of year to visit Machu Picchu?

Several factors, such as the time of year, the anticipated number of visitors, and personal tastes, must be considered while organizing a trip to Machu Picchu. Here are some suggestions for picking the most convenient time:

The weather: The weather goes through several shifts throughout the year. May through September are the best months to visit Machu Picchu, according to common belief. The weather at this time of year is often pleasant and sunny. However, from October to April, there is a strong probability of precipitation and heavy humidity. This might make sightseeing more difficult than expected.

Because of its widespread fame, the months of June, July, and August, as well as the weeks around Christmas and New Year’s, are often the busiest for visitors to Machu Picchu. To avoid crowds, travel in the spring or fall instead than the summer or winter. These times of year are often recognized in the months of April and May, September and October, and maybe even November.

The limited number of available Machu Picchu tickets is 2025. This suggests that bookings may sell out rapidly during peak seasons if they are not booked in advance.

The many festivals and celebrations you may join in on during your time in Peru will help you feel more at home in the local culture and give you a deeper understanding of the people who live there. It’s important to remember, however, that festivities like these might reduce the overall number of visitors, the number of available hotel rooms, and the number of available tour slots.

The misconception that it won’t rain during the dry season has led many to plan their trip to Machu Picchu then. The weather in the Andes is notoriously unpredictable. Even in the supposedly dry months of June and July, precipitation might occur unexpectedly. Considering your own preferences is vital when picking the best time of year to visit Machu Picchu, since each season has its own perks and cons.

Hiking Routes Around Machu Picchu

Sparrow Explorer Travel 2025’s Machu Picchu during the rainy season in 2025

When compared to a visit in the dry season (May to November), seeing Machu Picchu during the rainy season (December to March) is like nothing else. The weather has cooled down, giving the landscape a lusher appearance. The best time to visit Machu Picchu is around the start of the rainy season, which runs from the end of September until the beginning of December.

Among the considerations are the following:

Humidity levels will be high, and we can expect rain to fall often. Traveling to Machu Picchu and the surrounding region may be more challenging because of this, but the scenery will be more lush and gorgeous as a result.

When compared to the dry season, the rainy season sees less tourists, giving you more time to explore the ruins and the area around them. It’s important to exercise caution since the rain might make the ruins and paths slippery. The importance of wearing the correct clothing and shoes cannot be overstated.

Photos taken in the rain are often stunning, and the ruins take on a surreal, otherworldly quality when surrounded by mist and clouds. You need to be adaptable, since you may have to adjust your plans if the forecast calls for bad weather. Some areas may be at risk for flooding and landslides.

During the heavy rainy season, which starts in the middle of or later in December and continues until the end of March, precipitation is more common in the mornings and late afternoons. You may capture stunning photographs of Machu Pichu despite the clouds, since the sun will never set. If you want your vacations to be quiet and uncrowded, now is the best time of year to go. You may save a lot of money on flights and lodging by traveling during the shoulder seasons.

Machu Picchu in the midst of its seasonal changes or Machu Picchu Weather

The shoulder seasons are the transitional months between the rainy and dry seasons. We are not being pelted by either the sun or the rain, and the weather is perfect. More over, the number of visitors to landmarks like Machu Picchu has not yet recovered to its pre-peak levels. April and May, along with September and October, fall under this group.

Warm temperatures and somewhat lower than average humidity are predicted over the next days. Rain is possible, especially at the beginning of the shoulder season, so plan accordingly.

Crowds: Shoulder seasons often see a less number of tourists than peak seasons. If you want more flexibility in arranging accommodation and tour plans, the shoulder season is usually the ideal time to travel.

If you want to visit Machu Picchu and escape the crowds without missing out on the experience, the shoulder seasons are your best bet. Even though the weather is still lovely and sunny in April, May, and September, through November, fewer tourists travel during those times.

It is possible to view Machu Picchu from here during the dry season.

It is highly recommended that you visit Machu Picchu in the dry season. The months of May through September constitute the dry season, when temperatures are high and precipitation is scarce. However, the heat is bearable compared to other parts of Peru, and there is almost no precipitation. Therefore, it is recommended that you visit Machu Picchu during the dry season.

During the month of May, Peru enters its dry season, which also happens to be the country’s winter. Thousands of tourists from the United States, Canada, Europe, and other countries in the northern hemisphere are expected to visit Machu Picchu this summer.

