Dry or rainy season? Discover the best time to visit Machu Picchu, what to expect each month and how to avoid the crowds.
In this article
Machu Picchu is open all year round, but the experience changes a lot depending on the month you travel. Choosing the best time to visit Machu Picchu depends on what matters most to you: clear skies, green landscapes, fewer visitors or the chance to hike the Inca Trail.
Dry season: May to October
This is the most popular time to visit. Days are usually sunny, nights in Cusco are cold, and the views over the Inca citadel are at their best. June, July and August are the busiest months, so entrance tickets, trains and Inca Trail permits sell out early.
- Pros: clear skies, ideal conditions for trekking, great photos.
- Cons: more visitors and higher demand for hotels and trains.
Rainy season: November to March
The rainy season brings short, intense showers — usually in the afternoon — and wonderfully green mountains. There are fewer travelers, and many mornings at Machu Picchu are spectacular, with clouds moving over the peaks.
Keep in mind that the classic Inca Trail closes every February for maintenance, although Machu Picchu itself stays open.
Shoulder months: April and November
April and November are a sweet spot: the weather is changing, the landscapes are still green and the crowds are smaller than in high season. They are excellent months for a relaxed trip to Cusco and the Sacred Valley.
Our tips to enjoy Machu Picchu any time of the year
- Book your entrance tickets and train as early as possible.
- Choose an early morning circuit to enjoy softer light and fewer people.
- Pack layers: mornings can be cold and middays warm and humid.
- Bring a light rain jacket, even in the dry season.
Ready to go? Discover our Machu Picchu Tour 3 Days or let us design a personalized itinerary for your dates.
Faruel Travel is a travel agency and local tour operator in Cusco. We offer tours all over Peru and hotel lodging in every city, with quality, warmth and personalized service.