Here’s a quick breakdown of what to expect during that window:

During the dry season, you can expect clear skies, plenty of sunlight, and cool nights and mornings. This makes for an ideal environment for hiking and discovery, as well as a fantastic photographic opportunity. However, keep in mind that, despite its consistency, the weather may be unpredictable at times, especially at higher elevations.

Since the dry season is also the high season, visitors may find Machu Picchu and the surrounding area to be rather crowded. You should book your accommodations, modes of transportation, and sightseeing excursions in advance to ensure that you have everything you need.

During the dry season, visitors may easily explore the bulk of Inca sites, including the famous Inca Trail. Permits to hike the Inca Trail are limited and likely to sell out quickly, so it’s best to plan your trip as far in advance as possible.

In Peru, the dry season is also a time for cultural festivals and festivities, such as June’s Inti Raymi celebration. Keep in mind that your stay might be affected by higher prices and more people due to the presence of these events.

Clear, cold days are perfect for stargazing since the sky don’t cloud up throughout the day but instead stay crisp and clear. At this time of year, snow on the paths in the higher mountains is to be expected. The months of June, July, August, and September form this set.

An Overview of the Machu Picchu Climate

There are just two seasons, dry and wet, but you still need to pack for sunny, cloudy, and rainy days. In spite of the fact that we experience just two seasons—the dry and the wet—each year. Machu Picchu’s position in the Cloud Forest region makes Andean weather very hard to predict.

When is the Best Month to Visit Machu Picchu or Best Time to Visit Machu Picchu?

Visit Machu Picchu in January.

You should never visit Machu Picchu without proper weather preparations, especially in January, the wettest month of the year (with an average rainfall of 150 millimeters). If you’re planning a trip for this month, keep in mind that you may have to make some changes to your plans because of things like landslides closing trails, train delays, or aircraft cancellations.

Expect highs at 71 degrees Fahrenheit (21 degrees Celsius) and lows around 45 degrees Fahrenheit (7 degrees Celsius) during your time in Machu Picchu. This is the best time to visit Machu Picchu if you want to avoid the crowds, enjoy lower hotel prices, and save money on transportation and tours.

Machu Picchu and Inca Trail tours run daily, although we advise against taking the Salkantay or Choquequirao routes. The Lares Trek is the best route to Machu Picchu this month.

Visit Machu Picchu in February.

Even though February has fewer wet days than January, heavy showers (with an average rainfall of 200 millimeters) are still expected. The annual number of visitors to Machu Picchu is at a historic low.

Expect highs around 72 degrees Fahrenheit (22 degrees Celsius) and lows near 46 degrees Fahrenheit (8 degrees Celsius) during your time in Machu Picchu. Travelers should pack for all eventualities, including bad weather, landslides, and rain.

Visit Machu Picchu in March.

The weather improves in March, with an increase in daily sunlight and a decrease in the number of cloudy days. The average rainfall for the month is 170 millimeters. Travelers tend to take travels in the later half of the month.

Expect highs around 71 degrees Fahrenheit (21 degrees Celsius) and lows near 42 degrees Fahrenheit (6 degrees Celsius) during your time in Machu Picchu. Most trekking tours, including Inca Trail Treks, will be bookable again after the month of February.

Because of the heavy rains in the Amazon right now, we recommend that you stay away from expeditions like the Salkantay Trek.

Visit Machu Picchu in April.

More people visit Machu Picchu in April than any other month. It is more likely that visitors to Machu Picchu will catch the sunrise during the shoulder season, the month in between the rainy and dry seasons. The weather is nice, with the possibility of a day or two of light rain.

Expect highs of 73 degrees Fahrenheit (22 degrees Celsius) and lows near 39 degrees Fahrenheit (4 degrees Celsius) during your time in Machu Picchu. What you should do right now is take a train to Machu Picchu and conduct a hiking tour there. The excursions will sell out fast, so make your reservations early.

Visit Machu Picchu in May

Today marks the start of the dry season. On the other hand, you should always prepare for the possibility of rain. In May, many adventurers choose to hike the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu or another famous trail. May is a great month for sightseeing because of the mild weather, clear sky, and visibility of the nearby mountains.

Machu Picchu may expect temperatures between around 86 and 42 degrees Fahrenheit (30 and 6 degrees Celsius) throughout the year. Machu Picchu, the Inca Trail, the Salkantay, the Lares, or any of the other alternative treks are all fantastic options for the month of May.

Visit Machu Picchu in June

The busiest time of year for visitors to Peru is June forward. The summer months of Peru attract tens of thousands of visitors, most of whom are from the northern hemisphere. Precipitation levels should be low throughout this time period.

Machu Picchu may expect temperatures between 83 and 28 degrees Fahrenheit (28 and 7 degrees Celsius) during the day and between 44 and 7 degrees Fahrenheit (3 and 3 degrees Celsius) at night. It is strongly suggested to make reservations in advance for the majority of itineraries, especially the Inca Trail, Salkantay, and Lares treks.

Visit Machu Picchu in July

In Peru, the dry and chilly winter season reaches its coldest and driest point in the month of July. Machu Picchu’s location means there won’t be much of a temperature swing. However, the temperature will drop far below freezing in the highlands, especially at night and in the early morning.

Highs will be about 82 degrees Fahrenheit (27 degrees Celsius), and lows will be around 44 degrees Fahrenheit (7 degrees Celsius) when you visit Machu Picchu. There are a lot of people lining up for buses and trains to Machu Picchu this month. You must plan ahead and book your hotel and sightseeing tours in advance.

Visit Machu Picchu in August.

Historically, August is the month when we get the most visitors. Expect to see many other visitors wherever you go, and be prepared to wait in long lines for transportation and entrance to Machu Picchu. On average, Machu Picchu experiences temperatures between 78 and 42 degrees Fahrenheit (26 and 6 degrees Celsius). Although there is no wrong way to go to Machu Pichu, we recommend using one of the alternative trails.

Visit Machu Picchu in September

The conclusion of the dry season is signaled by the return of wet weather in September. This is also the start of the season change from the very cold winter to the more temperate weather of the mountains. Highs will be about 73 degrees Fahrenheit (22 degrees Celsius), and lows will be around 44 degrees Fahrenheit (7 degrees Celsius) while you visit Machu Picchu. All of the trails are open for exploration, however we recommend choose another outing.

Since there are less visitors to Peru these days, there are no longer any lines to reach Machu Picchu, making this a great opportunity to undertake mountain hiking in the region.

Visit Machu Picchu in October

The month of October is one of the best seasons to visit Machu Picchu. Due to the changeover between the dry and rainy seasons, this month will have relatively less precipitation and warmer temperatures than the winter months.

Expect highs at 72 degrees Fahrenheit (22 degrees Celsius) and lows around 41 degrees Fahrenheit (5 degrees Celsius) during your time in Machu Picchu. Since there are less visitors to Machu Picchu in October, when we have a lot of availability, this is the best time to go.

Visit Machu Picchu in November.

November marks the beginning of the rainy season. However, the weather forecast is for nothing but sunshine and pleasant temperatures for the next several weeks. Expect highs of 25 degrees Celsius (78 degrees Fahrenheit) and lows near 7 degrees Celsius (45 degrees Fahrenheit) during your time in Machu Picchu.

The future holds a decrease in both the number of tourists who visit Machu Picchu and the number of those who go on hiking vacations.

Visit Machu Picchu in December.

The frequency of rainstorms is expected to rise. Notwithstanding, holiday-related travel will increase in the remaining weeks of the year. Lows will be around 44 degrees Fahrenheit (6 degrees Celsius), while highs will reach about 71 degrees Fahrenheit (21 degrees Celsius).

December is one of the last months to have beautiful weather before the start of the rainy season. Locations of Tourist Interest Near Machu Picchu and Its Surroundings

The following is a list of all the places you may visit in Machu Picchu and Aguas Calientes, including the monuments, markets, and waterfalls that you can explore during your stay.

The archaeological site of Machu Picchu has a number of noteworthy destinations.

Machu Picchu, an ancient Inca citadel

Machu Pichu, popularly known as the Inca citadel, is the primary archaeological site visited on the typical journey. You will have admission for around two hours with this ticket. Your tour guide will show you important sites like the Guard House, agricultural terraces, temple of the sun, temple of the water, main temple, sundial, city center, industrial district, temple of the condor, and more.

There are two routes that may be taken to see Machu Picchu: the First and Second Circular Routes. to go on an expedition to the Machu Picchu citadel.

Sun Gate, or Intipunku, as it is also called.

Five kilometers from Machu Picchu, on a mountaintop, is where you’ll find the Sun Gate. It’s where visitors on the Inca Trail get their adventures started. No authorizations are required for either the payment or booking processes. Upon completion of your four-day hike along the famous Inca Trail, you will arrive at the legendary Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.

Visitors are not allowed to make the trek from Machu Picchu to the Sungate until the plague has subsided. Only by participating in an Inca Trail excursion will you be granted entry.

When to visit Machu Picchu for the best weather and Best Season to Visit Machu Picchu.

This is where you can view the Sun Gate in Machu Picchu.

The Inca Bridge

The Inca Bridge is located about a half-hour away from the main entrance to Machu Picchu. It faces the Sungate and is conveniently close by. When the Incas governed the region, they crossed this old rope bridge to enter the citadel via a back door. Dangling perilously over a steep valley, the bridge was made of wooden planks and wires. People are not allowed to go over the bridge, but they may see it from a safe distance.

The Inca Bridge was likely constructed for defensive reasons, since it provided an alternative, more challenging route to the citadel. Because of these factors, the bridge was built. It’s likely that the bridge was disassembled and hidden while it wasn’t in use to keep it out of the hands of potential enemies.

To enter, you must have a valid ticket for both Circuit 1 and the Inca Bridge.

Huayna Picchu, a Peruvian mountain

The peak in the backdrop of every picture of Machu Picchu is Huayna Picchu. It will take you an hour to reach the peak, and a further hour to return by the same route. In order to climb this mountain, you must first get the appropriate permits.

Huayna Picchu, which rises to an altitude of 2,720 meters (8,920 ft) above sea level, is easily seen from the Machu Picchu citadel and its environs. Those who make the effort to climb the twisting steps, narrow paths, and exposed cliffs to the summit are rewarded with stunning views of the landscape below.

Huayna Picchu may be climbed in around two to three hours, give or take, depending on the hiker’s fitness level and pace. Hikers should be prepared for steep inclines and slippery spots by packing sturdy shoes and plenty of drink.

Permits may be obtained at a cost of $75 per person. You’ll need to book tours of both Circuit 4 and Huayna Picchu in advance if you want to climb this summit.

Machu Picchu, or Montaña, as it is sometimes referred as.

Machu Picchu Mountain, or Montaa as it is locally called, is the highest mountain range that is opposite Huayna Picchu. One and a half to two hours is about how long it takes to reach the peak, and comparable things often descend the same way. Advance reservations are required for all permits.

Each license may be bought for $75. If you want to climb this summit, you’ll need to get the Machu Picchu peak + Circuit 3 ticket.

Huchuy Picchu, or the Inca Hill

Since it is one of the lesser mountains, climbing to the top of Huchuy Picchu only takes around fifteen to twenty minutes. The “Circuit 4 + Huchuy Picchu” combo ticket is required for the ascent of this peak.

When to visit Machu Picchu for the best weather or Best Time of Year to Visit Machu Picchu.

Places of interest near to the Machu Picchu Pueblo town of Aguas Calientes.

The Machu Picchu Museum

Due to its proximity to Puente Ruinas, the bridge that leads to Machu Picchu, this spot may be reached on foot from Aguas Calientes in about twenty minutes. If you have previously been to Machu Picchu, you may also ask the bus driver for directions to the bridge. The entrance fee to the machu picchu museum is $7, however it is paid only once.

Butterfly Viewing Area

From Aguas Calientes, you may take the train to Machu Picchu. It takes less than 10 minutes to walk from the center of town to the Butterfly Station. You will be able to take pictures and get a wealth of knowledge about the local butterfly population. There is a fee of 10 soles (about $2.50) to enter this area.

Putucusi Peak, or the Mountain

Located in the Incas’ Sacred Valley, Putucusi Peak is even more precarious than neighboring peaks Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain. There is no admission charge to see Putusi, however most visitors find it helpful to have a guide show them around. Before you can take in the beautiful vista of Machu Picchu, you’ll need to ascend this peak and another mountain, which will take at least three hours.

Mandor’s Gardens

Within an hour’s hike from Aguas Calientes, you can reach this gorgeous spot, where you can see Machu Picchu and a variety of other natural wonders, such as birds, orchids, waterfalls, and more. You should visit Mandor, and if you do, a guide is probably a good idea.

Geothermal heat pools

The natural hot springs of Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo, are a great way to spend a day when you have some spare time in the area. You may reach there in about 15 minutes by strolling from the city.

Conditions on the Inca Trail that leads to Machu Picchu are perfect right now.

The Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is best hiked during the dry season when temperatures and humidity levels are lower. Since rain is less likely and the air is dry, outdoor activities thrive. Given the potential difficulty of the route, it is crucial that you set out with as much preparation as possible. Quite a few of the travel operators out there offer organized group trips. You’ll have a great time and meet some interesting folks on these trips.

The Inca Trail was stunning during the dry season.

During the dry season, which starts in May and lasts until the end of September, precipitation levels are expected to be lower than usual. However, rain is always a possibility along the Inca Trail since the area is a cloud forest. You should always pack for all possible weather conditions while on a trip.

During the dry season, daytime highs may reach dangerously high levels, necessitating sun protection measures, while lows might fall below freezing.

Traveling the Inca Trail in the Winter or Spring

The Inca rainy season often starts in late November or early December and continues until early March. Since there is a greater risk of precipitation at this time of year, visitors are advised to pack accordingly.

Fewer people visit popular attractions like Machu Picchu during Peru’s rainy season. The temperature range is narrower and the temperature is cooler both day and night compared to the dry season.

Shoulder seasons are ideal for hiking the Inca Trail.

The shoulder seasons are the transitional months between the dry and rainy periods. There are two prime times to hike the Inca Trail: April and October, and in certain years, May and November.

Frequently Asked Questions About Machu Picchu

When is the best time to see Machu Picchu if you want to avoid the crowds?

If you visit Machu Picchu in January or February, you will find the best train schedules, great discounts, and reasonable hotel rates. Visit at these times to see Machu Picchu when it is least crowded.

These months are the heaviest of the rainy season, so you should always be ready with rain gear and delays due to bad weather.

When does Machu Picchu get the largest influx of tourists?

Typically, the busiest times of the year are June, July, and August. If you book your visit to Machu Picchu in advance, you may take advantage of the best timings and prices. There are a lot of passengers waiting to board the bus to Machu Picchu during these months.

When is the best time to visit Machu Picchu if you want to make the most of your time there?

The best times of day to visit Machu Picchu are first thing in the morning or late in the afternoon. The number of visitors to Machu Picchu often drops in the offseason.

The morning’s first view of Machu Picchu.

Visitors may begin entering Machu Picchu via its main gate around six in the morning. You’ll need to catch one of the first buses out of Aguas Calientes if you want to get in at this time. At 5:30 in the morning, the first bus will depart.

The key is to be there promptly at 6:00 a.m. You’ll be among the first visitors to see the stunning sunrise over Machu Picchu after entering via the main gate. Even if you don’t get to see the sunrise, you may have a more pleasant day visiting the citadel if you go at a less busy time. The overnight stop at Aguas Calientes is a mandatory part of this route. Hikers on the Short Inca Trail, the Salkantay Trek, the Lares Trek, and similar trips are all included in this schedule.

Daytime at Machu Picchu’s citadel

Around 9:00 a.m., travelers on day-trips from Cusco and Ollantaytambo will begin arriving in Aguas Calientes, where they may see the impressive Inca Citadel. During this peak season, visitors to Machu Picchu may take many trains from Cusco and Ollantaytambo to reach the site.

You have a better chance of seeing Machu Picchu in favorable weather and getting some amazing pictures if you go now. At this time of year, the majority of visitors go by train, and many of them return to Cusco the same day.

Best time to visit Machu Picchu is in the afternoon.

From nine in the morning to one in the afternoon, Machu Picchu will be flooded with visitors. and leave by 3 o’clock if you can. You may expect to reach Machu Picchu sometime around 2 p.m. allows one to enjoy the citadel’s splendor in peace and quiet.

The last shift, which begins at 2:00 p.m., is yours to book. If you want to be among the last visitors to view Machu Picchu, you’ll need to arrive between 2:00 and 4:00 pm and leave by 5:30 pm. The evening shift is the final one of the day, so volunteers who are taking late trains back to Cusco or staying the night in Machu Picchu Pueblo (also known as Aguas Calientes) may consider signing up for it.

You may go to Machu Picchu on Sundays

There will likely be a lot of people visiting Machu Picchu on Sundays since locals get in free on that day. You should avoid doing anything on Sundays if at all feasible.